Back in business: 99 Cents Creation owner Afsar Khan, left, and General Manager Diaman.
After 14 years in Chelsea, a handwritten sign behind the front counter of 99 Cents Creation read, “We’re deeply sorry to close this store.” High rent (and two years of operating month-to-month without a lease) meant the end of reasonably priced batteries, garbage bags, toiletries, kitchenware and hundreds of other essentials. But there was a ray of hope: “We’ll keep fighting,” the sign vowed, to return “to this neighborhood we love.” Two months later, an “Available Space” sign is the only thing occupying its former home on 23rd St. (btw. 7th & 8th Aves.). A few blocks away, however, “Creation” is back in business — with the same friendly staff, an expanded selection of bargains and a Grand Opening sale lasting through May 31. Stop by to see the new store (with higher ceilings and wider aisles than the old place), at 149 W. 24th St. (btw. 6th & 7th Aves.). For info, call 212-627-2983.
