Think globally, shop locally

While we have nothing against big box stores or major malls, West Islanders, for either last-minute Christmas gift ideas or throughout the year, should take the time to appreciate their independent retailers and community shops.

Whether it be Beaurepaire, Ste. Anne, Dorval or Pointe Claire villages, small local merchants provide some unique shopping experiences. They add to the community by providing character to your neighbourhood. West Islanders, based on the number of major malls and numerous strip malls, love to shop. While major chains serve this suburbia well, from offering bulk diapers to kitchen appliances, small retailers provide diversity in the market place that gives flavour to our neck of the woods.

The slogan 'think globally, shop locally' has been bandied about before and it is one we could all follow. By going to local stores, we can cut down on the distance we travel to shop and in doing so reduce gas use and toxic emissions from our tailpipes.

These small retailers also give back to the community by creating jobs, enlarging your city's commercial tax base and, in some cases, supporting community groups or local fundraisers.

Competition of all kinds is good thing. Let's just make sure the small shop keepers in your neighbourhood don't become a historic footnote in a few years.