One Less Place to Get Your Feet Pressed

This storefront is now available. It's half a storefront, really. This one didn't leave because of rising rents, from what I was told. They simply moved to Manhattan's Chinatown. Pulling up stakes and closing the circle. Consolidating businesses. Searching for higher trafficked areas.


So fare thee well, Yan Yan Foot Reflexology. I guess the Year of the Ox really is a year of change for some. Let's hope the cleaners next door don't take off. Another one on 3rd Avenue just closed unexpectedly. Is this the beginning (continuation) of the end?

I doubt it; there are an awful lot of new places (restaurants, delis, mini-groceries) opening up lately. Well, I don't doubt it actually, I just hope not. Give them some love, people!

What's Old is New Again - at least for an hour or two

Despite the poor economy and several empty store fronts along 5th Avenue, some places are opening up. The recent change over at the corner of 45th Street and 5th Avenue was revealing.

This space housed many different music oriented shops. Back in the 90's is was La Pachanga, home of all things musical. After that it was Tu Mundo Musical. This latest music/gift store closed just a little while ago, and the space was rented out again pretty quickly. The flashy, colorful sign was removed to make way for the new guard, and during the change over we were able to catch a glimpse of its past.

I know not everyone finds these kinds of "discoveries" as exciting as I do. In fact, probably few people do. It's pretty cool, though, to catch a peek at hidden treasures like this pastel insurance sign. I was very pleased that I happened by before the new, less exciting and very serious looking awnings were put up. I almost missed seeing the old signage.

Here's the shiny, new awning. Sterile and plain, I say. At least the Signal Boutique next door still has some personality. When did it change over from Francia? Or is it just a different name/look? Anyone know?