Editor:
Weekenders are an important part of our community.
They were before COVID-19, they will be during COVID-19 – as in right now – and after it passes.
Our community needs everyone now more than ever. Local businesses rely on the support of everyone, including our weekend and part-time residents.
These residents need to know that they are welcome and can help in the resurgence of our local economy. We all live in this amazing place and in order for things to continue to thrive and survive, we need businesses and employers to keep going and keep being successful.
Obviously the first priority is for everyone to stay safe, but that will continue to be everyone's focus in the months ahead.
We need to keep encouraging the "support local" line as a way to confront the lack of business for many of those struggling employers in the Bow Valley. Yes "support local" means something – it means you are supporting a local family, student and/or community member.
You are giving opportunities and strength by spending your hard-earned money in a community that thrives on inclusiveness and acceptance. I would encourage all those that have a home here to think again about making the trek to the city and see if they can find an option right here in the Bow Valley.
To all those that have been already making those purchases locally – thank you.
Every local purchase counts. It might be that takeout lunch or dinner you just ordered, that piece of clothing you purchased for yourself or as a gift, that renovation you had in mind (employing local trades), supporting those local coffee roasters and coffee shops, trying or re-stocking the beer fridge with locally made suds, visiting the local greenhouses/ florists to find that special arrangement, that exercise class you just booked online, seeking out that new piece of furniture or home accessory, or by suggesting a place to stay in local accommodation for friends or family.
By giving the opportunity and that support to a local business, you are helping so many on the road back to recovery.
Government assistance will not be here forever and we will need the momentum now from everyone to ensure our community keeps building and growing.
The way we shop and purchase has changed and as businesses adapt to the new reality, we will need to be flexible as they do. Giving feedback in order to help maintain a healthy and safe shopping experience for both the customer and client is always top of mind.
Let's continue to work together and keep this community safe and welcoming to all residents that make this one of the most exceptional places and communities in the world.
Stephen Steel,
Canmore
