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Reply to "Farewell Charming Old New York: Part 3"

As that Asian queen who used to run that boutique on Grove Street in the West Village would say, "Hattie, I'm in the rag biz!"

NYC was all about the rag biz from bolts of fabric to the finished item... and all those places are going or gone. That used to be one of the wonderful things about Manhattan-- clothing was cheap, "I can get it for you wholesale." Now all the cheap wholesalers are leaving, so expect the prices to rise. Thank you WTO!

Yes, Hapi... no finesse!

Here is an example:

When the old Jewish or Italian shopkeepers would give you your change, they would put the coinage in the palm of your hand first and then the bills. This insured that you wouldn't spill the coins all over the place, and also so that you would get the hell out of the way so they could make another sale.

Now observe how it's done today... the bills and a receipt are thrown into your hand first and then the change is tossed haphazardly on top so it is sure to slide right off the bills and spill on the floor. No finesse. No care. And why should they care anyway? They don't own the store. The Jewish and Italian shopkeepers are long gone and Sam Wall or his brother owns the joint. If you don't believe me, clock it next few times you go shopping!

No finesse.
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