From hardware store to record shop to discount booze place, the corner of 17th and J in Sacramento has been literally a “sign” of the times as evidenced by this photo taken yesterday. Forget the heroin and the smashed car windows at night, the last thing this area needs is cheaper alcohol. There are a few corner liquor stores about, so one could argue that it is better to get a discounter to keep prices down and maybe put a few liquors stores out of business.
It wasn’t that long ago that you could go to this building for free advice on how to repair anything in your home and be assured the store would have the parts needed. There is an Ace hardware nearby that covers the void somewhat, but the days of hardware people with know-how on old home fixes are quickly fading. Home Depot? Not on your life!
The hardware store replacement, a record shop, had a good run, but never had a chance. Here is my list of what businesses might work in this building:
- A specialty grocery store with a bakery and, oops, booze. Scratch that. How about? Yes, it is easier to write about the old than the new.
67Steffen.com 
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