March 27, 2020

Cuomo temporarily bans all non-essential construction projects

Most construction projects will be temporarily banned during the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Friday. While originally considered an essential service under the state's "pause" order that shutdown most workplaces last week, all non-essential construction must now shut down until April 21 under an updated executive order by the state.
More here
March 27, 2020

Can you move in NYC during the coronavirus outbreak?

While most of life seems to be put on hold at the moment, there are a few tasks that can't be avoided. This includes moving apartments, typically a dreadful experience for New Yorkers with or without an ongoing pandemic. But moving companies are considered an essential service, according to New York City and State officials. Ahead, find out what you need to know about moving in NYC during the coronavirus outbreak, from the extra protocols movers are taking to your rights as a tenant.
Get the details
March 27, 2020

19 windows and a bohemian vibe make this $1.8M West Village loft a keeper

19 massive windows, three exposures, 11-foot ceilings, and one very stylish design--this $1.8 million West Village loft is bright, beautiful, and was designed by famed architect Aurelie Paradisio in collaboration with a bohemian fashion designer. Located at 99 Bank Street, it's in the heart of the West Village, just off Abingdon Square and has one bedroom, as well as a bonus lofted bedroom.
Have a look
March 27, 2020

NYC removed 80 basketball hoops from parks

In the recent weeks, Mayor de Blasio and Governor Cuomo have taken different approaches when it comes to social distancing measures in public spaces, but one thing they've agreed on is that basketball games need to stop. In his press conference on Wednesday, the Mayor spoke about the specific problem related to basketball courts and announced that he'd received reports from the Parks Department and the NYPD that 80 courts around the city, out of a total of 1,700, were an ongoing issue. He went on to say that the basketball hoops at these locations would be removed, which they were yesterday.
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March 26, 2020

Amazon snags two Fairway Market stores in NJ

Amazon has acquired the leases for two Fairway Market stores in New Jersey, half the number of stores the company originally hoped to buy. According to Supermarket News, the online retailer will acquire Fairway's Paramus and Woodland Park, N.J. store leases for $1.5 million. It's unclear why Amazon's offer for stores in Red Hook and Westchester fell through. The auction comes just a few months after the beloved New York City grocery store filed for bankruptcy.
Learn more
March 26, 2020

199 affordable apartments available near Jamaica Bay in East New York, from $328/month

There are nearly 200 affordable apartments up for grabs at a brand new development in the Spring Creek section of East New York in Brooklyn. Located at 911 Erskine Street, the complex is part of the mixed-use Fountains Development, which broke ground in 2017. The nine-story building sits between Betts Creek and Hendrix Creek of the Jamaica Bay and directly across from the massive shopping center, the Gateway Plaza Mall. Qualifying New Yorkers earning 30, 40, 50, and 60 percent of the area median income can apply for the apartments, which include studios from $328/month and three-bedroom apartments up to $1,504/month.
Here's how to apply
March 26, 2020

Cobble Hill townhouse with European flair can be your ‘temporary paradise’ for $21K/month

From the outside, this corner Cobble Hill townhouse is classic Brooklyn with its 1899 brick and brownstone facade, ornate doorframes, and stately bay windows. But inside, it's like stepping into a Parisian flat, with floor-to-ceiling arched windows, historic mantles and moldings, and a design aesthetic full of gold accents, lush fabrics, and an eclectic mix of classical furnishings. That said, the best part of this $21,000/month, five-bedroom rental is that it comes fully furnished.
Take the tour
March 26, 2020

Lottery for 20,000-name waitlist opens for middle-income apartments across the East Bronx

A housing lottery launched on Thursday for placement on a 20,000-person waiting list for a number of rental properties in the East Bronx. Found across the neighborhoods of Williamsbridge and Wakefield, the location of the buildings stretch from Woodlawn Cemetery to about Pelham Bay. New Yorkers earning 50, 85, 90, and 95 percent of the area median income can apply for the apartments, which range from a $1,106/month one-bedroom to a $2,074/month three-bedroom. Eligible applicants will be randomly selected and placed on the waitlist for future vacancies.
Find out if you qualify
March 25, 2020

