By now, most of us have heard about the devastating fire that ripped through the town of Paradise, California on November 8th. The statistics are staggering. A week after the fire broke out, 56 people have been killed, 297 people are still missing and over 50,000 people have been displaced. The death count is still rising. The fire has destroyed 7,600 homes and 95 apartments. Another 115 homes have been damaged. A large majority of the Paradise population has been forced to camp in the Wal-Mart parking lot in neighboring Chico.
One of those displaced citizens is also a valued vendor here with us at the Emporium. She is Laura Smith and her business name is 11:Zen. She has been passionately designing and making her own clothing line. Most of her possessions, as well as a majority of her inventory, burned with the fire last week. It is our hope that you might consider shopping in her booth this holiday season to assist in her recovery efforts.
Within the gifting season, it is important to shop local and support one another, especially now during this tumultuous time. If we can hold one another up and buy locally resourced and eco-conscious gifts that support local business, then we have done our small part to support the community in which we live.
Shopping local has become a tag line, but the meaning of it is far-reaching and extremely important. We encourage you to visit us first, or any shop in the Rogue Valley, before you mindlessly buy a gift on Amazon. Our store is filled with unique gifts filled with heart, and affordably priced. With over 180 vendors housed within 17,000 square feet, you are sure to find that perfect gift for whomever makes your list!
May this holiday season bring you all much joy and peace!
