Stimulus, bailout and economic recovery are all words that seem to be a little invasive these days.

One can hardly turn on the TV, pick up a newspaper or even walk through the checkout aisle at Wal-Mart without hearing one of these terms tossed around.

If you’re like me, you’ll find it can get a little depressing.

But what if these words didn’t come with the doom and gloom that’s been associated with them?

What if, instead, the stimulus was something that had a positive connotation? And, what if instead of the federal government, the one stimulating the economy was you?

Well, that’s something The Messenger wants to find out.

But it’s something we can’t do alone.

That’s why The Messenger staff is calling all Pike County residents to do a little shopping today.

The concept is simple — spend $20 at a local business this May 20th. The implications could be huge.

At least that’s what one local economist had to say.

Judson Edwards, economics professor at Troy University, said if everyone in Pike County above the age of 19 went out and spent just $20 at a local store, sales would more than double today.

One $20 sale might not be much for businesses like Terra Cotta, Troy Discount Tire and Merle Norman.

But, $20 from seven different people would be another story.

Local businessmen and women work hard for our community. From the people of Steed Tire to Jackson Hardware to Epix and the Goshen Farmers Co-Op — to all Pike County businessmen and women who wake up each morning to provide some service to our area — they all play a vital role to our local towns.

Today, let’s give a little in return. Let’s see how far $20 can really go.

It may not be as far as we think. But then again, there’s only one way to find out.

Holli Keaton is news editor of The Messenger. She can be reached via e-mail at holli.keaton@troymessenger.com.