Time to resize the box

Our tourism industry is under siege from the exchange rate on the US dollar, the escalating price of fuel and the world dynamic, but we still have under-utilized potentials.

We need to capitalize on these opportunities. As we saw, the Wharf Rat Rally, in its third year, exceeded even the organizers’ expectations.

There are some who would call this ‘out of the box’ thinking. Well maybe it is time to resize the box. Consider the recently reported story of a small retail store, considered a looser, that was part of a chain. Management decided rather than close the location, they enlarged the operation. Now that store is one of the top performers.

Or the merchant that looks around for a product not currently being sold in the community and expands on that product.

How about the person who designs a tool for their own use and then discovers that others find it just as useful and proceeds to market the item? How about the restauranter who stays open a little later for a traveler and discovers that the person is in the process of booking sites for a major tour company?

It is so easy to become complacent, to ridicule the risk takers or make snap judgments that are hurtful or critical. We forget that major advances and economic growth often are a result of somebody taking a chance. Reaching for what could be termed the impossible only raises the bar on the possibilities.

Is there a chance that it will fail? Absolutely, but at least it was tried.

A kind word of encouragement may be awkward. Yet it may make a difference. "There is no beautifier of complexion, or form, or behaviour, like the wish to scatter joy and not pain around us" - Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Last year the Digby Area Board of Trade, with the help of our Courier staff, published the first edition of a Buy Local Directory. The second edition for 2007-2008 is in the revision stage and we are again requesting your help to ensure that it is as accurate and complete as possible.

To revise a listing or have your business included e-mail me at Kristy@ns.sympatico.ca or call 245-8879. The editorial listing is at no cost but if you wish to advertise contact Nicole Hanscomb at the Courier.

The deadline is fast approaching for you to nominate a business/individual or organization that has made positive contributions to our community. Take a few moments to give some well-deserved praise. Nominees must be active in the town/municipality of Digby or Annapolis County west of Cornwallis Park.