Supporting local businesses a key during pandemic

The full severity of the downturn in the economy both in the Taber region and the entire province of Alberta is hard to calculate at this point.

It’s likely a good guess things won’t be in tip-top shape when things do get back to relative normalcy, though early 2020 normalcy won’t be the same as it will later in the year.

In Taber and Vauxhall, large events for the towns have been cancelled in Cornfest and a 100 centennial, respectively. Both of the towns were relying on the economic boost both events would bring but now they have zero chance of getting that this year.

And the Times agrees completely it was the right decision under these circumstances, but that doesn’t mean it hurts any less.

Businesses around town are also facing financial struggles with COVID-19 remaining an issue, and it looks to be that way for the foreseeable future.

Restrictions in the province have been loosened lightly in May including several non-essential deemed businesses being allowed to re-open their doors with Alberta Health Services restrictions in place. And while some restrictions are being loosened, there’s still a need to practice social distancing for the time being as well as continuing with good general hygiene.

With a hope to get the economy rolling again across the province, never has there been a time to support local business more than right now.

Whether it be Taber or area restaurants, grocery stores, clothing stores or any other business, residents supporting residents during this time will no doubt help get the economy rolling.

This is easier said than done as a ton of people across the province are struggling financially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

But if you do have the means and money to support local businesses, it will be more than worthwhile.

And don’t just stop there, continue to support local business during this pandemic and after because local business is incredibly important to any community.

The Taber and District Chamber of Commerce is doing their part in supporting businesses in the area during this extended period of lockdown.

“We are all trying to stay positive and show support for our local businesses. I feel that supporting local businesses has never been more important than right now. Together with everyone’s support, we can come out of this even stronger. Taber is a great community and you can see by everyone’s reaction during COVID-19 that we take care of our family, friends and neighbours,” said Taber Chamber president Joanne Sorensen. And Sorensen is absolutely right.

Even without a community-minded event like Cornfest to show community spirit, there’s still plenty of ways to support the area. So let’s continue to make the best of things as we head into the summer and hopefully, even fewer restrictions in terms of large gatherings.

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