I know it's probably not much of a solution for many, but for the record, there is a brand new Shoprite that will be opening very soon on 52nd St. just South of the Mann Music Center.

To get there, you need only drive West on Girard to Parkside Ave., then down Parkside to 52nd St. Take a left and you're basically there.

From 31st and Girard it's probably a 5 or 6 minute drive. There's also a Lowe's, a Monster Pets, an A.J. Wright, a Wachovia, and empty storefronts for lots of others that will be moving in.

Obviously too far to walk, but most people probably wouldn't be walking to a grocery store at 31st and Girard either, if they plan to do some serious stocking up.

The surrounding area leaves something to be desired, but it's amazing how much the feel of the area has changed just by this new development.