Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Before you drive out of town or reach for the computer for this year's holiday shopping, take a moment to consider if you can make your purchase in town and keep those dollars local. You'd be surprised how many treasures we uncovered while just visiting just a few of the retail stores in New Rockford. (There are many options to consider. We're just sorry we didn't find the time to visit more of our retailers.) Every item featured in this gift guide is (or at least was) available to purchase locally. And don't forget your entry into the Jolly Jingle drawing! This week you get two entries for every purchase of $10 or more.
Deck the Halls:
It's never too late (or early) to decorate for the holiday. Many of you know Central Pharmacy offers some really interesting decor (like the bottle-brush tree at far left or the Santa in the tractor 'snow globe' below), but did you know that Do it Best Hardware stocks some really great outdoor decorating and lights? The Dripping Icicle Lights featured below are just one of many kinds they have in stock.
Vintage past times:
Classic Board Games: There's so much more in that world of board games than Monopoly! Do it Best Hardware has a variety of games in stock and ready to be part of your holiday season. Pictured above are Candy Land, Scrabble, Battleship, Sorry, Sequence and more.
Card Games: Miller's Fresh Foods stocks a variety of classic card games like Uno and Skip-Bo. Don't forget the old-style games like rummy and pinochle.
Paint by Numbers: Who says you can't be an artist?! With Paint by Numbers sets, anyone can enjoy the art of panting. Do it Best Hardware has an impressive variety of paint by number sets, fun for all ages.
Classic Games: Dominoes, cribbage and bingo are fun ways to bridge generations, and the kids even get to practice their math! (Shhh!)
In the Action:
Looking for a gift for someone who is always in the action? Consider any of the activity tins available at Central Pharmacy or sports equipment at Do it Best (including sleds for some real winter fun!)
Creative characters:
There is one (or maybe two) in every family- you know, those creative dream-like souls who love to ride the height of imagination. For the youngsters, consider a light-up doodle tablet available at Do it Best. Central Pharmacy has an ample supply of art supplies as well. While there, keep on the lookout for magical finds such as stick-horse unicorns or mermaid socks.
Get everyone winter ready: Winter has come and gone so many times this season, it's hard to know what season it is. At our house this means we've already purchased and lost mittens and hats. Such is life in North Dakota. Do it Best Hardware has a variety of winter gear including hats, gloves, scarves and of course- sleds. They also carry men's Dickie's jackets and boots from Rocky and Mudd.
For the wee-ones: When shopping for the wee-ones in your life, look no further than Central Pharmacy. Their incredible infant and toddler section has gifts that will be cherished. Looking to outfit your littlest Rocket fans for basketball season? The New Rockford Transcript has super soft tees, and cozy sweatshirts for toddlers, all under $20!
Eat, drink & be merry: What would the holidays be without food? It's a time of sharing and gratitude. So the next time you are out to see a friend, make the occasion a special one. Stop by Miller's Fresh Foods and pick up a bottle of Welch's sparkling grape juice! It's an affordable way to bring a little extra cheer to the holidays.
Aside from snacking, jerky and the like from CenDak Cooperative make great stocking stuffers.
Got a gluten-free friend or family member? Miller's Fresh food now has an extensive selection of Schar Gluten Free items. I can speak from experience that this a true find. Schar products are made in Europe and are truly delicious. I highly recommend the dipped chocolate cookies pictured below.
If you're looking for something with local flavor, consider Historically Great Coffee sold by the Eddy County Museum. The five Eddy County themed blends are available for purchase at the Transcript office.