Kelsey Kudak As you probably know by now, a major storm is expected to intensify in the next hours and could leave 10 to 14 inches of snow by early Saturday afternoon. During a press conference this afternoon, Mayor Bloomberg urged New Yorkers to go home early today and stock up on supplies and medicine. Low-lying areas may experience moderate coastal flooding as the tide rises a foot or two, he said. Underground subway service should run “close to normal,” though bus service will be reduced as the storm picks up. Alternate-side parking is suspended citywide through Sunday.
With the white stuff coming down fast, The Local called up establishments around the East Village to see how they were preparing for the storm. If they were preparing at all.
N.Y.U.
All classes, activities, offices, and operations are cancelled after 4 p.m., with the exception of this evening’s events at Skirball and Kimmel. The school will reopen tomorrow at 9 a.m., according to an e-mail.
Associated Supermarket
Norman Quintanila said they were well-stocked and hope to stay open through the weekend.
Whole Foods Market
Shaquarry Williams said people are picking up “more items than usual, but nothing serious.”
CHP Hardware
According to Monica Pedreros, “it’s not, like, crazy.”
La MaMa E.T.C.
After some initial bravado on Twitter (“What’s a little snow compared to the life long memories that you will acquire from coming to La Mama??”), the theater canceled tonight’s performance of “Four Beckett Shorts.”
Saifee Hardware
“A bit of traffic in the morning,” said Lhakpa Nama.
Fatima MalikAstor Wines and Spirits
Jasper Quinones said things were very slow, but they have cancelled part of their delivery in Queens.
Union Square Wines and Spirits
Charles Sasson said that there was “definitely an influx starting yesterday evening,” and that people were “grabbing one more extra bottle than usual.”
The Catholic Worker
Lunch was busy. They plan to hand out blankets, coats and gloves to the homeless in the afternoon to help them weather the storm.
Fourth Arts Block
Spokeswoman Hannah Krafcik said that for the most part, all shows would go on. “It looks like everyone’s saying, ‘Rain or shine!’” she said.
BP Service Station, 21 East Houston Street
Owner Marcello Borcetti said it was busy, but just like any other day.
Bowery Mission
Staff has spent the last few days gearing up to serve the homeless caught in the storm. They’ve collected shovels, double checked their boilers and fuel supply, and instructed the kitchen to be ready with hot, hearty meals for anyone seeking shelter. “A few folks are in the chapel right now hunkering down and preparing for a long night,” said Matt Krivich, director of operations at the mission. They expect many more before the night is over. “If you see anybody outside let them know we are open 24 hours a day, no questions asked.”
Ducks Eatery
There’s a blizzard party tonight, per Twitter: “$5 shot/beer & free shot of moonshine to every snowangel made!!”
14th Street Y
The ballroom dance class is still on for tomorrow, according to Twitter: “Dance thru the snow and then dance with us!”
Luke’s Lobster
Delivery has been cancelled today.
Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space
The Direct Action Fashion Show is still on for tomorrow, per Twitter: “Planes do it. So will we. Snow or not, we’re still hitting the runway tomorrow.”
Ukrainian Museum
Workshops are cancelled tomorrow.
Mercury Lounge
“Eff Nemo, all systems go for tonight!” the club Tweets.
Pret a Manger
A Twitter user says they closed early today. No answer at the Union Square shop.
Have any storm-related news to share? Let us know in the comments, or e-mail us and we’ll continue to update this post.
