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There’s officially six weeks until Christmas, which is hard to believe. Most years at this time we’re asking “where did the year go?” This year, we’re just thankful that we’re close to turning the calendar and hopeful for a better — COVID-free — 2021.

With the holidays right around the corner, it’s clear the Christmas shopping season has already started. Black Friday sales have already started at some stores, as they work to have a socially-distanced sale.

Amazon held its Prime Day last month as well, moved from its normal spot on the calendar in July.

All of that is great, and there are plenty of fantastic deals out there.

However, we ask that you shop local first. We realize Troup County as a whole is lacking in retail businesses compared to other cities, especially when it comes to shopping opportunities on Black Friday.

But, there are plenty of local businesses nearby that have plenty of unique gifts to offer that you won’t find sitting on the shelf at a big box store.

We have nothing against big box stores at all. But wouldn’t a unique gift mean more than a good deal that anyone in the country can run out and buy?

Plus, shopping local means those tax dollars stay here as well, and that includes going to Walmart on Black Friday. By all means go shopping that day if you so choose, but if you do, stay in Troup County as much as possible.

We understand that a lot of people will shop online this year due to COVID-19, and we encourage you to do that as well. It’s safer.

But if you’re planning to go to a store, we encourage you to start local. We think you’ll be surprised at some of the gift ideas you can find in Troup County.