KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – The City of Keystone Heights plans to encourage support for small shops.

Jennifer Ford, owner of the Learning Wheel, was chosen by City Manager Lynn Rutkowski to head Keystone Heights Shop Small Neighborhood Champion.

“I have participated in Shop Small Saturday for years as a consumer, but now to be a business owner, it is both exciting and an honor to help organize Shop Small Saturday right here in my neighborhood,” Ford said.

As the Shop Small Champion for Keystone Heights, she plans to visit local small businesses to encourage them to participate. In addition, she plans to make the event publically known within the community to encourage others to attend and show their support for small businesses.

The event will be held on Nov. 26 at City Hall and Keystone Beach from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. The local community can expect to see local vendors in their booths lined in front of City Hall presenting their unique products.

“Not all businesses are the same. Some of our local businesses have one-of-a-kind locally made products, crafting items, handmade gifts, and, etcetera. You never know what little treasure you might pick up or try in one of these stores.”

In addition, families can enjoy a free pancake breakfast and a meet-n-greet with Santa and Sheriff Michelle Cook. Guests also can participate in the Christmas tree lighting and sing holiday carols.

Though Shop Small is a nationwide shopping event to promote smaller businesses, everyone attending can expect to receive benefits from this event. Shop Small will not only provide a chance for visitors to purchase unique holiday gifts, but it will also provide quality time with friends and family. The event will give the local vendors an increase in customers and more visibility. Lastly, it will bring the community together as a whole and increase the sense of unification, too.

“Shop Small encourages small businesses to foster a stronger sense of community which promotes better economic and social relationships. Which is great, because community events and local causes are supported more wholeheartedly,” Ford said.

For more information on Shop Small, call Ford at (352) 535-8510.