It's Small Business Week. Did You Know?

Last week, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors declared May 16 through May 20 Small Business Week.

“Certainly we all see the headlines when another national corporation comes to Fairfax County, but what we don’t see often enough is the role of small businesses in our county,” said Supervisor Linda Smyth (Providence District) in a statement. "We hope that this will remind people of the important role they play in our economy.”

The supervisors' proclamation coincides with National Small Business Week.

But small-business owners and managers around Oakton seemed surprised they were being appreciated this week, with some saying they wish they had known so they could have built marketing campaigns around it.

Carol Zimmerman, owner of in Oakton Shopping Center, hopes the county becomes more involved in community outreach regarding shopping local.

"They county certainly could sponsor some sort of a campaign to let the public understand that a good amount of money you spend at a local store goes back to the community," she said. "A declaration we don't even know about doesn't really get the job done."

The Toy Corner has a sign from the 3/50 projectposted by the front door that reads: "Locally owned, independent merhants return 68% of their income to your local economy. National chains? 43% (or less). Online sellers? Zip. Zero. Nada."

Paul Park, manager of said he feels appreciated by his customers on a regular basis, so having a special week dedicated is just a bonus.

"We have a lot of regular customers," Park said. "If the county did more, maybe I could get more regular customers."

Zimmerman agreed: "My clients are usually complimentary of the store. However, in general, I don't think people understand the impact online shopping is having on small businesses."