What does $2.5 Million purchase in New Rochelle?

I recently closed on an exquisite, waterfront property in New Rochelle, 159 Kensington Oval, New Rochelle. 3737 square feet, 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths and located on 0.33 of an acre. The home is located in the San Souci area, a special enclave which has its’ own beach and tennis club complete with an outdoor pool, snack bar and bocci court!

The highest priced home in the area sold for $2,150,000 previously (in 2022) which featured a larger property , more bathrooms (4.5) BUT while it had waterfront views did not have a backyard overlooking the Long Island Sound! Quick statistics indicate an average sales price of $1, 260,000 in the same zip code since January 2023 onward regarding single family homes 3000 square feet and more. This home sale reflects the highest priced home sold home in the area since November 2016 ($2,900,000 – a 6430 square foot home featuring 5 bedrooms) one mile or less away and 3000 square feet or higher.

I have always been blessed with wonderful clients, and when I receive a testimonial then my day is made!

“Exceeded expectations at every turn!

We cannot rave enough about Gay Rosen. She never hesitated to go above and beyond our needs, and was there at every request, immediately. She is unusually personable, has broad market knowledge, superb communication skills and always handled herself with the utmost of politeness, kindness, and thoroughness. We recommend her without reservation and anyone who is lucky enough to use her for their transactions is guaranteed to benefit.”

I love real estate, and I am here for all your real estate requirements!

New Rochelle is great!

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Coping by Gay Rosen

Everything is relative

Where to start? I lost a son to cancer 2 years ago, and my husband passed away 6 months later. My son, A.J. was a three time Olympian (luge -Great Britain) and had just completed 3 years of training to become a commercial pilot complete with all instrument courses (he would have finished in 2 years but with Covid everything was put on hold). He had been hired to be a pilot instructor so he could complete his 1500 hours of required training prior to be hired by an airline. How do we cope?    A well-known radio host, Mark Simone ( WOR110) has said that no one wants to hear of anyone’s personal stories regarding coping and wonders why so many wish to write books about their personal stories. He has said that people might perhaps feel others want to hear about what happened to them but not so, but acknowledged that it is a catharsis of sorts, and perhaps that is why I feel compelled to put my thoughts to paper. Plus, I have heard from so many people who have gone through losses, and they have all felt a desire to recount their stories. When I would see associates over the months thereafter,  I could see that some  didn’t know how to act towards me. Should they say something?  Avoid me? Hug me? I would smile to try and put them at ease. One thing I do know though is that everyone goes through their own personal challenges, and it is okay to share.

The well-known Chinese actor, Jackie Chan said something so true that has stayed with me. His name which translates to “already a dragon” was born poor, and worked so hard to become the well-known and beloved star he is today, but he so wisely states that no matter how hard you think you have it, “what you are experiencing”, others have it worse. You might not like your home but you have one, you might not like the dinner you eat but you have food, and so forth. I am being simplistic here, but his message was that there is always someone worse off than us, and to bear that in mind. He is a wonderful example of someone who worked so hard and who has achieved so much. He was also dyslexic and since my son, A.J. was dyslexic, I was drawn to Mr. Chan’s story.

I was pregnant many years ago with a trisomy 9 baby. I was told I was not carrying life and needed to abort the baby as it would only endanger my life – there was no life within me.  I already had 2 sons, Mark and A.J. and had been busy making puppets for a school play when I heard the news. I forget the play but I recall designing, making and sewing a wolf’s head and was proud of my effort silly as that was.

After being informed that I needed to abort the fetus, I went into the city to have the abortion, and after the procedure, I was sitting with other ladies who had just had the medical procedure too. There was a lady from Egypt and I so remember her. She explained how she had watched her 2-year-old son die slowly from an inherited disease, and after she found out her new pregnancy also has the potential to have the same disease, she opted for the abortion as she couldn’t bear the thought that the unborn child would inherit that same disease.  She could not watch another child die. She was in her early 40’s and she didn’t know if she would ever get pregnant again, but that was the choice she made/had to make. How could I feel sorry for myself upon hearing her story?   I had 2 children, and I could get pregnant again. Perhaps not in her case.  One comment, however, stayed with me at the time . A parent said to me that I have 2 other children and so all good. Don’t ever say that to someone.  A loss is always a loss and should never be written off in a hap hazard way. People always need to be acknowledged and their pain validated. How they handle that pain is up to them. We can offer caring in many ways to console.

