M-I-N-N-E-S-O-T-A, Gooooo MN!

Once again I'm here to talk local. There's a cool, new, unbiased organization, a true "progressive think tank" that was started this past June, MN2020.org. Their misson? "We are focused on what really matters for the future of our state. We are tired of a state that focuses on divisive side issues while our schools, healthcare, transportation, and economic development suffer."
Recently MN2020 was highlighted in the Star Tribune, they reminded us why buying locally matters:
"If 1 percent of Minnesota's expected holiday purchases were shifted from national retailers to local independent ones, an estimated $23 million more would stay in the state. An increase in sales by local manufacturers would mean more profits and more jobs at home.
Another "buy local" benefit is the reduction in energy consumption when goods are sold close to home rather than shipped across the globe.
Retailers have a role to play in bringing about a "buy-local" surge. Prominent marketing and labeling of Minnesota-made or -grown products would help discriminating consumers make the local choice. The Minnesota Grown Directory of the state Department of Agriculture (www.mda.state.mn.us) can help shoppers find Minnesota-grown food products."
Powerful stuff right?
And check out what else they offer at this time of the year, Made in MN Holiday Gift Guide.
So many reasons to cheer about our State!