Longtime readers of Community Impact Newspaper have likely noticed the businesses we choose to feature each month are independently owned, often by people living right here in The Woodlands area. In an age where more and more is done online, it can be easy to forget about the mom and pop shop around the corner or the family-run eatery just down the road. Small businesses not only provide an income for the people who own them, but they also create approximately 45 percent of jobs in Texas, according to the Small Business Administration, bolstering the local economy and generating tax revenue that goes to pay for public services, such as law enforcement and fire departments. This holiday season, when shoppers are in search of that perfect one-of-a-kind gift for a family member or loved one, remember to stop in and say “Hello” to a local business owner. Need inspiration? Be sure to check out our local business features starting on Page 31 to find this month’s featured businesses.