D-Day for the Armory is This Tuesday – Will YOU Make a Difference?

Will this be the last time we get a chance to see the Armory in full glory? If the Mayor has his way, the Echo Bay development will swallow up most of the property as parking for the new apartment housing complex thereby making it all but impossible to readapt this one of a kind piece of New Rochelle history. They will essentially strangle the building preventing us, or anyone else by that matter, from creating a truly unique venue for this city and region.

The Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) will be the topic of one of the hearings at the Council meeting this Tuesday, July 23 at 7:00 in the city Council Chambers. If you haven’t yet seen this document you can review it HERE

There are a host of issues relating to this development both in it’s design and in it’s economic value. Plagued by criticism from a large cross section of interests, the case for postponement of the adoption of the FEIS becomes abundantly clear.

A packed house of over 220 people gathered at the East End Civic Association to voice their anger and challenge the unsubstantiated claims of a city wide benefit from the project. Being the most affected section of the city, the FEIS fails to address the concerns raised regarding the traffic along the Pratt St bypass of Stephenson Blvd and the accident rates at Pratt / Main St’s and Pratt/ Adams St’s. Foiled records for reported accidents showed accident rates exceeding one per year on average and yet there is no plan to mitigate the increased traffic of hundreds of cars descending on Echo Bay. The issue of school district burden has been negotiated in a fashion to favor the developer. Quality of life issues of the huge shadow cast over the neighborhood by the increased height of the buildings was summarily dismissed as not relative to the current plan. We were told that every issue raised would have to be addressed with evaluation and corrective measures or an appropriate explanation – neither of which was adopted.

The Armory will suffer death by a thousand cuts as it has it’s property chiseled away to provide Echo Bay parking. The lie that it is for “public use” is shattered with the premise that if you remove this “public use” parking, the project loses its access to its front door. A front door that appears to be within the approved distance to allow Monroe College to utilize the development as student housing. There is no protection in place to prevent this from happening.

The Westchester County Planning board was highly critical in it’s report of the project’s goals and reported benefits

New Rochelle’s very own Planning Board has filed serious concerns in a report dated March 28 that highlights what they believe is wrong with the project. (Does it bother anyone that this March report didn’t see the light of day until July? What’s up with that? )

Local polling on this site and others news outlets show overwhelming pushback to the project as currently proposed

As the Mayor hits the campaign trail and lauds the efforts of the talent pool that volunteered to help with the budget, he has no explanation for the failure to embrace the quantitive analysis by another local pool of professionals working over at Echo Bay Facts. This volunteer, bi partisan, diverse group of residents has essentially preformed a forensic audit of the numbers being touted by the developer and the Mayor. It just doesn’t add up!

Where does that leave us. D-Day. NOW, more than ever before, is your opportunity to make a difference by making your voice heard. Call the mayor, your council member and tell your neighbors about the death of a truly unique piece of New Rochelle history and the cost to taxpayers as we subsidize a multi billion real estate investment firm.

BE THERE

BE HEARD

BE THE VOICE THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

IT’S YOUR ARMORY – USE IT DON’T LOSE IT !

Memorial Day is This Weekend and New Rochelle Remembers – Will You?

The parade may have been curtailed, but that won’t stop New Rochelle from taking the time to remember our fallen heroes and giving a salute to our troops this weekend down at Glenn Island. The premier New Rochelle event that we have become so fond of will continue at the new venue this Saturday, May 25th between 1:00 and 8:00 PM. Headlining the entertainment for the day will be the one and only Blood Sweat and Tears. Come down and join the fun and show your support for those who have made days like this possible. Here at the Armory group we salute not only the men and women in the service, but we offer a big thank you to those who keep the tradition alive and work so hard to make this day a day to remember. Ooh Rah!

 

Make it a full weekend and take part in the rest of the activities

 

  Saturday May 25th 1PM – 8 PM

          Glen Island Park Pelhem Road New Rochelle

      NR Veterans Salute To Our Troops  As We Remember Our Fallen Heroes

          Special Honors to NR First Responders…NRPD,NRFD & Trans Care EMS

Sunday May 26th  9 AM at Beechwood Cemetery-

          Grave Flag Replacement Service

Monday May 27th 10 AM at Memorial Plaza, New Rochelle

          Wreath Laying Ceremony

For further information please contact Peter Parente 914 557 5556

United Veterans Memorial & Patriotic Association of New Rochelle

 

Take the Armory Poll – What Would YOU do With the Armory?

