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Local businesses worthy of honor, need support

Submitted

Tue, Jul 7th 2020 05:15 pm

Guest Editorial by Village of Wilson Mayor Arthur Lawson

We are at the halfway point of our summer and supporting our businesses are more important than ever. Never have businesses faced an incredibly unique challenge due to the extraordinary circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our small business is the engine that drives the train of our community and our country.

Small and independent businesses have undoubtedly played an integral part in spearheading the fast-paced growth of our country since 1776 – serving as a foundational steppingstone towards the American dream.

We hear so much about the role our small business owners play in our community. These are establishments that are the character of our community. The relationships created between our community and those that work in our local businesses, frequently go beyond just purchases and our business owners are a shining example of American exceptionalism.

Well, frankly, I would like to take an opportunity to remind you about the courage and generosity of our business owners. I would like to hear it pointed out that our community business owners do not have guaranteed annual incomes. Before they can turn a profit, they must anticipate and deliver what our community residents and visitors want. They must risk their money with investments. The truth is, before business can take, they must give, and business begins with giving.

I believe we are meant to use wisely what is ours, make it grow, then help others to share and benefit from our success. And the secret of success is understanding that true success of our local businesses is measured by the spirit of achievement. Our harbor and waterfront were worthless until entrepreneurs with ideas and the freedom and faith to take risks managed to carve out a niche for others to come and visit. The principles of creating opportunities that guide our business owner’s creation transcend time, people and place.

Despite differences and challenges, I hope we can all rally around the founding principles that have driven our community that we all have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And that these aims are all more attainable when we work together to support our community businesses.

Stay healthy – stay safe respectfully.

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