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Indie stores score another victory

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Date: November 10th, 2009 PRINT

In the November issue, we spotlighted 130 local shops where you can find clothing, candy, coffee and more. We did this with help from Local First Arizona, a nonprofit that advocates for neighborhood merchants and services.

Local First has been around for a few years now, and it shows in all the right ways. At the organization’s annual fall festival over the weekend, about 60 independent businesses – from rock-climbing venues to yoga studios to restaurants – showcased their wares in the parking lot of Duck & Decanter near 16th Street and Camelback Road. Our cover girl, Smeeks candy store owner Georganne Bryant, was there as well.

Last year, about 4,500 people attended the festival. We’ve just received word that about 5,000 people attended this year’s event. From independent business to another, we say congratulations to Local First Arizona!