As a concerned citizen, I watch with sadness the closing of stores and businesses in Hicksville and Jericho. I am also filled with joy as a new entrepreneur opens up a place with new ideas in this same area. Let me list a few openings and closings that I am aware of.

The VERT Fitness Center

VERT has opened a fitness center with new concept machines on Jericho Turnpike across from Home Depot. The machines are set by professional trainers with computers that match the abilities of the individual. VERT is reducing the time it takes to work out and get in shape. Each VERT machine and scifit cardiac machine works in conjunction with attached computers.

It supplies certified trainers and physical therapists. Training sessions can take as little as 30 minutes by appointment only.

VERT stands for Velocity Enhanced Resistance Training. I worked out at VERT and I realized its benefits, and it was fun.

Closing

The German Delicatessen on Broadway. It was once called Herr's Deli. It has been at this location since 1961. It is next to Gil's Cleaners and diagonally across from Waldbaum's. For many years I bought fresh salads and hearty sandwiches from this deli. The staff was always very attentive and the food was tasty and delicious. It will be replaced by a bagel store.

Closing

The IHOP at the corner of Brush Hollow Road and Jericho Turnpike has closed. Originally it was a Howard Johnson. The pancakes and syrups were good, but lately they were out of many items, probably due to the fact that closure was imminent. Sorry to see them leave.

Opening

Directly across from IHOP on Brush Hollow Road, Rallye Motors is building a huge two-story complex. It will be an ultra-modern showroom for foreign cars. They already have a multi-storied concrete parking garage. Welcome to the neighborhood.

Closing

Party City has closed on Broadway. Purchasing party goods was once a one-stop buying exercise at this well-stocked store. Party City was bought out on the NY Stock Exchange about a year ago. I do not know of any new merchant who is going to lease this rather large facility.

That's it. Some we welcome and some we say, "We hate to see you go." If you know of any new openings or closings, e-mail me at shgreenbug@AOL.com.