There is a petition asking the City to re-evaluate the economics surrounding development in New Rochelle. We urge you to sign the petition and take a look at what the folks over at Echo Bay Facts are proposing to improve things in this great city. Read about the true economic repercussions of the Mayor’s Echo Bay Fiasco. You won’t like what you see. Before you head over there, we thought it might be interesting to see what’s on your mind. Take a moment to participate in our own snapshot poll about what YOU, the rightful owners of the Armory, would do. Be sure to pass it around to your fellow supporters and check back to see the results.

Armory Proposal Noam Bramson Didn’t Want the Public to See – UPDATED PART 3

Mayor Plays Another Attack on the Bidding Process

The teckies over at Talk of the Sound have uploaded part 3 of the presentation by SHoP Architects. Please take a look!

 

Our friends over at Talk of the Sound have been gracious enough to provide a video of the proposal that was presented to the public on behalf of the ReImagine New Rochelle Group comprised of the Committee to Save Our Armory, New Rochelle Opera and Local Veterans Groups. Keep in mind ALL council members, along with the mayor, city manager and department of development staff were invited to the viewing. Only Council members Trangucci and Tarrantino considered it important enough to be present. This presentation was in response to the Request for Proposals (RFP) issued by the city for the adaptive re-use of the New Rochelle Armory. YOUR Armory. In an effort to short circuit the possible success of this proposal, Mayor Bramson chose to push through a no-notice, unscheduled, surprise vote that, on it’s

We believe the process was flawed in it’s execution and we will continue to flush out the details that will support that contention. Now, more than ever we would appreciate your support, Get involved, step up and speak out.  Let’s get a fair assessment of the plans that will shape the future of New Rochelle.

Follow the latest news here and on Talk of the Sound.
To view the presentation video

For part 1 click HERE

For part 2 click HERE

For part 3 click HERE

Welcome to the New Rochelle Armory

Welcome and thank you for visiting our site, your site. Without doubt, the Armory belongs to all of New Rochelle and its many fine citizens. The Save Our Armory Committee is currently putting together a business plan as a response to the recent City- issued Request for Proposals (RFP). It is our hope that our plan will persuade the Council that we have the best interest if the City in mind. We will show how a properly planned, revitalized Armory will be the stimulus for a new chapter of economic growth, community enrichment and showcase highlighting the best of what New Rochelle has to offer.   We have a lot to be proud of right here in this fine city. As the signpost at Eastchester Road proclaims, “Rich in History”. Let’s capitalize on this, celebrate this, as we move forward with a vision of  New Rochelle  that exceeds its expectations. So join us here at the Save Our Armory Committee in bringing that vision into a reality. Come to our meetings (NEXT ONE IS THURSDAY, MAY 31ST AT 7:30PM IN THE POST LEGION HALL 112 NORTH AVE, NEW ROCHELLE) and see the plan unfold. Contact your elected officials and tell them this  is the way to go. Most of all, get involved with us and spread the word about the benefits to the city this plan will bring.

While you’re here, catch up on the events that lead us to the current success. Click on ” search by categories” > ” New Rochelle Armory in the News” and see the story of our first proposal to the city. We believe as you learn more and more about the Armory and its history you won’t need us to convince you. It speaks for itself.( If you have questions do not hesitate to contact us through the “contact us” section of this site)

So welcome again, read up, get involved, but most of all Thank You.

Keep in mind

IT’S YOUR ARMORY !

Only YOU Can Make the Memorial Day Parade a Reality!

Not just Uncle Sam, but all of New Rochelle and our Military Personnel need YOUR help. This years Memorial Day parade is in jeopardy and  without the support of the community, the parade will suffer. The United Veterans Memorial and Patriotic Association of New Rochelle is asking for donations to assure the parade will continue its contribution as the preeminent Memorial Day event of the region.

The New Rochelle Memorial Day Parade is an event that New Rochelle residents have enjoyed for the past four years. Each year the parade has grown larger and better. A part of the day has also included the after-parade-event at Hudson Park. In the past this event has been filled with music, good food, military vehicles and helicopter static-display, fun for the kids and so much more.

