With a trip to Augusta costing $25 in gas alone, shopping at home first is more important than ever, says Chamber of Commerce Director Ashley Barnett.

"With soaring gas prices and our busy schedules, I urge everybody to try to find all your school supplies at home first," she said. "You will be surprised what you can find here in Washington-Wilkes."

Not only does driving to Athens, Augusta, or Thomson waste time and gas, she said, buying locally keeps local people employed, and any purchase made in Wilkes County puts money toward the new school complex "We need to keep our tax dollars in Wilkes County," she said.

If you need help finding particular school supplies, Barnett said, call the Chamber with your needs. "We can help you with places to find your supplies and more," she said. "A little research or a simple phone call could save you a lot of money! Before you leave to head out of town, make sure you can't find it at home first."

Barnett suggests shopping with Washington-Wilkes Chamber members who have what you might be looking for. "For all your school supplies, products, backpacks, clothes, and more, try stores like Scarborough's, Talk of the Town, Tena's Jewelry & Gifts, Bee Southern, Kettle Creek Sports, M & M Office Supplies, Poss Ace Hardware, Closet Bargains, Fievet Pharmacy, God's Market Place, Creative Memories, Jolly Rompers, Radio Shack, Retro Cinema & Books, Arbonne skin care, and Baby Bloomers."