Challenge: Shop locally

EDITOR:

We have seen many small businesses in our communities fail in the past 18 months. These were businesses owned by friends and neighbors, and built upon their dreams to be their own boss and to provide a service to their community. Many of the businesses that are gone have left a gap in the goods and services in our valley. There is nothing to be done about what is gone, but what of those that are still holding on? We have a number of unique stores and businesses in our towns.

Unlike big box stores and discount outlets these small shops offer service, unusual and interesting goods and a place where people "know your name." Shops like Baby Willow, Classical Glass, Fresh Ideas, Lone Tree Gallery, Battle Born Wines, Big Daddy's Bicycles are some of the places in town where you can get a hostess, wedding or baby gift, buy a bottle of wine or just find that unique something for yourself or your home at whatever price range meets your budget.

Once started on your shopping trip you will find that there are many additional establishments to explore and enjoy - too numerous to list here.

Without them, our communities would be much poorer places to live. So, please step up to the challenge and shop locally first.

Donna Weidner

Gardnerville