A sad day in Sandpoint if local stores disappear

As I look around downtown Sandpoint, I realize that our small local businesses, with their knowledgeable staff, always willing to assist with customer questions, and selections, are disappearing before our very eyes. Big box stores with their staff of “I don’t care and don’t know much about our products,” and you’re specific needs, are effectively eliminating long time downtown Sandpoint fixtures.

To spend a dollar or two more for an item in a small, knowledgeably staffed, local business shouldn’t be asking too much of local people.

Visitors going only to big box stores is one thing, but locals deserting those long-term local businesses and people who have been supportive of this community, its fundraisers and benefits to help others in need, are now in need of our support for their continued existence.

Buy from small businesses, locally, please. Don’t let these community people and businesses disappear.

MICHAEL HARMELIN

Sandpoint