For every dollar spent, 68 cents goes back into the community when a customer makes a purchase at a local business. When a customer makes a purchase at a national chain, however, 43 cents of every dollar goes back into the community. Money spent at local businesses circulates within the community and pumps money into school systems, social organizations and public parks.

A new local coffee shop has made a home and a statement on Grant Line Road in New Albany. With a focus on local, organic, anti-animal cruelty and fair trade, Stacie Bale, owner of Earth Friends Café, is providing more than a receipt to customers. “I have high standards, not high profit and greediness,” Bale said. “We’re not trying to be the next McDonalds.”