Area must create inspirational magnet

Sandpoint is a truly magnificent place. But our downtown area has lost some of it’s magic. It used to be a fun place to take our visitors for a walk on the streets and be greeted with a smile by the merchants and everyone on the sidewalk.

I would like to make a recommendation to our local merchants. Every time you advertise, make a satisfied customer, create or promote interest in your establishment, you benefit “your” gross profit. And of course, this is your goal. However, every time you promote Sandpoint and inspire customers to purchase locally, you also increase the potential for your business to prosper. 

A few years ago I went to Leavenworth, Wash. I could not believe the foot traffic and the consumer consumption of just “stuff.” People went there to purchase simply because it was Leavenworth. 

Now to my recommendation: I think Sandpoint could be many times better. We have the mountain and the lake. In fact, the potential here is greater than probably most anywhere in our great country. Whether we like it or not, tourists are a great part of our economy. When their money exchanges hands within our community, it additionally supports business that is not tourist driven. As merchants, consider working with your neighbors, and yes, your competitors, to produce a theme for downtown Sandpoint. Produce a destination-oriented commerce center. It can be done, it just takes a true desire. Your business not only reflects on you, but also your entire community. And one fateful point, if you don’t create an inspirational magnet, Ponderay will become the local commerce center.

No matter what, I will continue to support my local merchants. And thank you for the fine service I have always received.

MIKE NASH

Sagle