Shop Local Gift Guide 2015

Enter to Win! We’re g ivin $500 loc g away a al shoppin business g spree.

DETAIL S INSID E

NOVEMBER 2015

Win 500 $

How It Works:

toward your Holiday Wishes!

1. Read the advertisements throughout this gift guide.

2. Select the participating businesses you would like to receive gift certificates from (minimum 3 businesses). The maximum gift certificate awarded per business will be $200. You may choose up to 6 different businesses.

3. Enter online at thesouthern.com/contests and click on the “Holiday Wishes” link. Or fill out the Holiday Wishes Entry Form by listing your selections including the store name and dollar amount for the gift certificate. Dollar amount should not exceed $200 per store. You may use the form on this page, a copy of this form, or a 4x6 card including your name, address, phone, email address, store names and gift certificate dollar amounts.

4. Mail “Wish List” to: Holiday Wishes, c/o The Southern Illinoisan, 710 N. Illinois Ave., P.O. Box 2108, Carbondale, IL 62901. Entries must be received by 4pm on Dec. 4th, 2015.

5. One name will be drawn at random from eligible entries. The winner will be contacted by phone or email by Friday, Dec. 11th, 2015. The winner can pick up their gift certificates at The Southern Illinoisan’s office between 8am and 4pm Monday – Friday.

6. You must be at least 18 years old to enter. No purchase necessary. One entry per person.

7. The Southern Illinoisan employees and their families are not eligible to win.

Holiday Wishes Entry Form Store Name 1.* 2.* 3.* 4.

5.

6.

Gift Certificate Dollar Amount

_______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Total $ _________ (not to exceed $500)

Name ____________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Phone: _____________ Email: _______________________ *Must list a minimum of three participating stores. Maximum gift certificate per store not to exceed $200. Mail to: Holiday Wishes, c/o The Southern Illinoisan, 710 N. Illinois Ave, P.O. Box 2108 Carbondale, IL 62901

Enter online at thesouthern.com/contests

2 The Southern Illinoisan : XXXXXXX 2015

Shimmering Diamonds® 14K Yellow Gold Pendant 1/4 ctw. $929

Shimmering Diamonds® Sterling Silver Pendant $159

Diamond Moves with Every Breath She Tak akes

Sapphire & Diamond Pendant $479 Stackable Diamond Ring 3/8 ctw. $1,179

Diamond Stud Earrings 1.2 ctw. $1,079

14K Yellow Gold Pendant $259

Diva Diamonds® Silver Heart Pendant $99

Shimmering Diamonds® Ring 3/8 ctw. $1,279 Diamond Ring 1 ctw. $2,499

14K Yellow Gold Ring 1/2 ctw. $1,629

Monday-Friday 10:00 - 6:00 Saturday 10:00 - 5:00 tjsfinejewelry.com • 618-351-1200 1010 E Main Street, Carbondale IL

‌ RTISTIC PHOTOGRAPHY A

BY SYDNEY 309 N. 10th St., Herrin, 618-889-7154 Artistic Photography by Sydney is a full-service photography studio, open by appointment. Sydney Ambros specializes in pinup and boudoir photography. She is especially passionate about this type of photography because of how it empowers women and strengthens a woman’s positive body image. “It doesn’t matter what your body looks like; nobody looks like a Barbie doll,” she said. “Come in, and let’s talk. I promise that if you’ll let me work with you, you’ll leave feeling like a million bucks.”

Hours: Open by appointment Online: photosbysydney.com Gift ideas: Sessions with Sydney can help transform the girl next door. If you are camera shy but always wanted to feel glamorous, Sydney can help you feel beautiful.

BURKDELL MULCH 1300 N. Illinois Ave., Carbondale, 618-549-2211 Illinois 15 East, 300 Fairfield Road, Mount Vernon, 618-242-0900 Burkdell Mulch can take care of all of your landscaping needs.

This family-owned business manufactures its own mulch.

Products include lawn furniture, grass seed and fertilizer, fireplaces and fire pits, patio stones, garden supplies, natural stone and decorative rock, pergolas and a full line of pet food. You can have the property you have always wanted and boost curb appeal and value, too. Delivery is provided.

