SAGINAW, Mich. -- Some local merchants are battling Cyber Monday by asking people to purchase products made and sold here in Michigan.

“The local stores are the backbone of the community,” said Country Sampler store owner Connie Reppuhn.

At the Country Sampler in Saginaw Township, Reppuhn tries to sell as many “Made in Michigan” products as possible.

There are handcrafted items made in Saginaw, dip mixes concocted in Goodrich and salsa from Traverse City.

Reppuhn makes a good case for shopping locally. “They employ a tremendous amount of people -- that people don’t realize,” said Reppuhn. “We’re here to serve you 24-7, 365 days a year.”

WNEM TV5 asked residents if they’d rather shop via the Internet or support local businesses. “I like to patronize the local businesses, but there’s some things -- and some deals on the Internet -- you just can’t turn down,” said Saginaw’s Clarence Olson.

“Going on the Internet is just fine,” said Saginaw resident Lanary Culpepper. “I go on there and order things periodically, but usually I just shop here in Saginaw.”

“I do 50-50,” said Hemlock resident Dick Blakeley. “I do a lot of shopping online but if I can’t get it locally, then I will buy it online.”

It is possible to shop online and still support local small businesses. Searching local stores by their name can yield results.

Reppuhn took her business to a well known Internet spot by offering goods on eBay.

Reppuhn emphasizes local merchants can do something a lot of cyber sellers cannot. “We’re here for you,” she said.

Reppuhn said her store depends on walk-in traffic and about 10 percent of her business comes via the Internet.