| *** Small Business Saturday brings shoppers into downtowns throughout the region Throughout the Dayton region, organizations that support and promote downtown businesses are hosting special events to encourage shoppers today for Small Business Saturday. ⢠In Dayton: The Downtown Dayton Partnership will be hosting Shop Small Saturday with the Shop Small, Win Big giveaway. The partnershipâs staff will be joined by Tommy the Real Elf and representatives of the city of Dayton from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. ⢠By the numbers: Since 2010, the total reported U.S. spending at small businesses during the annual Small Business Saturday is an estimated $201 billion. ⢠Supporting small business: With every dollar spent at a small business, 68 cents stays in the local community, according to the American Express 2022 Small Business Economic Impact Study. ⢠What theyâre saying: âOur downtown is full of independent, locally owned businesses. These unique shops, galleries, and restaurants are the backbone of the downtown experience and an economic driver for all aspects of downtown business.â â Katie Meyer, president of the Downtown Dayton Partnership. What to know today ⢠Happening today: Itâs Ohio State-Michigan day. Here are 5 questions that will decide the game in Columbus. ⢠Investigation today: We looked into area water rates, and digging into the data showed that more southwest Ohio public customers have higher rates this year. ⢠Tip of the day: The Kings Island Winterfest opened on Friday and runs through Dec. 31. Hereâs your complete guide to eating and riding. ⢠Things to do: Here are 6 things to do in Dayton this weekend. ⢠Photo of the day: Black Friday shoppers dressed for the cold and headed out in the early-morning chill for deals, gift cards and more on Friday. Our reporters and photographers captured scenes across the area. | 