shoplocalNov. 25, 2015 -- Take your camera to Manhattan this holiday season but leave the wallet home, so says Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino, who was joined by Eastchester Town Supervisor Anthony S. Colavita at an Eastchester retailer to encourage Westchester residents to do their holiday shopping within the county.

"Regardless of whether you are looking for high end or thrift, big malls or strip malls, specialty items or staple items, we have some of the best shopping destinations right here in Westchestester," said Astorino. "Shopping in Westchester is convenient for residents, good for the local economy and will help boost local sales tax revenue which has taken a hit in the past year due to low gasoline prices and other factors."

Astorino also encouraged residents to take photos at their favorite Westchester stores and post it on social media using #ShopLocal to help support and promote local businesses in the county.

"Shopping locally is all about protecting our residential tax payers by keeping the commercial tax base healthy," said Colavita. "Sales tax revenues, business growth and jobs keep our town and county strong."

The two public officials were joined by Will Humphries, managing partner of Value Drugs, a pharmacy and retailer that sells clothes, toys and many household items.

"We are happy to host Rob and Tony today and greatly appreciate their efforts to highlight Westchester's great retail sector and encourage residents to shop local where everyone benefits," said Humphries.