For last minute Holiday gifts, remember our small Butte stores

We are only 5 days away from Christmas and that means that this weekend is going to be crazy.  If you are anything like me, your Christmas shopping generally starts, well, right around this time.  Shipping deadlines are here, it is indeed the zero hour.  Even if you're not just starting your shopping, there are always a few hard-to-buy-for people that likely remain on your list.  What to do, what to do?

Think about some of the great local stores that are available.  Not only are these Butte folks employing other Butte folks and paying local taxes (and more likely than not contributing to many fundraisers and benefits), but these local stores have truly unique merchandise that you can't get anywhere else.  They're also great people.

Stop by and see Jon and Cassie Wick at either 5518 Designs on Main or Dig City Supply on Park Street.  If you have a big list, try Dig City.  They have got a truly fascinating collection of "Butte Icon" merchandise featuring legendary Butte establishments of the past and present.  They've got stickers.  They've got school t-shirts for almost every Butte elementary, past or present.  It's worth a look.

While you're in the neighborhood, Butte Stuff is always a great place to find, well, Butte stuff.  Cookbooks to history books, frames, clothing, decorations and cookware, you could spend hours perusing their shelves.  The store is run by the Ackerman family, who are great people and Butte legends themselves.

Don't forget about the Winter Farmer's Market that will be taking place Saturday in the Butte Plaza Mall and bring the kids for pictures with Santa.

Most of all, when wrapping up your holiday shopping, do your best to take care of the many small businesses and services here in Butte that take care of the rest of us all year round.