“This store location is significant because you used to be homeless near here?” “Oh yeah…I was homeless and on drugs. I’m twenty-two years sober. But I went through the programs down here. I was in the Weingart, Tea House, Gravy Joe’s. You know…I am a product of the environment. I made it through.” Von is a small business owner in Skid Row and long time resident. He is generous enough to let us sell our dvds at his Madd Phat Shopper store on the corner of Fifth and Wall Street. Mr. Blassingame dvds are now available there and you can also find some unique items, clothing, t shirts, movies, knick knacks, toiletries, and best of all, his friendly customer service. He explained that he doesn’t know if he can keep his stores open more than another year. Most residents in the neighborhood can’t afford to spend more than a few dollars. He also says the wide availability of drugs in the Skid Row also means residents have less money to spend and make it a challenge for a small business to thrive. “It’s either food or drugs. Most people will only spend $2 here.” Von devotes long hours to his stores but is barely getting by. He is now waiting to get into Section 8 housing and plans to eventually retire. But for now, you can still experience his customer service and friendly demeanor…and shop locally in Skid Row. Show some support for local businesses in Skid Row. Visit his two store locations: The Madd Phat Shopper, on the corner of 5th Street and Wall Street, and Sassy’s on 7th Street. Open from 1pm-8pm.