The Regional News
Sept. 5, 2007
It is with a 'heavy heart' that I am leaving the town of Caledonia. It's difficult to believe that it has been over eight years, since I first started my business on Argyle Street. The quaint town of Caledonia had everything a small business could as for: a growing population, a flourishing tourist trade, and a small, yet vibrant downtown core. Caledonia also enjoyed a wonderful reputation throughout the Region. Over the years I developed a loyal clientele of regular customers from Caledonia and surrounding area. and throughout Ontario. Many of my customers became friends and Caledonia soon felt like home. Throughout the day I often had people 'drop in' just to say hello and share in some friendly conversation. I looked forward to going to work. I fully expected to continue doing business in Caledonia for a long time to come.
Unfortunately, this was not the case. For over a year now my business has witnessed a steady decline in sales. The streets and sidewalks that were once busy with the flow of tourists are now substantially quieter. Housing developments have been put on hold and new businesses are reluctant to locate here. As business owners, we rely on population growth and visitors to our town, to help sustain and grow our business. I fully expected that the problems we were experiencing would soon be resolved and life as we knew it would eventually return. However, to date there does not appear to be a resolution forthcoming, therefore, business decisions had to be made.
Although I am relocating my business, I will continue to support Caledonia at every opportunity. The time spent in Caledonia was with out a doubt one of the brightest lights of my life. I forged many new friendships which I will treasure for the rest of my life. Thank-you to everyone.
Molly's Back Porch