as if the the economic stimulus plan, Foreclosure Aid Package, Wall Street and government auto bail outs weren’t enough of a smack in the face, take the somber fact that thousands of american retail stores are predicted to go bankrupt this year alone.

all of a sudden, those four little words, MADE IN THE USA, have an updated, and inspiring, meaning. products manufactured in the states are slowly starting to enjoy a new genre of patriotic consumers. lest you remain unconvinced, let’s do the math… if we support american brands of our own volition, then government won’t have to force us to to support them with our taxes.

and one certainly can’t get more american than JIM BEAM. as american as apple pie, this bourbon whisky was founded way back in 1795. JIM BEAM even made it through prohibition to be listed today as #14 on the world’s top 100 spirit list. every piece of this product is born and raised in the good ‘ole US of A—in america’s heartland kentucky to be exact. and in case you should wonder, yes mr. JIM does taste as good as he sounds. cheers to a new america!

here’s a lil’ recipe to get y’all started…

Bourbon-Glazed Nut Snacks

¼ cup Jim Beam
¼ cup pure maple syrup
3 tbsp. unsalted butter
1 lb. salted mixed nuts

Instructions: Pre-heat oven to 250 degrees. Combine Jim Beam, syrup and butter in saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. After mixture reaches boiling point, reduce heat to medium and stir 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in nuts, tossing to coat evenly. Spread nuts in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with remaining glaze. Bake 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring every 20 minutes. Immediately remove nuts to wax paper, separating them to prevent sticking together. Cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Makes 2-1/2 cups.