73 mixed-income apartments up for grabs in prime Central Harlem, from $680/month

A housing lottery for 73 mixed-income units will launch on Thursday at a building in one of the most bustling sections of Central Harlem. The new 10-story building, called The Robeson, is located at 407 Malcolm X Boulevard between West 130th and 131st Streets. Qualifying New Yorkers earning 50, 100, and 130 percent of the area median income can apply for the units, which range from a $680/month studio to a $3,452/month three-bedroom apartment.
Do you qualify?
March 25, 2020

Free fun and educational online resources for kids at home during coronavirus

The current times are especially tough for children who are home from school and their parents who are struggling to keep up with remote learning and keep the kiddos occupied during downtime. Luckily, institutions and businesses are stepping up to offer all kinds of free fun and educational resources for youngsters. From cool virtual museum content to online homework help to virtual storytelling to penguin cams, 6sqft has put together a list of ways to keep your children entertained and educated while at home.
The full list, ahead
March 25, 2020

Support local NYC artists and performers with this new subscription-based streaming service

With theaters and performance venues closed as a result of the ongoing pandemic, the livelihoods of many artists in New York City continue to hang in the balance. A new subscription-based streaming service launched this week to support local artists affected by these coronavirus-related shutdowns. "The Trickle Up" charges subscribers $10 per month to access original performances from 50 different artists, with proceeds going to artists struggling financially.
Details this way
March 25, 2020

MTA cuts subway service by 25 percent in response to coronavirus

In response to a "never-before-seen ridership low" during the coronavirus outbreak, three subway lines will not run during the week and some express trains will run local, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced Tuesday. The reduced schedule is part of the agency's "NY Essential Service Plan" to provide service to first responders and essential workers as it deals with the devastating financial consequences of a nearly 90 percent drop in ridership across subway and buses, the Long Island Railroad, and Metro-North.
More details here
March 25, 2020

$2.6M Williamsburg penthouse has a rooftop cabana and a private parking spot

How's this for views? From both the terrace and the rooftop cabana of a classic Williamsburg loft near the waterfront, you'll gaze at all five East River bridges, the Manhattan skyline, and a cool birdseye view of Domino Park. The interior of the penthouse at 58 Metropolitan Avenue isn't too shabby, either. Asking $2,595,000, the three-bedroom apartment has a huge living area with oversized windows on three sides, contemporary finishes, and a private indoor parking spot with an electric charger and storage space.
Lots more to see
March 24, 2020

NYC is asking community spaces to sign up as possible emergency management centers

With four sites already identified as temporary hospitals--and construction underway on the largest, the Javits Center--the city is now looking for additional spaces that can be used to support NYC Emergency Management. The call is for community spaces with a large interior room such as community centers, places of worship, or campus facilities that can be utilized for outreach, training, or gathering during an emergency or as a disaster recovery center. Though it's not explicitly stated, NYC Council Speaker Corey Johnson noted on Twitter that some of these spaces could be "suitable for converting to temporary hospital rooms."
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March 24, 2020

Meet the 7,000 ‘Invisible Hands’ delivering essentials to at-risk New Yorkers

If you needed more evidence that New Yorkers come together in a time of crisis, look no further than Invisible Hands. The premise of the volunteer group is that low-risk people can help to bring groceries and supplies to those in demographics at high risk for COVID-19. Simone, Liam, and Healy — "healthy 20-somethings in NYC" — started the group just nine days ago, and today have amassed 7,000 volunteers across New York City and parts of Jersey City. Yesterday, we spoke with Liam Elkind about what it's been like starting this incredible group, how New Yorkers have been able to "pull together when it feels like the world is trying to pull us apart," and what Invisible Hands hopes for the future.
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March 24, 2020

Bodegas in NYC now have their own delivery app

Deemed as essential by the state, bodegas in New York City are open during the coronavirus outbreak. For those craving a bacon, egg, and cheese from your local deli, but can't leave your apartment, a new app is here to help. As first reported by Eater, My Bodega Online is looking to give New Yorkers another option when it comes to ordering take-out and groceries for delivery, while simultaneously supporting local businesses.
Get the details
March 24, 2020

