From the Editor’s Desk – November 2008

As we come together as a nation this November, we have much to be thankful for.  At the time of printing, we don’t know who has won the election, but we do know that we all had the choice to vote.

There’s one thing to be thankful for – our Freedom.

In light of the sudden ‘economic shock’ that our country’s financial industry has withheld, we find yet another ‘thankful item’ – that most of us actually have money that either was, is or is still, being affected.

Yes, that IS a thankful item, believe it.

I think that the current economic ‘crisis’ has been blown a bit out of proportion. Especially by mainstream media – heralding that the sky is falling certainly won’t encourage investors to stay the course.

You know what? I have a different headline -

What economic crisis?

This past month, I have been paying close attention to parking lots in front of shopping malls, foot traffic into retail stores, and lines in the drive thrus of fast food and espresso stands.

Guess what?

I’ve found that there hasn’t appeared to be any slow down of people spending money. I was just at Target last weekend registering for our Baby Shower, and you wouldn’t believe what a madhouse it was in the checkout lines.

Yes, sales may be “down” in comparison with the past couple years, but I would hardly call what we are in a crisis. Crisis is such a strong word, isn’t it?

How about we pump some hope and encouragement into the populace instead of fear and trepidation. I choose hope and goodwill.

Things may be different now, but let’s not call it a crisis. Let’s be more mindful of where we put our finances, and manage our businesses or lives accordingly. Live within your means.

Sometimes, your “means” change.

People still have money to spend, and so they shall. They just may be more frugal with where they are spending it.

I’d encourage all business owners and managers to carefully consider whether or not they should pull their advertising dollars from various mediums. There is a very true statement of “out of sight, out of mind”, and it’s the absolute truth.

In this time and economy where you are actually FIGHTING for people’s dollars, your business better stand out above the rest.

We are so very blessed in this nation. Blessed with freedoms – such as freedom of speech, which our neighbors to the north don’t enjoy. That’s right, no freedom of speech in Canada. Seems a little strange, doesn’t it? But it sure hits home when you really think about it.

Most of us are blessed with a roof over our heads, food in our belly each and every day, and people who love and care for us. Maybe even some money in the checking or savings account.

Yes, we are certainly blessed, and I am tremendously thankful.

I hope you enjoy this month’s Valley Bugler Newspaper! Maybe it’s my pregnancy hormones that put me in such a ‘thankful’ and emotional state, but I have a feeling that I am connecting with many others as well.

I don’t think I’m the only one, who when feasting on turkey, cornbread, cranberry sauce and my mom’s terrific layered salad, will say…. “This Thanksgiving, I am truly thankful. Truly.”

Happy Thanksgiving. Love the ones you’re with, and remember to support local establishments with your hard earned dollars.

Shopping local and buying from locally owned shops continue our economy growth – so think “outside the box” when you are shopping this Christmas season, and frequent those shops that are locally owned in your area.

Most thankfully,

Michelle R. Myre Publisher / Editor