by Noam Bramson | Jan 12, 2021
Following the issuance of new federal guidelines, Governor Cuomo announced today an expansion of COVID eligibility to include New Yorkers 65 and older. All other eligible categories remain unchanged from those included in the State’s 1b roll-out yesterday.
Reservations are required. To schedule your vaccine, visit ny.gov/vaccine or call the State hotline at 833-697-4829.
Vaccinating millions of New Yorkers is an overwhelming logistical challenge, and many residents have experienced obstacles and delays. State authorities have committed to expanding the number of vaccination sites, and we expect that the process will become more efficient over time. But, for now, patience and persistence may be necessary.
Please remember also that this phase of vaccination will extend over several months, so while you should try to make your appointment as soon as possible, the scheduled date of your vaccination might still be a ways off.
The vaccine is safe and effective — and essential to the recovery of our community and nation. Everyone who is eligible should sign up to receive it. Please spread the word.
by Noam Bramson | Jun 6, 2018
Tommy and Tim Gibb, co-founders of Tidal New York. Photo: New York Times.
Love this story in the Times about a New Rochelle-based company that employs veterans returning from war to manufacture flip-flops. A great example of a business that is doing well by doing good. Proud that it’s happening here in our city. Read the full piece in the New York Times. And here’s a link to Tidal New York, in case you want to buy a pair.
by Noam Bramson | May 10, 2017
In my recent State of the City Address, I spoke about New Rochelle’s Ben Ferencz, the last living Nuremberg prosecutor – a truly inspiring figure with a remarkable and deeply moving life story.
This past Sunday, 60 Minutes ran a full profile of Ben. Take a look.
by Noam Bramson | Apr 28, 2017
The Bubble Tea & Juice Bar
Last week, I bought some fun snacks for the office: herbed popcorn with kale & pomegranate seasonings, dried goji berries, a package of udon noodles, a jar of spicy kimchi.
So where did I pick up all my goodies? Whole Foods? Maybe some speciality market in Manhattan? Nope.
The Only Mart at 518 Main Street, a brand new organic food market right here in New Rochelle. In addition to a full range of organic produce and household items, The Only Mart also features a bubble tea & juice bar, which should satisfy quite a few cravings.
The Only Mart Grand Opening
The Only Mart‘s owner, June Lu, says she was “attracted by New Rochelle’s rich history, enthusiastic environment, and artistic atmosphere.” In turn, her business and others like it contribute to the range and vitality of our growing downtown.
So if you are partial to organic foods, or if – like me – you have a hankering for interesting snacks, or if you simply want to support a great store that is taking a chance on New Rochelle’s future, please check it out.
by Noam Bramson | Jul 19, 2016
The roll call of states at the convention in Cleveland sounded pretty much the same as always: the usual goofy and good-natured trumpeting of regional pride in favored politicians, notable landmarks, and record-setting agricultural yields. But, of course, it was not the same as always. Not at all.
Donald J. Trump is now officially the Republican nominee for President of the United States. Let that statement sink in for a moment.
As a Democrat and fervent Hillary supporter, I suppose I should be experiencing some sort of partisan pleasure that the other side has put forward such a weak standard-bearer. Instead, I find myself feeling terribly sad. This is a shameful moment for America and will remain a stain on our history for as long as the Republic endures.
by Noam Bramson | Mar 27, 2015
George Schiavone has been cutting my hair since I was a little boy. Now I take my own kids to George at his barbershop in the Quaker Ridge Shopping Center. (Here are the before and after shots from our most recent visit.)
George with My Kids – Before
George with My Kids – After
This seems to be a pretty common pattern. At George’s earlier this month, I ran into no fewer than three old classmates from Roosevelt and Albert Leonard, all of whom were there with children in tow. Even the ones who no longer live in New Rochelle still come back for their haircuts.
Aside from family, there aren’t many relationships that endure like that through different stages of life. There’s something special about your barber.
George is now 78 years old, and even though he looks about 20 years younger, he certainly deserves to enjoy himself, spend more time with his grandchildren, and take a break from decades of work. So in April, George is retiring. The end of an era!
It is not my place to speak for all the hundreds and hundreds of people who’ve gotten their locks trimmed by George’s careful hand, but I do want to say a big thank you to a man who’s been a beloved fixture in our community for such a long time.
I might have to let my hair grow out now.
