Shop at home in Santa-point

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas here, and there is no better place to celebrate this holiday than in and around a town called Santa-point, Idaho-ho-ho.

All a person has to do is walk or drive around Bonner County to realize what a special place this is.

The natural beauty makes it pretty; the unique and special people who call this place home make it unforgettable. (Just read the letters to the editor!)

This is the time of year we are reminded of another rite of the holiday time: shopping.

Bonner County merchants go into the holiday season realizing that most of their year's sales will come between now and the first day of 2007.

This editorial is just a friendly reminder to consider shopping at home this year. There are many stores here, owned or operated by your friends and neighbors.

It has been said many times that for every dollar spent in the local economy, its impact is multiplied seven times.

We are constantly amazed by the number of people who put expensive gas in their tanks and drive to Coeur d'Alene or Spokane for items that are available here.

Because this is the season of giving, why not consider giving local merchants a chance? You will be as surprised as we were about the many unique stores we have.

How do you find out about these stores? You're holding the best local directory right in your hands.

What a special place to work and live. We are planning to take a little extra time this holiday season to really enjoy all of the many special reasons we call this home.

? David Keyes is the publisher of the Daily Bee.