If you are ready to hear a logical, fact-filled, economically sound message of hope, of how we can re-build our country, of how communities all over this country have created successful, sustainable businesses in creative and innovative ways, if you want to learn about grass roots economics, read The Small-Mart Revolution by Michael Shuman. I was fortunate enough (and actually totally blessed) to hear him speak at the University of Arizona a few nights ago. I could not begin to articulate the impact he and his message had on me. He spoke for one hour and twenty-three minutes and had me (and Mr. Green!) from hello, for reasons I am still processing. Content rich and wildly inspiring, indeed.

If you don’t have time to read the book or don’t feel called to, spend a few minutes visiting Living Economies. Read about BALLE. (The Business Alliance for Local Living Economies, North America’s fastest growing network of socially responsible businesses, comprised of over 80 community networks with over 21,000 independent business members across the U.S. and Canada). And then go out and eat in a local restaurant, shop in a locally owned bookstore, shop at a locally owned ANYTHING and feel great about doing just one more thing – strengthening the economic health of your community.