A new, local holiday tradition

Friday, November 25, 2011

To the Editor:

The holidays are approaching and the Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheap merchandise produced at the expense of American workers. This year can be different. Americans can give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. The excuse that nothing produced by Americans can be found is no longer valid. There is plenty right in our own back yard.

Now think outside the box. Does it have to fit in a shirt box wrapped in Chinese-produced wrapping paper?

Everyone gets their hair cut. How about a gift certificate from a local hair salon or barber? Or gym membership? All ages want some health improvement.

A book of coupons for car detailing from a small American-owned car wash fits under anyone’s tree!

Gift cards go everywhere around town: a massage therapist for an hour of relaxation, the custom picture framer for school photos, even the pet spa for Fido.

Do you want something more extravagant? Rather than your dishing out for one of those Chinese-made flat-screens, perhaps the fortunate receiver would appreciate his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or games at the local golf course or snow plowing for the winter.

A bazillion owner-operated restaurants offer gift certificates for fine and fancy occasions or a dozen breakfasts. Remember, folks, this isn’t for the big national chains; this is about supporting your hometown Americans working to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle done at a shop run by an American working guy?

Mom would love a day at the spa or the services of a local cleaning lady.

My computer needs a tune-up, done locally.

Want something more personal and unique? Seek beautiful handwork, jewelry, quilts, doll clothes, pottery all made in America by local crafters.

Plan your office parties at local, owner-operated restaurants and give the server a big tip. Take the group to a local concert or hometown theater.

Do you really need to buy another thousand Chinese lights for the tree? A five dollar string of lights leaves only fifty cents in the community. Let your generosity spread to the mailman, trash guy and babysitter with a big tip.

You see, Christmas can no longer be draining American pocketbooks so China can build another glittering city. It’s about caring for us, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away. When we care about other Americans, we care about our own communities. Benefits come back to us in ways we couldn’t imagine. When they succeed, we all succeed.

Buy local. This is the new American Christmas tradition.

ANITA HINKLE

Merrimack