,g-mr-

Introduction

The neighborhood family run corner store, like the family farm, was an integral part of communities across Prince Edward Island. It was more than just a business, it was a way of life. Besides providing the basic food needs and other miscellaneous items, the store served as the focal point of the community. It served as a place to meet your neighbor, catch up on the local gossip and even discuss political issues of the day.

Everyone knew their neighbor by name and quite often banded together to help someone in need. It definitely was a slower pace of life and people seemed to be more content and happier with what they had than they are today.

These neighborhood stores are, for the most part, gone. Because they played such an important role in creating a sense of community and impressed upon me the importance of local involvement in political decision making, I felt it important to write a few reflections to pass on to my family and friends.

MV/

Fra Zakem

PEI. COLLECTION U.P.E..l ROBERTSON LIBRARY LIBRARY USE ’ML: W