So many thoughts go through my mind on coping. Watching my son slowly die was so painful. So terribly painful. As a mother, you deny. My whole family was denying, but I felt it was up to me to hold everything together, to fight for his life and to put on a brave smiling face. I could not crumble. My husband passed away 6 months later with a broken heart I feel.

Westchester is great!

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The Cinco de Mayo Mile 2024!

WOW! Michael Conlon who resides in our great Historic District of New Rochelle is the owner of The Finish Line is doing it again!

I do not know how Michael finds the time, but he has decided to have an inaugural Cinco De Mayo race on May 5th, 2024 at 9 am.

Finish Line Physical Therapy opened its doors to the Westchester community in summer 2021. If you have visited the clinic then you know, FLPT combines its 17 years of experience and passion for sport to bring you the best care and recovery services for the athlete in everyone. FLPT is where runners, endurance athletes and the active population go to get stronger, faster, and injury free. With over 4000 square feet of space and the most advanced treatment equipment available, FLPT New Ro provides prehab, rehab, and recovery services for every athlete! (Courtesy of Michael Conlon).

Michael has made himself an integral part of the community by creating “GivingYouMoreMiles” – a charity organization donates 100% of its proceeds to worthwhile local charities in our area. I think that we all know Michael by now as he created the New Rochelle Turkey Trot race (only race on Thanksgiving Day in the area), and through this annual race event ( 7th year and racing onward), so much money ( over $100,000) has been given to our local charities.

Per the site:

Our Mission

“Giving You More Miles continues to keep community at the center of its mission with the introduction of the Cinco de Mile! The mile race is looped course starting and ending on Hamilton Ave. Join us for an active morning followed festivities in partnership with the community. All proceeds from this year’s race will be donated to the The Giving You More Miles Scholarship Award that will be presented to a graduate of New Rochelle High School Class of 2024 who has gone “above and beyond” in our community. 

With community at the center of our focus, we are also supporting a local New Rochelle family, the Guzinski family, as their daughter undergoes a long journey for cancer treatment. Read more about Nora and the Guzinski family and learn about ways to support!”

While I will not be running, I ordered 2 T-shirts (I love T-shirts) and it is a nice way to donate. A win win situation!

Thank you Michael yet again!

New Rochelle is great!

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Pizza!!! Oh my Goodness!

It has long been on my mind to write a post on pizza ever since I heard that a large Pizza pie could cost around $33 on the city depending upon toppings, etc. I was amazed! How could that be? Well, we all know of the huge price increases in flour, trucking costs, etc. and so of course it would have to filter down into a pizza store trying to make a living in making this delicious food, and therefore increased costs.

However, did you know that to make a pizza at home is so cost effective (not to mention fun) and so easy too?

Yes, you can buy the pizza dough but have you ever had difficulty in rolling it out? The secret I found was to make your own (of course), and to add some olive oil. It basically helps the process. The recipe I like to use belongs to Ann Burell from the Food Network. Yes, it includes the olive oil (truly a magic ingredient) and it then allows you to roll the dough thinly if that is the way you like it.

Toppings are of course of your choice but the end result will be so satisfying (body and mind), and please know so far less expensive than store bought! A great way to spend some time with your children and/or family! Cheers!

Westchester is great!

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Realtor Designations to Benefit Our Clients

Did you ever think that a designation designed for a Realtor would/could benefit a buyer client? When I first started in real estate 20 years ago, I was determined to be the BEST Realtor that I could be. I proceeded to take every designation that was made available to me (or most of them at least!), and whereas the GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designation involved obtaining various other designations first, and it was a lengthy process.