Hours: Daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Online: burkedellmulch.com Gift ideas: Burkdell Mulch has everything for anyone who wants to have more style, function and fun outside, on the porch and in the yard.

DAYSHIFT BOUTIQUE 101 W. Monroe, Carbondale 618-529-3297 Dayshift Boutique is an art and artistic gift shop in the heart of downtown Carbondale. Everything in the store is made by the skilled hands of the region’s talented artists and craftsmen.

Dayshift carries an eclectic mix of merchandise, including fine art, clothing, jewelry, accessories,

camera and a 2GB memory card for photo/video storage. The body is lightweight, but durable plastic.

The remote transmitter comes with rechargeable batteries. You can fly up, down, forward, backward, right and left. You can perform 360-degree flips. And it comes ready to fly, right out of the box.

photography, home goods and kids’ stuff. Most items are one of a kind and some can be customized to create a truly special gift for your loved ones.

Dayshift hosts artist trunk shows and other community events. Gift wrapping and gift certificates are always available.

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

On Facebook: DayshiftCarbondale Gift ideas: Line of winter hats made from upcycled cashmere sweaters and other fabrics designed and constructed by Karine Gabrini, owner of Wild Chrysalis. Blown-glass ornaments

by Tim Soluna of Soluna Art Glass. Tim is a graduate of the SIU School of Art and Design and has been blowing glass for 12 years. A variety of colors and designs are available. These will make your tree really shine or make a wonderful holiday gift for someone special.

GREAT OUTDOORS COMPANY 695 N. Giant City Road, Carbondale, 618-529-5130 For 30 years, The Great Outdoors Company has been providing quality apparel, footwear, gifts and home décor for people who love the outdoors. Brands include Under Armour, Drake Waterfowl

4 Shop Local Gift Guide : The Southern Illinoisan : HOLIDAY 2015

Systems, Crocs, Ducks Unlimited and Columbia Sportswear.

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 Online: thegreatoutdoorscompany. com Gift ideas: YETI Coolers are built to be indestructible and keep ice for days, built for going toe-to-toe with hungry grizzlies, built for the prepared, for the long haul, for the wild, built for better Monday morning water cooler talk.

MURDALE TRUE VALUE Murdale Shopping Center 1915 W. Main, Carbondale 618-529-3400 Murdale True Value offers home appliances, kitchen appliances, laundry appliances, home-comfort appliances and outdoor products.

Murdale True Value also offers a nursery, full-time locksmiths and a complete line of hardware, lawn and garden, paint, electrical, plumbing, housewares and cleaning supplies.

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Online: murdale.com Gift ideas: Striker Spy Drone by World Tech Toys. This RC drone has a built-in picture and video

PLANTSCAPE NURSERY 720 N. 33rd St., Herrin 618-942-4865 Plantscape Nursery and Landscape Service is a full-service nursery and garden center and large-tree specialist. Plantscape carries all manner of growing things, including trees, shrubs, fruits, annuals, water plants, bulbs, seeds, perennials, annuals, evergreens, tropical, roses, grasses and vines. Plantscape offers landscape design, consultation and installation. Plantscape also carries landscaping products, garden accents, fountains, sundials, decorative pots and planters, books and CDs, bird feeders and houses, birdbaths, bird food and accessories, garden apparel – including boots, shoes, hats, aprons and tool belts, and a lot of organic products.

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 Online: plantscapenursery.com Gift ideas: Painted Peace Art Poles bring bold beautiful artwork into your garden. They’re easy to install – no digging required – and they’re rugged, all-weather, fade-resistant, and laminated for scratch-resistance. They’re made in the USA in three sizes: 3 feet, four feet, five foot.

PURE PETS 2355 Sweets Drive, Suite J, Carbondale, 618-490-1222 Pure Pets is Southern Illinois’ first all-natural pet market and self-service dog wash. Pure Pets focuses on providing only the highest quality selection of food, treats, toys, grooming products and accessories for dogs and cats.

Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

Online: purepetstore.com Gift ideas: Planet Dog Toys, favorites made by a U.S. company that is focused on providing eco-friendly toys backed by a 100-percent guarantee. Any of these toys are great gifts for

10 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, noon10 p.m.

