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Buying Local
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Indie Toystore Ban?
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Greetings!
It's a new year, a new presidency and the words "economic stimulus" are on everyone's lips. Ok. Maybe not everyone's ... But did you know that where you spend your money determines just how stimulating it is?
We're all watching our pennies these days. So, when you do spend, make sure you get the most for your dollar. Shopping at locally owned, independent businesses provides the greatest economic stimulus to our own community.
That's right: You are a walking, talking stimulus package! For every dollar you spend at a local independent, 58% more of your money gets spent again right here in our region. That means that you are helping your friends and neighbors keep their jobs and funding local charities every time you buy from the cool businesses that make our town unique. You get all that PLUS the actual product or service too?! What a bargain!
Read on to find out just some of the ways we can "self stimulate" right here in Berkeley ... |
| Win $5800 from Local Independents! |
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The Resolution:
"I resolve to increase my support of independent businesses and artists, and I will put my thoughts, actions and dollars behind my local community."
The Reward:
By making the Indie Resolution, I am creating a healthier, more thoughtful, and stronger community, economy, and life for myself.
The Incentive:
A chance to win $5800 in local gift certificates! Why $5800? Fifty-eight percent more of your money stays in the community when spent at local, independent businesses rather than out-of-town chains. Think about every dollar you spend, and how you can circulate it here, in your community.
How to Participate:
Email your name and mailing address by 2/07/09 to buylocalberkeley@gmail.com. You will receive an Indie Resolution Journal in the postal service mail in February, along with info on how to identify local, indie businesses. Each month, make at least one journal entry of what you did to support the theme of the month. You will receive a monthly email that explains the theme, and makes suggestions for activities. At the end of the year, mail your Journal back to our sponsoring partner in this effort, The East Bay Express, by 12/31/09, and you will be automatically entered into the drawing.
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| Sound Off! |
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- What are the top three things you need but can't find in Berkeley?
- What's your favorite Berkeley business?
- How can we best encourage people to shop local independents in Berkeley?
Take the Survey |
| Merchant Profile: Treehouse Green Gifts |
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 Green Groovy and GorgeousLooking for a beautiful, useful gift that touts your Berkeley values? That eternal quest should lead you to Treehouse Green Gifts in Elmwood. This abundant boutique offers unique, organic, recycled, and handmade gifts for all ages.
Besides featuring local artists' hand-made gifts, Treehouse gives back to the community by donating 1% of sales to environmental causes. After receiving an MBA in sustainable business from San Francisco State, owner Maureen O'Neil launched the business in September of 2007. Maureen was inspired by the environmental and social awareness of the Berkeley population. A few months later The Treehouse became a family affair when Maureen's mom Eleanor moved to the East Bay to help her run the store.
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For all of 2009 we will keep you up to date on the best ways to stretch your dollars -- for yourself and your community.
From your friends and neighbors who own businesses and want to share our terrific local shops and services:
Happy New Year!
Locally Yours,
The Buy Local Berkeley Gang |
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