Minds are changing about the importance of “local” as we recognize that community is not only central to our lives, but is also dependent on how we live those lives. Sure, we love the web of connection that community offers us, but we are also starting to see and understand the economic gains provided by locally owned and independent businesses. We have all heard it so many times, it has become a mantra for many: “Every time you spend a dollar in a locally owned independent business, three times as much of that dollar is re-circulated in the community as is the case when that same dollar is spent in a chain store.”
We have come so far in these last 5 years. We now have over 2700 Business Partners around the state. And we are truly Local First UTAH - we have a strong presence not just in Salt Lake City and County, but also in Ogden and Moab. In 2011 we are planning to have an even greater focus in Logan, Wayne County, and St. George.
And while we need your support in talking about the importance of local, we also recognize that without all of you, this growth would not have happened. Thank you for supporting us, for helping spread the word, and for buying local, first. This is an important movement and together we can increase its gathering momentum.
Sincerely,
Betsy Burton, Local First Utah, Board Co-Chair
David Nimkin, Local First Utah, Board Co-Chair
