Shop local!

From http://www.indiebound.org/:

Why shop Indie?

When you shop at an independently owned business, your entire community benefits:
The Economy

• Spend $100 at a local and $68 of that stays in your community. Spend the same $100 at a national chain, and your community only sees $43.
  
• Local businesses create higher-paying jobs for our neighbors.
  
• More of your taxes are reinvested in your community--where they belong.

The Environment

• Buying local means less packaging, less transportation, and a smaller carbon footprint.
  
• Shopping in a local business district means less infrastructure, less maintenance, and more money to beautify your community.

The Community

• Local retailers are your friends and neighbors—support them and they’ll support you.
  
• Local businesses donate to charities at more than twice the rate of national chains.
  
• More independents means more choice, more diversity, and a truly unique community.