Love is a Two Way Street in Downtown New Rochelle

Lawton Street becomes Two-Way beginning 10/2

A long overdue change has come to Downtown New Rochelle. The City (Council member Ivar Hayden) listened to our cries and has added a change in direction- of Lawton and part of Church street- they are now two way. For those of you who've had the misfortune of driving downtown which I equate with the sensibility of trying to veer right on the Roundabout outside of the Vatican - you'll agree that it was an exercise  in skill, patience and endurance. You can now put your driving gloves away and fall in love with this two way street(s).

Summer Concert Series - Sounds on the Sound

Free Summer Sounds Concert Series Every Wednesday Night

Provided by New Rochelle Council on the Arts

At Hudson Park every Wednesday night through August 28^th

     Alive ‘N Kickin’  – Best known for its 1970 Top Ten hit “Tighter and Tighter” – remains the kind of band that can get listeners up on their feet. Visitors to Hudson park Wednesday night will have the chance to find out for themselves as Alive ‘N Kickin’ kicks off the annual Emil Paolucci Summer Sounds Concert Series at 7:30 pm.

     The Summer Sounds concert series, which features an eclectic menu of free music on eight consecutive Wednesdays in July and August, is presented by the New Rochelle Council on the Arts, 

     The full Summer Sounds Concert Series schedule includes:

July 17^th:        The Emil Paolucci Memorial Concert will feature sophisticated swing from Manhattan Jazz.

July 24^th:        Folk and roots music performed by Caroline Doctorow and the Steamrollers.

July 31^st  :      Roxy Perry’s Traveling Roadhouse brings the blues to Hudson park, with Perry’s distinctive voice and harp.

Aug. 7^th :       New Rochelle Opera, co-sponsored by Metro Med, offers favorite selections from opera, operetta and Broadway..

Aug. 14^th :     Silver Streaks serves up a potpourri of songs and styles.

  Aug. 21st :    Jimi Hendrix cover band Third Stone from the Sun.

Aug. 28^th :     Streets of the Bronx Band winds up the season with a concert of 1950s and do-wop favorites.    

 

"A Place 2 Go" is the Palce to be

www.aplace2gowestchester.com  

 Looking for a place to go?  Well search no more. "A Place 2 Go" is the newest addition to the downtown New Rochelle's hip, happening  restaurant scene. This Carribean American bistro has something to suit every pallet. From  Rasta Pasta, Jerk Chicken to an ample portion of veggies with their signature Veggie Rundown.

Po' Boy with Fries

Located at 273 North Avenue, just a tiptoe away from the Metro North Train Station, AP2G is the perfect place to dive into a libation after a long day at the office.With a huge selection of beers and wines as well as goblets of fruit infused drinks, get your fix close to home.

Party Time at AP2G

You can  book A P2G for a private event or stop in on Thursday -Sunday nights for after hour entertainment. Check in on FourSquare and let your friends know that A Place 2 Go is the place to be!

Chicken and Waffles

Putting on the green - Golfing in New Rochelle

New Rochelle is the perfect place to cultivate the inner Arnold Palmer in you. From inroducing your toddler to a round of mineature golf to swinging like a professional at the verdant Wykagyl Country Club, the grass is truly greener in New Rochelle.

Golf Tech 
 If you want to play better golf, you've come to the right place. For more than 15 years, GolfTEC has been helping golfers of all skill levels play better and enjoy the game more. Whether you are a complete beginner or an accomplished golfer, GolfTEC's comprehensive approach to improvement can help you reach your personal goals.  www.golftec.com

New Roc City

Fun Fuzion @ New ROC City
Before you invest in golf lessons for your potential Master's Champions, try miniature golf in New Rochelle. Your tiny Tigers will enjoy glow in the dark miniature golf at Fun Fuzion. The 18 Hole, Multi - Themed Mini Golf Experience will keep them entertained for hours! As an added bonus, if you make a "Hole in One" on the 18th hole and WIN A FREE GAME! www.newroccity.com

Wykagyl Country Club

Wykagyl Country Club 
With its pristine grounds and pitcuresque landscape, the Wykagyl Country Club is a putters paradise.
The Club is nearing it's centenial and as the saying goes "it just gets better with time" is applicable here. This lush course is private so have your checkbook ready if you wish to score a hole in one.
www.wykagylcc.org

Malcolm Lee & Alvin Clayton - Best Man Sequel: New Ro Renaissance Men

Cast for the BM2 Sequeal

The year was 1999. Opening night. I quickly nestled in my seat; 20 rows back dead center and prepared for the lights to dim. A few moments later, my eyes were treated to the delight of a multitude of brown hues on the screen. Two hours later, I left the theater with the sheer feeling of elation. Watching the complexities of "REAL" characters that I could  relate to made my heart smile. One of my BFF's at the time sported the same leather jacket worn by Harper (Taye Diggs) and I had more than my share of friends who were simply  too bougie for their own good like Shelby (Monica de Sousa). Now the wait is almost over. The Best Man  Sequel is being filmed In Toronto as I type. But, there is a New Rochelle connection that many of you may not  be aware of. 

