County officials joined local dignitaries to send 2012 out with a bang, as Girl Scout Troop 2981 raised the American Flag and Boy Scout Troop 325 raised the city of New Rochelle flag, which will fly outside of City Hall all year.
New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson said he is looking forward to moving forward in the city and celebrating the important anniversary.
“We want to continue the progress we’ve seen in the city with respect to development and the budget. We want to continue to be the wonderful city we are,” he said. “
Prior to the flag raising celebration, Bramson, Father Robert Gahler, Marianne Sussman of the 325th Anniversary Celebration Committee and City Manager Charles Strome III spoke to a crowd littered with residents, town employees and county officials. There were musical selections by Claude Debussey, members of the Songcatchers and Brian Carter Trio before the crowd migrated outside and braved the cold on the City Hall steps to listen to “Queen City of the Sound.”
Strome III expressed his appreciation and respect for city workers and for local fire and police employees.
“This is a tribute to the city on New Year’s Eve, and for the people who contribute their expert services to all of us,” he said. “People love this community. Take a look at our workforce and you can see that.”
County Legislator Sheila Marcotte said she is looking forward to a fiscally responsible 2013 for Westchester.
“We know and it’s a tight economy, and I wish it were different,” she said. “We just hope to get everyone through 2013 and hopefully things can change as we move along.”
While there were frigid temperatures outside, dozens filled up City Hall to celebrate a successful 2012, and to kick off 2013.
“Although there is a chilliness in the air, the spirit here at City Hall remains warm and inviting,” Bramson said. “May it be a great year for New Rochelle.”
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