Good evening! Wishing you a happy Monday, December 31st, 2018 from all of us at Viewing NYC!

Here's what the weather looks like in the City right now.

How Mom and Pops Stay Open in NYC...

You need more than your fingers and toes to count the number independent stores and establishments that closed in 2018 in New York City.

Here's a partial list and they include many of my favorite places: Lincoln Plaza Cinemas, Hudson Diner, Glaser's Bake Shop, Caffe Vivaldi, Coffee Shop, Tortilla Flats and a little gem of a vintage clothing store on Greenwich street named, Star Struck. The shop was owned and run by Joseph Markus for over 35 years.

I asked Joe how he managed to stay put in one place and thrive for so many decades. His answer was simple. His landlord was a decent man. So you either have to own your building or have the incredible luck of having a landlord with a heart to operate a long-standing store in NYC .

Take a last look at Star Struck.

An epic event like Times Square New Year's Eve needs an epic host. Meet Allison Hagendorf - the official host of the Times Square Ball Drop. We asked Allison 10 questions so that you could get to know her a little better!

Follow Allison Hagendorf on Instagram @allihagendorf or through her website to keep up with her.