GRI: Graduate REALTOR® Institute

“The Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) symbol is the mark of a real estate professional who has made the commitment to provide a high level of professional services by securing a strong educational foundation. ”

However, I was so proud when I obtained that GRI pin! The second year I was in real estate, I decided to obtain my Associate Broker’s designation, and did it! Another milestone, and another great moment knowing that I am endeavoring to learn as much as I possibly can to better aid my customers and clients alike in their purchasing and selling process.

In today’s world, with it currently being a seller’s market with regards to the low inventory, while it is still very important to be a good seller’s agent (I have those designations, also – CRS, CDPE, SRES), I am also an Accredited Buyer’s Representative ( The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation is for real estate buyer’s agents who focus on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the home-buying process. and a Certified Buyer’s Representative).

I also obtained the Certified Buyer’s Representative designation .

CBR: Certified Buyer Representative

“Focus on the ‘forgotten’ side of the transaction! Obtain the skills necessary to effectively represent home buyers with a Certified Buyer Representative designation; the CBR designation enables consumers to identify real estate buyer agents who can provide value with a proven level of education and expertise. CBR® was the first registered mark to be used identifying real estate buyer agents; since its inception, the course has continued to meet the requirements for instructional excellence and has a proven track record of success. *Non-NAR Designation – “

I sincerely believe that we owe it to our customers and clients alike to offer them the best in services and by taking the time to obtain these designations then they can only better help us service everyone better!.

By the way, did you know the following?

Our Fiduciary Responsibilities include as agents to our clients are Obedience, Loyalty, Disclosure, Confidentiality, Accountability and Reasonable Care.

On a funnier note, I was so keen on obtaining my designations that I had trouble when it came time to having a name tag made. My office informed me that I could only have 3 designations shown. NO!!!!! Yikes! I spent so much time and hard work to obtain them, and so I begged and was granted permission . Funny! As you can probably guess, I am now hesitating about obtaining more designations as there is no room!

I am here for all of your real estate requirements! Cheers!

Westchester is great!

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The School Lunch Program 2024

Oh my how time flies! I heard this past week how students and parents alike have been complaining about the quality of various school lunches. Complaining about moldy cream cheese, pizza every other day and moldy food in general. That is so sad and terrible. It brought me back to a post I had written back in 2017 . I felt I should repost it as it is still relevant (I feel)! In addition to the post I had written before, I would also add to my suggested list healthy nutritious soups. They could serve cabbage soup (did you know that cabbage can alleviate stress?), or healthy, flavorful bean soups – all served with fresh bread or grains of some kind, and always fruit. Nothing cost prohibitive. Our children need to enjoy going to school, enjoy the learning process and I think our schools can certainly offer better dietary foods than what is currently offered.

Elementary students sick from spoiled lunches in Palo Alto – NBC Bay Area (so many links to be found).

The School Lunch Program | Larchmont and New Rochelle News / The Rosen Reports

It is said that there will always be a teacher who you will forever recall, who ‘stood out’. Well, there was Mr. Rossi who was dreamy (to an 8 year old), but there was also a wonderful English teacher (who happened to have been from India) who always stated  ‘ to only write about subjects you know of’.  That has always stayed in my mind, and so I am going to apologize here and step away from  her sage advice, and comment on the school lunch program.

The school lunch program  :  “The National School Lunch Program is a federally assisted meal program operating in public and nonprofit private schools and residential child care institutions. It provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches to children each school day. The program was established under the National School Lunch Act, signed by President Harry Truman in 1946.”

I think we can all recoil when tomato paste (for pizza)  was termed a vegetable in that program (or was), and the much beloved ketchup  is 24% sugar. Yes, children love ketchup but surely it is what they are used to, and if they were given healthier and nicer tasting choices, they would ‘relish’ the food? I know that Michelle Obama’s heart was in the right place with her healthier lunch choices, but many children hated the lunches, and  data stated that many lunches were not eaten and thrown out, and yet another study cited that the lunch program made the children overweight.

