I read with great interest and sadness the Letter to the Editor submitted by Kay Graham dated July 30. She painted a very dark and bleak picture of downtown Washington.

In some respect, she hit the nail on the head. I have worked on Main Street for 47 years and readily recall the days and atmosphere Ms. Graham spoke of in the early ’70s — there were four family shoe stores, two large dime stores, five thriving department stores, at least three ladies shops and a couple of really nice men’s stores. Also in the downtown mix were at least three drug stores. Most of all these businesses were locally owned. Downtown Washington was a powerful business district.

A trend toward malls in the mid-70s took a toll on many small downtowns. Downtown Washington felt the effects, yet remained a viable business district. As you are well aware, merchants and property owners come and go. The mall experience was too much for some small merchants to survive. I’m not stating that this is the reason for lost merchants, but it was the beginning of the end for many. As some merchants age out there is no family member interested in taking over. Most times, the income is too low and there are not benefits. This results in empty buildings with little or no upkeep. With downtown areas being lower traffic areas, these buildings are often difficult to lease or sell.

Many of the empty buildings have been passed from generation to generation with the current owners knowing only the cost of insurance, tax and maintenance — no income. On the flip side, I’m glad to report we have a wonderful group of active and successful merchants. There is a great mix of retail with many new, young merchants stepping up. Main Street, Market Street and Respess Street are all boasting new businesses.

The Chamber of Commerce, The Washington Harbor District Alliance and the Washington Tourism Development Authority all work hard to help develop successful merchants and create a fun, safe, shopping atmosphere. Do we have cracked sidewalks, buildings that need paint and flowers that need attention? You bet we do, but so does every small town in America.

That’s not an excuse, that’s a fact. Our city council can handle only so much of the load.

Beautification is a joint effort and is being addressed by the aforementioned group.

Most people do not understand small business. In a community like ours, small businesses are vital. You would be amazed at what local merchants give away to help our city and county. We purchase ads, buy tickets and give door prizes almost every week. We believe in supporting those who support us.

I have supported my family from a business in downtown Washington for 34 years. This is an amazing community and I want to personally extend a tremendous thank you. I will agree with Ms. Graham that we need some work, but it could be worse. We have so many dedicated customers who are so thankful we are here. Let me encourage you to shop local with your local merchants. At least give them a chance to meet your needs.

Russell Smith owns Russell’s Men’s Shop on West Main Street in downtown Washington.