Jan. 13,2013

Supporting small local businesses is a good idea for many reasons. These owners recycle much of their profits back into the local economy, and they add a distinct flavor to the community with unique stores and products. We have a local coffee shop in a neighboring village which offers  inspiration to a drab and dreary street lined with old brick buildings which were grand decades ago, but now shuttered with only dusty memories of lively days.We call this shop, THE coffee shop, somewhat possessively , because it has given us a glimmer of hope that business can thrive in our quiet area, and we are proud of its success. I went there with my family today. It was filled with locals - some gathering after church and others preparing to attend the hockey game down the street.  Conversations were animated;the smell of coffee filled the air. When we paid our bill, I asked the cashier to include the next two coffees ordered in our total. A simple action can result in a brighter day for someone. Remember to support your local businesses.