We typically wouldn’t use this space to recommend readers shop at this store or that one, unless we are referring to shopping districts, local merchants and the such.

But on this particular occasion, we’re going to make an exception, because of the store involved and what they’re doing with the money they raise.

The Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter’s Holiday Store is now open at the Westwood Mall in Marquette Township.

Here’s a quote from the short story The Mining Journal ran on the matter: “A big thank you to the Westwood Mall for allowing us to use a store again this year-we are down the hall before Bath & Body. And remember, all proceeds benefit the homeless animals UPAWS cares for 365 days a year.”

We would ask readers to pay extra close attention to that last sentence because, we believe, that’s what makes this situation exceptional.

The store is operated by volunteers, people who have put their time and energy where their mouths are, so to speak. Those folks have long since earned our admiration.

But shopping times in the weeks leading up to Christmas are limited:

Shopping times:

≤ Wednesday and Friday, noon-5 p.m.

≤ Thursday noon-7 p.m.

≤ Saturday 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

≤ Sunday 1-5 p.m

The Journal has long supported UPAWS and similar organizations for the wonderful work they do. This store will help UPAWS in the months to come to continue to provide for homeless animals in our area.