By Jacob Mathias

Christmas is soon upon us, and this is one of the biggest traveling weekends of the year. There’s still so much to do for many families, and if you’re anything like many of our staff members, at least some of your gift- shopping is still ahead of you, and you dread the thought of going to a large chain store.

We’re not here to tell you that Christmas has become too commercial or you should set aside the idea of presents for a more generous option such as a donation to charity or planting a tree. We love getting presents and we love giving them even more. Religious symbolism aside, giving and receiving gifts at Christmastime is a tradition and we enjoy giving them to those we love and appreciate.

What we want to encourage is a little more thought in your gift giving. The big stores are everywhere: a gift card to Wal-Mart or Target isn’t a good gift, and if anything it’s thoughtless and fleeting. What you’re saying is, “I don’t know, nor do I care enough about you to put any thought into what I’m giving you.” Obviously there are exceptions to this- some people really need the grocery money and Trig’s or Copp’s are great options.

We at the City-Times encourage you to hit the small(er), locally- owned shops. Find a unique gift for a family or friend that shows you’ve thought about them and tried to make them happy. Gepetto’s Toy Store in Downtown Stevens Point has new and old-fashioned toys that you just can’t get at Wal-Mart. Girls with Pearls has unique jewelry and clothing you just can’t buy off the rack. Ski’s Meat Market gift certificates make a great gift for a foodie who maybe can’t spend a lot on premium meats. Galaxy Comics, Jadeco Hobby, Hoffman’s Hobbies and Galaxy Hobby all cater to different hobbyists, from gamers to modelers to comics and RC and everything in between.

In any case, there is a plethora of small businesses in Stevens Point to serve all Christmas shoppers. So make a change this year. Support the small business. By unique and thoughtful gifts and avoid the lines at the big stores.

Merry Christmas from all of us at the Stevens Point City-Times!