Online: studentcenter.siu.edu Gift ideas: Come to the 37th annual Holiday Craft Sale on Dec. 3, 4 and 5 for all your handmade Christmas gifts. The sale takes place on the center’s first floor.

Hours are Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regional artists will showcase a wide variety of crafts, including hand-painted Christmas ornaments, handmade knitted items, jewelry, oil paintings, glass art and pottery.

your four-legged friends and their owners.

RENDLEMAN ORCHARDS 9680 State Route 127 North, Alto Pass, 618-893-2771 Rendleman Orchards will be celebrating Christmas on the farm, and you’re invited. Celebrate the holiday season at Rendleman Orchards Farm Market. Snack on hot apple cider donuts, sip local coffee and listen to Christmas tunes while selecting from an array of specialty food items that will make the perfect gift for customers, friends and family.

Rendleman Orchards will create beautifully cellophane-wrapped gift baskets topped with a bow for you to take with you or arrange to be shipped. These one of a kind, local “Country Gourmet” gifts always delight!

Rendleman Orchards also offers local farm-fresh apples, apple butter, applesauce and apple cider throughout the season. Take home unique items, including jams, jellies, pickled items, baking and soup mixes, ciders, salsas, snack mixes, candles and linens.

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Gift ideas: Apple Gift Boxes: Give fresh, healthy and local. They cost from $17 to $42 and include three different collections of large, sweet apples – yellow and Red and Golden Delicious – picked at their

peak then hand-packed into a nest of finely shredded aspen.Online: rendlemanorchards.com SIU STUDENT CENTER 1255 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, 618-536-4636 The SIU Student Center is a central gathering place committed to providing excellence in programs, services, and facilities while serving students and the community in a safe and inclusive environment.

Take advantage of the center’s many dining options, the Craft Shop, Bowling & Billiards, and other activities.

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m.-midnight; Saturday,

SOUTHERN BLOOMS 1424 Walnut St., Murphysboro, 618-565-1111 Southern Blooms is a local floral and gift store offering funeral, memorial and special occasion arrangements as well as home décor. Special orders are welcome.

Southern Booms is a full-service, FTD and Teleflora, locally owned florist offering a variety of freshly cut flowers and arrangements, designed to mark all of life’s memorable moments. And it’s quality backed with a satisfaction guarantee.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

On Facebook: SouthernBlooms Gift idea: There are lots of gift ideas at Southern Blooms, including floral and balloon arrangements, and decorative glass.

STE. GENEVIEVE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM 66 Main St., Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, 800-373-7007 Ste. Genevieve is the oldest town in America west of the Mississippi.

It features historic homes, museums, quaint restaurants and charming shops. Everything is within walking distance in what has been voted the most beautiful town in Missouri.

Online: visitstegen.com Gift ideas: What better time to tour the picturesque town of Ste. Genevieve than during the holiday season? Founded in 1735, this historic community boasts the finest Christmas celebration along the Mississippi River.

Come join the yuletide spirit with the 31st annual Ste. Genevieve Holiday Christmas Festival on Dec 5 and 6. The parade starts at 11 a.m. Saturday in the historic downtown, and features local and regional dignitaries, re-enactors, bands, floats, Shriners, classic cars, musicians, beauty queens, horses, Santa and tons of fun for the whole family. This uniquely special event also highlights more than two dozen musical performances by local and regional artists including Southern Illinois University and Southeast Missouri State University, covering 700 years of Christmas music. Performances include Renaissance, chamber singers, contemporary choral, string quartet, classical guitarists,

don’T MiSS iT. ThankSgiving day excluSive.

Details revealed in the Thanksgiving Day Southern Illinoisan

YOU COULD WIN:

$5,000 Grand Prize • 1 of 3 $100 Gift Cards

SubScribe Today!

www.thesouthern.com/subscribe All federal, state, local and municipal laws and regulations apply. No purchase is necessary to enter or win. Void where prohibited. Promotion period begins on Wednesday, November 25th and ends on December 6th, 2015 at 11:59 p.m.

