Save Sugarhouse! Buy Locally!

For those of you living in the Salt Lake City area, you may be aware that a big developer has bought the Granite Furniture block of Sugarhouse and is planning on tearing the block down and building new chain stores and condos.

To me, this is a travesty. This block in Sugarhouse has character and emphasizes the local uniqueness that is quickly becoming lost in cities around the nation. There are only a few places like Sugarhouse around Salt Lake County and it's sad to see this happening to a place where I really enjoy spending time.

So, this past weekend, I decided to do my shopping there as a show of support to the stores there who are being forced to relocate or simply closing down. I know they are still going to close but it made me feel a little better.

If you haven't ever walked around the 'old' Sugarhouse, try to take some time this weekend and do so. Pop your head into the funky art and antique shops. Buy a drink and sandwich at the coffee shop on the corner. Browse the musical selection at Orion's where they are having a clearance sale. Stop by the Christian Science Reading Room or the other Free Speech Zone if for no other reason that to see what will be missed.