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Old 12-15-2002, 08:19 PM   #1
elSicomoro
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Career Option: Newsstand Owner

There used to be this newsstand for sale at the corner of Bustleton and Philmont Aves. in NE Philadelphia. It was recently purchased, but for some time, I seriously pondered buying it myself.

I could imagine myself, there with copies of the Inquirer, the Daily News, the NY Times, the Washington Post, a variety of magazines, cigarettes, and of course, porno mags. I could shoot the shit with the passersby, listening to their troubles, and offering some of my own. I'd also make sure to carry Russian and Jewish newspapers, given the large numbers of both that live in that particular area. I'd be a "Minister of Information" of sorts, encouraging people to buy the Inquirer rather than the Daily News.

Like any self-owned business though, it would be a real labor of love. I would probably need some decent money up front ($10-25K) as well as establishing a connection with a magazine distributor like Chas Levy...not to mention contacts with various newspapers. Then there is the fact that you're practically outdoors, and in a very small space. They're also not that hard to break into, particularly if you don't have the metal gates on your stand. And I'd have to wake up earlier than I already do, which could pose trouble to a night owl like me. And of course, I'd have to make sure I'm sending the various government folks their piece of my pie.

This one is still feasible to me though...I haven't put this one out to pasture yet. I think there is another stand available along Frankford Ave. in Mayfair...we'll see.
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Old 12-15-2002, 08:30 PM   #2
slang
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Make sure there's parking for my Segway, and I'll come there for my newspaper and lottery tickets every day....
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Last edited by slang; 12-15-2002 at 09:00 PM.
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Old 12-15-2002, 08:39 PM   #3
elSicomoro
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I'll paint some lines on the side of the stand and label it "reserved"...just for you.
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Old 12-15-2002, 09:55 PM   #4
Undertoad
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Print is dead.

(Spengler, Ghostbusters)
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Old 12-15-2002, 10:11 PM   #5
elSicomoro
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Nah...I don't think print will ever completely die. Plus, I've got much more personality than a modem or DSL line.
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Old 12-15-2002, 10:21 PM   #6
slang
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You cant get a fresh cup of coffee over the internet yet either.
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Old 12-16-2002, 01:15 AM   #7
slang
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Hey Sycamore. Can I still buy a newspaper at your stand if I think Sharpton is an ass?
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Old 12-16-2002, 06:23 AM   #8
Griff
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Syc is an admitted capitalist despite his affection for Democratic politics. Your money will be welcome even if your opinion isn't.
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Old 12-16-2002, 12:38 PM   #9
elSicomoro
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I respect Seņor Slang and his opinions, unlike some of the more recent additions to the Cellar Chucklehead Collection. In fact, this is one of the things we can debate over coffee.

But Griff's right too...I'll take the glue anyday.
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Old 12-16-2002, 12:57 PM   #10
juju
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Heh. The CCC wants YOU! Are you a member? Join today!
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Old 12-16-2002, 01:06 PM   #11
elSicomoro
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We should elect a president of the CCC. Cairo should win it hands down, but Nic could pull it off too.
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Old 12-16-2002, 01:27 PM   #12
wolf
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Quote:
Originally posted by slang
You cant get a fresh cup of coffee over the internet yet either.
Not yet, anyway. Give it a couple years.
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Old 12-16-2002, 01:31 PM   #13
headsplice
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I aspire to Chucklehead-dom. *sigh*
Sorry for the whinginess. It's finals week, and my brain is simultaneously full and hurting. Thank god I'm done.
On Topic:
Would you have just a newstand, or sell coffee w/ a coupld of benches as well? If you do, install heaters (preferably IN the seats). And keep a long stick around to beat the people who read the magazines, mess 'em up, and then put 'em back.
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Old 12-17-2002, 12:20 PM   #14
warch
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I find this kind of small business idea alluring too. Mine usually involves a junk shop- a la Sanford and son. Sounds like youre realistic about the time/resources needed. Its more a lifestyle- but could be quite enjoyable- gathering your regulars, master of the newscorner. I could see you having a knack for building customers. I'm thinking you get a side contract with Krispy Kreme or other endorsable donut and add a small vending wagon.
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Old 12-17-2002, 01:23 PM   #15
wolf
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If I ever got into any kind of retail, I'd love to run a mostly bookstore ... with some space set aside for interesting curios and handcrafts ... candles, beadwork, crocheted stuff ...

I'd probably get beat up less often than I do now ...

My alternative plan is to just bag everything and do tarot readings. You have to realy bust your tail to make any kind of money at that, though.
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