Pop-Up Store Qualifies for Historic Preservation Protection

Originally intended to have a one-month stay in a low-rent storefront, the olive shop has been granted historic status in the city, qualifying it for various protections under city law.

"The store has been a neighborhood staple ever since it opened three weeks ago," said Janice Martinez, chair of the city's historic preservation commission. "I can't imagine what things would be like if it weren't there. Protecting this store is the equivalent of protecting the city's heritage."

Sitting at a desk in the store, proprietor Damon "Bluto" Bradford says the protection is deserved.

"I feel it really validates the impact we've had on the neighborhood," Bradford said. "Now if only we could sell some of these olives."