All eligible entries will be entered into the Promotion. Odds of winning depend on number of valid entries received. For official rules, please go to lee.net/contestrules.

Latino jazz trio, harpist, violins, bluegrass, pop rock, acoustic guitar and French carolers. It also includes free hot dogs for kids younger than 12, free photos with Santa, free horse and carriage rides, a tree lighting ceremony, and an Art Guild show. And don’t miss the Variety Show on Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ste. Genevieve performance center.

STOTLAR-HERRIN LUMBER COMPANY 606 Washington Ave., Johnston City, 618-983-5121 109 South Victor, Christopher 618-724-2331 102 E. Oak St., West Frankfort 618-932-2513 221 North Main St., Benton 618-439-4026 Stotlar-Herrin Lumber Company is a full-service hardware store that strives to provide the best in customer service. The business was incorporated in 1901 and is in its fifth generation of family ownership. Stop by one of Stotlar’s four locations or visit Stotlar’s online store where you can purchase 70,000 items available for overnight delivery. If Stotlar’s does not stock the item, one of their friendly employees will be happy to special order the item for you.

Stotlar Lumber is eager to give you the service you deserve. Do it Best Corp., the only US-based fullline, full-service, member-owned distributor of lumber, hardware and building materials products in the home improvement industry, serves 3,800 member-owned locations throughout the U.S. and in 53 countries.

Hours: Varies by store Online: www.stotlars.doitbest.com Gift ideas: Stotlar Lumber has some great deals this holiday season. They feature a full line of hardware and building materials.

They are authorized Case dealers for the knife collector in your family. They have the latest YETI Cooler products and a great selection of tools to complete any project. Can’t decide? They have gift cards, too!

TJ’S FINE JEWELRY 1010 E. Main St., Carbondale 618-351-1200 TJ’s Fine Jewelry provides appraisals, custom jewelry design, pearl re-stringing, watch battery replacement, watch link removal, ring sizing, soldering of jewelry, diamond replacement, diamond and gemstone re-setting, stone tightening, prong replacement and

Full service Floral Department Great garden décor Home décor Holiday arrangements, wreaths, and

Southern Blooms, LLC 1424 Walnut St • Murphysboro, illinois 618-565-1111

prong re-tipping, rhodium plating, chain and bracelet repair, and free jewelry inspection and cleaning.

TJ’s also has an in-store jeweler who specializes in repairs of gold, silver and platinum. TJ’s also has a consignment program and also buys gold, silver and coins.

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday (after Thanksgiving), noon to 5 p.m.

Online: tjsfinejewelry.com Gift ideas: Double-diamond jewelry for your soul mate.

Choose from 2Us, two-stone diamond rings, fashion pendants and fashion earrings. Each piece features two diamonds side by side to symbolize the dual role that your significant other plays in your life as your lover and best friend.

UNIFORMS AND MORE 2355 Sweets Drive, Unit D, Carbondale, 618-457-7278 Uniforms and More sells medical uniforms – including Cherokee brands Infinity, Code Happy and Heart and Soul – and light medical supplies, such as blood-pressure cuffs, stethoscope, scissors, calipers and other things that medical professionals might need.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.

to 5 p.m.

On Facebook: Uniforms-and-More Gift ideas: Strategic Partners scrub manufacturer will be introducing a new line at the end of December.

YOUR JEWELER Illinois 13, Carterville 618-985-8331 Your Jeweler has been locally owned and operated for more than 25 years, serving all of Southern Illinois with quality jewelry, everyday low prices, unique items and custom designs. Two full-time jewelers are in the store every day. Services include polishing, cleaning while you wait, replacing watch batteries, adjusting watch bands, ring sizing, chain repair, diamond replacement and setting, laser welding, rhodium plating, eyeglass repair, in-store engraving, appraisals and free inspections.

Your Jeweler buys gold, silver and platinum.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Online: yjeweler.com Gift ideas: Rhythms of Love jewelry use diamonds that vibrate with every beat of your heart.

