Julia O'Malley's column on the treasures of Fuji Gifts, the late Art Wallace's shop on the Old Glenn Highway in Chugiak, has prompted a fair amount of comment and memories.
It was good place, and that lent something extra to the gifts bought there. Art Wallace would wrap them well as he talked with you. Or you might browse as he wrapped and chatted with another shopper. You might meditate and marvel at the pool hewn of rock, the work of Wallace's own hands, where a large Buddha smiled. The place was hand-built and owner stocked, nothing corporate about it.
Whether a picnic basket bought for an anniversary, or wind chimes for a wedding, you felt as if the gift included a touch of the classical music Wallace favored and light wind in the windsocks outside.
Can't get that ordering online.
By FRANK GERJEVIC
Opinion