Shopping locally adds value to community

Black Friday is over and done with. The major retailers around the country have done their best to lure consumers through their doors and down the aisles.

For those who don’t care to dare the crowds and bright lights of all-night shopping, there’s another option: Shopping locally.

While smaller retailers in rural communities may not be able to offer the variety found in larger stores, there are many benefits that may offset that lack.

Most of Odessa’s businesses are owned by residents of the community, who in turn support other local businesses. That is, money spent here tends to stay here.

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