As the holidays approach, many consumers look to get the best deals out there, but what many don’t understand is that getting the best deal out there isn’t always best for their community. 
Big box stores like Walmart, Target, and Ulta don’t do anything for their community. What most consumers don’t realize is that when shopping local, their tax dollars stay in the community. 
Your tax dollars will go towards your local fire department, libraries, even community centers. Consumers will also get a selection of products geared towards their specific needs. For example, in Southern California where the weather is hot most of the year, their businesses will be geared towards that type of weather and in areas like Colorado where they get a lot of snow, their businesses will be geared towards more snow gear. Small businesses also create jobs for the locals. 
Working for a small business for 15 years, I’ve seen the effects of big box stores coming in and crushing the “little guy.” Family businesses that have been around for over 20 years are forced to close their doors because who could compete with the big corporations? 
According to Steven Barrison in his article “Study Proves it: Walmart Super-stores kill off local small businesses,” “Within two years of Walmart’s opening its doors, 82 local stores went out of business.” 
In this economy it is hard to pay a little more and to give in to these big box stores. And although the Walmarts and Targets might have cheaper prices at times, stop and ask yourself, “Will I get that one-on-one customer service? Will I get that satisfaction of knowing I have just supported my neighbor, my community?” 
Also, will you find what you really need according to where you live? Think about that next time you’re looking for a new bike, a new shampoo or lipstick, or even a unique gift for that special someone.

Angelica Pacheco is a Tower staff writer. Email her at apachecobeauty(at)yahoo.com.