I rather like the school lunch program I read about taking place in the Penn-Trafford High School in Pennsylvania where they have a food court set up with many healthy choices, and it is a big success.  There is a deli and panini station, a grill, pizza station, and a main course station. Their sales are up, the students are happy, and those who are eligible for free lunches are still receiving them.

It makes me think when I was a child, back in England. We were all given a small bottle of milk at snack time which of course would be frowned upon today with so many allergies, but back then it worked. Lunch consisted of our neighborhood aunts, moms, who made the lunches, and we were greeted with warm, smiley faces at lunch-time from people who happily served nutritious homemade style food in the cafeteria setting. It was something to look forward to. IN reading about the Penn Trafford High School which lost approx. $40,000 of reimbursement funds from the government by opting out of the school lunch program, the school has actually sold $50,000 in their cafeteria. More importantly, the children are happy, and surely healthier too?

I greatly enjoyed  Jamie Oliver’s  television show the other year when he traveled around California, and elsewhere  in the U.S. trying to revamp the school lunch program. He not only taught the children  better food habits, but showed  (where allowed) the children how to prepare better foods, and in turn the schools how to prepare the foods on a budget and how delicious they could be. Unfortunately, many schools did not even allow him in. Sad.

Our children are our future, and nutrition is so important. Fresh vegetables and fruits are important, but I guess seeing a lone apple on a plate wasn’t attractive. But, how about a baked apple ?  Banana bread (made with fruit juices and not sugar, carrot cake.  How about spaghetti squash?  Spinach lasagna? Nutritional soups?  Shepherd’s pie (an old English favorite but it can be layered with carrots, onions, and the spices can be chile or plain, and the top layer could be sweet potatoes !).  A stuffed pepper?  A cucumber and onion salad  with grilled chicken?  A chickpea salad ?  An orzo and vegetable salad? Couscous with fresh vegetables?  Have you ever had shredded carrots with lime and cilantro ?  How about International week highlighting foods from around the world and incorporating that into our children’s learning curriculum?  Another way for us to appreciate different cultures and to appreciate and learn from each other.

I can recall making a vegetable plate for each of my child’s classmates when it was my turn to bring in the ‘snack’.  How I made it edible was to fashion a person’s  face with the vegetables; shredded carrots for the hair, a  cherry tomato for the nose, peppers for the ears, and so forth… rather like a Mister Potato head but with veggies! Of course schools do not have the time to do anything like that, but surely a little creativity would go a long way to make the children healthier, happier, and achieve those great grades!

I also came across a wonderful website featuring some quite creative and nourishing lunch suggestions.    http://homesthetics.net/school-lunch-ideas/

So while some can lament on losing Michelle’s program effort, I think this would be the perfect time in which to revamp the program which she initiated and just make it better.

Westchester is Great!

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How to Get Used to a Different Pace of Life After Moving to Small Towns in New York

A mother, child, and dad behind them carrying cardboard boxes into the kitchen area

Moving to a small town in New York can be a significant change, especially if you’re
accustomed to the hustle and bustle of a big city. The pace of life in small towns is often slower
and more relaxed, which can be both refreshing and challenging for newcomers. In this article,
we’ll explore some tips and strategies to help you adjust to the different pace of life when
moving to small towns in New York.


Moving to Small Towns in New York: Embrace the
Change


The first step in getting used to a different pace of life is to embrace the change. Instead of
resisting or comparing it to your previous lifestyle, try to appreciate the unique qualities of small-town living. Focus on the positive aspects, such as the sense of community, the slower pace, and the opportunity to connect with nature. You might find that the slower pace allows you then enjoy the little things in life more, like a stroll through the town square or a quiet afternoon in the park.


Get Involved in the Community


One of the best ways to adjust to a new pace of life is to involve yourself in the local community. Joining clubs, volunteering, or attending community events can help you meet new people and feel more connected to your new home. It’s also a great way to learn about the local culture and customs. By involving yourself in the community, you’ll feel more connected to your new home and have the opportunity to make new friends and create lasting memories.