Director Malcolm Lee- Best Man 1999 Poster

New Rochelle Resident Malcolm D. Lee's name may look familiar. This Georgetown University graduate has directed Undercover Brother, Roll Bounce and Scary Movie 3 just to name a few. As the cousin of Mr. Mars Blackmon A.K.A. Spike Lee, you can see that a keen cinematic eye runs in the family.  Now all he needs to do is make his next film in picturesque New Ro. Hint-Hint.

Painting by Alvin Clayton 

When the Best Man 2 hits the theaters, you may find some of the art captivating and incredibly familiar. If you have ever dined at Alvin & Friends, that's why. Several pieces of Artist/Restauranteur/Model Alvin Clayton's works will be featured in the sequeal!!!  I was at Alvin & Friend's new location last week on Memorial Hwy in New Rochelle, and the place is simply divine.The walls are adorned with Alvin's enthralling pieces and the plates are laden with delectable delicacies with a twist of Island flair. I suspect that Alvin & Co. will temporarily leave New Ro and land on the Moon when the film comes out.

Alvin & Friends - 14 Memorial Hwy  (New Location)

Best Man 2 (Holiday) on Location in Toronto

SPRINGing up in New Rochelle - Outdoors we go!

New Rochelle Marina

Spring has spurung in New Rochelle! What better time to dust the cobwebs off of your walking/running/boat shoes and get outside. New Rochelle is the perfect place to satisfy your taste for the outdoors. Simply decide what you want to do and New Rochelle is the place for you.

New Rochelle Marina - 22 Pelham Road New Rochelle 914.235.6930
This full service marina offers 350 boat slips, 150 moorings and kayak storage. Take your boat out and feel the breeze while you enter the Long Island Sound. You can even take a tour with your very own captain. With showers and marine supplies at your disposal you can't go wrong.

Metro Bicycle Store

Metro Bicycles - The Metro name should sound familiar to most New Yorkers. In business since 1969, this city staple came to New Rochelle not long after. Situated strategically between New Roc City and Monroe College at 396 Main Street, it is the perfect place to cop a two-wheeler. They offer bike specialists who can answer your queries faster than a Google search. Open 7 days a week- they simply can't be beat.

Davenport Park

Davenport Park - Located on Davenport Avenue, this 20 acre stretch overlooks the Long Island Sound. This is the perfect place for walking, running or lounging whilst reading a book or taking in Monet infused scenery. In the summer it serves as the most perfect place to work diligently on your tan. 

Library Green

Library Green -  This downtown urban oasis is located just steps from the New Ro Metro North Station. The verdant expanse is a great place to power-walk, stroll or simply people watch. Having witnessed a tyke or two become liberated from their training wheels on the paved orbital path: I liken it to the yellow brick road having magical powers.

*Stay tuned for my NewRo Parks series
 
Now let's get moving....summer is only 12 weeks away!

Mangoville - A Jerk You Will Love!

www.mangovillesoul.com

We are in the midst of Spring Break and as I watch  my friends post pictures of their Caribbean vacations, I begin to crave sun, sand and that delicious Island  food that pleases the palate as well as the soul. If you are like me and don't have a trip to the Islands scheduled, then get your sunlamp, lawn chair and  umbrella laden drink; and fetch a delicious plate of island cuisine from Mangoville. Don't leave without trying the Jerk Chicken. It will make you want to shout Ya-Mon!

Since  2010, Mangoville has offered the best Caribbean cuisine in Westchester county. As a family-owned restaurant, they keep all dishes traditional just like back in the islands. So keep it IRIE and bring a little island spice to your dinner table tonight.

Located@ 134 North Avenue New Rochelle, NY (914) 365-1032

Ray Rice - Victory Rally in New Rochelle

Unstoppable! Ray Rice

A Hometown Victory Celebration Rally for Baltimore Ravens Running Back and Superbowl Champion, New Rochelle Born & Raised Ray Rice. Saturday, March 2 at 10:30 AM at New Rochelle City Hall, front steps, 515 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10801.

After winning the Superbowl

Ray Victoriously dancing as a Superbowl Champ 

Ray and his adorable daughter

Ray Rice's New Rochelle Home

Liquid Kitchen- Sip Your Way To Satisfaction

Liquid Kitchen 583 Main Street  914.365.2700

The new restaurants just keep on coming to Downtown New Rochelle. The newest arrival, Liquid Kitchen, comes bubbling in and the garnet hued walls make this spot hot-hot-hot!  This tapas hangout has clever cocktails and lovely libations. Tuesday-Friday stop in for Happy Hour from 4-7pm. On Wednesday, Karaoke Nights bring out the inner rock star in you.

If you have not yet secured your Valentine's Day plans, LK has a special Valentine's Day menu that will bring out the lover in you. At $70pp, this four course meal is one that will make your sweeties heart flutter. With Lobster Bisque, Smoked Salmon Salad and Chilean Sea Bass to get you started; the Mixed Berry Creme Brulee' seals the night with a kiss.

