My retail shop, Bridie's Irish Faire, was referred to last March as the "epicenter of all things Irish in Salem" -- because in addition to opening a retail business, I created a cradle of Irish culture for the residents of Salem and the surrounding communities to enjoy. When my customers requested Irish dance classes, a literature club, an Irish language class, and a genealogy workshop, I found instructors and provided space. The dance class and céilí have been so well attended that I formed the Céilí of the Valley Society to help organize and promote these events.

Prior to opening Bridie's, I was warned that Salem residents, convinced they must head to Portland to find something special, would drive right by -- and they do. Someone needs to teach Salem residents how to support the existing cute shops, local restaurants, and music event.

I have reached out to the Salem community far beyond my role as a retailer, and while the Irish events are successful, there still is the question of actually earning a living as a downtown merchant.

It is with great sadness that I announce that I am closing Bridie's and reopening on the bay front in Newport next month. I hope that the Salem community will continue to support all of the Irish events that were created at the request of my customers; they will continue under the auspices of the Céilí of the Valley Society board of directors.

Community is about helping one another, and the dollars spent shopping at independent merchants are returned into the Salem community, as opposed to the chain stores that send their dollars to headquarters.

Merchants live and shop in Salem too, and when we pay income tax on the money you spend, those tax dollars support the needs of our community. So think before you shop, Salem. When you shop at chain stores or on the Internet, you send your hard-earned money away from your own community.