GIVE THE GIFTS OF

Benton, IL 204 N. Main 618-439-4026

Johnston City, IL Christopher, IL W Frankfort, IL West 606 N. Washington 1010 Egyptian Ave. 102 E. Oak St. 618-983-5121 618-724-2331 618-932-2513 stotlars.doitbest.com oit

MAKE IT If you like to shop with young kids or elderly family members, then the madness that accompanies Black Friday or even Thanksgiving night shopping at major retailers probably isn’t for you.

‌A

stroll down to your friendly downtown establishment for a more laid-back experience may be what you’re looking for this year.

Shopping locally provides this.

Even in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you are likely to find friendly, personalized service at the local business level. This is because you probably know your small business owner by name and can even tell people about their background. The typical small business in America depends on this kind of connection with its customers.

What better way to teach your children about the hard work, communication and store loyalty than by taking them to your favorite local store and talking shop with the owner?

TEACH THE VALUE OF MONEY‌

Here is shopping exercise to try with your youngsters: Give them $10 to buy a locally produced, locally sold item for a sibling or friend.‌ Provide a list of five local businesses from which they are allowed to make their purchase.‌ Take them to the store and let them pick out the item.‌ Prompt them to donate the remaining change to any local charity or support effort the business is promoting.‌ Discuss all of the important lessons that can be learned from the experience, including supporting your local economy, providing more jobs and contributing to causes.‌ Children can learn through your example of shopping locally. And who knows? You may just be creating another

community-minded, small business customer for life.

A BETTER SHOPPING EXPERIENCE‌

If you’re taking an elderly adult out shopping with you this season, one of the best options to give them a positive experience is by shopping locally.

If he or she has been in your community for a long period of time,

8 Shop Local Gift Guide : The Southern Illinoisan : HOLIDAY 2015

undoubtedly they will run into friends, neighbors or family members while you’re out on the town. Slow down and have a leisurely morning of shopping. Stop by your local coffeehouse before you make your trek downtown. Take in some conversation while you peruse the aisles of your favorite boutiques. Work together to whittle down your shopping list while also wrapping yourselves up in the spirit of shopping locally for the holidays.

Available December 2015. Call 618.529.5454 for more information.

Enjoy local ne dining– at a discount!

Order your 2016 Dining Card today for only $20 and start enjoying “buy one entrée, get one free” offers at twenty-one outstanding restaurants across Southern Illinois!

2015 Participating Participating 2016 Restaurants Restaurants Blend Tea and Crêpe Bottoms Up Bar and Grill Centralia House Chuck’s BBQ The Country Cupboard Delish 7 Spice Fat Patties Longbranch Café and Bakery Mélange Café Mi Patio Mexican Grill New Kahala Chinese Cuisine Pagliai’s Pizza and Pasta Pizza and Pasta Express RARE Chophouse Reema’s Indian Cuisine Riverview Mansion Hotel and Levee Lounge Savory Family Restaurant and Pancake House Taqueria La Fogata

All mail orders will be assessed a $1 per card shipping & handling fee

618-529-5454 | thesouthern.com/top20

Thai Taste The Underground Barrel Room and Grill Walt’s Restaurant

SHOP LOCAL:

BY THE NUMBERS If you’re a business owner, the following statistics could help you in planning your holiday strategies. If you’re a shopper, they could motivate you to carry out even more local purchases this Christmas season.

Consumers spent an estimated $14.3 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday, 2014 – up 2.1 percent from 2013, according to the National Federation of Independent Business and American Express.‌ As a consumer, you should do your part to make sure this year’s numbers jump by at least another two percent. Business owners should focus on beating their own personal quotas again this year, as well as on carrying over the Christmas momentum into 2016.

According to the Small Business Administration, independent retailers return more than three times as much money per dollar of sales than chain competitors.‌ Independent retailers return more than three times as much money per dollar of sales than chain competitors. Independent restaurants return more than two times as much money per dollar of sales than national restaurant chain.

More than 23.6 percent of shoppers Tweet about purchases they’ve made, according to Twitter.‌ Does your business have a handle? If not, the holidays are a great time to create one. Many of your customers use Twitter for connecting with local businesses, friends and family members. You can use the popular platform to interact with your “followers” and spread the word on upcoming events or promotions. If just half of the United States employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue, according to the Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Labor.‌ Nearly half of consumers plan to buy holiday gifts online this year, report Google.‌ If you hope to be relevant as a small business in today’s technology age, your products and services should be available for online purchase. It’s easy to do and should be a vital part of your commerce strategy.

