Socket was proud to sponsor Kid City Mid-Missouri on August 27 in Columbia.

We passed out hundreds of balloons to the kiddos (and plowed through two big helium tanks in just a few hours).

Young visitors and parents came from all over mid-Missouri, including Columbia, Mexico, Ashland, Boonville and Fulton. They picked up copies of our coloring and activity books to learn more about children's literacy and Internet safety.

Online sites like Craigslist and Swap Shop Facebook pages make it easier than ever for people to buy and sell stuff right in their own neighborhood.

Our own Socketeers have bought and sold all kinds of things online. Josh in business sales bought a bandsaw and sold a swimming pool. Stephanie in marketing sold her car. Justin in customer service buys and sells all kinds of drum gear for his band.

We all love the convenience of buying and selling locally. You don't have to worry about shipping costs or long delays waiting for items to arrive. You can often inspect an item in person before buying. Sellers can avoid paying fees to a host site or hassling with shipment of items.