Where, oh where, has our little town gone? It is not gone yet, but perhaps it is headed the way of the now-extinct, flightless dodo bird of the island Mauritius.
As I come into the town of Qualicum Beach to shop, I am often faced with another empty storefront. It makes me very sad to realize that our town, one that has so much potential with its beautiful beach, good weather and local attractions, is slowly disappearing.
Yes, I too, occasionally shop online, as not everything I am looking for can be found locally. Locally can also mean going to shop in Nanaimo if necessary, but there also, many of the shopping centres have empty storefronts.
It is much easier to sit in our easy chairs in our warm homes and order online, often from Amazon.
I also realize there are people who cannot afford a warm place to live, or to buy food for themselves and their families, and so cannot afford to spend a few extra dollars to shop locally. Please, if you can, try and shop local. You will get friendly, personal service from one of our town’s shop owners, who may be your friend or neighbour. They depend on us to support them, their staff and their families.
And, if you are able, not to be forgotten are the health benefits of getting outside in the fresh air, going for a walk and interacting with others.
Eileen McMurchy
Meadowood