The U.S. economy expanded by 3.5 percent during the third quarter of this year and those who are supposed to know say this signals the end of the recession.

We hope so, goodness knows we're ready for that to be over. But, truth to tell, we can't get all giggled up about it, at least not right now.

More than a year ago we wrote in this space that it would likely take years for a full recovery and predicted that the answers were not clear to anyone.

We still believe that \— though we surely hope we are wrong. It seems to us that this is probably what is known as a "soft" recovery

Marshall has not been hit nearly as hard as some parts of the state and nation, but it may be a while before we feel much improvement hear. Surely over the last quarter it would be difficult to find much growth in Marshall.

We also note at the meeting of the Marshall Economic Development Corporation, the board was advised that prospects were off and would not return to normal for years.

All of this makes it more important than ever for Marshall citizens to do our best to stick together. In the upcoming Christmas shopping season, many people will be cutting back on their expenditures. This is understandable.

But it is also a reason why you should try, more than ever, to spend that shopping dollar right here in Marshall. Every dollar you spend here helps \— at the very least \— someone who is employed here.

Start looking now. We know every need cannot be met here, but most of them can. Even if you have never thought much about it before, think about it this year. Marshall needs your help.