The planning process, which is monumental, is underway for this year’s Memorial Day Parade. Remembering the sacrifices made on our behalf by our brave veterans is a most important and worthy endeavor. Honoring and showing our appreciation for the many troops who are brought up to New Rochelle on Memorial Day during “Fleetweek” is also the least we can do as they serve our country in Afghanistan and other places overseas. The appreciation and gratitude they receive here in New Rochelle has become something that the troops remember and talk about for years afterword.

There is something everyone, including you, as a resident or business owner in New Rochelle can do to be a part of this most important day. Due to financial constraints, the City of New Rochelle is paying for less of the Memorial Day Parade expenses this year. You can show your appreciation and gratitude for our veterans and troops by helping the United Veterans Memorial and Patriotic Association of New Rochelle pay the cost of this very special day. You can send a donation to them, UVMPA of New Rochelle, 112 North Avenue, New Rochelle, N.Y. 10803. You can save the date, Monday, May 28th, 2012 Memorial Service 10:30 a.m. at Memorial Plaza (adjacent to the New Rochelle Public Library). Parade kicks off at 11:00 a.m.

Do you own a business? Think of the appreciation and support the crowds will give your company when they hear your name announced as a proud supporter of the parade. Public or private, every bit counts, but make no mistake, now is the time to do it. Don’t leave it up to someone else, and don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of a truly spectacular event.

Won’t you please join us as we remember on Memorial Day, May 28th and be a part of the appreciation we show our veterans and the gratitude we show our troops. They pay the price for our freedom; help us pay the cost for their special day of remembrance. We need to raise $30,000 dollars for this year’s event. Our Vets and troops gave their best for us. Please be as generous as possible for them. Thank you all in advance. If you need further information about Memorial Day please contact Peter Parente at (914) 557-5556 or post a comment.

Remember, they’ve done their part, so let’s do ours.

Send that donation today to:

UVMPA of New Rochelle

112 North Ave

New Rochelle, N.Y. 10801-7404

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo Proclaims March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Day

Governor Cuomo's Proclamation

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, of the State of New York has decreed March 29, 2012 as  Vietnam Veterans Day with this official proclamation.  A tribute to so many who served, either through  draft or enlistment, at the Nations request to defend freedom in a world many have never even heard of.  A tribute to the price we pay to live in a free world.

The distance that time places between us and the memory of a wounded Nation is all the more reason to proclaim the sacrifice of the few for the many.  “Whereas, we have not forgotten – nor will we ever forget” as quoted from the proclamation, are words we hope will remain with all of you. To those have served, are serving, and will serve, this Nation says Thank You.

With gratitude and appreciation for all they do, we thank the men and women who operate The Wall, a website  “dedicated to honoring those who died in the Vietnam War.” Through this site, we can remember the cost of war as paid by those from New Rochelle. May they not be forgotten.

     “If you are able, save for them a place inside of you and save one backward glance

when you are leaving for the places they can no longer go.

     Be not ashamed to say you loved them, though you may or may not have always.

Take what they have taught you with their dying and keep it with your own.

     And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call the war insane,

take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind.

Major Michael Davis O’Donnell
1 January 1970
Dak To, Vietnam
Listed as KIA February 7, 1978

Veterans Career Fairs at the Armory? Why Not? But Until Then….

 

Veterans Career Fair Sponsored by http://www.Milicruit.com

As long as war and conflict wages on around the world, troops will be deployed. Most will find themselves returning home to a world much different from it was before they left . For many, the need for support services will be fundamental in their ability to get their lives back in order. With record unemployment and a stagnant economy as their new enemies, don’t you think we owe it to them to give  a leg up wherever we can? Serving with honor as they trade their youth for a battlefield, aren’t we  obliged to open the door of opportunity for anyone who needs it. They’ve done their duty, it’s time to do ours.

Imagine the lives touched by the Veterans Resource Center , at the Armory. That day will come, but until it happens, the Save Our Armory Committee will continue to support and report on the veterans services we would like to see right here in New Rochelle.

To that end, Milicruit will be holding a virtual career fair for veterans and their spouses the week of March 10 to the 17th. Go to http://www.veteranscareerfair.com and take advantage of the opportunity to connect with recruiters from corporations such as GE, Microsoft, Merk, Pepsi and others. From their site – “To build on the success of past Milicruit virtual career fairs, we have joined forces with MOAA. This event will offer veterans and military spouses an opportunity to meet with dozens of industry leading employers as if in person, but from the comfort and convenience of home.”.

