“Improving The Community One Project At A Time” PO Box 117 -  Alderson W Va.  24910 © Alderson Main Street 2014 Shop Small in Alderson November 28 is Small Business Saturday. Started in 2010 by American Express, the Saturday after Thanksgiving has  been designated the day to shop in local and small stores. It's a counter to Black Friday and Cyper Monday. The  ripple effect of shopping locally is enormous for the economy. Alderson is embracing this Saturday as the kick-off to an amazing Holiday Season. The shops of Alderson are having  an Open House from 10 am to 6 pm with treats, music and great prices.  You can park at the Visitors Center and take a peek at the trees and wreaths on display. You can also buy tickets for  the Cedars Tour & Tea on Dec 6. Then wander to the Alderson Artisans Gallery where 14 local and regional artists  have their work on display and for sale. You'll find stained glass, paintings, photography, wooden trains, jewelry,  pottery, steam punk and much more. Next door is Wolf Creek Gallery celebrating 20 years in business.  Wonderful gift items; flags, pottery, primitive and  country at resonable prices. You can also pick-up a Wolf Creek calender. Say hi to Patty while your there. Take a stroll across the Memorial Bridge and check out the beautiful Gazebo and Train Depot decorated for the  Holidays.  Next stop is The Bridgewalk Shops. Numerous vendors have a variety of items from antiques to clothing; jewelry to  country gifts. There's even a Christmas room. Then step back in time to the oldest store in Alderson. Aldersons Department Store has been in continuous operation since the 1880s. They have new items in a classical atmosphere. Clothing, jewelry, train memorabilia, and endless  gift items.  If you get hungry while in town, there is the Big Wheel Restaurant for family style cooking. Inside the Green Grocer is  the Sunnyside Cafe with smoked brisket, pulled pork and several types of sides. The Green Grocer has local meat  and produce plus many other items you can't find elsewhere. As you head out you can get your live Christmas tree from the Lion's Club tree sale in the parking lot of the Visitors  Center. This is just one of many events the will be in Alderson this season. Come to the Gem of the Hills and experience  some place different.