Another local business closes, nothing’s improving
Just another business closing in Arlington Heights. Petland in Northpoint Shopping Center is closing. I have become familiar with this business only because my 14-year-old granddaughter has had the wonderful opportunity to volunteer there one night a week.
I have been pleasantly surprised at the number of families that come in, not to buy, but to visit. The very friendly and knowledgeable are just another dunk in this economy.
In the past three years, I have come to know so many people in distress. The over 50 and the college graduates who have been off the rolls. So many people have lost long-standing businesses such as Contract Builders Hardware (46 years).
The home building industry supports Realtors, architects, excavators, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, concrete, asphalt, roofers, drywallers, painters, masonry, landscapers and retail: appliances, carpeting, flooring, tile, plumbing fixtures, window treatments, furniture and cabinetry, etc. etc. etc.
Every night the news is filled with senseless murders, bank robberies or purse snatchings. Heart attacks, cancer and strokes seem to be on the rise. Families are in distress.
People may be off the rolls, but at what cost? Part time jobs? No benefits? And what about the cost of health care?
I don’t care what the unemployment rate is. I don’t care what the latest poll says. I know what I see around me.
America’s promise of our inalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness no longer exists for all.
Sheila DeLattre
Arlington Heights