At no stage are we in the habit of belittling a situation or disrespecting businesses who are doing it tough.

But, in times like this, when a lot of people are struggling, a sense of humour is one thing Aussies have to lighten the mood.

And, hopefully, every now and then our cartoon does that. If it puts a smile on someone’s face, it’s done its job.

No-one, not the least The Argus, wants to see established companies or shop owners shut their doors due to the economic downturn.

It was sad an institution like the Albion Hotel found itself in that predicament – and had no other option.

Friday’s sketch wasn’t taking aim at John Street businesses per se; however that street is automatically recognisable in Singleton. 

If Campbell Street or Goulburn Street appeared in the same diagram, it wouldn’t have the same effect.

Singleton, unlike other towns in the region, boasts a vibrant shopping precinct and, fingers crossed, it continues that way for many years to come.