As national retailers in larger regional cities contend with thousands of customers waiting in long lines, independently owned shops in Laurel opened quietly. Revenue at some businesses was better than a normal day at some shops, and customers could be found in groups at different locations. Even though, local people who have invested in their own specialty shops hope the next few weeks before Christmas make a big different in their bottom lines.

An increase in bottom lines would be something positive for Laurel citizens, too.