This season buy locally from your friends, neighbors

The Federal Trade Commission has established safety tips for people considering doing their Christmas shopping online (http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/ alt082.shtm).

There are a number of dangers and pitfalls to buying products sight unseen from people you don’t know from an unknown location.

Thank goodness there are a number of fine local merchants in Lancaster County so that you don’t have to expose yourself to the dangers of shopping online.

It’s hard to become a victim of someone you see regularly at church, at school events, or at other locations in the community.

In addition, local stores support our schools, churches, and civic organizations.

When was the last time you saw an ad supporting your local high school team or civic group from an online retailer? I’ll bet they all were from local stores that are a part of our community and have a vested interest in making Lancaster County a great place to live and work.

Why take a chance on having your holiday season ruined by buying gifts online? Buy locally from your friends and neighbors involved in the community and wanting to provide you the finest shopping experience and keeping you as a lifetime customer.

Steve Willis

Lancaster County administrator