$5.85M Tudor ‘castle’ in Westchester has a fireplace from the Vanderbilts and church bells from France

It's hard to know where to start with this incredible Westchester county mansion. Situated on the Manor Park and Beach in Larchmont, the Tudor-style home has a unique quadrangle shape with a huge interior courtyard. When it was built in 1901, it was the carriage house for the Crocker Estate, and from 1955 to 1996, it was home to New York Times drama critic Walter Kerr and "Please Don't Eat the Daisies" playwright Jean Kerr. During the 1920s, it's owner salvaged 35 truckloads of architectural materials from the demolished Vanderbilt Mansion, and these pieces, like the two-story fireplace, are perfectly preserved. Recently listed for $5,850,000, this waterfront "castle" is truly a property that you need to see to believe.
Don't miss this tour
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March 24, 2020

In the Bronx, a lottery opens for 30 affordable one-bedroom apartments for seniors

Applications are now being accepted for 30 brand new one-bedroom units set aside for New York seniors. The St. Vincent de Paul Senior Apartments, located at 909 Beck Street in the Bronx neighborhood of Longwood, sit next to a nursing home operated by the Archcare, the developer behind the housing complex. To apply, New Yorkers must be--or have at least one household member who is-- 62 years of age or older, qualify for Section 8 benefits, and earn $42, 700 or less annually.
Find out if you qualify
March 23, 2020

The Wing is donating its NYC spaces for coronavirus relief efforts

Co-working women's club The Wing has offered to donate its empty spaces for coronavirus relief efforts in New York. Audrey Gelman, the company's co-founder, said on Monday that the Wing had been in contact with the administrations of both Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio regarding its 70,000-square-feet of available space in New York City.
Get the details
March 23, 2020

Brooklyn kids are hanging rainbow art in windows as part of a quarantine-style scavenger hunt

With school closed and playdates off-limits, New York City kids are staying connected with their friends in a creative and colorful way. Children in Brooklyn are drawing and painting pictures of rainbows and displaying them outside of their homes, creating a scavenger hunt perfect for one of the only quarantine-approved activities: a walk around the neighborhood.
Get the details
March 23, 2020

The 18th-century Yellow Fever pandemic that led to NYC’s first Health Department

A spot of hope amidst the chaos of our current moment is that we will come out stronger, safer, and more prepared than we were before. Historically, that has actually been the case. For example, New York’s 1795 Yellow Fever Pandemic led to the creation of the New York City Board of Health, which in turn became the Metropolitan Board of Health, then the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which helps keep the city healthy to this day. Ahead, we take a closer look at this pandemic, which ebbed and flowed from 1793 to 1805, from quarantines to new hospitals to public data.
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March 23, 2020

Work starts to turn Javits Center into a 1,000-bed temporary hospital

"Time matters, minutes count, and this is literally a matter of life and death," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a press conference Sunday, during which he requested and subsequently received funding from the federal government to move ahead with the Army Corps of Engineers on erecting temporary hospitals at the Javits Center, Westchester County Center, SUNY Stony Brook, and SUNY Old Westbury. As of Monday morning, the number of positive COVID-19 cases in New York State was nearly 21,000, with more than 12,000 in New York City. Supplies and materials have already arrived at the Javits Center, and it's expected to be complete within a week to 10 days.
Find out more
March 23, 2020

Lawmakers, advocates demand rent freeze for New Yorkers affected by coronavirus

Evictions have been halted. Mortgage payments have been suspended. What about rents? New York renters, elected officials, and tenant advocacy groups are calling for a temporary rent freeze to provide financial relief to both workers and businesses impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. State Sen. Michael Gianaris, who represents parts of Queens, will introduce a measure on Monday that would suspend rent payments for 90 days for tenants and small businesses, as the Daily News first reported.
More here
March 23, 2020

In the South Bronx, affordable housing lottery opens for 31 mixed-income units near Yankee Stadium

