Local Shopping Important to Area’s Economy

There are many reasons to shop locally for food, clothing, gifts and other items, and with Small Business Saturday this weekend, some local businesses shared their views and made the reasons clear.

Robin Brouse retired from Penn State in 2013 and has worked for Pam Bair, owner of A Basket Full at 121 E. Main St. in Boalsburg, since then.

Brouse said that Bair has been a great boss. Customers come back repeatedly to the store, which, according to Brouse, Bair has owned for around 27 years, with 16 years in its current location.

A Basket Full recently expanded and now carries more clothing, while maintaining Brighton and Vera Bradley products, Crabtree and Evelyn items, Sportina 449, locally made jellies, baby items and accessories that have been its staples. There now are more spa-type products, from oils to cozy socks and robes.

“Pam has always been a fan and participant in Small Business Saturday,” said Brouse. “She promotes local foods in her store, also.”

The entrance to A Basket Full in Boalsburg.

John McQueary is owner of The State College Framing Company and Gallery, located at Hills Plaza, 160 Rolling Ridge Drive in State College. He has been in business for 22 years and his framing consultant and gallery manager, Jeff Muthersbaugh, has been with him for 17 years. Both men expressed their interest in promoting local business and the benefits of dealing locally.

“It seems like everyone is in the mindset of instant gratification these days,” said McQueary.

“And, with our technology today, you can click a button, order and have the goods in a day, sometimes within hours. So, it makes sense. According to many people, our malls are boring and dying, and yet those same people are ordering online, which leads to the demise of the malls.”

McQueary said that more than half of his clients find his business through their phone searches. “Don’t be afraid to come in and try us,” he said. “We are extremely competitive. Do we have everything? Of course not, but if you walk into my store and want something framed three days before Christmas, you can bet we will get it done.

“Everyone is in a hurry and, yes, we need the big box stores, but for personal service where people get to know you, try your local establishments.”

“We want to gain your business, give good service and see you come back,” said gallery manager Muthersbaugh. “We offer a unique experience and work with you to offer a satisfactory product.”

In addition to framing services, the business also features many local artists in its gallery.

John McQueary, left, and Jeff Muthersbaugh of State College Framing Company and Gallery. Photo by Connie Cousins.

The Funky Trunk, located at 236 E. Calder Way, is the only consignment shop in State College. Kathy Hume wanted to have affordable, but high-quality, clothing and accessories when she opened her shop in December 2016. She stocks men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, handbags and jewelry. There also are unique giftware items throughout the store.

“I would say my business breaks down to about one-third each students, local and out-of–town buyers. The prices are reasonable. A student can find a nice sweater for $10 to $12. Some of my merchandise is brand new,” Hume said, pointing out some high-end brand items with tags still in place.

Items at The Funky Trunk are on consignment for 60 days, after which they may be donated to the store or taken back by the owner. If the item is left with the store, Hume said she continues to try to sell it and donates the proceeds to a student organization.

Tommy Tate is the owner of The Branch and The Vine at 246 E. Calder Way, State College. He is enthusiastic about all the local businesses that are represented in his store, which he has owned since October 2016. Nearly all his offerings are homegrown, organic and/or local.

“The wine is from University Wine Company and we sell by the bottle or glass,” said Tate. “We have wine-tasting areas and sampling areas for the oils, balsamic vinegars and other products. We offer many gourmet foods, including Amish-made chocolates, Blind Spot Nutbutters, Bloody Mary mix, flavored sea salt, hot and barbecue sauces, Soom tahini, gourmet popcorns, New England Cupboard baking mixes, Roots and Branches (items) and much more.”

The Branch and The Vine’s natural dog treats — from a local provider — hair products, salsa and baklava all make for nice holiday gift choices.

The store also offers after-hour parties for both small and large groups.

Tate extends a hand to local people in another way by featuring local artists’ work and craft items in his store. Currently, the works of artist Todd Krout are on display.

Tommy Tate, owner of The Branch and The Vine. Photo by Connie Cousins.

As people visit locally owned stores, they help the economy and keep money in their own area. Other reasons to shop locally include knowing the people behind the product, enjoying more and better customer service and creating a unique community of people-oriented businesses.