This Summer, Get Away From The Familiar Places and "Explore Local"

"Thinking outside the box" ~ it's something we talk a lot about on our Facebook page, because to me it seems that without an open mind you could lose out on chance to do unusual and different things. Perhaps that idea could be included in your summertime plans when deciding where to shop, dine or have fun.

“They Said You Mattered”

While the title of this blog post is admittedly, a bit heavy on the doom and gloom vibe, I stuck with it since the message itself is pretty darn important. Without a doubt, I believe this simple, completely non-typical poem of sorts will resonate with many of you - the hard-working, caring, dedicated and involved small business owners.

Seven Reasons Why Supporting Local Business is Good for Your Community

"When deciding where to spend your hard-earned dollars on tonight’s dinner or a gift for a friend, consider the benefits of turning to local, independently owned businesses within your community." The following blog post was found on and written by Mass.Gov Blog, The Official Blog of the Website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Despite it being a few years old, when I see content which remains relevant to the choices facing consumers today, I try to share it with you, our readers.

Share the Love for Dad by Spending Where You Live

Father's Day is just around the corner and it's yet another opportunity to make choice that we'll be happy with later on. Spending locally is an often overused phrase (I admit, I'm just as guilty of repeating it far too much), when what I believe we really mean to convey is that there are choices....and then there are better choices.

Whether you decide on a morning brunch to enjoy with your dad or grandfather, or perhaps get the family together for an afternoon trip to a out into the country to enjoy ice cream at a family-run dairy farm, the gift of an ultra-clean vehicle provided by your locally-owned and operated auto care shop or a fabulous dinner at the best indie seafood shack around, there are ALWAYS so many ways to pick a nearby place to support.

We think you pop would be thrilled you thought of independent businesses with REAL FLAVOR, that are owned and operated by REAL PEOPLE!

Start now and get going - to your independent retailers. Don't miss out the opportunity to celebrate the places and people you love in your hometown.

It doesn't matter how much you are spending - if you are spending with an independent rather than a chain store you are choosing to support local business and to keep money in your community. "Be a part of the place where you live" - because local is the smarter option!

The commitment to our towns, neighborhoods and cities happens with each choice we make. Consider the effects of spending in your community where money works for the whole area, rather than being funneled away to a corporation in another state.

P.S. Your dad messaged us. He asks that you put your spending for his special day towards supporting the mom and pop businesses in the local community where you live. 😀 Have a great Father's Day!

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