Stamp by stamp, PAALs backs local business

A map shows the Newpark Town Center locally owned shops walking tour, part of Pro-Active Alliance’s “Shop Local” pilot project running through May 10 in Kimball Junction. Photo: Pro-Active Alliance

PAALs launches May Day pilot project to support Redstone-area businesses

KIMBALL JUNCTION, Utah — Pro-Active Alliance has launched a May Day “Shop Local” pilot project aimed at encouraging residents to support locally owned businesses in the Redstone area of Kimball Junction.

The project began May 1, when PAALs members gathered for lunch at 11 Hauz, a locally owned Jamaican restaurant, before visiting about a dozen nearby shops. The campaign runs through May 10 and is open to the public.

To participate, shoppers can stop by participating local stores, pick up a “Shop Local” card, and ask an employee to stamp it. Each business may set its own criteria for offering a stamp, though purchasing is one way to receive one.

Shoppers who collect six or more stamps by May 10 can take a photo of their card and send it to Pro-Active Alliance to receive a gift.

PAALs organizers said the project is intended to bring more foot traffic to local shops after a difficult snow season, which affected not only resorts but also nearby businesses that rely on visitors and community spending.

The pilot project is limited to one shopping area this year, but PAALs hopes to expand the effort for May Day 2027. Local shops interested in participating in the future can contact theproactivealliance@gmail.com.

Pro-Active Alliance, also known as PAALs, was formed nearly a year ago by women in the greater Wasatch Back. The grassroots group describes its mission as informing, inspiring, and connecting the community while supporting democracy, human rights, and inclusivity.

More information is available at proactivealliance.org.