I don't know who needs to hear this, but downtowns like this one all across America run on the backs of women. A lot of people have absolutely no idea how critical women are to the local small business community and in creating the small town cultures we celebrate as if they just happened on their own.

In many downtowns like this one, businesses owned or managed by women are in the majority. Dig deeper you'll find that most of the people who run and serve on committees to produce the uniquely local activities and celebrations that you cherish are women.

When you support small businesses, chances are you're supporting the efforts of a woman who's bucking the odds. When you support women, you are supporting the culture that makes a place the place you know.

It doesn't matter how you choose to do it. Now, more than ever... stand behind women.