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By SCOTT MIMS / Staff Writer

The Shelby County Chamber is partnering with Brownstone Marketing Solutions, Turner Promotions, and 58 INC. to present the “I Shop Shelby County” T-shirt contest to help support local businesses.

Interested participants may visit Roguegarments.com and click on the “#ShopShelbyCounty” tab to purchase a T-shirt in one of two premium colors—antique royal or azalea. The cost for each Gildan 6-ounce Ultra Cotton T-shirt is $25.

Then, pick up your T-shirt from the Chamber and take a photo of yourself wearing the shirt. Upload the photo to the social media platform of your choice and tag the Chamber on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

By no later than the week of May 25, the Chamber will begin selecting a winner each week to receive a $25 gift certificate to their favorite Shelby County business for as long as the contest runs.

In other words, the more shirts that are sold, the more certificates will be awarded.

“It’s just a fun idea with the ultimate goal of getting money back out in the economy for those folks who buy a T-shirt,” said Chamber President Kirk Mancer.

He explained that while Shelby County businesses are ready to get up and running again, it is important to focus on the safety of employees and customers, as well as recognize the individuals on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Health and wellness are one of our main priorities,” Mancer said.

Yvonne Murray of 58 INC. expressed excitement about the agency’s partnership with the Chamber to promote local businesses.

“This period of restricted openings and reduced foot traffic has landed a heavy hit on our local business owners, and it is so critical that we rally around them and show them that they are supported and needed,” Murray said. “This T-shirt campaign is just one of the small ways we can draw attention to those businesses, and it will not stop with COVID-19. Our hope as a team is that it is a continued effort of the communities of Shelby County.”

For each shirt sold, $15 will go directly toward supporting businesses in Shelby County. Purchased shirts must be picked up through The Shelby County Chamber.