Dear Editor,

After reading the letter to the editor in the July 26 issue of the Lacombe Globe from the owner of Sears in Lacombe, I started wondering what would happen if they decide to close down their business.

I know for myself, I have resorted some of my shopping to online since the City of Lacombe provides nothing for shopping for young children. For some time now there has been the rumour the City of Lacombe would get a Wal-Mart. After all, that is why Extra Foods changed over to No Frills, yet we are still waiting. At least Extra Foods carried other items than just groceries. Shoppers were able to buy clothing for children, toys and great seasonal items at low prices.

Whether it is clothing, shoes, sporting equipment or birthday gifts, the Bargain Shop is the only store in the city and it is picked through very quickly and/or doesn't carry the items you are looking for.

If Sears were to close down, that would hurt even more shoppers in Lacombe. They would not be able to pick up their online ordering locally. I strongly think it is time the citizens of Lacombe get a real breakdown of stores/shopping coming to Lacombe.

I know there have been plenty of times I have had to rush to Red Deer for birthday gifts or sporting equipment when I would much rather support local businesses. Which I certainly can say I do so with chiropractor, doctors, groceries, banking and employment. But if I am already in Red Deer for other items, then I will indeed grab groceries at good prices, like most people.

So what is in store for Lacombe? And as to what time line can we expect whatever is to come?

I wasn't overjoyed to hear Canadian Tire has committed to building here, simply because I can't buy children shoes there. But they do have great sports equipment, tools and seasonal items. Still, Wal-Mart should be a priority for the shoppers of Lacombe. I would like to support locally but find that next to impossible, unless I move. I wonder how many others have that feeling.

Verna Klinger,

Lacombe