RaceWay’s Customer Appreciation Day held this past Friday was a success and points a spotlight on an interesting way of bringing in business.

The concept of shopping local has been on the minds of business owners recently and with the announcement that a lack of support doomed the Valley Steak ‘n Shake, it might not be a bad idea to look into alternative ways of drumming up foot traffic.

Everyone likes to feel appreciated and customers are no different. With so many commercial options in the area, a business having a special celebration isn’t a bad idea.

They could offer discounts for anyone that comes in during the event. There could be food and drinks and even door prizes.

All of this would be compounded by the notion they were doing it for the customer.

To be sure, we need to support our local businesses if we want them to grow.

We also need to show that we are willing to stay here and shop as opposed to going to Opelika, LaGrange and elsewhere. Businesses won’t come if they see that no one will stop there.

It takes two to tango and local businesses need a partner that will support and work with them.