It’s that time of year again, time to get in the Christmas spirit. Most people put a great amount of thought into Christmas shopping. When it comes down to it, Christmas shopping is much better for the community if it is not done online. Although, finding just the right gifts and staying within the budget is important. The radio, internet and even the news push to shop local. Yet people are losing their sense of community in their towns. Local Business owners will be respectful. They need your support; support that the community could give. So, when trying to find the perfect Christmas gift this year try and think to shop close to home. Last year, more than 100 million people came together to “shop small,” and 52 percent of that money spent will stay right here, in your community, supporting local organizations and services who give back so much. That means over half of the money stay in Owatonna’s community Shopping locally is a true win-win for all of us.

Black Friday may be over, but local merchants will continue to offer great deals during the next few weeks. Things from a new pair of shoes, something for a child, a new pair of winter boots, or something fun, downtown Owatonna Shoe has the styles, sizes, and brands that fits everyone. “During Christmas time we usually have a change in business, definitely now that Ugg Boots are popular and they make the perfect Christmas gift.” Store manager Tom Bricks said. Employees at Owatonna Shoe will help anyone find exactly what you are looking for. They also give about half their earned profit to different organizations through united way and different churches and elementary schools throughout the district. The more you look, the more you will find.

Nothing else makes the perfect gift for mom like Costas hand-rolled Nut Clusters or a box of chocolate covered Buttercaramels. Everyone loves chocolate. Stop by Costas and support the local economy. Shopping locally is the smart choice this Christmas season, and only a few minutes away! So, remember this holiday season, to try and buy at least one item from a local shop this year. It truly will be a gift that keeps giving.