This was the kind of weekend that made me grateful to live in New Rochelle, with terrific events that brought me to every corner of town and that showcase our city’s diversity:
• A backpack giveaway at the Mascaro Boys and Girls Club in the West End. Hundreds of kids and their families, dozens of volunteers, and even a visit from the New Rochelle High School varsity soccer team, whose members were treated like celebrities by the younger children. Feeney Park was filled with life.
• The New Rochelle downtown Farmers Market on Library Green, the entire park lined with festive stalls doing a brisk business in tasty treats. Pickles and soppressata for me.
• The annual Onam celebration at Albert Leonard Middle School, sponsored by the Westchester Malayalee Association. Onam is a harvest festival with roots in the Indian State of Kerala, from which many New Rochelle residents trace their ancestry. It’s an honor to participate each year in the ceremonial procession and observance.
• The New Rochelle Street Fair by City Hall, a rousing success that brought out thousands from just about every neighborhood of the city to enjoy fun, games, drink, and an international assortment of foods. I heard lots of positive feedback on the new location.
I am glad to live in a community that gives each of us a chance to experience the richness of the world’s traditions close to home. New Rochelle is a great city.