'Tis the season to buy, buy, buy
Black Friday attracts frugal shoppers and holiday enthusiasts every year.
The corporations entice consumers with the "best deals ever" even though most items sold on Black Friday will be just as cheap once the holiday season is done and the next year's brands come out. But the holiday season of 2011 isn't like all the past years. It is a year of change, of mass awakening of human consciousness with things like Occupy Wall Street influencing our communities now. This shift should be reflected in this year's holiday season. As a consumer that was raised cutting coupons for Black Friday, I understand that the thought of forgoing the sales offered by Black Friday is difficult to subscribe to.
Yet, objectively, in the past ten years, Black Friday has decreased in value and most of the items on sale aren't even worth it (flat screen TVs, movies, toys, disposable luxury items). In many cases, these sales are a reflection of what the item will be priced after January, once the new models replace them. This, and other considerations, like the mistake of using credit cards over the holiday season, should be kept in mind by the Shoreline/Seattle community.
I urge my fellow students to invest in local businesses instead of corporations if you buy presents this holiday season. Ask the shop owner if they are local and don't buy anything marked with a corporate logo. By purchasing local, you will aid the economies of our local businesses and make a statement against corporate greed. Or, instead of spending your thanksgiving break in line buying things, spend quality time with family and friends. Support local businesses when you purchase a gift, but also consider making gifts. Handmade gifts are always cherished and this self-sufficiency will result in a loving, caring season, one in which you won't have to buy a single thing from corporations. Stay home, spend time with loved ones, and keep money local. Happy Holidays, 99%!
Erin Doster, A&E Editor
