"in many ways it has made them much stronger now and ready for future problems that might come their way."

This is the only statement I disagree with... regardless of the adaptations and defense mechanisms, no small businesses are in a better position going forward. Any signs of economic improvements and steps forward are little more than smoke and mirrors right now, subject to the coming storm of rising interest rates, collapsing housing markets, et cetera.

Shopping local though: that's a fantastic idea. We need to turn things around RIGHT NOW or the future is bleak indeed (for all of us). I appreciate that you're having the conversation, DIV... thanks for that. :)