Some would say the city died years ago. And by “died” I mean, back when the city had grit, character, not over taken by big box stores and absorbent rents. The city’s current death is a result of COVID-19 and the possibilities of looters. This is only my third or fourth time in the city since mid March. Today marks the first day of my two week vacation. The life of a Video Producer means you’re in front of your computer for hours at end. The goal is to spend as much time as possible being out and about walking around. Plus, it’s summer. Under normal conditions, the city would be jumping with people and activity. Now, it’s a ghost town and a shell of what it used to be.
This post is to simply to showcase the many buildings and stores that are boarded up. I’ll also showcase a few that are open.
I can’t wait to go back to the movies. It probably won’t be until late this year. I was the only person in a movie theater the night before the city shutdown. I highly recommend seeing The Times of Bill Cunningham
There are so many empty storefronts. So many businesses closed shop a few weeks into the pandemic. The rent is too damn high.
This appears to be the sentiment amongst most people.
This is where this post becomes social and political. We all know whats going. I don’t believe in looting. However, with every war and social uprising, there’s collateral damage. Huge multinational companies can repair broken glass and replace clothing. The people at the top make so much they could personally pay for most of the damage themselves. I hate when bad things happen to innocent people and companies but I have no tears for big retail companies.
Museum of Ice cream is open. As they should be. It’s hot and nothing makes us happier than ice cream on a hot day. Carry on.
If you need Italian lingerie during a pandemic and social movement, Intimissimi is open. More power to you. You might as well feel sexy if you’re going to be sitting at home.
Antique Garage, a SoHo staple is open. If you decide to go, order the pork schnitzel. Restaurants need our money.
All day, every day, 365.
Order to go. Keep those hands sanitized.
Rebuilding or repairing has begun.
Fact. Has always been.
The city isn’t dead. It’s having a down time. This city is strong. The city is resilient. But the rent is still too damn high.