The store had the overpowering smell of polish, ink and rubber. Older men walk inside, take a deep breath through their noses and say, "Boy, does that smell take me back." ...more

February 6, 2009

More people opting for shoe repair shops rather than buying new. ...more

February 5, 2009

John Hnilica has a lot of sole in his soul. The owner of Ed's Shoe Repair keeps alive a 28-year-old family tradition started by his retired dad, whose first name still graces the sign for the Port Richey store. Hnilica is approaching his 20th anniversary next year of taking over the family business. ...more

January 9, 2009

John Hnilica has a lot of sole in his soul. The owner of Ed's Shoe Repair keeps alive a 28-year-old family tradition started by his retired dad, whose first name still graces the sign for the Port Richey store. Hnilica is approaching his 20th anniversary next year of taking over the family business. ...more

December 24, 2008

Almost a century ago, master shoemaker Vasile George Faklis arrived in Tarpon Springs from the Greek island of Symi and began plying his trade. In addition to making shoes, Faklis could also diagnose and correct his customers' foot problems. Today, his grandson, also named Vasile George, tends to people's feet at Faklis Orthopedic Service, on Tarpon Avenue. A board-certified and state-licensed orthotist, his knowledge of the human foot is up a notch from that of his grandfather, who learned his craft through an apprenticeship in Greece. ...more

July 12, 2008