Summer tips on buying local in Vernon

Vernon has hundreds of businesses that invest in the local economy, offer unique products and services, create and sustain local jobs, hire local suppliers, pay local taxes, help local citizens, donate to local non-profits, sponsor popular local events such as July In The Sky on July 12 and National Night Out on August 2, and enhance the community.

While it is not realistic for Vernon residents to purchase everything locally, here are 10 practical ways to intentionally steer more purchases toward Vernon businesses this summer:

* Buy your groceries at Vernon supermarkets.

* Buy your gasoline at Vernon gas stations.

* Buy your household goods and gifts at Vernon retailers.

* Buy your vehicle, repairs and auto parts at Vernon facilities.

* Buy your take-out or dine-in meals at Vernon restaurants.

* Have your hair styled at a Vernon salon or barber shop.

* Hire Vernon-based professionals in finance, law, IT, marketing, architecture, engineering and other fields.

* Hire Vernon-based contractors such as electricians, plumbers, landscapers, builders and roofers.

* Tap Vernon health and wellness resources including doctors, dentists, specialists, urgent care and hospital facilities.

* Visit https://www.vernon-ct.gov/buy-local to use the Town's "Vernon Business Directory" to discover Vernon businesses and to assist with the buy local campaign.

Launched last fall by the Town of Vernon Economic Development Commission, the grassroots campaign includes outdoor signage, posters, window clings, business cards, targeted social media posts, publicity in local media, direct mail, and a special web page and directory on the Town's website.