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A 92-Year Road to Sweetness: The Legacy of Ray Alvarez
The aroma of fried candy bars and egg creams wafts through the narrow space of Ray's Candy Store, an East Village gem that has been serving indulgent treats since 1974. At 92 years old, Ray Alvarez, the store’s founder, is not just a local celebrity; he represents a tapestry of resilience interwoven with the vibrant history of New York City and its neighborhoods. His journey from a farm in Iran to running a beloved candy store is nothing short of bittersweet, marked with sacrifices, struggles, and an unwavering spirit.
A Humble Beginning: Ray’s Early Life
Ray was born Asghar Ghahraman in Iran in 1933. Orphaned just weeks after his birth, he was sent to live with his sister in Tehran. His early years were marred by hardship, and he learned the value of hard work at an extremely young age. From making elastic in a factory for a mere 79 cents a week to joining the Iranian Navy, Ray's determination to forge a better life was evident from the start. In a defining moment, he jumped ship in Norfolk, Virginia, craving freedom and a fresh start. With only $7 in his pocket, his journey began anew in America.
The Birth of a New Identity
To navigate his new life, Ray adopted the name Ramon Alvarez, reflecting both a desire to fit in and a plea for reinvention. Arriving in New York, he was overwhelmed yet optimistic, taking on various jobs at bars and restaurants, where he flourished. But when blackmail over his immigration status threatened this newfound stability, Ray saw his dreams of ownership slipping away. With the guidance of a friend, he pivoted from the uncertain restaurant business to the more stable arena of candy sales. Ray purchased a struggling candy store for $33,000—his savings transformed into a labor of love.
The Sweet Success of Ray’s Candy Store
Ray’s Candy Store quickly became a staple for the local community, known primarily for its delicious egg creams and late-night snacks. As reported in The New York Times, filmmaker Arya Ghavamian documented this institution, showcasing the little shop’s charm and the vibrancy of the East Village. Even when health issues arose, Alvarez remained committed to keeping the doors open 24/7, highlighting his dedication to serving the neighborhood and the significance of small businesses in urban settings. His sugar-laden creations have become synonymous with the heart of the East Village, especially for night owls seeking a taste of nostalgia.
Cultural Significance and Connection
Whitney Browne, a photographer, recently released a book titled Candy Store, which pays homage to Ray’s Candy Store. Browne’s connection with the shop goes beyond food; it encapsulates the spirit of the East Village, a community full of unique flavors and characters. Her memories of grabbing egg creams while mingling with local residents epitomize the reinforced community bonds that the store has fostered over decades. In an era dominated by mega-chains, Ray’s persists as a reminder of the importance of local establishments in our cultural landscape.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
With a trail of supporters and a legacy of shared joy, Ray Alvarez continues to work with vigor. His story reminds us that small businesses are not just places to shop but spaces where memories are made and community connections are forged. As he looks toward turning 100, Ray expresses that he still has years of work left in him. In his own words, "8 more years... I’ll be 100. I’ll retire," evoking a blend of humor and determination that embodies his life’s journey.
Takeaway
Ray's life story is more than that of a candy store owner; it is an inspiring narrative of resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. For those in the San Francisco Bay Area who appreciate art, culture, and the heartfelt stories that come from small business owners like Ray, visiting or supporting local shops is a way to keep the spirit alive. These establishments do not just serve food; they sustain the memories that bind communities together. So next time you indulge in sweets at a local spot, remember the story behind it and the people who poured their lives into it.
Explore Ray’s Candy Store when you're in New York and engage with the simple joys it offers—such indulgences nourish more than just the body; they nourish the soul, connecting us through shared experiences of sweetness, nostalgia, and kindness.
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