[ZenoArrow]

I understand the sentiment, it does feel good to know your town is 'on the map' so to speak, but I do think there's something to be said for supporting local businesses too.

To give an example, I grew up in a small city. We had a McDonalds, a Burger King, etc... but we also had local burger places that made tastier burgers than those from the big chains. I found those local burger places gave me more pride in where I lived than just that we had what lots of other places had.

I guess what I'm saying is that local shops can add more to a sense of place than the ubiquitous chains. Is that something you'd agree with?