Utah Stories Year in Review
December 31st, 2008
From the changing face of a beloved Sugarhouse thoroughfare to debugging the anti-depressant epidemic, Utah Stories has been there throughout 2008 digging into the Other Side of local news, culture, and community.
by Rebecca Edwards
This year has been one full of local color (pole dancing rock climbers,) eye-opening perspectives (homeless youth on Salt Lake City's streets,) and consumer education (Westgate timeshare rip-off exposed.) Here's a glimpse at the Utah Stories 2008 year in review:
Sugarhouse Pole Dancing Classes (not what you might expect)
Utah Stories managing editor Rich Markosian explored the unusual world of pole dancing classes as offered by Sugarhouse's Studio Soiree (www.studiosoiree.com). However, this isn't your mother's idea of pole dancing. The adventurous souls taking these classes have more in common with Olympic athletes than topless dancers. Many of the skills taught reflect the strength and body positioning used by rock climbers to scale dangerous heights. This unique strength-building form of exercise became our most widely-viewed story of the year.
Hollywood Dreams and Timeshare Nightmares
This series exposed the dishonest and high-pressure sales tactics employed by Westgate, one of the nation's most pervasive timeshare companies. As told through exasperating personal experiences, the unethical practices of this hospitality giant were exposed. One voice gave strength to many and we were inundated with comments and other similar experiences shared by our readers. The most recent installment gives consumers ammunition to ward off lodging scams during the approaching Sundance Film Festival in Park City.
Sugar House or Sugar Hole?
Even before Craig Mecham announced his intention to refurbish the eclectic shopping district in Sugarhouse, the local rumor mill was fueling fears about this distinctive area losing what makes it special. Utah Stories covered this story from it's inception in 2007, throughout demolition of a landmark building in 2008, and up to the subsequent loss of funding for the project. The project has continued to inspire passionate debate between those who want to preserve the history and character of this beloved district and others who appreciate the need for progress and new development. Utah Stories will continue to document the evolution of this story and the impact this project has on the Sugarhouse community.
Depression Epidemic or Pharmaceutical Farce?
This is the latest in a string of stories exploring the seeming overuse of antidepressants throughout Utah. As the most highly-prescribed state, are Utahans really more depressed than the rest of the nation or are pharmaceutical companies laughing all the way to the bank? This insightful expose challenges the conventions of popping a pill to make a bad day go away, and looks at why "Happy Valley" may not be so happy after all. While depression can be clinically diagnosed, the propensity for doctors and patients to literally swallow away what may be the normal ups and downs of life throws suspicion on the motives of pharmaceutical companies and the dangers of long-term use.
Farmers Market Artisan and Vendor Stories
This summer saw the launch of our Farmer's Market series. This is a forum to promote local artisans and vendors and encourage patronage of the Farmer's Market at Pioneer Park. From wooden bowl making to salvage art to organic bath and body products, Utah Stories celebrates the skills and passions of the dedicated artisans who make the Farmer's Market experience a must for locals and tourists alike.
Utah Stories in Print
The Farmers Market Stories began our first marketing effort with our print pamphlet. Begining with 300 copies distributed through the Farmers Market and surrounding businesses. One month ago we expanded offering advertising in our journal inside of an eight page digest size journal featuring two stories bi weekly, with circulation of 4,000 copies in over 140 locations throughout the greater Salt Lake City area. We had never intendend to move into the wolrd of print but its largely thanks to this print journal that the word has spread about Utah Stories' great coverage and we have more than quadrupled our Salt Lake City web traffic.
Salt Lake City's Other Side
Exposing the other side of the news in this weekly printed and online feature, Utah Stories shares views, perspectives, and information that other media sources aren't exploring. We have investigated teenage homelessness on our city streets, the dangers of online bullying, and the myths and dangers involved with the anti-depressant epidemic. Weekly spotlights of local business are also featured.
Local Spotlight
Utah is home to many successful entrepreneurs who have turned their passions into successful business. This series gives our readers the chance to get to know local merchants and appreciate the diverse offerings of our hometown businesses. From burgers to brews, we are proud to tell these stories of success.
In the coming year, Utah Stories will continue to bring Utahans an independent, fearless look at all sides of the news. We will be continuing our focus on education throughout January, and will be expanding our coverage of local politics throughout 2009. Utah Stories appreciates the support of our sponsors, supporters, and readers, and we look forward to continuing to bring you the news and stories you need to know.
Reader Comments
from Kathie Bischke
Good review of the stories of this past year.
