Just about everyone we know has been affected in some way by our current economic downturn. The worst hit are those who have lost jobs – or houses – or both. Others have seen once comfortable college funds shrivel up or taken significant pay cuts. And we all know that there’s more to come.
But midst all of this disturbing news, two corporate Goliaths are reportedly doing just fine: Wal-Mart and McDonald’s.
While we understand the search for discounts when income plummets, we hope that families in the area will think twice about abandoning local businesses. There are many ways to economize and still support our neighbors. We can cut back on our dining out – but still spend those dollars at locally-owned establishments. We can forego the big box stores when we buy gifts – and instead spend the same amount at a unique local shop.
We will get through these dark times. We’ll have a better chance of survival if we support local businesses – who are, after all, our neighbors.

February 9th, 2009 | Category: Metro Parent