I would also like to see more smart investment in the borough from other industries. We have so much potential to be a home for financial companies, advertising agencies, technology firms, filmmakers and the pharmaceutical industry. They need to visit and look at our growing neighborhoods.
While we need investors, we also need to keep in mind the well-being of our residents. We don't want people to be chased out of their homes to make room for development. We need to uplift our communities as well as our economy; this has to be a 50-50 deal.
Restoring pride
My own vision is to restore pride in the borough. I want to help The Bronx get to a point at which no one will mock, ridicule or belittle us. I love to see our international visitors leave with a different mindset than the one they came with. I have a lot of ideas and plans for upcoming events, such as a Doo Wop dinner and French Music and Brunch. I've have been working on marketing efforts for the new Mall at Bay Plaza, the first of its kind to open in more than 40 years. I'm also working with Macy’s to develop a tour for the store’s shoppers.
One of my main goals with these events is to bring business and money to The Bronx, so we can reduce our unemployment rate. My tours help small businesses and bring exposure to our cultural and national landmarks.
A common vision
I’ve been working closely with Fred Dixon, the president and CEO of NYC & Co., and I'm happy to report that he shares a common vision. Dixon, along with his vice president, Marty Markowitz, sees opportunities for The Bronx and other outer boroughs to be highlighted on an international level for years to come. I'm very happy to have them represent us.
Through these tough times, I’ve made some terrific friends and connections in business, and I'm trying to help them get them to the next level. I will open doors for them, which is something that didn’t happen for me. I'm going to show support and loyalty to the people in my borough in any way I can. I will always remember the good people in my life and try to forget all the closed doors.
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Alexandra Maruri is co-owner of Montecarlo Souvenirs & Tours. For more information about her business, please visit mcnytours.com, email her at [email protected] or call 646-831-1078.