By Joe Maniscalco
Consumer. Shopper. Buyer. No matter what you call yourself merchants and service providers look at as one thing – a customer. As somebody with money in your pocket, you have something they want. So why just hand it over to them? Why not make them work for it. Why not demand that they go the extra mile to satisfy your needs? Why not press them for the finest in quality and service? You have that power. If you don’t have choice, then the free market in your area has broken down. Why not wield your consumer power to its fullest. Get the most out of your dollar. Let’s see how the Consumer Corner can help this week. ****** Before you go on your next shopping spree you might want to check into the Natural Balance Message & Wellness Center for some rest and relaxation. Here you’ll find expert care massage therapy, acupuncture, holistic nutritional counseling and yoga meditation. Kiss your pain and stress goodbye. You can even reinvigorate yourself with Natural Balance’s spa treatments, facials and anti-aging skincare programs. Come on in during February and discover the time honored benefits of daily meditation. Natural Balance Message & Wellness Center is located at 3013 Quentin Road. Contact them on the web at www.naturalbalancemassage.com or give ‘em a call at 718-8400. ***** Did somebody say, “savings?” Well, if its savings you want Kings Plaza Mall has got ‘em. Rush on over to the revamped mall located at Flatbush Avenue and Avenue U and take advantage of their super winter sales. You won’t see bargains like this for a whole year. Call the mall’s shopping line at 718-253-6844 for a complete listing of stores and other events. You can also visit Kings Plaza at www.kingsplazaonline.coom. ***** A change of seasons means a change of clothes. But why follow the fashion trendoids all the way to Soho? You’re a Brooklynite. You don’t need Manhattan to look cool. As all residents know, the Borough of Churches has its own rhythm and style. It also has it’s own clothing store. If haven’t heard of Brooklyn Industries before, now is a great time to check them out. Brooklyn Industries creates artistic clothing for everyday urban living. They’re called Brooklyn Industries because the company is based right here in the ‘hood. Check out their shop at 100 Smith Street and Atlantic Avenue. The store has become a neighborhood favorite, offering a wide selection of stylish bags, limited-edition tees and embroidered Brooklyn Hoodies. Hours are Monday to Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday noon to 8p.m. Just hop the F or G to Bergen Street. Tell ‘em the Consumer Corner sent ya. You can reach them at 718-595-3986. ***** All right, we know that you’re going to be working out now, but you’ll still have to think about fueling up before your next shopping spree. How ‘bout grabbing some healthy and delicious Chinese food at Uncle Liao located at 461 5th Avenue? Here you’ll have your choice of four scrumptious house specials – Steamed Little Juicy Buns, Basil Seafood, Eggplant with Basil and Sautéed Chinese Broccoli. There’s a whole lot more of course, everything from health conscious To Fu to giant combination platters. Stop by and check ‘em out. You can reach Uncle Liao at 718-788-1557.
