Stacy Mitchell is a senior researcher with the nonprofit Institute for Local Self-Reliance, where she analyzes the economic and social benefits of independent businesses and advises communities nationwide on policies and strategies to strengthen their local economies. Her latest book, Big-Box Swindle: The True Cost of Mega-Retailers and the Fight for America's Independent Business (Beacon Press, 2006), was named one of the top ten business books of the year by Booklist. Stacy is a frequent speaker at conferences, regularly contributes articles to magazines and newspapers and produces an acclaimed monthly e-mail newsletter, The Hometown Advantage Bulletin. In addition to her work with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, Stacy chairs the American Independent Business Alliance and is a founding board member of the Portland Independent Business and Community Alliance. She lives in Portland, ME.