This career fair is being deployed in cooperation with the following organizations. Visit their sites, help serve and support those who have served our Nation.

VetSuccess,gov

Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS)

Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)

Hire Heroes USA

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA)

Wounded Warrior Project

Student Veterans of America

The Military Channel

We thank you for your service.

Armories – Then and Now

The potential of this building has been realized

In this series,  we will begin to look at various armories around the country in an effort to represent how their intrinsic value served as a foundation to link the past with the future. While the actual applications may vary, you’ll start to see a theme of community enrichment on so many levels.

A marvelous structure from both design and engineering standpoints, the Armory now houses the University of Illinois Men’s and Women’s Track and Field events. From the UI Fighting Illini Facilities website : ” When completed the Armory was the largest free-span, no center support system, structure in the world.  The “drill hall” now referred to as the main floor, measures 200 feet by 400 feet with a ceiling height of 98 feet.” * Impressive in its own right.

Intercollegiate athletics, local sports at a national level, just one of the many ways these grand structures continue to weave the fabric of a local society as they unlock the potential of future generations.  97 years of service, generations of students moving on to change the world, setting the example for those who follow. Go ILLINI !

A Stellar Example Reinforcing the "Rich in History" Theme

 

A cluster of mediocre co-ops or a community enrichment facility in a historical setting, what would serve the interest of New Rochelle best? The answer is clear.

 

 

 

 

IT’S YOUR ARMORY – USE IT !

* cited from the University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics. For more information or to show your support visit;   http://www.athletics.illinois.edu/facilities/default.htm

Historical postcard courtesy of  US Town Views “The largest town postcard website”.  Visit their site, there’s something for everyone.

 

Read Along And Get Involved – You’ll Be Glad You Did

On July 20, 2010, representatives of the Save Our Armory Committee presented their vision of how community involvement would put the Armory back in the hands of the public where it belongs. This building sole purpose is to serve its community and it’s shameful that administrations past and present can’t come together to allow this icon to fulfill its potential. Take a look throughout this site and read up on how we got into this mess. then take the time to listen to Committee members put forth their concept on how to save the Armory without burden on the taxpayer. how to return this building to the citizens of New Rochelle.
Below is a partial transcript of that presentation. We hope this motivates you to get involved.
We Thank YOU!

“Vision Statement

So, we begin with a vision, a vision of success, a vision for the next chapter in New Rochelle’s history
And it all happens AT THE ARMORY

The opportunity to revive a structure unique to New Rochelle and its culture. Realizing how local history and indeed world events have been shaped by those who have walked through its doors

A facility, already in our possession, one that few others can even claim to own. We are compelled to take advantage of this resource to honor those who have come before us and provide a platform for those yet to come.
A showcase for the best of what New Rochelle has to offer, be it athletic, arts, our rich history or our untapped future. All in a natural setting that reconnects our city with the majesty of the New Rochelle shoreline.

We will need to ask ourselves – how do we stand out from the crowd rather than behaving like the crowd?

Imagine, if you will, this new facility, living, breathing and dynamic in nature, always something new.

Sparking interest with the public as they ask “What’s going on at the Armory this month?”. Dinner, a show and a moonlit walk along the shore, a championship basketball game, or the reflective experience of the New Rochelle Hometown History museum exhibit. So outstanding other towns will beg the question
Where can we get our OWN Armory?

Imagine the potential going forward as we advance the need to save the environment. The ideal platform to demonstrate the latest in environmental technology. Imagine this all behind a glass wall as we invite young students from all around to witness the practical application of the principles learned in the classroom.
Sparking their young minds and bringing out the best of the best to lead the way towards a better tomorrow

This potential exists, right here, right now, right in our own back yard.

If we can just shift the paradigm to accept this vision , we will find that the goals of reconnecting the waterfront , stimulating growth , preserving history , serving the community , honoring our veterans AND protecting the environment can all be realized by allowing this iconic facility to make ITS contribution.
We need not change the concept of WHAT to do in Echo Bay , we merely need to decide HOW to achieve these goals

This historic icon will provide the catalyst for the continued success in Echo Bay and we invite ALL of our neighbors to join in shaping, what is, the next chapter in New Rochelle’s history.

Thank you so much for your time”

IT’S YOUR ARMORY – USE IT DON’T LOSE IT