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OPINION: Celebrate small business

Every October, Small Business Week (Oct. 18 to 24) recognizes and pays tribute to the entrepreneurs and small business owners that bring so much to our communities.
Small business week column

Every October, Small Business Week (Oct. 18 to 24) recognizes and pays tribute to the entrepreneurs and small business owners that bring so much to our communities.

Small business owners provide local jobs, some volunteer and host community events, while others give back and support youth sports, arts and community organizations.

Small businesses bring energy and vitality to communities. Just look at Ladner Village and Tsawwassen as examples of this right here in South Delta.

Small business is the backbone of the economy here in B.C.

Now more than ever, supporting small business is critical to our communities’ survival.

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a health crisis and a financial crisis that no one could ever have predicted.

In March and April as the pandemic began, small businesses across our community were forced to shutter their doors. Many had to shift their business models to an online approach rather than face-to-face interactions with their customers. Others, like restaurants, moved to a full take-out or delivery model. Most, thankfully, have weathered the storm, at least for now, and are surviving thanks to the support of our community.

It was heartwarming to see a few weeks ago in our annual Reader’s Choice Awards how our community supported local businesses. There are amazing business owners and equally, amazing employees who ensure we have the products and services we need so close to home. I was proud to see our community take pride in business community and in turn, the businesses themselves take pride in what they do and thank the community for their support.

But that support must continue if our business community is to survive and thrive in these challenging times.

So, next week and every week, let us continue to support our local business community. Shop local, shop at home and show our businesses how much we appreciate them and appreciate what they bring to our community.