November 30th

The sun comes up with promise for a great new day. It's the last day of November in 2013. The chill in the air reminds us that winter looms with the flip of the calendar. Thanksgiving is tucked away for another year. Christmas shoppers hit the stores for big Black Friday specials. Today though is for the small businesses. This is the day filled with hope for the small retailers in our communities.

The small business people unlock their doors everyday not sure how many people will walk through their door. Their businesses are not advertised with fancy full color flyers in the local Sunday paper. They probably have bought a few ads on the affordable local radio station inviting the community to shop their store. Many will wonder if this Christmas season will keep them going for another year. But most small business offer something the big box stores never can. A feeling of home that is difficult to explain.

Here's an example; the local hardware store in our town still has the hardwood floors that have welcomed the people of this community for many years. Behind the counter you will find friendly faces and a few people that are ready to find just the right bolt or paint or whatever gadget you might need. Even though I did not grow up here, it feels the same as the old Brandt grocery store once felt some 40 years ago. It reminds me of Kenny standing behind the counter ready to weigh the ground beef or ring up the cracker jacks that you chose for your treat for the week. By the way those cracker jacks were a dime. It also reminds me of a wonderful little jewelry and gift store in downtown Eau Claire. For 25 years Jane has made Christmas shopping easy with the great selection of hard to find unique jewelry. There are stores like this all of the country.

For a baby boomer there is something about that local feel that is comfortable. Something that is worth the little extra you might pay for having the local store around the corner. I am not sure where local business Saturday came from but I think it is something we need to embrace. These local retailers deserve our support. We don't want them to go away...ever. They have supported our local kids; they have had the gallon of milk we needed quickly and they have offered a gift unique for just about any occasion.

Shop local today. Your local businesses deserve it!