The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Inside Press

Gifts We Treasure

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by Sarah Ellen Berman

Editor’s Note: Sarah tells IC she “thoroughly enjoyed” meeting so many members of the diverse group of advertisers featured in this Winter edition. Her mission was clear cut: to find out what gifts might fall into “the kind you can really treasure” category, whether it’s something that brings joy and meaning to your own life or to that of any loved one. We hope there are any number of ideas in these next few pages that will encourage you to shop local and engage with our great area merchants! And from this publisher: Thank you time and again for support for the pages of Inside Chappaqua, a publication delivered each time free and chock full of articles for the reading pleasure of over 6,000 area households. –Grace

At Bet Torah Nursery School in Mount Kisco, Mindy Citera suggests gift certificates to “give the gift of fun.” Grandparents may wish to give a mommy and me or mom’s day out class. Contributing toward tuition is another gratifying option.

For the quintessential New Year’s resolution. Maria Briones, M.D., has the answer. Her patients can attest to the efficacy of her weight loss program. Briones offers the support and guidance which are vital to success. Through a carefully planned diet and exercise program, she insures that the weight loss is permanent.

Ellen Koelsch of Club Fit recommends a gift card. She noted that the card contains, “The nice message that you care about their health.” Cards may be used toward anything at the club including massage, clothing, personal training, or a meal at the cafe.

A gift card or customized basket from Emmary Day Spa affords your friend the gift of indulgence. Hydrafacials are their most popular treatment. Emmary is the only spa in Westchester to offer this type of facial which is designed for sensitive skin.
Massage, soy candles, teas,
cleansers, and moisturizers are also available.

At Eye Designs, optician Jamie Herman noted that prescription sunglasses by Oliver Peoples and Tom Ford are popular gifts for the holidays. He also recommends digital progressive lenses. The advantage of these multifocal lenses is that they are easy to adapt to. Eye Designs also features optical fashion accessories. They carry eye-bobs (ready made readers) in funky shapes and patterns and la loop; eye catching eye glass holders seen on Heidi Klum.

At the dermatological practice of Lydia Evans, M.D., treats for a friend or loved one are copious. Dr. Evans suggests a gift certificate for a microdermabrasion or glycolic acid peel, facial, personalized skin care routine or the surprise of a pre-arranged procedure that one has longed for. Dr. Evans loves what she does and it shows. For those who are interested in cosmetic services, she eschews doling out recommendations, verbatim. When a client comes in to inquire, she listens intently to discern, “What it is they’re looking for,” and plans “what’s best for them.”

This year, put a gift certificate from Eye Gallery on your list. They showcase, “The most important accessory you can own,” according to co-owner Michael Rosen. When greeting someone, “Sunglasses are the first thing people see,” he noted. A fashionable look is not complete until the latest in eyewear is added. Eye Gallery carries Robert Marc worn by Nicole Kidman and Barton Perreira sported by Brad Pitt. Styles by Chanel and Oliver Peoples are also on hand. While looking good, your loved one will be protecting the health of their eyes year
round from omnipresent ultra violet rays.

At Family Britches, altruism reigns supreme. Co-owners Barry Mishkin and Rick Buggee are soliciting donations of suits and sport coats. These garments will be donated to Twigs Thriftree Thrift Shop which benefits Northern Westchester Hospital. “What shouldn’t get lost in the holidays is the spirit of giving,” Mishkin noted. This idea may provide the impetus for a husband or partner to give away clothing that is no longer cherished. In return, customers will receive a discount of $50 off toward the purchase of a new suit or sport coat.

Gail Patrick’s Cafe has gift baskets, “full of epicurean delights,” according to co-owner Gail Filacchione. Gift certificates are great for teachers and middle schoolers (who just can’t get enough of those dumplings.) Highlights from their extensive Chanukah menu are: latkes, matzoh ball soup, brisket, and rugelach. The Christmas and New Year’s menu includes: Italian Wedding soup, roast rib eye of beef, whipped sweet potatoes with brown sugar, and cookies galore.

At Grappolo Locando we love the holiday season! We can help you plan an exciting and festive intimate at-home wine tasting dinner with family and friends. Chef/Owner Thomas Cuomo will personally go to your home with his sommelier. (Think Prosecco with a wild mushroom bruschetta, luscious braised short ribs and creamy mascarpone polenta with a hearty Moltepulciano and biscotti with Vin Santo!) Another idea might be to book an at-home cooking class for you and your friends – a great way to enjoy a sumptuous and scrumptious meal while learning how it’s done!

