Benicia’s Office of Economic Development, Benicia Chamber of Commerce and Benicia Main Street are asking residents to “Skip the Mall, Shop Small,” and patronize local stores during the holidays, Teri Davena, OED administrative secretary, said.

The three agencies in particular are reminding shoppers about “Small Business Saturday,” the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and encouraging them to visit independent businesses that day.

“This is a great way to keep your dollars working locally, investing in our community and helping our independent businesses to keep their doors open,” Davena said.

She said 50 businesses in the downtown shopping district and in other commercial areas in Benicia plan to celebrate the day, too, particularly through specials and discounts.

“The event is sponsored by American Express, which provides designer shopping bags and other items free to businesses to promote the event,” Davena said.

In addition, shoppers can look for the “Shop Small” logo in stores, where they may find unusual items to buy.

“Then enjoy a great meal at one of our local restaurants, unique art in our many galleries and the abundance of historic sites throughout our great waterfront city,” she said.

The businesses don’t have to accept American Express cards to participate, she said, nor do shoppers have to patronize places that do accept that particular credit card.

However, they can register their American Express cards at its website for additional shopping benefits, Davena said.

“Shoppers are encouraged to share the day with friends and family visiting this weekend,” she said.

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