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| |  | Can you spot a young City Cast Salt Lake newsletter editor Terina Ria at an Obon Festival in the 1990s? (Terina Ria/City Cast Salt Lake) |
| One of Salt Lake’s longest-running cultural traditions returns this weekend as the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple hosts its annual Obon Festival. The free celebration honors ancestors through traditional dancing, taiko drumming, food, and community — and offers a chance to experience the living history of Salt Lake’s historic Japantown. | - What is Obon? It’s often described as a Japanese Memorial Day, a joyful tradition of remembering loved ones through celebration and gratitude. [City Cast Salt Lake]
- The history of Japantown: Japantown grew in the late 1800s as Japanese immigrants built businesses and community in downtown Salt Lake City. Salt Lake’s first Obon Festival was held in 1936, making this year the 90th celebration. After World War II internment and later demolition for the Salt Palace, only a single block remains, anchored by the Japanese Church of Christ and the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple. [University of Utah]
- Present-day threats: Salt Lake City has committed $11 million to revitalizing Japantown with streetscape improvements including cherry trees and a new public mural. But community members are closely watching plans for the proposed sports and entertainment district surrounding the Delta Center, hoping redevelopment won’t repeat history. [KSL, KUTV]
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| What Salt Lake's Talking About |
| | | How To Beat the Weekend Heat | A heatwave is bringing triple-digit temps to Salt Lake this weekend. We share what you need to know to stay safe and cool off, from Salt Lake County's cool zones to the best icy treats. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧] | | Fewer Fireworks, Better Air? | Did you breathe easier than usual this July 4th weekend? The Tribune analyzed particulate pollution levels on Independence Day and found they were at their lowest this year compared to the previous four. Although it's hard to know for sure, the fireworks ban may be to thank. [Salt Lake Tribune] | | Momu Shutting Its Doors | Sad news for lovers of local shoppy shops: After less than a year in business, Momu is closing on July 31. The owner of the quirky boutique on 100 South said, "The investment needed to continue growing it is simply more than our family can take on at this stage of life," and the property's landlord will be subleasing the space. [Instagram] | | Lost Hawk Spotted | Have you been following the saga of Stax the hawk? He's a raptor ambassador for HawkWatch International, and he recently escaped from his Sugar House home. Community tips led his caretakers to find him, and they're now working to bring him back. [HawkWatch International] |
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