At Hilltop Wines and Spirits, describe the type of wine you’re looking for and owner Peter Costello will find the ideal match or assemble a customized gift basket. Additionally, Costello recommends offering a membership in his Wine Club. Members receive a case of wines selected by certified sommelier Costello, delivered to their home each month. On Saturdays from 2-6, he hosts wine tastings from different regions and producers. All featured wines are on special during the tastings. Costello’s top picks for this holiday season are the: 2009 Bordeaux, vintage ports, single malt scotch, champagne, and prosecco.

For timeless gifts, visit ICD Jewelry. The staff is truly passionate about jewelry and provides invaluable assistance in the selection of the perfect piece. Designs by Varda feature 22K gold medallions with 2nd to 4th century ancient coins, geodes, and many other gemstones. Matching earrings are also available. Marco Bicego’s semiprecious 18K gold creations are adorned with amethyst, peridot, and blue topaz. Penny Preville’s line sparkles with diamonds. Israeli designer Marika’s artisanal works include a delicately crafted cuff. For children looking to shower their friends and relatives with jewelry, there is a full array of moderately priced items. Gift certificates are also available.

At Ivana Denniston Aesthetics, gift certificates and gift boxes contain the keys to beauty. Ivana is renowned for her skill in brow shaping. She focuses on the natural shape and insures a “perfect, glamourous look.” Ivana also offers makeovers, the Decleor skin care line, and makeup.

Holiday camp will be offered at Jodi’s Gym during the December vacation. Here kids will learn the basics of gymnastics on balance beams, bars, rings, vault, tumble track, and the space bouncer. The fun never ends during camp. Music, art, story time, games and lunch are on the menu!

Consider a gift card for a Nutritional Consultation with one of Westchester’s best nutritionists, Dina Khader in Mount Kisco. Her individualized plans help individuals with various weight loss and medical conditions–whether it’s eliminating pain or getting cholesterol under control or losing 75 pounds via state of the art testing to streamline nutritional requirements. During a visit, you can also create an individualized gift basket of skin care or food items, all organic, including Dina’s signature box of 16 dark chocolate truffles, extra virgin olive oil, healthy jams and snacks.
Gift certificates at Le Jardin du Roi are welcomed by teachers, friends, and family. The cozy ambiance at this bistro is particularly appreciated during the wintry, holiday season. The menu at Le Jardin du Roi is replete with favorites and new additions. Send those on your list here for hearty soups, cassoulet, coq au vin, mixed berry crumble, and tarte tatin.

Rosemary Devlin at the serene
O2 Living Holistic Wellness Center in Cross River suggests a gift certificate “for a holistic well-being and healthier 2011.” Along with tantalizing spa treatments and award winning yoga classes, O2 carries the Dr. Haushka line of skin care products, juices and delicious smoothies.

Visit Loungerie for intimate wear apparel and for special picks perfect for the season, such as the b.tempt’d by Wacoal fashion line made popular by the beautiful up and coming recording star Esmee Denters. Also check out the store’s special holiday time promotion: Purchase any two items of the same style, different designers, and buy a third item for half
the price.

At New Castle Physical Therapy, co-owner Adam Pliskow recommends the gift of health. He is offering an orthopedic or fitness assessment for $50 from now until the end of March. He sees many people who relate that their spouses suffer from back or neck pain but are not inclined to seek treatment. A gift of an assessment will facilitate the road to recovery. Assessments “can lead to either physical therapy or personal training,” Pliskow observed. His location offers a pristine, relaxing environment. Everyone receives individual attention and only one person is booked per hour.

Oasis Day Spa is an award winning spa recently named favored day spa in the country by American Spa Magazine.Their array of services includes facials, massage, manicures, yoga, yoga wear by Lululemon, and personal training. Co-owner Bruce Schoenberg related that anyone who
comes in for a service will walk out “six inches taller.” “What you’re giving is not just the gift of wellness, we’re bringing out the inner you,” he added. This oasis of tranquility has special offers on the first 25 days of December. Each day a different product or service is discounted.