10 Shop Local Gift Guide : The Southern Illinoisan : HOLIDAY 2015

UniforMmosr e Workwear at Affordable Price!

&

Pavers + Weekend = Fire Pit Poly Lawn Furniture • Patio Pavers • Outdoor Kitchens Fireplaces • Pergolas • Fire Pits

Brand Names

&

More

Stethoscopes & Accessories Great Selection of Scrubs

Shoes by: KSwiss • Rockers • Nurse Mates & Quark 2355 Sweets Drive • Carbondale Hwy 13 Across from Golden Corral

618-457-1603

Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 • Sat 10-5 • Sun Closed

unilock.com

Benton 618-435-3069

Carbondale Ave. 1300 N Illinois A 618-549-2211

Mt. Vernon 618-242-0900

Gift Certificates Available

31ST ANNUAL

•Art •Photography •Jewelry •Clothing & Accessories •Bath & Body •Home Decor •Kids 101 W Monroe Carbondale IL

618-529-3297

OVER 2 DOZEN CONCERTS!

Holiday Christmas Festival PARADE STARTS AT 11AM ON SATURDAY

• FREE Parade • FREE Concerts • FREE Carriage Rides

• FREE Photos with Santa • FREE Hotdogs for Kids under 12

Friday, December 4th, Sat. December 5th & Sun. December 6th

Variety Show

Singing • Dancing • Entertainment Friday, December 4th at 6:30 pm

At the Ste. Gen. R-II Performing Arts Center

800-373-7007 OR VISITSTEGEN.COM

IMPACTS YOUR WALLET AND THE ENVIRONMENT

More cash in your pocket and less trash in the environment: Shopping locally just makes sense

‌I

f you’re looking for ways to achieve both of these objectives this holiday season, start by supporting your local business owners. They’re waiting for with open arms, ready to help you reach your Christmas shopping goals. And they’ve got the deals to prove it.

SAVE CASH‌

‘Tis the season to be jolly, not broke.

When you embark on a cross-state shopping spree to visit far-away stores, you might as well say goodbye to saving any of your Christmas cash.

There’s the gas for travel, the expensive dining for multiple meals and the hotel if you plan on staying somewhere overnight.

Compare that experience to finding

some great local deals in your downtown establishment, eating an affordable meal in your favorite local pizza hub and then heading home to wrap your gifts. It’s easy to see which option is both less expensive and less stressful.

Shopping locally isn’t just about saving cash, but also about making it stretch further for those around you. More of your money stays local when you spend it in town, meaning your cash is also making more of a difference for your neighbors, friends and family members.

SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT‌

Staying local cuts down on travel for both you and company delivery drivers.

This is a double benefit that results in

12 Shop Local Gift Guide : The Southern Illinoisan : HOLIDAY 2015

cleaner air and eased traffic congestion.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, trucks and locomotives are responsible for 25 percent of smogcausing pollution and the majority of the cancer threat posed by air pollution in some areas.

Local businesses can help the environment in two ways: By using local produce, food and products.‌ By using less packaging than larger chain stores.‌ These actions help keep our local communities more sustainable and keep more unnecessary plastics out of our city landfills. Shopping locally equals green and clean.

GO WITH LOCAL GIFT CARDS A gift card to a massive box store? We think you can do better than that. A gift card to a local exotic pet store? Now, we’re talking.

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ift cards are becoming the go-to holiday present for shoppers everywhere. The National Retail Federation says nearly $30 billion will be shelled out for Christmas presents this year.

Gift cards are simple, easily available and allow your recipient to buy something he or she actually wants.

They can also be extremely thoughtful if you put some energy into buying one.

KNOW YOUR RECIPIENT‌ If you’re considering

buying some gift cards as Christmas presents this year, it’s important to know the tastes of who you’re buying for.

