With Thanksgiving behind us, the Christmas season is getting into full swing, as Brookhaven looks forward to its annual Christmas parade Thursday night, churches are putting on special programs, Christmas trees are going up at the library and other events are planned around the community.

With the days to Christmas counting down, many are trying to finalize shopping lists. As we work to mark items off those lists, it’s tempting to buy gifts online or take a trip out of town to bigger malls with more national retailers, but we all need to think hard about doing our shopping locally this year.

Brookhaven has a multitude of retailers, ranging from specialty shops and boutiques to national department and discount stores. It’s easy to find Christmas gifts at shops all around town.

Besides saving money on gasoline and postage by shopping at home, you’ll also help boost our town’s revenues through additional sales tax collections. The result will be more funds for improving our city services, paving our streets and providing better upkeep for parks and recreational facilities.

The dollars you spend in town will also help keep local stores in business and provide jobs for your neighbors.

Shopping at home helps keep our community strong and improves the quality of life for everyone. So do yourself and your Brookhaven a favor this year – shop at home.