When it’s time to celebrate, call the party planner par excellence. Monique Ross Banks is now the event planner and coordinator of Party! By Monique. She recommends giving the gift of a celebration this holiday season. “I’ve always loved gifts that you wouldn’t necessarily go out and get yourself,” she said. When there’s a reason to fete a friend or relative, Monique is the go to gal. Ever since Monique planned bar and bat mitzvahs for her three children, she has been receiving compliments and requests for advice from friends and family. Today she plans a myriad of events including bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, and corporate events. From cocktail and dinner parties to lavish affairs, Monique does it all, with inimitable flair. When planning a bar or bat mitzvah she related that her goal is, “to make this event the most memorable event of a family’s life.”

The Rosenthal JCC is promoting their Chanukah Gift Factory & Shalom Sesame Launch Party on December 5th. This is a family friendly event where children create gifts such as keychains, picture frames and menorahs to give to family and friends. The program “Can Grover find the missing menorah” will be screened. Children can also make and eat dreidels made out of marshmallows, Hershey kisses, and pretzels. Latkes will be sizzling for hungry artists and their families. The Rosenthal JCC also offers gift certificates for programs such as mommy and me classes, drop-in childcare, or nursery school.

At Squires, one will find a trove of Hunter boots in a wide array of colors as well as coordinating, “welly” socks, for added warmth. Owner Michael Kushner is restricting sales of this hot item to local residents who come into the store. No orders are being shipped. Other attractive gifts include the ever popular, cashmere sweaters in v-neck and shawl collar cardigan models. He also has trendy, Volcom sweatshirts which are sure to please even the most discerning teenager.

At Steffi Nossen School of Dance, Judy Ross recommends a gift certificate for “grandparents, aunts, and uncles to support their dancing child.” Additionally, she advocates coming in for free dance week from January 10-15. Dancers may try as many classes as they would like, sans obligation.
At The Perennial Chef in Bedford Hills, presents abound. The gift of having food appear on the table effortlessly is sure to please during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Turkey, ham, filet mignon, brisket, salmon, latkes, chestnut stuffing, and cheese platters are on the holiday menu. The real creme de la creme are the desserts created by chef Michael. French macarons –not to be confused with coconut macaroons–are his delectable pastries which begin with a crunch and end with cream. Cookies are fashioned in the shape of Santas and dreidels. Proprietor Francoise Jarry has selected herb mills, (for grinding herbs) hors d’oeuvres sets, truffles, plates, and stemware. Her gift certificates and baskets will bring holiday cheer to the foodie in your life.

Wags and Whiskers has presents for the family dog as well as their owners. They are touting truly durable toys including balls; made of recycled seat belts in the shape of a spider and bear and rabbit shaped toys (sans stuffing). “We have pet beds with the most gorgeous fabrics,” owner Christine Meyer noted. Marble topped pet dishes are designed to compliment the kitchen. And of course, Fido may be treated to a luxurious shampoo and cut.

At World Cup Gymnastics and Nursery School, gift certificates are available for giving holiday cheer. The kids’ night out program provides fun for kids and fun for parents. Kids are entertained for four hours while parents are free to catch a movie and have dinner. Grandparents may also be interested in purchasing a session of nursery school, enrichment, gymnastics, or a junior scientist class for the light of their life. Jeannine Johansen of World Cup is a huge proponent of gymnastics. “When you leave gymnastics, you always feel like you’ve accomplished something,” she said.

Leslie’s Latest Triumph

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by Michall Jeffers

Leslie Lampert is a dynamo. It’s impossible to spend any time with this lovely, soft spoken woman, and not be impressed by all she accomplishes. Tavern on the Green Featuring Ladle of Love is her newest achievement. Beginning in October, four mobile upscale restaurants are set up daily at the site of the legendary former eatery.

They operate seven days a week, all year round. Lampert , a longtime Chappaqua resident now living in White Plains, worked hard to be selected, and took very seriously the proposal she had to write and present. She managed to put the whole thing together in eight weeks, and get a liquor license. She’s excited about expanding her restaurant empire, even though “dealing with the City means mountains of paperwork.” When Ladle of Love closes for the day in Mount Kisco, cooks who’ve been specially selected by Lampert start to work on the food for Manhattan. The products are picked up at 7 a.m. and trucked into New York.
Lampert has long been ahead of the curve when it comes to caring about the environment.

