5 Ways to Support Local Small Businesses - unWired Broadband

There are many great reasons to support small, local businesses: it boosts the local economy, creates local jobs and it shows that you care about your community. Luckily, there are so many amazing small businesses in the Central Valley. Here are a few ways that you can support small businesses in your area!

Intentionally choose small businesses.

Probably the most obvious and most effective way to support small businesses is with your money. When you find a small business that you want to support, shop there! Make the intentional choice to frequent small businesses rather than chains or nationally-owned stores and restaurants. For example, instead of hitting up Chili’s for family dinner night, find a local Mexican restaurant. Or, when you are buying Christmas presents, ditch those Black Friday sales and hit up Small Business Saturday instead!

Find new small businesses in your area.

Make an effort to find new restaurants and small businesses in your area. Apps like Yelp and Nextdoor are great for finding those local restaurants in your neighborhood. Also, ask your friends, family and social media followers for recommendations on great small businesses to support! Drive around and explore your neighborhood, looking for locally-owned store and restaurants that you may not have noticed before. There might be some hidden gems!

Leave online reviews.

Online reviews are a great way to spread the word about your favorite small businesses. The more positive reviews that a business has, the more likely people are to discover them! 5-star reviews are a great way to show your appreciation to small businesses for providing such a great service. Some great online review websites to check out are Yelp, Nextdoor and Google Reviews!

Spread the word.

Word-of-mouth is the bread and butter of many small businesses. It is one of the most effective marketing strategies because people are more likely to trust the opinion of someone that they know than a stranger. Tell your friends and family about your favorite small stores and restaurants. Better yet, post about them on social media, to give them an even bigger shout out!

Attend local events.

Small events such as craft shows, food truck events, fairs and other events where small businesses are selling are great places to discover new small businesses and support the ones that you already love! Bring your friends and family so that they can experience all your favorite small businesses too.

The Timeless Tool: Do People Still Use Pencils?

In this era of advanced technology and digital devices, it's easy to assume that traditional tools like pencils have become obsolete. With smartphones, tablets, and laptops at our fingertips, it's tempting to question whether anyone still uses pencils. However, despite the rise of digital communication and writing, pencils have managed to maintain their relevance and continue to serve a purpose in our modern world. Let's explore the reasons why pencils are still widely used today.

1.Versatility

One of the primary reasons pencils have stood the test of time is their versatility and convenience. Unlike pens or digital devices, pencils do not require ink refills or battery charging. They are always ready for use and can be easily carried in pockets, bags, or pencil cases. This accessibility makes pencils a practical choice for various situations, such as writing notes, sketching, or solving puzzles.

2. Artistic Expression

Pencils remain an invaluable tool for artists of all levels. The range of graphite grades, from soft to hard, allows artists to create a variety of shading effects and achieve various levels of detail. Whether it's a quick sketch or a meticulously rendered masterpiece, pencils provide a tactile experience that many artists prefer over digital alternatives. Additionally, erasing mistakes or making subtle adjustments is simpler with pencils, giving artists greater control over their work.

3. Learning and Education

Pencils continue to be an essential tool in educational settings. Students use pencils for notetaking, completing worksheets, and solving mathematical problems. Pencil and paper exercises also help develop fine motor skills in young learners. Furthermore, pencils are often preferred in standardized tests and examinations where using pens or digital devices may not be allowed. Their erasable nature allows students to make corrections without the need for crossing out or starting over, enhancing the clarity of their work.

4. Practical Applications

Pencils have a wide range of practical applications beyond writing and drawing. Architects, engineers, and designers use pencils for sketching blueprints, creating technical drawings, and annotating plans. Woodworkers use pencils to mark measurements and outlines on their projects. Pencils are also commonly used by crossword enthusiasts, Sudoku solvers, and those who enjoy adult coloring books. In these scenarios, pencils offer precision, flexibility, and the ability to be easily corrected if necessary.

While technology continues to shape our lives in countless ways, it's clear that pencils still have a place in our modern society. Their versatility, convenience, and tactile experience make them a preferred tool for artists, students, professionals, and hobbyists alike. Pencils offer a sense of nostalgia and a tangible connection to the act of writing and drawing. So, the next time you need to jot down a quick note, sketch an idea, or solve a puzzle, don't underestimate the humble pencil—it's a reliable companion that continues to play a vital role in our ever-evolving world. Take a look at our selection of pencils at Warden’s Office Products.

Briana Lastra

Briana joined the Warden’s team in the summer of 2022. Although new to the Office Products Industry, she has ample experience working in sales since 2010. Utilizing her BA in Psychology to build relationships with customers, understand their needs and focus on new business development.

In her free time, Briana loves going to Disneyland and spending time with her family and pups!