Before you prepare to brave the mainland for your lengthy Christmas shopping list, we want you to take a moment to think about where your dollars are going. Or rather, where they are not going.

The best way to keep our islands thriving is to support local businesses. Surveys indicate that two-thirds of a dollar spent locally stays in your community. Plus, our stores have really cool, unique merchandise that you’ll never find at a major retailer.

Gift certificates are also a fun option. Everyone gets their hair cut. Many people love receiving a therapeutic massage. How about a membership to the health club or other fitness studio? An oil change? Dinner out at a restaurant or coffee from a local cafe? One week’s worth of cleaning services?

This is the last week to take advantage of the chamber’s “Shop the Rock” promotion. Bring in a local receipt or tell the chamber why you shopped on island, and you can be entered to win one of four $50 prizes. Many island stores are presenting sales and staying open late. On Dec. 8, merchants in Eastsound Square are offering events for kids, refreshments and sales from 5 to 7 p.m.

We understand there are some big ticket items that simply cannot be found on the island. But for everything else – and there is a lot – look for what you need right here. It is one of the greatest gifts you can give to the place you call home.