Where the Locals Go! Coupon Books now available

Media contact: Michelle Grandy, Communications and Think Local First Manager
mgrandy@sconnect.org, (360) 647.7093 x110
          
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 
November 22, 2010 – Bellingham, WA

2011 Where the Locals Go! Coupon Book now available

BELLINGHAM, WA— The 2011 Where the Locals Go! Coupon Book is now out and available at the Community Food Co-op, Village Books and Allied Arts Festival of the Arts, at 3548 Meridian St.

This year, the prized coupon book includes over 250 coupons from a number of local Whatcom County businesses. They make great gifts or the perfect stocking stuffer, or could help folks save in their holiday shopping. Savings include everything from dining out, to massage and yoga classes, new running shoes and books, and even home improvement.

The release of the Coupon Book falls in conjunction with the 8th Annual Buy Local Week, November 29-December 6, an effort to encourage Whatcom County residents to choose locally owned businesses first in their holiday shopping.

“Beyond the obvious economic boost and creation of jobs, buying from locally owned and independently operated businesses creates the web that ties our community together,” Chuck Robinson, owner Village Books and Paper Dreams said. “It helps build livable neighborhoods, enlivens cultural life, and strengthens the safety net of the community.”

Many studies have found that when money is spent with local, independently-owned retail stores that more of that money stays local, re-circulating in the community resulting in greater economic activity and job creation.

“We’re encouraging folks to support friends and neighbors by keeping their money local, whether that means purchasing more locally grown food for their holiday meals, visiting a local holiday craft festival or unique store right here in Whatcom County, or finding a one-of-a-kind experience to share with loved ones,” said Michelle Grandy, Think Local First program manager.

Look for flyers listing local businesses, special discounts and deals, and local gift suggestions in the Bellingham Herald, Cascadia Weekly, Ferndale Record-Journal, Lynden Tribune and at local businesses throughout Whatcom County. New decals and posters to help identify locally owned, independent businesses during this busy time of year as well.

The Sustainable Connections Bid Local First! online auction also runs from November 22 to December 5,  full of unique experiences and one-of-a-kind items from a number of Whatcom County businesses.

For more information, visit sustainableconnnections.org or call (360) 647-7093.

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Sustainable Connections Think Local First! campaign is made possible by:

•    Underwriter: City of Bellingham
•    Lead Sponsors: Village Books and Paper Dreams, Whatcom Educational Credit Union, Samuel’s Furniture, Cascadia Weekly,  and Yeager’s Sporting Goods