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Letter to the Editor: Let’s Patronize Our Local Businesses

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July 23, 2020
 
 
Dear Editor:
 
In these difficult economic times, it is important to patronize our local businesses. 
 
As a result of the Corona Virus, many small businesses are now on the verge of permanently closing, due to the loss of income.    
 
Due to the law of supply and demand, everyone has been charging more, because of some shortages created by the Corona Virus. The actual cost increases comparing prices pre Corona Virus have not gone up that much for many basic commodities.  Small independent businesses are at the mercy of suppliers, especially third party brokers, who control the price they have to pay for merchandise.  There are additional costs of sanitizing the store and providing protection to employees, who deal with the public during this health emergency.
 
We don't mind occasionally paying a little more to help our other local stores survive.  The employees go out of their way to help us find what we need.  Customer service is their motto.  As an independent mom and pop store, they don't have bulk buying purchasing power that large national chains have.  The owners can't negotiate lower prices from suppliers like national chains. This is why they sometimes charge a little more.  It is worth the price to avoid the crowds and long lines at larger stores in exchange for the convenience and friendly service your neighborhood community store  offers.
 
People who work at your local store are our neighbors. The owners work long hours, pay taxes and provide local employment.  Many employees are younger people working at their first job. Customers also  patronize other commercial establishments on the block.  Foot traffic is essential for the survival of any neighborhood commercial district.  If we don’t patronize our local community stores and restaurants to shop and eat, they don’t eat either. This helps keep our neighbors employed and the local economy growing.
 
The owners of hard working independent mom and pop stores are the backbone of our neighborhood commercial districts. Government should stop trying to put them out of business by excessive, rules, regulations and fines.  
 
Thank the hard working owners and employees who continue to work during these hard times. Show your support by making a purchase.  
 
 
Sincerely,
 
Larry Penner

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