Thank you for your editorial emphasizing the importance of patronizing our community of West Seattle merchants (Nov. 5).

As West Seattleites, we are so fortunate to have a variety of shopping, dining and service options in our neighborhood; everything from mom and pops that have remained constant for decades, to independent stores, to larger, national chains. Yet this healthy mix of merchants should not be taken for granted. In these uncertain economic times, it is crucial more than ever to spend our dollars close to home. Using Junction merchants as an example, most of our businesses and service providers are West Seattle residents - our neighbors. And they provide employment for West Seattleites. Living local is one of many ways that we can support our community.

Thank you again for making local merchants part of the conversation of these times.

Susan Melrose

Junction Association Director

West Seattle resident