The Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce wants residents to understand the importance of shopping local. To that end, the Chamber recently unveiled a new marketing campaign featuring a new slogan and logo. The slogan - "Think Local, Be Local, Buy Local" - replaces a former campaign that fizzled somewhat due to a lack of support. The new project was the brainchild of Chamber members spearheaded by marketing committee chairman Scott Costello. Promotional materials focus on the need to keep money circulating locally and the convenience of less travel time and lower transportation costs. Also, shoppers can benefit from forming relationships with business owners that lead to better customer service, Chamber members said. The additional sales tax revenue also aids city and county governments. "When we spend local, it supports jobs locally," Costello said. Area residents should already be noticing the marketing materials. Costello said 5,000 door hangers were scheduled to be distributed last Friday at all residences in Warrenton and Truesdale and unincorporated subdivisions near the city limits. Yard signs also will be posted at Chamber businesses in the future and window clings should be available next month that can be displayed in vehicles or houses. In addition, the marketing campaign will include radio and print advertising. The logo was created by Warrenton resident Jane Shaw, who owns and operates Cabin Creek Printing. "We wanted to have something easily recognizable at a glance," Costello said. "We didn't want something overly wordy. We all felt it was catchy." A report issued by the U.S. Department of Labor earlier this year stated that if half of the country's employed population spend an additional $50 per month at locally owned businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue. A 2008 study conducted by Chicago-based Civic Economics revealed that for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll or other expenditures. In comparison, the number drops to $43 if the $100 is spent at a retail franchise. Acknowledging recent closed businesses in Warrenton, a list that is now in double figures and continues to grow, Chamber officials believe the increased advertising and promotional materials will lead to more community awareness. "It's been a concern, No. 1, to see local businesses struggling and close down," Costello said. "It's also impacted our numbers with membership with the Chamber. One thing that helps us all succeed is loyal customers in the community. The hope is people understand how local businesses depend on local residents." Last month, the city of Warrenton showed support for the marketing campaign by signing a proclamation. Now Chamber officials await a positive reaction from local consumers.   "We want the community to get behind this," Chamber Executive Director Jan Olearnick said. "It (the money) is basically coming back to them. It's proven that citizens who shop local are sustaining their community."