Baked in Bronxville: New Cookie Company Launches

Tucked between tables of antiques, bric-a-brac  and vintage clothing, their booth stood out. Joe Somodi and Kurt Stamm of Bronxville used the occasion of the Garrett Park Block Party in late September to officially launch their new passion and new company, Renegade Cookies.

Joe and Kurt aim to "create the best tasting and healthiest oatmeal cookies" after having found a dearth of options on the local market. After spending a year perfecting their recipe, and testing it at parties and get-togethers, Renegade Cookies became reality on that cool September afternoon.

 "We thought it was the perfect occasion to meet the faces we'd love to have as our loyal customers," says Joe. By the looks of the crowds gathered around the booth, they were making lots of loyal customers with the free samples available.

Overall, the event was "a huge success" says Joe.

Renegade Cookies specializes in corporate events and parties, but you can also buy the cookies direct from Kurt and Joe by emailing orders@renegadecookie.com  or calling 212-246-3874.

People on the Street

Who:  Jana John (pronounced "Yahnna")

Where: Taking a study break

When: Sunday, 2pm

About Town:  Sarah Lawrence student?

Jana John: Yes, I'm a first year. We got here August 28th, had about a week of orientation, and now we're in our fifth week of school.

AT:  So here's the ubiquitous icebreaker –what's your major?

JJ: It's tricky at a liberal arts college like Sarah Lawrence. They encourage you to really branch out, and actually discourage majors, at least at first. We have something called the Concentration and for me it's theater, as well as dance and voice.

AT: Where are you from originally?

JJ: I'm from Berlin, Germany originally, but I grew up in Wisconsin.

AT: Yowza. So tell us your first impressions of Bronxville.

JJ: I love Bronxville. It's really homey and family-oriented. I love the closeness to the city. It seems to have everything, for a small town—Yoga classes, a movie theater, Starbucks. I was shocked to find this store [Brother Fruits and Vegetables] where you can find anything organic. There are so many great cafes, wonderful ethnic restaurants. You can tell it is pretty wealthy, and there's nothing wrong with that, but you do get the really suburban feel.

AT: Sounds like you've gotten to know the town pretty well. How are classes going?

JJ: Fantastic. I find the work really intellectually fueling and stimulating, but I just don't have enough time to do all of it. I find myself rushing, cramming, and wish I had more time to devote to each bit of work, because I love it all.

This is the third in our series of "About Town" brief interviews with random folks on the streets of Bronxville. Because if Justin Bieber deserves 15 minutes of fame, so do you.