Get involved in community when moving to small towns in New York


Beautiful natural landscapes often surround small towns in New York, so take advantage of this by exploring the outdoors. Go for a hike, take a bike ride, or enjoy a leisurely nature walk.
Spending time outside can help you relax and appreciate the slower pace of life. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy spending time outdoors, and it can be a great way to meet
new people and explore your new surroundings.


Explore the Outdoors

A gray pathway with colorful flowers and plants on both ends of the pathway

Practice Mindfulness


Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment. It can be a helpful tool for adjusting to a different pace of life. Focus on the present moment and let go of any worries or distractions. That can help you feel more grounded and at peace with your new
surroundings. By practicing mindfulness, you can learn to appreciate the slower pace of life and find joy in the simple things.


Create a Routine


Creating a routine can help you feel more comfortable and settled in your new home. For
instance, you can establish a daily schedule that includes regular healthy meals, exercise, and
relaxation. As a result, you’ll feel more in control and less overwhelmed by the changes in your
life. Having a routine can also help you feel more grounded and provide a sense of stability inyour new surroundings. It can give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose as you adjust
to your new pace of life in a small town.


A Stress-Free Relocation: Save your Energy to Settle in
Comfortably


Relocating to a small town in New York can be daunting, but hiring a professional moving
company can make the process significantly less stressful. One such example is
helixmove.com, which draws from years of moving experience to efficiently handle the logistics
of your move, ensuring that your belongings are transported with care. That will give you peace
of mind and allow you to focus your time and energy on settling into your new home and
discovering the surroundings.

Relocating to a small town in New York can be daunting, but hiring a professional
moving company can make the process significantly less stressful.

Stay Connected

Small towns can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re used to a busy social life. Make an
effort to stay connected with friends and family, whether it’s through phone calls, video chats, or visits. Maintaining these connections can help you feel supported and less alone. You can feel more supported and less isolated in your new home by staying connected with loved ones.


The Joy of Exploring Local Eateries: A Delicious
Welcome to Your New Small Town


Moving to small towns in New York can be an exciting adventure, especially when you take the
time to explore the local eateries. From cozy cafes to charming diners, there’s something
special about discovering your new community’s unique flavors and culinary delights.
Whether you’re a foodie or simply enjoy trying new dishes, exploring the local food scene can
be a delicious way to immerse yourself in your new surroundings. Plus, it’s a great way to meet
new people and connect with the local culture. So, grab a friend or family member and embark
on a culinary journey through your new small town. Who knows? You might just find your new
favorite spot.


Be Patient with Yourself


Adjusting to a different pace of life takes time, so be patient with yourself. It’s normal to feel a bit out of place or overwhelmed at first, but with time and effort, you’ll start to feel more at home in your new surroundings. Remember that taking things slow and giving yourself time to adjust is okay. Before you know it, you’ll feel right at home in your new small-town life.


Conclusion


Moving to small towns in New York can be a big adjustment, but with the right mindset and
strategies, you can learn to embrace the slower pace of life. You can make the transition
smoother and more enjoyable if you involve yourself in the community, explore the outdoors,
practice mindfulness, and stay connected with loved ones. Remember to be patient with
yourself and give yourself time to adapt. Before you know it, you’ll feel right at home in your new small-town life.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-mother-and-child-carrying-cardboard-boxes-into-the-kitchen-area-7415053/


https://www.pexels.com/photo/group-of-people-enjoying-music-concert-325521/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/gray-concrete-pathway-besides-pink-flower-during-day-158028/


https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-family-moving-into-a-new-house-7414910/

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New Rochelle 10804

What is it like to live in New Rochelle? Great! If you are a pet owner then you get to meet your neighbors quite quickly, and I have to admit that I while I know the pooches’ names I might have trouble remembering the owners’ names!

I have written about my area in the past, but just wanted to share some happy news from the weekend when neighbors (and now friends)popped over at the end of the day for some cocktails, “What does a Psychologist, attorney, Speech Pathologist and a Realtor have in common?” It sounded like the start of a joke but the answer was/is neighbors and friends! It was so nice to be able to share our thoughts and get together but most importantly, w all agreed that we love living in New Rochelle!

