We’ve spent the last few weeks working on our Hometown Businesses magazine and getting to know some of the people behind the scenes at some of the longest running businesses here in Selma and Dallas County.

Swift Drug Company is celebrating 100 years of service this month, an incredible milestone. Harrell’s Refrigeration has been around for decades, continuing a family tradition.

That’s the story of many of the small businesses in Selma. They are often handed down through the family and have been sitting in the same spot for decades. They help make this city what it is and serve as a reminder of Selma’s storied past. They’ve seen the good and the bad times and are still here, serving the citizens of this community.

With the Christmas season starting soon — or maybe it’s already started — it’s worth keeping these businesses in mind. There are large shopping centers in other nearby cities and they have a lot to offer customers, but the small businesses in Selma have a lot to offer too.

If nothing else, give them a chance before making that hour-long drive over to Montgomery or Birmingham.

Shopping local keeps tax dollars here, and also supports our small businesses.

It’s truly a win-win for Selma when we shop local.