Does your recipient have a favorite local music shop or furniture store? Then this will be easy. If you’re not sure where he or she likes to shop locally, consider their hobbies and interests.

Golf shops, restaurants, pet stores, gun smiths – there are numerous locally owned businesses to help you find the perfect gift card for any kind of person on your list.

14 Shop Local Gift Guide : The Southern Illinoisan : HOLIDAY 2015

PERFECT FOR DECORATIONS‌

Maybe you’re considering buying some decorative pieces for your friend’s home or office, but you’re not quite sure if they’ll like what you have in mind. Buy them a gift card.

You can find local boutiques, florists and specialty shops with a plethora of decorative options for the home – and ones your friend can pick out herself.

MATCH IT WITH OTHER GIFTS‌

Versatility is one of the signature advantages of going with a gift card for your friends and family members.

Let’s say you have an animallover in your family and are thinking of buying him a fish tank. You can purchase the tank from your local pet shop and add on a gift card for your recipient to pick out his own fish.

The same concept can apply for any coffee fanatics.

Select a new coffeemaker from your local coffee store and load a gift card with $20 for your friend to buy her favorite kinds.

Recipients love this because it feels like the gift that keeps on giving.

Small business owners love it because it’s like two transactions and it brings more traffic back into their store.

Something for everyone on y your liSt... you too!!!

618.529.5130 695 N. Giant City Rd., Carbondale, IL www.thegreatoutdoorscompany.com Monday- Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. | Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

It’s easier than ever to find a local movement supporting the act of shopping locally.

Joining one is even easier.

‌I

n most cases, the best way to show love for your local business is to buy from them. And the holidays are a great time to give back to your small business community by spending your hard-earned dollars there.

But what happens when you go beyond the purchase?

How much can you achieve by becoming an actual voice in the conversation promoting the act of shopping locally into the mainstream?

JOIN THE MISSION‌

Community-focused organizations like Independent We Stand or the Small Business Administration are continually seeking volunteers to help get the word out on their efforts.

The websites of both organizations offer guidance on how to become involved in their activities. Choosing to devote your time or resources toward the overall growth of the small business landscape can have a big impact on your community.

CITY AND TOWN MOVEMENTS‌

Many of the nation’s largest cities — and small ones in between — have put together strong ‘shop local’ campaigns to motivate and mobilize their community members.

These initiatives can range from a simple one-day event or a full-fledged, year-long effort to publicize the importance of shopping locally during the holiday season.

Does your community sponsor a small business board in addition to its chamber of commerce? Do you have opportunities to promote your favorite small businesses to your own customers, partners or management teams?

BECOME AN ADVOCATE‌

If there are no major movements in your area, you can still become an advocate for your favorite local shop.

And you can do so in creative ways.

Many national organizations conduct large-scale contests to award the most innovative small businesses across the country.

Grant money, new equipment or free advertising can be among the prizes doled out for winning entries.

Be on the lookout for such promotions and alert your small business owners when you find one.

16 Shop Local Gift Guide : The Southern Illinoisan : HOLIDAY 2015

You can also take your message or positive purchasing experience to social media.

This is another way of promoting your favorite small business to the masses.

Authentic, unforced customer referrals can be the best form of advertising for a small business, so share often. This can allow you to keep giving long after the holidays.

Striker Drone Video Camera With Remote Moves in any direction including 360 degrees flip stunt mode, Captures still photos and video to micro SD card.

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My First Sports Scooter

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Hours Of Fun Will Be Provided As The Child Loads & Unloads The Train Cars & Pretends To Steer The Train.

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Assorted Colors & Patterns, Exclusive Technology, Thermofine Warming System Senses & Adjusts To Deliver Consistent Warmth

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10 1/4” Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Cast Iron Skillet, Ready To Use Right Out Of The Box, No Seasoning Required.

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$ 182757

12” Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

2” Deep, Cast Iron Skillet, Ready To Use Right Out Of The Box, No Seasoning Required.

$

99

4

$ 99

SALE

2-Pk. Potholder Sets

743583

24

99 SALE

Pyrex 8 Pc Mixing Bowl Set With Lids Set includes 1-qt., 1.5-qt., 2.5-qt. and 4-qt. bowls.

