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Be patient, understanding, and please support local businesses
Businesses have begun the process of reopening after several months of forced closure, and I am personally asking for your support, patience, and understanding as they come back online. There isn’t a playbook to operate a business during a pandemic, and many businesses and individuals are still adjusting to the new normal.
If you see something in need of improvement, please contact the owner or manager and politely give constructive feedback. Businesses want to keep their customers and employees safe and satisfied, and your concern is always appreciated. Taking a photo of a perceived issue and sharing it on social media with a note describing what they’ve done wrong does nothing but inflame tensions and put employees at risk of losing their job. Please, help them to improve by approaching the business to let them know what would make you feel more comfortable as a customer.
Remember, many businesses are undergoing the most financially unstable and difficult times they may ever experience. Business owners and employees may be battling personal and professional challenges, and stress levels are high for everyone. With constantly changing rules and regulations, businesses are doing their best to keep up with conflicting announcements coming from Albany. Being understanding and empathetic can truly go a long way.
Share social media promotions from local businesses, talk to friends about a great experience you’ve had, and please remember to Think Local First, now more than ever. Our businesses, their employees, your friends, co-workers, and neighbors are depending on you.
To persevere we must do it together as one community. If you want to live in a community you’re proud of, and you want to do something to make it better, then support your local businesses.
Be considerate.
Be patient.
Be compassionate.
Be supportive.
Be generous.
Be thoughtful.
Be local.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Sincerely,
Frank Castella, Jr.
President and CEO