What we can do facing uncertain times...

A lot of us right now are reviewing our financial position and making choices. While I completely understand and identify with that reaction, I think its important that we don’t just “curl up” and let all our plans be laid waste. It is NOT a time to panic. The news that hit Rock County on Tuesday that thousands of families are going to have to find another livelihood is truly tragic. My prayers and well-wishes go out to all who are faced with a sudden life transition.

However, as a community - life will go on. People will still need gas and groceries. Appliances will break down or become outdated. Furniture will wear out or become less functional as children grow up. Business will continue. Some families will be impacted more heavily than others and certainly adaptations to certain plans may have to be made, and decisions will be weighed carefully.

This is where I believe we can, to a degree, help control the destiny of our communities. We’re all still going to have to mow the lawn, repair chipped siding, re-roof the house, be sure the car has good tires and yes, even take some time out for some sort of vacation and “recharging”.

When you do, please consider your local options. Buying locally helps our local economy and keeps money here in Rock County. You’ll find that small businesses have been doing all kinds of things to be competitive in price - from joining buying groups, to reducing overhead - and that you might discover better service and a friendlier staff in the process.

As some of the people directly impacted by the GM announcement explore their options, they may choose to work for themselves, adding to the variety of local goods and services we all can use.

As we work our way through this time of change, it’s important to remember that we all have something to gain by supporting local business. And I truly believe, if you step into a local restaurant or shop you’ve never been in before, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.