Publisher’s Perspective

By Tim Douglass, Publisher of the Pope County Tribune

We realize it is not yet Halloween, but another holiday season is just around the corner.

We are told over and over that the world is smaller and all things are globalized.  Well, that may be somewhat true, but what does that mean for communities like ours?  Are we supposed to just roll over and let the Amazons of the world be our priority?

Now, more than ever, we need to remember what our local businesses mean to a successful and sustaining community.

When we choose to support local shops, restaurants, and services, we are making an investment in the heart of our community. By supporting local businesses we are supporting local jobs created by those businesses.  Our purchases and support boosts our local economy and helps to shape the unique character that makes us who we are.

The local chamber sent out a message last week encouraging all of us to support our local businesses and we couldn’t agree more.  “When you spend your hard-earned money at a local business, you are contributing to the well-being of your own community. These businesses often source their products and services locally, which further supports the economy by creating a cycle of prosperity. What’s more, local businesses tend to put a strong emphasis on personalized customer service, fostering a sense of belonging and community that you won’t find with big corporations.”

That reminder is for all of us.  Don’t just consider choosing a local business, Choose it first and as many times as you can.   

That support not only keeps money circulating within this community but also preserves the unique character and vibrancy that local businesses and keeps our local community thriving.   

Promotion that deserves support

The Glenwood Lakes Area Chamber wants to showcase our businesses this holiday season. We are creating a game board to showcase YOU, our members. There are 40 spaces available. The four corners are $25 each and are larger so they can include a logo. Each of the other spaces are $10 and will include the business name and address only.

The money collected from these spaces will help cover the cost of advertising in the Pope County Tribune, Facebook advertising, printing costs and the $100 Minnewaska Dollars that goes to the winner.

The public can cut their board out of the paper, print from social media, print from our website or grab a paper copy from the Chamber & Welcome Center. We will also provide printed copies to keep at your business.

When a community member visits your business, you can initial or sign your square (or stamp or add a sticker)- whichever you prefer.  This is a great opportunity to have your own promotions ready when the customers come in or just simply get people in the door that have never been into your building.

The first 40 businesses to sign up will get the spaces. Your space will be random. This promotion is set to run from November 15 through December 22. ALL Glenwood Lakes Area Chamber members are welcome to participate. We hope local businesses will participate and that will mean more local purchases by local residents.  It can help change the “globalization” narrative large corporations are pushing and its is a win for ourselves.