Before I get started this week, I have a quick suggestion on how to start your day in a more positive way. When you’re getting going in the AM, grab that cup of coffee, let the dog out and go about your everyday morning ritual with one little twist. If you have a four-legged friend, simply follow them right out the door. If you don’t have a son or daughter with paws, start your day the same way with the smell of the Spring air and sounds of Mother Nature coming alive all around you.

Even if it’s only for a moment, go out on your front porch or maybe just outside your back door and just take it in. Listen to the birds singing as they serenade the world with all their different songs. Try to identify which harmony goes with different species of our fine feathered friends. Maybe you even have a woodpecker on percussion like I do at my house. Of course, you have to name him Woody.

If you’re an early riser like I am, enjoy the sunrise, then as things brighten, try to locate where all of God’s creatures are around you. Maybe it’s the squeak of a chipmunk, a squirrel with their unique morning chatter, or God’s alarm clock, the crows, announcing to all it’s time to get up. A lot of times, you can even hear a wise old owl leftover from the night before.

Every morning is truly a blessing. We can all feel a little bit happier just by taking in the dawn of a new day. As you’re doing so, take a breath, give some thought to all your blessings and say a short prayer of thanks. I guarantee you will feel 1000% better than starting your day with the morning news.

Within the pages ahead, you may find local businesses that are doing what is currently being asked of them and are unable to be open. As we were going to press, there was much uncertainty of what would be going on as you’re reading this week’s publication and what would be open for business. We will continue to promote, support, and encourage our area’s business community. It is my hope that you can take advantage of all the great offers that are currently being offered when the Webb Weekly reaches your mailbox.

There has never been a more important time to support businesses within our communities. From the smallest of storefronts in the West Branch Valley right on up to the car dealerships and real estate agencies. It is of the utmost importance that we all patronize these businesses in any way possible.

We have so many great people that have spent lifetimes building family businesses, like the Crouse family at The Villa restaurant. They have changed their approach and hours of operation, as many restaurants and eateries have done to stay open. Many are now offering takeout, delivery, or both. See pages 24 & 25 for more info. Americans enjoy going out for dinner and a drink, an early morning breakfast with friends, or a bite for lunch during their workday. At this time, we need to support our local folks that make this happen each and every day by enjoying a little take out at the family table or office, if open. Besides, it’s a nice way to say thank you and give the cook of the house a well-deserved break or an I-appreciate-you to the staff at work.

We are fortunate to have great ownership across the board at area car dealerships. Most are family-owned, family-operated, and generational fixtures within the community. Their economic impact and contribution to the local tax base are immeasurable. They are huge contributors to every community by supporting almost every non-profit and charitable organization, area athletic programs from elementary age to the college level, and pretty much every good cause when asked. This is not intended to take anything away from other business sectors that all contribute so much to the West Branch Valley. Our area is truly blessed by generosity. However, asking the neighborhood dealership seems to be first on everyone’s list.

If you are looking for a new or newer vehicle, now may be a good time to take advantage of all that is currently being offered. It is imperative we keep this commerce and the revenue created from it, right here at home.

If you do choose to shop outside of our area, please get your last price from a local dealer, not your first. Make sure you take all factors into consideration, especially service after the sale. And most importantly, know who you’re doing business with. The ownership and staff within the local automotive industry want to sell you your next vehicle, not just make a quick sale and then move on to the next deal.

Your support of local business is vital to keeping our area strong, not just today but every day.

God Bless America.