Real retail therapy

Our hearts go out to all those who lost so much as a result of Hurricane Sandy. Even in our own backyard, there are many of our neighbors and friends who still have issues with power, downed trees and storm damage.

We need to also look at our local merchants who lost revenue due to power outages that prevented them from opening.

These are not big businesses that can more easily weather these unexpected events.

They are Mom and Pop stores that rely on community support to feed their families.

As we enter the holiday season, I hope that everyone in this beautiful valley will remember to shop locally.

It’s a phrase we all bandy about, but now more than ever it’s important.

We are all so fortunate to have such vibrant downtown areas and we need to do more than count our blessings.

So before you hit the big box stores, national chains or shopping malls, first check with stores on Main Street for your holiday gifts. It’s good for everyone.

Inez Freund

Warwick