Community and the Corner Store... Retrieving Human-Scale
Commerce |
Author: |
Ehrenhalt, A.
|
Author Background: |
|
Date |
Fall 1999
|
Type |
Journal
|
Journal Title: |
Responsive-Community
|
Volume/Pages |
9(4) 30-39
|
Publisher |
|
Subject Matter |
Community Development
|
Population |
|
Pedagogies |
|
Abstract |
A narrative of change in the commercial sector of Sioux Falls, SD, throughout the
20th century illustrates how economic policy alters everyday life. Although
commercial enterprise in Sioux Falls has increased individual freedom & choice,
current business practices have disintegrated custom & patterns of conduct;
changes in the local banking & pharmaceutical industries are cited to exemplify
these consequences for everyday life. Several experimental movements throughout
the US designed to reintroduce personal relationships into business transactions
are discussed (eg, the creation of town centers). The opening of two local banks
& a pharmacy in the main street area that prioritize building personal
relationships with clients are viewed as attempts to revive local commerce. The
abandonment of the local mall by specialty stores & the area's middle & upper
classes for downtown Sioux Falls is deemed ironic. It is concluded that local
commerce & personal relationships are beginning to return to US business.
|
Website: |
|
email: |
|
|