Holiday cheer close to home

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Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, they’re no longer just holidays, they’re a season, and we all know what that season is supposed to be about — getting and spending. Our nation’s economy depends on it. 

Just turn on the television or open your internet browser and you’ll be bombarded by messages from businesses large and small offering impossibly generous savings on items you may — or may not — need.

Financial columnists have, for weeks, been prognosticating about how well internet sellers, big box stores and old-fashioned brick-and-mortar shops will do in the coming weeks.

Supposedly, the season officially kicks off on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, but many retailers can no longer contain themselves. They’ve begun promoting earlier and earlier sale days — not just Thanksgiving day itself, but the entire holiday week. 

But look around the neighborhood, few local retailers have even begun to put out their holiday decorations. They may not be ahead of the curve, but their unhurried attitude offers a welcome respite from the frenzy of the big shopping mall.

Nevertheless, your business is essential to them and throughout the year they are essential to you. 

Anyone who says you should deny yourself the pleasure of seeing the eyes of friends or relatives light up as they open your gifts on Christmas morning or Hanukkah eve is a grinch, but as you prepare your shopping list, why not do yourself — and your community — a favor and shop locally. 

You’ll find a surprising array of great gifts without the worries of identity theft from internet purchases or the hassles of traffic and crowds at retailers outside the neighborhood.

Local wine and spirits shops offer world-class selections, just like downtown stores —even if you’re looking for a special kosher wine. 

Gift shops and jewelers offer friendly service and stand behind their products. 

Food shops will gladly cater your holiday dinner, whether your taste lies with traditional American fare or sushi, Dominican, Israeli, Indian, Thai or Chinese.

One of Riverdale’s treasures is Wave Hill. The public estate has a gift shop that’s now fully stocked with garden themed gift items. The New York Botanical Garden and the Bronx Zoo are also wonderful places to find presents for kids with green thumbs or with the yen to know more about the animal kingdom.

And don’t forget that local churches and synagogues have religious items on sale that make memorable gifts.

While we’re spreading holiday cheer to our family and friends, we mustn’t forget those less fortunate than ourselves. This is also the season for charity, and charity begins at home — with Riverdale Neighborhood House, the Riverdale Y, Riverdale Mental Health Association, The Kingsbridge Heights Community Center, Riverdale Senior Services and the Riverdale Community Center.

So spread the holiday cheer — and do it right here.

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