'Tis the season for giving, and we hope that includes giving support to friends and neighbors by shopping for presents in local communities.
Even though the local economy isn't as bad as some areas hard hit by the recession, local residents and local businesses are feeling the pinch as consumers hold a little tighter onto their shopping dollars. And it couldn't come at a worse time. The Thanksgiving to Christmas season is a critical time for many retailers, who count on holiday sales to make the year profitable and to provide a cushion to cover winter's slow times.
And area restaurants count on feeding the crowds of shoppers to boost their yearly sales as well.
They could use some help, too.
So why should we support them? These are the places that sponsor local sports teams, donate to local charitable efforts and employ family members, friends and neighbors. Nearly 11,000 people in Blair County were employed in retail or wholesale positions in September, according to the latest figures available from the Department of Labor and Industry. That's nearly one in five jobs in Blair County.
Nearly 15,000 more are employed in retail jobs in Cambria and Centre counties, state figures show.
Those are jobs that help support area families. And they provide employment to the people who buy candy, popcorn, discount cards and hoagies to help our children raise money for school projects. They are the ones to buy bingo cards, baked goods and chances on prizes for charitable endeavors. And they buy the tickets for concerts, shows and plays that add to the cultural life in our region.
Not to mention, the millions they collectively spend on food, clothing and other items that keep our local economy afloat.
Shopping in area stores provides a chance to see the real item, not just a picture on a computer screen. It offers the chance to ask a salesperson questions about the product. And it's easier in case you have to make a return.
Tens of thousands of area residents already have enjoyed the deals being offered by area stores and restaurants this holiday season. We encourage you to join them.
Our central Pennsylvania communities have a lot to offer shoppers and diners. And when we spend our dollars here, it comes back to us in jobs, support for local causes and tax revenue for our schools and local governments.
Let's give the gift that keeps giving by buying locally this holiday season.