At 3120 Park Avenue and 451 East 159th Street, in the Melrose section of the Bronx, 31 affordable apartments are up for grabs for New Yorkers earning 30, 50, 100, and 110 percent of the area median income. The Park and Elton Apartments, which are located close to Yankee Stadium and many public transit options, have available units ranging from $359/month studios to $2,052/month two-bedrooms.
Find out if you qualify
March 23, 2020

Rich colors and a classic reno define this $2.9M Upper East Side co-op

Located just off Park Avenue at 114 East 90th Street, a classic pre-war co-op, this three-bedroom apartment has all the elegance of a 1920s classic-seven, but it's received a modern renovation that has updated the layout for 21st-century living and added rich colors and patterns throughout. Plus it's prime Carnegie Hill location puts it right near both the 86th and 96th Street subway stations, as well as Central Park and the Guggenheim.
Look around
March 22, 2020

Governor Cuomo says NYC must develop an immediate plan to address density issues in parks

Within 24 hours from Sunday morning, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson must come up with a plan to address continued density issues in the city, especially in parks. "It has to be done quickly, and it's going to have to be dramatic action," said the Governor in a press conference, following a personal visit to the city on Saturday during which he observed a major lack of social distancing in places like Central Park and the Grand Army Plaza Farmer's Market.
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March 20, 2020

The full list of New York’s essential services

Earlier today, Governor Cuomo announced "New York State on Pause," a new executive order aimed at flattening the curve of the coronavirus spread across the state. A big part of this order is a 100 percent closure of non-essential businesses statewide, (effective 8pm Sunday), meaning that all non-essential employees must either work from home or not work. Outside of the obvious answers like healthcare and grocery stores, many have been wondering what exactly the essential services are. Ahead, we've compiled the full list from the state to make this difficult time a bit easier.
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March 20, 2020

Electric moped service Revel offers free rides in Brooklyn and Queens for healthcare workers

Healthcare workers in Brooklyn and Queens will receive a free membership from the electric moped service Revel, the company announced Friday. Revel will also expand its service area to cover four major medical centers in those two boroughs, including Elmhurst Hospital, Maimonides Medical Center, NYU Langone Hospital Brooklyn, and SUNY Downstate Medical Center. The measure allows these critical workers to commute to work, instead of taking public transportation.
More here
March 20, 2020

New York State expands 90-day eviction moratorium to commercial tenants

In a press conference this morning in which Governor Cuomo issued the tightest shut-down measures yet, he announced that the State of New York would be expanding its 90-day moratorium on evictions to commercial tenants. After New York City took the step last week to stop eviction proceedings for 90 days, the State of New York on Monday halted residential eviction proceedings indefinitely. With this now expanded to commercial tenants for 90 days, there is a bit more hope for the city's struggling small businesses and restaurants.
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March 20, 2020

30 home office ideas to work in style

If you're starting to get a little stir crazy working from home, why not take this as an opportunity to spruce up your home office setup. Ahead, we've put together some suggestions for setting up the perfect work-from-home scenario, even if you're stuck in a tiny apartment. From practical solutions like wall-mounted desks and storage drawers to fun furniture ideas like an ergonomic stool and even something for your furry friend.
What's your home office style?
March 20, 2020

$749K Upper West Side one-bedroom is a brownstone beauty

When you've got beautiful brownstone features like a huge bay window, crown moldings, and a classical fireplace, you don't want to compete with the architecture but you also want to find a design aesthetic that enhances these details. Which is exactly what's on view at this one-bedroom Upper West Side co-op at 111 West 82nd Street. For $749,000, not only is it easy on the eyes but the apartment has a spacious and efficient layout that would make for a great starter home.
Have a look
March 19, 2020

15 NYC bookstores offering curbside pickup and delivery

Need a distraction? New York City's local bookstores are here to help. While many are not open for browsing, bookstores across the city are offering curbside pickup and delivery options instead. Get lost in a book (and take a break from reality) by supporting your neighborhood's shop from the comfort and safety of your home. Ahead, find 15 of our favorite stores offering pick-up and delivery, as well as other virtual resources, like live-streamed book clubs and author events.
More here
March 19, 2020

