Two friends, two stories
by Susan Stein

It was 20 years ago, on the Saturday of the Civic Holiday weekend in 1986, that Just Because opened it's doors for the first time.

"I've seen a lot of changes in the Village, and in retail as a whole in the last twenty years," says proprietor Lynn Dollin.

When we opened, the Village had no sewers,there was no such thing as a "loonie" or a twoonie or GST. Sunday shopping was illegal unless you were a tourist area, and Cookstown flourished on Sundays.

Thankfully, some things have not changed. "I am blessed to have many wonderful customers who love to come in and tell me of the pleasant experiences they have had here. One of our greatest success stories, is our annual Kid's Day in December. Many of the teenagers that come in and help out on Kids Day, were customers when they were toddlers. I am also thankful for the help of Heather Shreenan, who has been a loyal and dedicated employee for twenty years.

Ten and a half years ago, my friend Lynn Dollin took me to the Canadian Giftware and Table Association Show and I was hooked in about 10 minutes. That was the beginning of 'Tis the Season', originally opened as a Christmas Store, recollects

proprietor Nancy Hildebrand.

Coincidently, as I opened my store 10 years ago on August, 2 1996, Lynn Dollin had opened her "Just Because" store.

Lynn was a terrific adviser, patiently listening to my questions and passing along her knowledge.

By the time Christmas came and went that first year, I was tired of just having Christmas merchandise. So at the next year's Gift Show I ordered items, that were suitable for every day, all year around.

The ten years for the most part have been funmany customers have turned into regular visitors and friends. Some days though I ask myself "just what has my friend Lynn got me into?"

Many thanks to Lynn and the people who support our village for keeping us in business so long.

Dear Lynn and Nancy, as one of the " Old timers" of Cookstown and area, I want to pay my compliments to you for enriching the Village with your stores, for your friendly service and smiles.

And, for those who have been to the village annual "Light Up Night", and to those, who haven't done so, should drop in to Just Because and Tis the Season. They are made special with all merchandise offered at special Christmas price and a treat to sample the dips and chips, the home made cookies that night.

(right) Nancy and Lynn in the Village of Cookstown. photo by Susan Stein