She buys and uses the freshest food possible in her establishments, and is dedicated to patronizing local farmers. She calls her new venture “farm to truck” cooking, and explains that she’s actually bought an Electric Hybrid Mobile Food Truck.
“I have to plug it in at night,” she explains. “It’s great, even though it only goes 25 miles an hour; it leaves half the carbon footprint. I’m passionate about the environment.”

Her cognac colored eyes sparkle at the idea that “the cups, dishes, cutlery, everything we’re using is completely compostable. It can all go back into the soil.” Lampert also believe in giving back to the community. She donates a portion of her profits each month to local charities and efforts to improve the quality of living.

With her spectacularly successful French-American restaurant Café Of Love; the go-to spot for luscious soups, Ladle of Love; and her innovative new delivery service Love on the Run, how does Lampert manage to maintain the high quality food and service her customers expect?

She’s quick to credit the first class team she’s assembled over the years. “I do expect the very best, and I have that in the people around me.” Michael Cutney is the Executive Chef at Café Of Love, and Mena Popolis is the manager; KC Playford is the manager at Ladle in Mount Kisco; Alexander Kirk manages the New York location. They’re all just phenomenal.”

Michall Jeffers is a well-respected cultural journalist, and an unrepentant Foodie. She and her husband, John Warner, are longtime Chappaqua residents.

The Fashionista’s Friend

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by Sarah Ellen Berman

Babette, elegance personified, reigns at her boutique. When crossing the threshold of Elegance II, one is instantly surrounded by beauty and its infinite possibilities. Whether the motivation is a quest for a new accessory or the desire for a radically different look, the recognition that this is the perfect place is felt immediately.

What is it that keeps customers coming back in droves season after season? Babette’s sense of style is certainly an integral part of the draw. She honed her fashion sense at an early age while accompanying her mother–a stylist to the elite in France–on buying expeditions. Babette returns to the city of light twice a year to stay in tune with the latest in fashion trends. Stop by any day and check out what she’s wearing for the answer to what is chic.

Babette’s friendly demeanor and effervescent personality contribute greatly to the attractiveness of her shop. An inquiry about a pair of Manolos or a Louis Vuitton purse brings a smile to her face and a twinkle to her eye. The advice she offers and the style she imparts are welcomed by all.

Glance at the window display when entering the store. Here are Babette’s treasures: Chanel bags. This is the showcase for the latest model from Paris as well as the classics. “If you start wearing Chanel, you’ll never wear anything else,” Babette affirmed.

Her collection of distinctive dresses contains gems from the world of haute couture. From Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, and Chanel to Dolce and Gabbana, Babette has it all. For those seeking the ultimate in luxurious coats, she has an extensive array of mink coats. For casual dressing, try on a pair of Theory jeans with a cardigan by Three Dots.

Babette attributes part of her success to the rise in popularity of consignment venues. In the past, many people harbored the misconception that the quality of the products was not of paramount importance. When Hollywood stars including Demi Moore were sighted at shops, consignment’s reputation soared.

Whether it’s a gift certificate or an outfit, a present from Elegance II is destined to delight the fashionista in your life. Babette’s exquisite taste pervades her collection. For those who think that the present of an Hermes scarf is too extravagant in this parlous economic climate, a trip to Elegance II will be pleasantly enlightening in every way except on the wallet. Recent finds included a violet dress by Alexander McQueen and a multi-colored coat by Jean Paul Gauthier.

The clientele are unanimous in their affinity for Elegance II. Eileen Josefs, a very frequent shopper, enjoys each and every visit. “It’s fun. It’s an adventure,” she said. When comparing the prices charged on Madison Avenue to those of Elegance II, customer Rosemarie Bedenson said, “You think you’re crazy for paying retail!”

Holiday Spectacular and More Planned by the Chappaqua Singers

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by Michael Kohn

For over 30 years, the Chappaqua Singers have been delighting audiences with their upbeat repertoires, choreography and stage attire. A northern Westchester County performing arts treasure, the group was founded by musical director Marie Terotta Roche, a critically-acclaimed singer
dancer, actor and radio personality.

Accompanied by Broadway pianist Sue Anderson, the 15 women have
performed as far away as Romania while primarily sharing their talents locally.

Currently, they are in rehearsal for their “holiday spectacular” which will be performed at various venues throughout the area, culminating in a performance at the Met Life Building, adjacent to Grand Central Station in New York City on Thursday, December 16, from 5 to 6 pm.

