Shopping locally is always my first choice. Having been a local businessman myself for nearly forty years I value the decision. Naturally it is immediacy which frequently trumps any alternative but it strengthens the retail experience to be among those whom one knows.

The legitimacy of the local retailer extends even to the point of dismissing the putative need. I recall for example having attended upon Marilyn Linnenbrugger to have a frame made for an antique map given to me as a gift. Marilyn asked coldly, “Where are you going to put it?”  She then added, “You haven’t any room in your office or your house!”  And, you know, she was right. In the interest of accommodation I had already adopted the gallery style of wall hangings, arranging them on the walls progressively in ascending rows upon every available space. It was a style I had first seen in Rockcliffe Park in 1967 when visiting Martha Davis. At the time I thought it a peculiar demonstration of artwork but I have since accepted it as the preferred manner. At the very least it captures all available space; more importantly it warms the decorative atmosphere.

The other reason immediacy is a persuasive feature of local shopping is that it is not only physically convenient, it is also expedient by which I mean it enables one to address matters quickly and with the gratification of having done so. Once again by way of example, today we visited a local pharmacy to confirm an upcoming flu shot. It was a good thing we did so because the on-line marshalling proved to have been insufficient or inaccurate. Nonetheless we corrected the error and we’re moving on.

Before jumping to the conclusion that quality is the ultimate test of local shopping, I wouldn’t want to overlook or underestimate the value of gossip. Whether it’s casual conversation on the sidewalk or in the store, or the more compelling drama of seeing what others are wearing or driving, there is untold capital all about the local environment. Of course the shared intelligence can unexpectedly give rise to more substantive knowledge, such as a newly purchased condo, a new job or someone moving out of town or having to deal with lawyers for some unexplained purpose. The variety is endless and guaranteed stimulating.

Now then on to that business of quality. Quite frankly I am forever astounded to discover the elevation of local retail. It’s almost as though perfectly distinguished people from abroad, people of indisputable credentials, capacity and ability, decided to land upon one’s doorstep. Were they intent upon escaping urban restrictions?  Were they singularly minded self-achievers with relentless commitment to their own mannerisms and detailed production? I’m guessing.