You can get $40 worth of food/drink for $20
 by using the Living Social deal below:

Liquid Kitchen - Living Social

 

Superbowl New Rochelle Style

Super Bowl Sunday- Ravens vs. 49ers @ 6:30pm

This Superbowl Sunday, focus on having fun instead of spending hours in the kitchen whipping up wings, chilli and burgers. Dine-in or take-out at one of New Rochelle's celebrated tailgate food restaurants.
Watch the Ravens and 49ers go head to head without the headache of having to cleanup after your uproarious guests.

33 LeCount Place

Buffalo Wild Wings
With too many jumbo sized flat screens televisions to count, BWW has a keen eye on every play-by-play you may have missed during your bathroom break. Get there early because seating typically fills up quickly on "Any Given Sunday". Try the super hot buffalo sauce and I guarantee you will be yelling for "The Waterboy".

310 Huguenot Street

Modern Pizza
If you have not had a chance to visit New Rochelle's newest hot spot, do so on Sunday. This cavernous space has a special viewing room complete with a gigantic television for you and 30 or so of your closest friends to crowd around. If the viewing room is not to your liking, grab a table or sit at the bar and take in the the LCD TV's hanging trough out the restaurant. From apps to primo beers on tap, Modern Pizza goes "The Longest Yard" for you.

22 Division Street

Posto 22
This neighborhood favorite where everyone knows your name, has one of the most coveted bars in town. If you have ever walked down Division Street and saw a crowd gathering, it must be 6pm @ Posto 22. Joe runs this elegant Italian restaurant like his personal kitchen and greets everyone with a familiar  "Good to see ya". Get there early so you don't get "Blind Sided" by the long lines.

19 LeCount Place

Fun Fusion 
Sunday, 5 p.m. . All ages welcome to watch Superbowl. Bring your "Little Giants" out for a day of family fun.

Stand up Comedy Night! Laugh you out of your seat

PAC House Theater 311 Huguenot Street, New Rochelle

Where will you be on Saturday January 19th @ 8pm? If you are in the know, it will be the PAC House theater's Three the Hard Way comedy night. Three hilarious comics will cut-up the stage with their uproarious routines and facial contortions that promote screams and snickers for all.
$15 in advance $20 at the door.

Amy Carlson 

Amy Carlson - This New Rochelle Native was destined for greatness. She was born in the toilet - Literally. Her acid tongue and sardonic wit, allow her to poke fun at her own personal failures as well as life in general. She has been featured on Sirius XM radio as well as Real Time with Bill Maher.

Freddy Sheffield

Freddy Sheffield- They say there’s 2 sides to every coin, well this man’s got a pocket full of change!! Born to an African American father and a Japanese mother in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn, he is the original “Tiger Hood” but there’s more to him than that, he’s gone from Hood to Good and it’s this change and his culturally diverse background from where he draws for a funny, unique perspective and fresh and sometimes controversial insights on everything from race to politics. He’s been honing his skills for 5 years in and around the NYC area with a few appearances out of town.

Dante Mercadante

Dante Mercadante- Born and raised in Yonkers, NY, Dante is an actor who you may have seen in various commercials (Dunkin Donuts, Subaru, etc.), music videos, television shows, and films. Dante will appeared on  Regis Philbin's Million Dollar Password , teaming up with Rosie O'Donnell. .

Westchester's Got Talent!

 Young People's Theatre Auditions - The Westchester Sandbox Theater announces auditions for its YPT Tweens production of ALL SHOOK UP. Get those blue suede shoes ready as this rock and roll musical will have all our young performers singing and dancing to the hits of Elvis! Auditions are open to performers in grades 5 through 9. Auditions will take place on Sunday, January 20 from 11am-1pm and Tuesday, January 22 from 5pm-7pm at the Westchester Sandbox Theater, located at 931c East Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck. Performers should prepare a song for auditions and bring a karaoke track or sheet music. A registration fee of $395 is due at the first rehearsal. Performances are March 15-23. For more information, visit our website at www.wstshows.com or call 914.630.0804.

What 2013 has in store for New Rochelle

Welcome to 2013! New Rochelle has a ton of things on the horizon. Political change, new business and events. Take a peak into 2013 with me:

Alvin & Friends - Breaking News!!!!!!!!!!! Alvin & Friends is moving! Yes, the fantastically intimate restaurant on Lawton Street is expected to open in late January in the former Mo's Clubhouse Space.

PAC House - As always, the PAC house has something hip happening! This weekend head over for Salsa on the Sound. 

Noam Bramson- New Rochelle's Mayor has decided not to run for another term. Mayor Bramson's would is choosing to direct his interest towards becoming the next Westchester County Executive. Let's watch and see.

Modern Pizza- The new location (old one is still open) is something to behold. This is how you dine aldente in style. The former ballet studio on Hugenot Street is worth visiting simply to take a bow.

Indoor Flea Market- Make sure to stop by the new indoor Flea Market starting this Sunday @ 112 North Avenue. The first 100 customers will receive a free gift bag.