The Food Emporium at 510 Middle Neck Road in the Old Village will close on Feb. 23, according to Lauren LaBruno, senior director, public relations, Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company (A&P), owners of the Food Emporium. She stated: "The closing is based on many factors including performance and reach. We feel our local Waldbaums (in the Gardens at Great Neck) can better serve our customers." Ms. LaBruno would not answer the question as to whether or not their agreement with landlord Kris Torken includes a provision that the property could not be leased to another food store. Nor would Mr. Torken answer that question, stating: "I am not at liberty to discuss this because I have a confidentiality agreement with them (A&P)."

- WKK