UPDATE Hard Times, High Hopes: Local GIFT GUIDE With Ideas to Delight and Revive

(Editor's note: If you're a Muskego Business, and want to add your offers here to help supplement the list, please contact us!)

Money is the magic that fuels the American economy, and it’s no secret business is down most places in Muskego this year. What may be a secret is the wide mix of gifts available that can save money and stretch the few dollars shoppers have…and stimulate the local economy at the same time.

Glo 10 Salon and Spa:  Customers are extending time between appointments and buying fewer products to cut costs in this economy, said manager Julie Azmani, but “massage is up!  People realize they have to do something for themselves” to relieve tension, Azmani said.

Gift massages at $1/minute with massage club membership (no fee); sample services free at Christmas event December 14, 1-7 pm:  chair massage, paraffin dips and hand massages; refreshments; shop holiday vendors for designer jeans, jewelry, fitness training, etc. Gift certificates available.

Hurlbut Travel:  Corporate travel is at about the same levels as in prior years; leisure travel down 25% as workers bear salary reductions or lose jobs.  Owner Karen Hurlbut

January 5^th through 30^th is the least expensive month to travel; great deals now for Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii travel packages booked through December 15 for travel occurring by April 30, 2012.   Gift certificates available.

The Gingerbread House: “Business is great!  Cookies are flying off the shelf faster than last year.”  Emily Weitkunat, employee

Gift Ideas:  Gingerbread men on a stick $4; large cutout cookies in shapes of Christmas trees, mittens, snowmen, ornaments, holly leaves and wrapped with ribbon $3; holiday cookies sold by the pound for $13.95/lb., gift certificates in any amount.

Mindworks Photography - Roger and Carol Schlintz run the local photography studio, and they've covered Muskego at school and at play all year long. If you missed a memory book from your school, or want to share it with relatives, visit their website. Through Sunday, December 18 at midnight, receive free shipping on your order and a complimentary digital file download of each image ordered. In addition, Orders over $75 receive 10% off (enter code HappyHolidays2011 at checkout). Orders placed through 12/16 will likely arrive in time for holiday giving. Orders placed the 17th and 18 may arrive in time for holiday giving.

Muskego Parks and Recreation: Enrollments are steadily on par with last year; recreation for adults, kids, families and singles at more affordable prices than elsewhere.  Tammy Dunn, Program Manager

Take the family or send the kids to ski and snowboard lessons at Crystal Ridge from January 2 through 18^th, or register for Ballroom or Country Line Dancing, Tai Chi or Meditation, saving money on grocery expense, painting, photography or other adventures.  To access available courses click here and select Recreation, then Program Guide.  Muskego residents get preferred prices; same courses available to non-residents at slightly higher prices. Telephone credit card registration available.

Muskego Chamber of Commerce:  Businesses are generally stable but not seeing huge increases in sales. Tina Weiss, Executive Director

Gift memberships for businesses and shopping discounts citywide.  Click on link above for access; click on Hot Deal icon for discounts at area businesses.

:  Concealed carry law is making up for a drop in municipal budgets for first responder equipment; business is stable.  Tim Koch, Owner

Discounts on all ammunition and equipment supplies at 10% or more off list price.  Seasonal favorites include Rocky Boots, flashlights, and gift certificates.