Marching Along

In appreciation of the gorgeous weather we’ve been having, a coworker and I ventured out of the office this afternoon to walk over to Norka Futon on West Market Street. As you no doubt have heard by now, the store is closing its doors for good this month. Betty Lin-Fisher had a great article in last week’s Beacon about the company’s history and the owners’ decision to close. It’s a shame to see another local business fall victim to the changing economic climate, but I for one appreciate that the company chose to call it quits rather than settle for selling inferior products. Inventory is dwindling at the West Market Street store, but they’ve still got some futon covers, bases, lamps and other furniture left at discounted prices. The store will be open regular hours through the end of the next week but will then reduce their hours until they close for good at the end of March.

On a positive note, on our way back to the office we stopped by Ages Tribal Arts Gallery at 194 Myrtle Place. Located in a converted house, the gallery opened before Christmas, though the bleak winter weather limited its hours of operation. For now the gallery is open by appointment only, or by chance. We got lucky in that we happened to catch the owner when we walked by. Eric Schickendantz collects authentic artifacts and tribal art décor from all over the world. Items from fossilized ivory carvings to exotic jewelry and crystals, masks, statues, prints, textiles and other pieces are showcased in the gallery. You can visit the gallery’s website to learn more or to purchase items from the online store. There’s some pretty interesting stuff.

I’m off to enjoy the sunshine and warmer temps while they last, and you should do the same. You never know when that next winter blast will hit. -- Kristin