Bob Hendrickson, IOHT

ISHPEMING — For many local retailers and merchants, the holiday shopping season is one of the biggest income opportunities of the year.

The competition from online retail keeps chipping away the local profit margin a little bit more each year. Because of that trend we need to make a conscious effort to support our local community businesses.

The Annual Ishpeming Ladies Night Out will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 17. This is a great event hosted by the Ishpeming Community Events to get local businesses in the spotlight and enjoy a fun night out on the town.

A number of Ishpeming businesses have signed up and it’s become a holiday shopping tradition for the area.

It will be an all-day event with opportunities for door prizes, discounts and gifts. Many of the participating businesses will have extended hours.

For more information check out the Ishpeming Community Events event page on Facebook, Ladies Night Out hosted by Ishpeming Community Events or call the Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce at 906-486-1111.

The GINCC will be championing the “Small Business Season” initiative this holiday season. There are many days throughout the holidays that specifically emphasis shopping local and supporting small, but this year keep it in mind through the whole season.

There have been several small retailers who have opened their doors this past year in both Ishpeming, Negaunee and surrounding area.

With the shortage of goods arriving from importers this year take advantage offerings at several of the antique dealers and second-hand outlets.

Together we can make a difference. Our local small business and organizations are the people supporting local events and community culture. They rely on you to stay in business. Make a conscious effort this season to show your support.

A couple other opportunities to think local first and give back are on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 27 and Giving Tuesday, Nov 30.

Both of these days focus on supporting local businesses and organizations that make a difference in our communities.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Bob Hendrickson is the executive director of the GINCC. He currently resides in Negaunee with his wife, Laura, and daughter, Sierra. He enjoys mountain biking, skiing, fishing and hunting along with family time.