Our Milwaukee, an organization comprising local, independent businesses, will introduce its "Buy Local" campaign at participating businesses on Dec. 8-9.

The goal of Our Milwaukee is to "raise consumer awareness in our community about the positive economic impact that patronizing local business offers as well as to showcase the goods and services that make Milwaukee like no other city."

Participating businesses include Outpost Natural Foods, Harry W. Schwartz Bookshops, Alterra Coffee Roasters, Laacke & Joy's, Pabst Theater/Riverside Theater/Turner Hall Ballroom, Beans and Barley, Brewery Credit Union and Lakefront Brewery. During the weekend of Dec. 8-9, find out more about Our Milwaukee by visiting any of these businesses. In the future, the group plans to offer discounts and events for those who choose to shop locally.

"What we're not is anti-chain. We just want to raise our community's awareness about the things that make our city great and unique," says Lisa Malmarowski, director of brand and store development for Outpost Natural Foods.