While writing this blog over the past year, one topic seems to make a recurring appearance in the comments: We need to shop local.

But what is local? There are some who say as long as you shop in Lawrence, it’s local. And that includes the big box stores. There are others who say if the business is locally owned and not a chain, it’s local. We all hear how we need to shop Mass. Street. But what if you can’t find what you’re looking for on Mass? Would you purchase an item at Weavers if you could find it cheaper at Kohl’s?

What about restaurants? Do you feel the same about eating out? Are you more apt to eat at a locally owned restaurant or do you eat at the chains? And I’m not talking about the Taco Bells, Subways, McDonalds, etc. What if you’re looking for something different? Let’s face it, Lawrence is lacking when it comes to good authentic Italian food. Does that mean you would not venture into, say, Kansas City to find some because you need to keep your dollars in Lawrence?

What about concerts? Will you head out to the Sprint Center to see a band you really like? Or would you say “no” because you can’t go to any concerts that are not held at the Granada or Liberty Hall?

Help me understand. What do you do when you can’t find what you’re looking for in Lawrence? Or, what if you can find the item at a greater cost savings at a chain store or at a retail outlet outside of Lawrence? Do you forego the savings in order to stay “local”?

So, which is it Lawrence, are you loyal to your pocketbook or your zip code?