Happy Independence Day!

In celebration of our nation's Declaration of Independence, many Americans are likely planning barbecues, parties, and all kinds of festivities this long weekend. When you head out to the store to buy food, party favors, and depending on what state you live in, fireworks, it would be great if everyone did their best to patronize good, patriotic companies that support America's economy and put our nation first. With that said, here are some facts to keep in mind when stocking up this weekend:

- Over 70% of the products on Wal-Mart's shelves come from China and if Wal-Mart were an individual economy, it would be China's 8th largest trading partner.

- Repeated studies have demonstrated that Wal-Mart drives small shops out of business, destroying communities.

-Wal-Mart, despite earning over $12 billion in profits last year, has benefited from billions of dollars in subsidies from state and local governments throughout the country.

Does a company that absuses taxpayer subsidies, drives small firms out of business, and gets over 70% of its products from China sound like a patriotic company to you? We certainly don't think so and we hope you keep that in mind this Fourth of July.