In an attempt to help energize the local economy, the News-Herald and other businesses in the community are encouraging people to spend an extra $20 Saturday.

If enough people participate the initiative is estimated to bring in as much as $700,000 to help boost the economy of Loudon County.

On a national - and maybe world-wide - level, people have been suffering through the limitations and effects of a poor economy for months. Some would argue things are improving while others may suggest the worst has yet to arrive.

It would be difficult for anyone to deny the financial world is not worse off now than it was a year or more ago. With news of shutdowns, layoffs and bankruptcies continuing to be reported it is apparent economic troubles are continuing.

The situation is far from hopeless. America is a land of opportunity and prosperity even in the midst of personal hardships. In Loudon County the economy appears to be stronger than in some areas of the United States, and we can help encourage continuation of that strength by spending an extra $20 this weekend.

Spend $20 on the 20th - it's an easy plan and hopefully will be effective in impacting  the people and businesses who are our neighbors and friends.

Spending locally is one of the best ways to help Loudon County remain prosperous. If items on a shopping list can be purchased at a store here at home, shoppers are encouraged to do so and contribute to the effort to put as much money back into the local economy as possible. Not only those who own the stores benefit, we all can be stimulated by the increase in tax revenue that comes back to the local governments.

As more money from sales taxes come in, leaders in the cities and county have an opportunity to continue to provide services to the residents of the community. Saturday's joint citizen endeavour can be the jumping off point for a renewed effort to continue the good life in Loudon County.

The same twenty dollars has the potential to pass between businesses and individuals several times before making its way into a neighboring community. The longer we can keep funds circulating between hands locally, the more impact those dollars have on our economy.

Find out what $20 can buy through participation on Saturday. In addition to whatever merchandise you take home, you'll get the satisfaction of knowing you helped boost the economy and were a part of stimulating the financial future for yourself and your neighbors.

Hopefully your $20 will continue to pass between hands in Loudon County for a long time. With enough cooperation the cash infusion on Saturday can help push the community's financial outlook forward.