Editor: In your March 19 edition, I read with appreciation the letter that Kevin Ridley of The RunInn Delta wrote in a form of an advert. The heading was: "Why should we support local businesses?" Although I appreciate the shop local concept, I strongly believe that local businesses have to earn the loyalty that goes with the concept and Ridley's letter does an excellent job of highlighting a lot of things often overlooked.
When you are in need of a product or service, don't let price be your only decision (although in many cases prices are very competitive and sometimes less). Take into consideration customer service as well as the great value of community support.
So many local people and organizations go to the small retailers/business owner asking for support of their child's school, sport or a non-profit organization and most local businesses do their best to give back on numerous occasions throughout the year.
You will also see these businesses as significant contributors of time and/or money to bigger events in our area like movie nights, Breakfast with Santa, farm days, quilt walk and car show and much more.
I hope everyone takes the time to read Ridley's letter and consider some of the greater benefits you receive from supporting local businesses.
Diane Askin
