It seems like too often we receive phone calls that another local small-town business in closing. Last week, we heard the news about MAMA’s in Windsor and this week we heard of two more local businesses that would soon be closing their doors, as well.

For whatever reasons, small town businesses are dying. Whether it’s because they don’t have the name brand you are shopping for, their prices aren’t in your budget, etc., these businesses are struggling. The result of community members not shopping in these stores is them closing.

The owners of these businesses are probably a neighbor, a friend, a family member or if nothing else, a friendly face that you have more than likely seen before. They are trying to run a business and make a living, just like the rest of us. The difference is that they need all of our support to succeed. These businesses depend on us for profit. They depend on our loyalty.

Those businesses that are chains have attractive qualities like the weekly sales and convenience of having a wide variety of items. But, many small town businesses have sales, too, especially when an event is going on. They also tend to sell more items then what you may think.

But one of the things you can’t get at a chain store is the personal contact you receive from choosing to shop at or go to a local business. The owners and workers of these places almost always go the extra mile for their customers. They engage in conversation with you, help you find what you are looking for and care about you becoming a returning customer.

The local restaurants that aren’t chains also have that same quality. People who work at these places almost always make sure the food you order is just the way you want it. And, the food tends to taste better. They serve the country cooking we all know and love.

If you have never been to a business, but it looks interesting, it probably is. And if you haven’t been to one of these local shops in a while, make your way back to it the next time you think about buying a gift for someone, going out to eat or just doing some shopping. Without us, these local businesses will die, and then what makes this area any different than the rest?