Ray came into work Monday to learn of facade repairs on the building that houses his store on Avenue A, which is meant to begin this week and last supposedly through the next five months or so.

While an aesthetic improvement to the exterior of one’s building might be welcome on most occasions, that the storefronts will now have to deal with scaffolding obstructing their entryways in the prime summer months in an already difficult environment for businesses in the area means they’re none too thrilled about the timing.

It’s not just Ray’s store that is affected, as his building has a rather large footprint. I can’t imagine Yuca Bar is too happy —- might scaffolding preclude them from setting up outdoor seating (see picture below)?

Again, not the best timing. Not the biggest nuisance, but it certainly can’t be good for business…which is the last thing Ray or his neighbors need right now.

Somebody fetch the shoe polish…we’re gonna need to make Ray a sign:

Photo: “I Assure You We’re Open!” sign from Clerks