TRAVERSE CITY -- The holiday giving spirit could be felt in downtown Traverse City Friday as hundreds got a jump start on their shopping list.

Many shoppers chose to skip the crowds at big box stores and headed to locally owned shops instead.

Sales are proving to be strong so far, both Cherry Republic and Fustini's are reporting a record breaking Black Friday.

Shoppers say they like to buy local because they know their money is helping the community they live in.

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