Don't miss Small Business Saturday

I don't know what inspired American Express to designate tomorrow as Small Business Saturday, but I hope their inspiration flows to American shoppers for this holiday season. Small businesses can't compete with big box stores for Black Friday-type shopping extravaganzas, but here are a few things we do better than the big chains.

First, for every dollar you spend at a locally owned business, nearly 70 cents stays in your local community. If you spend that same dollar at a big box store or a franchised operation, just over 30 cents stays local. So if you want to do something to boost your local economy, shop locally.

Second, small business owners typically support local groups and causes. They sponsor kids' sports teams, participate in community events, donate to charity drives. They take the overused term "giving something back" and turn it into a way of life.

Third, in an age where every city offers the same chain stores and restaurants and hotels, locally owned businesses add a flair and vibrancy to a city and its culture. In Omaha, one need look no further than the Old Market District to see the veracity of this claim. You can find a Gap or a Cheesecake Factory anywhere. But where else can you find something on par with our Flatiron Cafe or M's Pub? Where else is there a Souq's boutique or a Lotus?

There are times in life when we want the reliability of a chain franchise. Sometimes, you just want to walk through the door and know that you can get exactly what you've gotten before. But for the holidays this year, how about trying something a bit out of the ordinary?

Unchain your life this holiday season; shop locally.