Editor’s note: Born and raised in the B-W neighborhood, Diane is a longtime BWNA activist and volunteer, having previously served as newsletter co-editor with husband Baer, now co-owners of Americana Frame, a newsletter advertiser.
There used to be a logo/saying in each BWNA newsletter—“Think Global, Shop Local.” It has been absent for some time. I want to re-energize that call to action.
With the increasing challenges in our world and even those within our friendly part of NE Portland (e.g., demolition of viable houses, increasing unaffordability, graffiti, traffic, etc.), it’s more important than ever to support our local businesses and help them thrive. We all have our favorite shops, services, and restaurants along NE Fremont and NE 42nd, and frequenting them helps keep our neighborhood GREAT.
As we head into the holiday season, please stimulate the Beaumont-Wilshire business community with your purchases of gifts as well as everyday family needs and wants. It’s a fact (no value judgment intended) that the USA economy relies on consumer spending for the majority of its growth, with small business a major contributor. Moreover, most everything can be found right here in our neighborhood! So explore locally and support for our neighborhood businesses. Thank you and happy holidays!
—Diane Charlton