Dear Editor,
It’s that time of year when the Christmas shopping must be done and shoppers choose whether to risk the line-ups or shop online. This is a question I no longer ask, as I head out to the friendly small businesses in Terrace. Last week, the owner of Terrace’s Antique shop, on Park Ave, wowed me by spending a half hour of her time looking at the bottom of many dishes in order to find me a treasure. What was it? A cup and saucer made in East Germany, during the time my father grew up there!
Yesterday, as I stepped into Misty River Books, the store was bustling. I noticed the quaint Christmas cookies set out on a platter, and the three staff helped brainstorm “the ideal book” for my eldest son. It made me think, a few years back as I was employed by Sidewalkers, Terrace’s small boutique with North American brands and trendy styles. I still remember when owner Lori offered me a working wage above minimum wage, and I had felt so much gratitude that I almost jumped out of my chair to hug her (I think I did). Owners of these local stores really have so much impact on the community and families! To this day I am grateful for the time I was at Sidewalkers.
So, I’d like to remind everyone that home is where the heart is. Dollars spent at home make a difference. This Christmas, choose to give back to our community, and shop local.
Christina Rogers -Hansen
Terrace, B.C.