Shopping without protective gear

Football is everywhere. Games are scheduled throughout the weekend. The much anticipated Apple Cup is on Saturday. WSU meets UofW in Seattle. It promises to be a hard fought game.

As we know, football is not a gentle sport. Players are helmeted and heavily padded to withstand the physical contact.

One would think that football is enough violence for most, but for most it is non-participatory. Not everyone likes to just watch.

That is where Black Friday comes in.

Those looking for more action can have their chance at contact sports on Black Friday (and in some places Thursday). But, unlike football, participants are not suited up. They don't wear protective gear.

If past Black Fridays are any indication, early morning store openings will be as much physical contact as shopping. Even targeting is not outlawed.

Rampaging through big stores may not be for everyone.

There is a different way to shop. That is shopping at small, local stores. Saturday is dedicated to patronizing these stores. It is called Small Business Saturday.

Small Business Saturday is a national effort to make sure that local stores are not forgotten in the beginning rush of holiday shopping.

These small, locally-owned stores are vital to communities. They provide local employment and are the first to assist in local fundraisers and community projects. In many respects, they give local downtowns their vitality and diversity. They also generate essential local taxes that support local services.

Shopping local and shopping your hometown first are important to entire communities. Small Business Saturday is a reminder of the importance of these local businesses.

Local retailers and services remember their consumers all year. It is important to remember them through the holiday season.

Shopping locally can be pleasant, and there is no need to wear protective gear.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher