11/26/12 - Polite Shopping - KFVS12 News & Weather Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, Poplar Bluff

If you spent any time out shopping over the last few days, we will gladly respect your right to disagree with this next statement, but I have to tell you...it was fantastic to see so many people in the stores over Black Friday weekend.

Our nation's economy has been growing at a snail's pace for far too long. Since consumer spending accounts for 70% of the national economy, an increase in retail buying is one thing our country desperately needs to get back on her feet. We need an increase in consumer confidence. It is estimated that 139 million people confidently went shopping this past weekend. For some of you it may have seemed like all of them were in your checkout line.

Here in the Heartland there were times when crowds pushed and shoved to get to a special bargain. In some areas it was much less than cordial...and yes, we reported instances in other parts of the country where shopping for Christmas gifts turned violent and even fatal.

If, like me, you found yourself frustrated with the whole thing, let us all work to remember the true spirit of the season. In addition to the increased spending, our country could use a solid dose of Christmas Spirit. This time of year should be a season of love and giving, not a time to be demanding and rude. We encourage all to be courteous to your fellow shoppers, don't push and shove. Rather smile and say pardon me or thank you, and even Merry Christmas.

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