Dear Editor,

Our snowy weather has taken a toll on our local businesses. Sales and revenue that was expected during a normal busy holiday season is well below expectations due to this year’s challenging economic times and now, this weeks snowy weather has restricted all transportation. Many of our local Kirkland businesses are hurting. As a resident and local business owner, I want to take this opportunity to ask other Kirkland businesses and residents to consider shopping locally whenever possible.

If you need some last minute gifts, why not venture out by foot to downtown, or around your surrounding neighborhoods, and pick up last minute gifts from retailers who are open and eager to help complete your shopping list.

If you have guests in town for the holidays, or you couldn’t make it out of town due to a flight cancellation, consider visiting one of our local eateries or restaurants. Everyone has their favorites but it is a great time to try something different and new. Kirkland has such a diverse group of restaurants including Italian, Thai, Chinese, Mexican, Greek, Seafood, Mediterranean and more.

Do you have cabin fever from being in so long? Why not visit one of our many coffee shops with yummy holiday coffee drinks and tasty baked goods. And how about a movie at Parkplace Cinema, or a holiday show at Kirkland Performance Center or Studio East? (Do call first to be sure they are open!)

And if you need a good laugh right now, and honestly who doesn’t; Laugh’s Comedy Spot has some great comedians and entertainment with easy access off 405 and 124th and plenty of parking if you are brave and want to drive. And they are booking up for New Year’s Eve so you might want to plan ahead for that as well.

Whatever you decide to do, supporting local businesses is a gift that is easy to give. Our city is a fabulous place to work, live and play and we can all do our part to keep it that way. And if you see me around town, please wave hello. There is something really special about a White Christmas and spreading holiday cheer.

Have a happy and safe holiday!

Susan Burnash

Purple Duck Marketing