Time, it has been said, marches on. And the latest reminder for longtime Clark County residents is the closing of the Red Lion Hotel Vancouver at the Quay.
With its demise, the local landmark joins Steakburger, Golden Skate and many other long-established businesses upon the dust bin of history. Such is the nature of an evolving economy — which means that Vancouver is just like every other city in the country. Times change, tastes change, and the businesses that used to cater to those tastes sometimes leave behind only cherished memories.
One question involves the new favorites that crop up to replace old favorites: Will they be locally owned? There’s no doubt that local or regional businesses have a difficult time competing with national chains these days, be they restaurants or hotels or what used to be known as five-and-dime stores. Consumers should remember that when they shop at a large chain, the kind that can afford copious national advertising, much of that revenue is immediately sent to faraway corporate headquarters.
In the end, consumers decide whether a local business stays or goes, drawn in by good service and a desirable product. Some businesses inevitably get swept along in the march of time, but supporting local companies helps strengthen a community.
