Good Morning.

If you were with us yesterday, you know about the carnage that ensued after many stores opened at stupid o'clock to kickoff the holiday greed shopping season.


Many folks were injured, some more seriously than others, and no doubt hundreds more came away bruised, scratched, or otherwise scarred and empty-handed. No doubt it's cynical of me, but I bet many retailers advertised massive 'doorbuster' deals, then understocked their merchandise by a factor of ten.

All to save $20 on Chinese-made goods.

You know me; I'm a student of history and an avowed newshound. We've seen scenes of such carnage and rioting before over goods and merchandise....but in other parts of the world it's over things like Food, water, and other basic needs. Only in America do we bloody our neighbor to save a dollar on toys or electronics.

So last night, I trooped my Cub Scout pack down to Waltham City Common to help with the city Christmas Tree lighting.

It was a brief part of the ceremony, but the local chamber of commerce practically begged the assembled crowd to not go to the mall, and to "shop local and support Main Street and Moody Street businesses". There was a smattering of applause, but for the most part the crowd ignored the remarks.

One of my leaders commented, "Local Saturday? That's probably a good idea." I don't know if there is such a thing, but bookended by Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it's an idea that sure makes an awful lot of sense.

And while you're at it...why not do your homework before you shop?