Small Business SaturdayTINLEY PARK - State Senator Michael E. Hastings is reminding residents across the Southland to patronize local businesses this weekend.

The Thanksgiving weekend marks the start of the holiday shopping season, and Hastings hopes area residents will remember to patronize local businesses on Small Business Saturday on November 25.

“We have the best local businesses in our community,” Hastings said. “Our small businesses create jobs, provide excellent customer service and are dedicated neighbors. Take some time this holiday weekend to stop by local businesses and keep your hard earned money in the Southland.”

For every $100 spent in locally owned, independent stores, $68 goes back to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. In 2016, small businesses owners generated an estimated $15.4 billion dollars on Small Business Saturday.

Hastings hopes local residents will generate larger investments in small businesses than previous years.

“Illinois small businesses grow our economy,” Hastings said. “Every investment we make in local businesses is proven to generate countless dividends.“

In Illinois, 1.2 million small businesses employ 46 percent of the workforce.

“Thriving small businesses means new jobs, economic growth and a larger taxpayer base,” Hastings said. “I urge area residents to shop often and local this holiday season.”

Hastings encourages small businesses and future entrepreneurs to take advantage of state programs and support services through the Illinois Department of Economic Development. Interested and potential business owners may visit www.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance or call Hastings’ Office at (815) 464-5431.