Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Politics : Rat's Nest - Chronicles of Collapse -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Wharf Rat who wrote (3608)	1/28/2006 1:31:28 AM
From: Wharf Rat	Respond to of 24211

A grassroots approach to building local economies By David Courtland/TWN Staff Writer Willits Chamber of Commerce members heard two Bay Area consultants outline a grass roots approach to building local economies at their Wednesday lunch in Willits City Hall. Don Shaffer and Merrian Fuller explained principles behind the Local First concept of creating local support for local businesses to the chamber. Marketing campaigns emphasizing use of locally owned businesses not just by shoppers, but business owners and suppliers are a key part of the strategy, said Fuller. Certificates and gift cards only good at local businesses, buyers guides and window displays explaining why people should shop locally are examples in use by regional business groups, Fuller said. Some cities where the Local First concept which Shaffer said can be adapted to a communitys specific needs is being used successfully are Medford, Ore. and Bellingham, Wash. Shaffer is director and Fuller managing director of the Business Alliance for Local Living Economics, a network of 22 smaller business groups using the Local First concept. Besides helping business groups develop Local First programs for their communities, BALLE sponsors research studies and conferences, said Shaffer. Detailed information about the Local First concept is available at BALLEs website, www.livingeconomies.org. willitsnews.com