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Idaho celebrates "Local Gems" today

Courtesy Idaho Department of Commerce

The statewide promotion aims to lure people to patronize small businesses on Friday.

Small businesses in Idaho are getting extra attention today [Friday]. It’s Support Local Gems Day around the state.

The Idaho Department of Commerce and Senator Jim Risch are sponsoring the day to draw attention to the importance of local businesses. The promotion began in 2020 as a way to boost businesses during the early days of the pandemic. Two years later, in a promotional video for Support Local Gems, Risch says the message is still relevant.

“Small businesses collectively are big businesses. They’re the American dream. But, in recent years, with the pandemic we’ve had, now with inflation kicking in, these are things that are going to challenge small businesses again. The good news is Idaho small businesses are up to it," he said.

The Support Local Gems campaign urges residents to shop at, eat at, order from small companies. Or, if you’re not inclined to spend money, to write a positive review for or say thank you to a business you appreciate.

One of the Northwest's most seasoned reporters is returning to his SPR roots. Doug Nadvornick will be heard frequently on KPBX and KSFC reporting on local news.