From the editor's desk
Now that the Christmas season is upon us, please shop locally as much as you
can. We need to support our local merchants if we want them to be here for us in the
future. A large part of our economy depends on our willingness to spend our hard earned
dollars on goods and services. While consumer confidence in the economy has been high
over the last 10 years, it has now cooled considerably due to the rise in fuel costs, the
collapse of the housing market and the erratic stock market. No wonder we all feel a bit
out of control. Even the savviest investor has trouble understanding exactly what is
happening or how long this downturn will last beyond the fact that prices are rising and
credit is scarce.
While it is true that many of our local merchants depend on visitors to the area for
a large part of their business and try to anticipate their needs, they also need our support
to stay in business. On the other hand, if you can’t find what you are looking for in the
area, by all means let them know. Perhaps they can alter their stock to accommodate you.
Remember, in a small community such as the Upper Shore it is vitally important that we
continue to support each other, especially in times like these.
Your comments are welcome. I may be reached at randy@chesapeaketimes.net.
Randy Gerstmyer, Editor & Publisher
with over 130 years
of experience.