The passing of Gimbels, Lit Brothers, Strawbridges, Nan Duskins, Bonwit Teller and other great department stores indicates that the business model was outmoded. I have great memories of these retailers but I now see that West Walnut Street is as tony and busy as it has ever been. What's even more encouraging is a resurgent Chestnut Street from 13th street to 21 street. This really caught me by surprise and indicates that retail is alive and well in CC. I have read that Barney's Coop is opening on Walnut. Rumors persist about a Target and/or Boscov's on Market East. Macy's seems committed to slowing upgrading its location in the iconic Wanamaker Building. I believe that retail in CC could explode if/when the business tax codes are restructured. The restaurant scene (a kind of retail) here is about the best in the nation. New hotels are also on the way. It really is just a matter of time before more movie screens are built. Also, Philadelphia has always been a theater town. More theaters are better because they are a magnet that draw people to the city to stay in hotels, eat at restaurants, and shop. Love to see more theater at the Forrest (which has been a little too dormant for my taste) and at a newly restored Boyd.