EDITOR,
I learned today that our local bookstore, "The Bookshelf" is closing. As fellow business owner I feel sympathy for their situation but more than that, I feel outraged.
I feel outraged that our only locally owned bookstore is closing because our town of more than 15,000 people can't (or won't) support it. Talking to people in this town, I hear nothing but dismay that big-box stores are taking over, appreciation for the amazing specialty stores and restaurants that line the main street and enclaves all over town and a strong desire to keep the spirit of Squamish alive. People, it's time to put your money where your mouth is.
As citizens of this town we seem to talk and talk, but when it comes to taking action, we would rather try and save a dollar or two instead of supporting the hardworking local business owners that keep the heart and soul of this town alive.
Go speak with anyone who owns a business in Squamish and ask them how they're doing. Ask them how many days they work, how much passion, energy and hope they've put into their business. Ask them how they feel when they see full parking lots in big box stores or chain restaurants, or people willing to drive an hour away to buy things that are available right around the corner.
Businesses in this town are hurting and they need your support! Unless we carefully choose where to spend our hard-earned money, Squamish will be nothing but big-box stores and parking lots. Choose to buy well-made merchandise that will last, rather than cheap junk which will soon break and need to be thrown out. Choose businesses owned by those who live and play in the same town you do. Choose to shop locally - and then, most importantly, actually do it.
Make the decision to support your local businesses before you lose them.
Madeleine Somerville
Co-Owner, Sears
Squamish
