Today, Rep. Mike Quigley (IL-05) honored the outstanding contributions of Local First Chicago to our community.  Local First Chicago is a non-for-profit organization that educates citizens, community groups, and policy makers about the positive impacts of choosing locally owned businesses. To learn more, visit www.localfirstchicago.org/

Mister Speaker, the impact that independent and locally owned businesses have on our communities comes as no surprise.

The lasting economic, social, and environmental outcomes are essential to the growth and sustainability of our neighborhoods.

More than seven years ago, a not-profit organization called Local First Chicago was formed with one purpose in mind, to educate citizens, community groups, and policy makers about the positive impacts of choosing locally owned businesses.

It is a network of locally owned, independent businesses, community organizations, and citizens that has grown to more than 3,000 local business owners.

Studies have shown that shifting just a small percentage of our shopping dollars to locally owned businesses could keep millions in our communities.

This is something to think about as the holiday season rapidly approaches.

Instead of going to a chain, why not branch out and get your coffee at Safari Café on Southport, or get a hot dog at Gene and Jude’s in River Grove, or of course, a cinnamon roll at Ann Sather’s? And buy a few holiday gifts at a family-owned shop as well.

Local businesses are what help build thriving communities. 

I am honored to have organizations such as Local First Chicago fighting for ours.

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