Dr. Regina Schwarz, Kim Carpenter, Esq. and Deborah Chassen (and me!)

Recent area prices in our neighborhood have ranged from $910,000 to over $2 Million dollars this past year based on home condition.

Come and visit – you will love it!

New Rochelle is Great!

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Black History Month in New Rochelle!

Originally posted in 2017, I thought it would be fun to post and update this blog on the famous notable Black residents in our great city! once again!

Having lived in New Rochelle for over 43 years, I have long appreciated our great city, our wonderful schools, and our library. As an avid reader, I enjoy visiting the library to obtain my late night reading choices (mostly espionage!), and I always admire the impressive exhibitions.  February, being Black History Month, was the perfect opportunity to cite some of our many famous, notable Black residents…

Adina and me! It was a hot evening!

Anna Jones Robinson Bernard 1900-1983 (Teacher, Attorney, Community Activist), Ellabelle Davis 1907-1960 (Concert Soprano), Canada Lee 1907-1952 (Actor), Frederick Douglass Patterson 1901-1988 (, Educator, Doctor of Veterinary  Administrator), Pearl Primus 1919- 1994 (Cultural Anthropologist, Educator, Dancer), Whitney M. Young, Jr. 1921-1971 (Civil Rights Leader, Administrator), Christopher Edley, Sr. 1928-2003 (Former CEO of  the UNCF), Lou Jones 1932-2006 ( Gold Medalist, Athlete, Educator, County Official), Lt. Lee Archer 1919-2010 (WW11 Tuskegee Airman, Corporate Executive, Entrepreneur), Fritz Pollard 1894-1986 (Foot ball Player, Coach and Entrepreneur), Lucille Dixon 1924-2004 (Actress), Ossie Davis 1917-2005 ( Actor, Writer, Producer, Director, Activist), and  Ruby Dee 1922-2014 (Actress, Writer, Poet, Producer, Activist).

My good friend Bonnie and I at a PIFEST evening ( The Play it Forward Eclectic Soul Tour presented Philanthropy through Music).

So funny, but in 2017 I obtained a wonderful listing on Crawford Terrace, and learned that Branford Marsalis , jazz legend, was one of the past owners. I excitedly informed my clients that I would mention his name in the listing. They laughed! As it turned out, one of the owners was Donna Wood who performed for 15 years at the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater! Oh my! I was in the presence of a celebrity! We sold the home that first weekend, and became friends! They were and are lovely! I was also privileged to have sold one of the homes owned by Mr. Ken Chenault (past CEO of American Express) .

In 2022, I saw advertised a great jazz series (PIFEST) which was held in the festive and tented backyard of another local celebrity – Adina Nyree. I was able to attend two of the concerts, and my friends and I had so much fun.

We are privileged to have so many wonderful residents in New Rochelle, both past and present. Come and visit. You will not want to leave!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

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Valentine’s Day!

Where to start! Without referencing first, I must comment on how I first knew or learned about Valentine’s Day in England. I can vividly recall receiving Valentine Day cards being left on my Primary Level (Kindergarten) desk in Primary School. The card might have a few comments but the cards were always unsigned, and it was so much fun to try and guess as to who sent the card to you! It was fun!

Upon researching the history of Valentine’s Day, we can readily read how it encompassed Christian conversion, to mid February being the start of bird’s mating season thus commemorating love, and there is still in existence a poem written ” written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. (The greeting is now part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England.) Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois. ” Courtesy of History.com Editors.”

There are quite a few Christian martyrs being named Valentine, and according to legend, in order “to remind these men of their vows and God’s love, Saint Valentine is said to have cut hearts from parchment”, giving them to these soldiers and persecuted Christians, a possible origin of the widespread use of hearts on Saint Valentine’s Day.[43] (Courtesy Wikipedia –  Frank Staff, The Valentine & Its Origins, 1969, Frederick A. Praeger.)

Per “Real Simple” reservations are hard to obtain at restaurants on Valentine’s Day and as an aside restaurants aren’t too happy either as people book a table for 2 and not 10!

There are also a few fun facts to be found also…

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