Galcos Soda Pop Stop in Los Angeles (http://www.sodapopstop.com/) demonstrates not only the importance of small business but how small business can work together to compete against giant corporations. People like John Nese represent what is good about capitalism and how we can maintain the integrity of local communities while participating in a global marketplace.

His passion for soda and “doing the right thing” is commendable translating into a phenomenal business and community service. I was truly impressed with the clarity of his vision:

“My thought had always been, that I wanted to do, was do business with other businesses my size. To help them become unique businesses. And that’s what’s happening.”

Listening to him discuss analogous business practices in the candy and soda industry where big players push out the independents in your local shops smacked of a parable on the U.S. political system with Democrats and Republicans shutting out other voices in the national dialog.

I crack open a home brew ginger ale and salute you John Nese.  You are a true capitalist hero that I hope inspires a better generation of business people (and that you make all the money you need).