14

$

Silicone-lined for heat protection up to 250o. Chooses camouflage, bandana or chili pepper print.

W 191 379,383,380, B12

2499

Keurig K350 2.0 Brewer

Includes Slotted, Phillips & Square, 3-1/2” Power Groove Bits, Integrated Bit Storage & Wire Stripper.

9

99

50 X 50 In Heated Fleece Throw

Comes With 3 Long Range Light Up Whistle Arrows & 1 Light Up Bow.

194800

12

99

Air Hunterz Firetek Bow

$

49

99

625366

99

CARBONDALE • Murdale Shopping Center, 1915 W. Main St. • murdale.com • 618-529-3400 • Hours: Mon-Sat 7am-8pm Sun 9am-5pm

CREATE SOME JOBS

FOR CHRISTMAS It’s better to give than to receive, says the timeless adage. By shopping locally for Christmas, you can keep this holiday spirit alive. You may have more of an impact on your community’s economic longevity and job market than you even realize.

‌A

recent study by the Small Business Administration, United States Department of Labor and other major organizations found that small businesses have employed about 77 million Americans and accounted for 65 percent of all new jobs over nearly the past two decades.

Those numbers only look to increase as entrepreneurship and small business accelerators continue to work together on new business ideas.

But that kind of job growth is only

sustainable if customers allow for it.

That’s where you come in.

TURN PART TIME INTO FULL TIME‌

We’ve all seen the advertisements for extra employment opportunities during the holiday season. Businesses usually bring on board a large contingent of part-time workers to help them meet the demands of Christmas shopping season – the busiest time for retailers and restaurants both big and small.

18 Shop Local Gift Guide : The Southern Illinoisan : HOLIDAY 2015

Spending your dollars locally means you’re giving small business owners a great boost going into the New Year. If revenues are high enough, this can even allow them to retain part-time helpers and turn them into full-time employees after the holidays.

Talk about giving a gift — you could be helping keep your friends and neighbors employed during the holiday season and beyond.

SUPPORT COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP‌

Many of your local small business owners are also community leaders, serving in elected positions over our community boards, city halls and educational institutions.

By shopping locally, you are keeping the spirit of civic activism alive through your investment into the success of your local difference-makers.

And, as long as community leaders are invested in the people around them, more work can be done together to start new businesses and employment opportunities throughout your area.

LOCAL Gifts - shipped!

GIFT BOXES & GIFT BASKETS Holiday Gifts & Apple Gift Boxes SHIPPED! Perfect for....

• Corporate Gifts • Employees • Friends & Relatives

Great Gifts for the Gardener Tall Wellington ellington Boots

8395

$

Gardening Apron

3695

$

Leather Working Gloves w/ Forearm Protection

2495

$

Tool Belt

2495

$

Copper Rain Chains

Create Your Own Gift Baskets

Music of the Spheres Tuned Wind Chimes

Jams • Jellies • Salsas • Pickles • Ciders • Soups • Dips Butters • Syrups • Baking Mixes • Snack Mixes Cappuccinos • Linens • Candles • Apple Cider Donuts

83-$193

$

89-$599

$

Gift Certificates Available Visit us at www.plantscapenursery.com

NURSERY & LANDSCAPE SERVICE

One mile west of Rt. 148 in Herrin on the Herrin-Colp Hwy.

Mon.-Sat. 8-5 p.m.

Sun. 12-5 p.m.

942-4865

Mon.-Sat. • 9am-5pm | Sunday • 12am-5pm

Alto Pass, Illinois

(618) 893-2771 Visit us at www.rendlemanorchards.com 11 mi. South of Murphysboro 1.5 mi. North of Alto Pass on Hwy. 127

“Twogether” You and Me, diamond jewelry

Ring - available in 1/2ct tw $1,294 3/4ct tw $1,795 1ct tw $2,496 Pendant - available in 1/2ct tw $1,095 3/4ct tw $1,696 1ct tw $2,697

Rt. 13, Carterville

(618)985-8331 yjeweler.com

20 The Southern Illinoisan

* More style available in store” “: XXXXXXX More than just a Jewelry store” 2015