As the tourist season calms and the town of Jasper settles into its autumn routine, it’s easy to feel a sense of relief. 

Relief that it’s easier to find a parking spot. Relief that we may finally have a chance to get around to the things we’ve been putting off. Relief that some of the rowdy youngsters have left town to go back to college. 

But one drawn-out exhalation won’t be heard by residents here in town. It’s the sigh of relief of those student employees who grew tired of their hospitality jobs, who grew tired of Jasper, and who are elated to get back to the books. 

As a college student, I can remember how I felt once I was free of a dreadful summer job. After suffering the exhaustion and unhappiness, I felt I could take on the crankiest professor in a heartbeat. I counted down weeks, days, even hours until I could leave work for the last time.

I’ve grown fond of this place, and I’d hate to think of even one student telling dorm room horror stories of her miserable summer in Jasper. It’s not just the tourists who take away reviews of a destination. 

I’m excited for winter, the time I’m told when locals really have a chance to get to know those taking up residence here. I hear again and again, “We’re getting our town back.”

Crowded sidewalks aren’t everyone’s favourite thing, but the tourists who crowd those walks drive the town’s economy, so let’s not bid them farewell at first chance and rush into winter.

Not only because we could use what little warm weather we have left, but also because we still have the chance to prove to employees and guests alike that Jasper isn’t such a bad place to be.