by Joan Aguon Charfauros

Guam - Last Saturday, the Guam Economic Development Authority hosted a small business fair at the Agana Shopping Center Expo Hall. Several island residents came out not only to support the thriving local business community but also to take care of some of their holiday shopping.

GEDA industry development specialist Brianna Benito explained some of the vendors who participated in the fair, saying, "Most of them are made on Guam, while others we have representatives offering gifts for the holiday season. Some of the local businesses are Guam Premium Chocolate and Blue Amber Trio, and we also have Mungge Pops, and the Bonita Trading Company. There are a lot of locally-owned and operated businesses."

Director of marketing for Guam Premium Chocolate William Ymesei told KUAM News, "We are Guam's largest chocolate factory. We've been in operation for four months now and showcase our products and some of the fine chocolates we are making in our factory." Like many other vendors, he's thrilled to take part in the fair, saying, "This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our products and promote ourselves. A lot of traffic here and we are just glad we can show others what we have available."

Also participating in Saturday's event was wood burning master Rico Evangelista. He stumbled upon wood burning while visiting a craft store in Maryland. One of the reasons why Evangelista returned home was to take part in the big buy local movement, which continues to thrive. He has a strong conviction to inspire local artist to produce all kinds of art from every era of Guam's past to present, modern or ancient and to get these crafts and works of art to replace the items that say "Guam" but are made elsewhere.

Walking around the Expo Hall it was filled with everything from chocolate, clothing, soaps, snacks, and even music.

Ultimately GEDA's mission is to develop a sound and sustainable economy through innovative programs that preserve and promote local culture, economic opportunities and quality of life. If you would like to know more, you can call 647-4332, e-mail at help@investguam.com, find them on Facebook, or check out their website at www.investguam.com.