Get Park Avenue elegance for just $625K at this Upper East side co-op

Located just off Park Avenue at 115 East 90th Street, this one-bedroom co-op has all the uptown elegance at a fraction of the price. Asking 625,000, the Upper East Side gem has tons of pre-war charm in the form of picture moldings, large windows, and an efficient layout. There's also a surprising amount of closet space and a brand new kitchen and bathroom.
See more
March 19, 2020

‘The Rosie O’Donnell Show’ returns for one night to support The Actors Fund

With all Broadway, Off-Broadway, and any type of performance suspended through at least April 12th, Broadway.com is bringing back The Rosie O'Donnell Show for one night to benefit The Actors Fund. When her show was on air from 1996 to 2002, O'Donnell was a strong advocate for performance arts and often showcased Broadway ensembles performing numbers from their shows. The one-night event will take place on Sunday, March 22 at 7:00 p.m. and will be live-streamed on Broadway.com and Broadway.com's YouTube channel.
Find out who's performing
March 19, 2020

Waitlist opens for affordable units at luxury Yorkville rental, from $728/month

Applications are currently being accepted to replenish the waitlist for affordable apartments in a luxury Yorkville building. Located at 1775 York Avenue, the building, known as The Brittany, is a high-rise located on the East River waterfront. Apartments--set aside for New Yorkers earning 40 percent of the area median income--include one- and two-bedroom apartments for $728/month and $868/month, respectively.
How to apply
March 19, 2020

A historic Crown Heights Kinko House has hit the market for $1.6M

What's a Kinko House you may ask? First off, the name comes from the developer--Kings and Westchester Land Company--who built them in the northern section of Crown Heights between 1905 and 1912, according to Brownstoner. Designed by architecture firm Mann & MacNeille, the two-family houses are unique in that each unit has its own front door, stairway, porch, and cellar. Each group of six houses also has its own architectural style, and 1040 Sterling Place, which just hit the market for $1,625,000, was done in a brick Arts and Crafts style. This home is being sold with both duplex units, so a new owner could potentially combine them for one large residence.
Find out more about this rare house
March 18, 2020

Stay fit while staying home: The best home gym equipment

The gym is closed. It's still too cold to hit the park, beach, or local outdoor track (or you'd just rather stay at home). There are only so many times you can walk the dog. But your health and fitness–and sanity–depend on being able to get some exercise. This could be the best time to put that at-home workout plan into action–especially since exercise is one of the best ways to boost your immune system. Whether it's a yoga practice, cardio, training for a race or building strength, let the list below inspire you to get moving, even if you're in a small NYC apartment.
Get moving
March 18, 2020

131 affordable apartments available near Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx, from $667/month

An affordable housing lottery launched this week for 131 apartments in a newly constructed building in the Bronx. The 13-story building at 150 Van Cortlandt Avenue East in Bedford Park sits near a handful of public parks and playgrounds, including the Williamsbridge Oval recreation center, Harris Park, and the city's third-largest park, Van Cortlandt Park. Qualifying New Yorkers earning 50, 60, 90, 110 percent of the area median income can apply for the units, which range from $667/month studios to $2,346/month three-bedroom apartments.
Find out if you qualify
March 18, 2020

1,000-bed hospital ship coming to New York Harbor

In a press conference on Wednesday, Governor Cuomo announced that he'd reached an agreement with the federal government for the USNS Comfort hospital ship to be dispatched to New York Harbor to help with the growing need for hospital beds, in particular ICU, as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to grow in New York City and New York at large.
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March 18, 2020

Amidst massive ridership declines, MTA seeks $4B+ in federal aid

Facing a 60 percent decline in subway ridership and a 90 percent decline on commuter rails, the already-cash-strapped MTA is seeking more than $4 billion in federal aid, according to a letter the agency sent yesterday to the New York Congressional Delegation. "Assuming ridership trends this week continue for six months," they wrote, the anticipated revenue losses to the MTA are $3.7 billion, along with $300 million in annualized COVID-19 expenses.
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March 18, 2020

