The first week of my experiment in buying only American is almost over, and I've had some interesting results.
It's not looking good for America.
Nearly everything I evaluated this week was made in China. For example, on Monday, I had to go to Wal-Mart and purchase an extension cord and a power strip to do a presentation for a school district. I actually left early so that I could go to Wal-Mart and make sure I looked for an American made product. No luck.
At any price, Wal-Mart did not offer any kind of extension cord, or power strip that was made in America. Everything they had was made in China. No American options. Since I had limited time to look anywhere else in Moberly, MO (where I was) I had no choice, I needed the extension cord, and I had to buy it.
Last Saturday, Jessica and I went shopping for pillows and blankets at Bed Bath and Beyond. Even though we were surprised to find some plastic storage units made in America, every blanket and pillow we looked at was either made in Poland or China. No American options whatsoever. We also found that most every kitchen utensil was also made in China. Not a thing made in this country.
Where we have had some success is with food. It is quite easy to purchase food made in this country. With the exception of Alcohol, hardly anything is made overseas. On top of that, we've been able to buy all of our wine and beer from Missouri companies! Two wineries in Missouri make excellent wine: Stone Hill and Mount Pleasant. The best part is that these wineries all have excellent wines for under $15, and some under $10, which although is a luxury, is easier on the budget. Specifically, Jessica and I like the Claret from Mount Pleasant ($9.99).
I'll update you again next week, as I continue to try and only buy American.
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2 comments:
Yum, the Claret is the best.
I commend you on your effort to buy American. Must not be easy.
It'd be worthwhile to hear your thoughts on this, since you're actually trying to live out this ideal. Been thinking some about what's going on in Detroit.
To me, American auto companies lean way too much on the 'Buy American' slogan. I'd love to see them manufacture vehicles that would make it a no-brainer for someone to 'Buy American.' The 'Buy American' slogan should be the icing on the cake, but instead it feels like it's part of an effort to guilt consumers into making a vehicle purchase that otherwise goes against one's better judgement as far as quality machinery.
Your thoughts, please. =)
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