Last Friday, Google introduced a new feature they call "Nearby".  It basically allows users to filter their search results by geography without having to type-in the standard geographic modifiers. 

For example - instead of inputting "Los Angeles dentist" to receive local results, if you've modified your options to be LA, you can type "dentist" and receive the same results.  It's live on Google now, but they've set-up a few sample searches so you can see how it works: 

[things to do on st. patrick's day] - In the Minneapolis region
[food blogs] - Near you
[farmers market] - Near the city of Ithaca
[dmv] - In the same state as Tucson

So, what does this mean for your local marketing strategy?  First, just be aware.  This is important and this will not be the last development in local internet marketing.  From a tactical point, take the opportunity to do a few things: 
- Make sure you Local Business Listing is up-to-date and accurate
- Ensure your full address is on every page of your website
- Strive to get locally relevant links and citations from other local sites

It's great to see Google taking this step, make sure your local internet marketing strategy is in-line to capitalize!