For $12M, combine these two historic Harlem townhouses for the mansion of your dreams

Two neighboring Harlem townhouses have seen a big price drop since hitting the market last year. First listed for a combined $27 million, the historic homes at 32 and 33 Mount Morris Park West are currently listed separately for $7.95 million and $3.95 million, respectively. The 7,000-square-foot, five-bedroom property at 32 Mount Morris Park has been respectfully gut-renovated, while the townhouse next door, which has the same footprint and unique architectural elements, needs restoration work.
See the properties
March 17, 2020

As NYC suspends land use and rezoning actions, some officials want to also ban construction

All city land use and rezoning processes have been temporarily suspended as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Monday. In an executive order, the mayor directed procedures "applicable to the city planning and land use processes" to freeze for the duration of New York's state of emergency.
Learn more
March 17, 2020

NYC bars and restaurants can now sell to-go cocktails

To stop the spread of coronavirus, New York officials on Monday closed all restaurants and bars, with the exception of takeout and delivery services. The new rules, as mandated by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Liquor Authority, allow businesses to sell to-go alcoholic beverages, including wine and liquor for the first time, as long as it is with a food purchase. This change in liquor laws will continue until April 15 but could be extended.
Details here
March 17, 2020

Apply for 35 affordable apartments in new Upper East Side passive house, from $747/month

Photo of Carl Schurz Park by CityRealty In 2017, Sky Management filed plans to build a 22-story Passive House rental building at 515 East 86th Street, just off York Avenue near Carl Schurz Park and the East River. Designed by Arquitectonica with EP Engineering, the environmentally friendly building has tons of amenities, some of which include a pet spa, dog run, co-working space, fitness center, and yoga studio. In terms of outdoor space, there's a grilling terrace, landscaped interior courtyard, and roof deck. The 35 affordable units in the building are available to those earning 40, 60, 80, and 130 percent of the area median income and range from $747/month studios to $3,123 two-bedrooms.
Find out if you qualify here
March 17, 2020

Calvin Klein co-founder’s $100M equestrian estate is Westchester’s priciest listing

Westchester's largest privately owned property is now also the county's most expensive listing. Stonewall Farm, an equestrian estate situated on 740 acres, has just hit the market for $100 million. The property—which is located in Granite Springs, about an hour from the Belmont Park racetrack—is owned by Calvin Klein co-founder Barry Schwartz and his wife Sheryl, who purchased the first 673 acres for $3.25 million in 1979. The sprawling estate has a 40-stall barn, two 24-stall barns, hayfields, apple orchards, professional racing facilities, and riding trails.
Lots more to see here
March 17, 2020

How grocery stores are adapting amidst coronavirus: Product limits, senior shopping times, reduced hours

By now, we've all seen the lines wrapping around the block to get into Trader Joe's or the crazed shoppers buying 100 rolls of toilet paper. And all of this panic shopping and stockpiling, coupled with the state's new guidelines on businesses, has caused grocery stores in the region to adjust their hours and practices. From reduced hours to elderly-only shopping times to purchase limits, this is how businesses like Trader Joe's, Fairway, Whole Foods, Wegmans, and some more local spots are coping amidst the coronavirus health crisis.
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March 16, 2020

Brooklyn’s Ample Hills Creamery files for bankruptcy

Popular Brooklyn-based ice cream purveyor Ample Hills Creamery has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the Real Deal reported. The filing will enable the company to restructure its debt and organizations while keeping its 13 New York stores open. In a statement to the website, Ample Hills said the filing was not as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic, but instead allows for the business to "course correct."
More here
March 16, 2020

Soho’s iconic Vesuvio Bakery comes back to life

Keeping in mind that the city's new restaurant policy will likely affect it, Gothamist has reported that a new bakery has opened in the former Vesuvio Bakery storefront at 160 Prince Street. They've called themselves Vesuvio Bakery and intend on preserving as much of the iconic, 100-year-old establishment's physical look and simple community aesthetic.
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