Local Secret
In big cities there are always the secret places that only the locals know about. Then there are the places that the out-of-towners and new residents frequent. You won't find a San Franciscan at Fisherman's Wharf unless they're selling you something.
Dillsburg is a small town, but the same rules apply. It is hard to get away from the Giant when you need a loaf of bread, but for just about everything else you can buy it from a locally owned business. Stick with me on this one. The payoff is worth it.
I walked into Gruber's Pharmacy the other day. I was greeted with a smile and "hello's" all around. The owner, Tom, stopped what he was doing and came out to talk to me. It made my day. Really.
But that's not all. I was able to park right in front of the store. When shopping at one of the big chain stores, even the best parking spot seems like it's a mile away.
I bought medicine. Claritin, to be exact. I paid the same price two weeks before (in an emergency) at one of those cookie-cutter chain stores.
Now, I understand that competitive pricing, easy access, and truly friendly service aren't what is keeping you away from local shops like this. You don't go because you don't know about them. Well, now you do.
Do me a favor. Start with Grubers Pharmacy. Go there this week, if only for a pack of gum. Say "hi" to Tom. He'll remember you.