According to Marie Terotta Roche, “our holiday program has something for everyone–from sacred church music to the
classics, including “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Sleigh Ride,” a beautiful medley of Hanukah songs, all the way to “Santa Baby” and “Jingle Bell
Rock.” The professional-caliber entertainers seamlessly mix their music and choreography into a wonderful show which includes soloists and four-part harmonies.

Member Marvel Griepp is especially excited about the show at the Met Life building where busy commuters stop on their way to work to soak up some holiday
cheer. She loves the workday rush contributing to a “wonderful ebb and flow.” Once, Broadway sensation Audra McDonald graced the group with her presence.

In addition to their holiday shows, the Chappaqua Singers have performed each year at the city-wide 9/11 observance. This past year, they performed in the high-traffic lobby of an office building
at 40 Worth Street in New York City.

Said Roche, “the program wove a rich musical tapestry that paid tribute to those who perished in the events of September 11. I lost a son-in-law that day, so being able to lift the spirits of people who work in New York has deep significance to me personally and to my singers.”

You can catch the Chappaqua Singers at the following places and times: Saturday, December 4 at 3:30 p.m. as part of the New Castle Community Sing followed by a
tree lighting; the Robert E. Bell School, 50 Senter St., Chappaqua on Friday, December 10, 1:30-2:30 p.m.; Chappaqua Seniors, Community Center, Senter St.,
Chappaqua on Thursday, December 16, from 5-6 p.m.. For further information, email Griepp at mgriepp@optonline.com.
And, they are always interested in new members.

Michael Kohn is a contributing editor and writer to Inside Chappaqua.

The Better Half

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by Rick Reynolds

Back when I first started writing for Inside Chappaqua, my daughter was still drawing with chalk on the cul de sac outside our Chappaqua home. All grown up now, she’s majoring in art and riding for a collegiate equestrian team in the central valley of New Hampshire. It’s been a long while.

Anyway, during that time and within these pages I’ve written about such dark and sordid subjects as puppies, parenthood, holidays, sharing, gardening, knitting, and cookies, to name just a few. And I hope I’ve made not merely a few lives a little more tolerable in the process. I’m here to tell you, all the above are survivable!

It’s not that I’m overly critical.
I just have little patience for the “glass-half-full” people–or their “glass-half-empty” counterparts. Call me literal, but I just see the half glass. (Not literally, of course: not a half glass filled to the gunwales, but a whole glass half full.) So, in a world of “halfs” and “half nots,” I’m a “half,” deadlocked precisely midway between unvarnished reality and gauzy optimism.

And what’s wrong with a half a glass anyway? It whets your whistle, and it’s enough to get your pills down. Moreover, with our latest market meltdown, I’d like to think “half” is the new “black.” Half is better than none and more sustainable than “all.” And promoting “half” avoids platitudes. For instance, for those who say, “When one door closes, another one opens,” I was the one who wanted to pick the lock on the closed one–seeing the new door as a trap.

As a Bell School student, I dreamt of becoming either a theoretical physicist or a bank robber. Having little talent for either, I re-imagined myself a theoretical bank robber with a hankering for art. Thankfully, Stanley Tucci, the renown art teacher at Greeley (and father of the famous actor by the same name), fanned the embers of my artistic half, wisely telling me I could always become a bank robber later on if I really wanted it badly enough. What a difference one teacher can make in your life!

With Mr. Tucci’s encouragement, I went on to study fine art, minoring in communication design as a lifeline. This armed me with the skills to try and make the unsightly half of the world half attractive. After college I moved back to Chappaqua and ran a marketing communications/corporate events firm for 25 years out of NYC and Armonk.

And then with, yes, a new door opening–one I picked–I took a position as a marketing director at a thriving national timber frame homebuilding firm. Bucking the downward trend in new home construction, I’ve used print advertising to great effect, and while many of our competitors have hunkered down and gone under, our shops are busy turning out beautiful, energy efficient, heirloom quality homes–knock on wood. The patient is still alive! Customers want to buy, especially locally, if they can find you.

But I’m digressing. Where was I? Oh yes. Writing for Inside Chappaqua.

Sure, the good publisher and editor had scratched her head at some of my submissions, wondering if one can make half sense, or half nonsense, and still have any validity whatsoever–and I credit her with hanging in there. I certainly hope that, with this “economy of half” in which we find ourselves, advertisers will see that a small town print magazine is worth much more than the paper it’s printed on. It’s imprinted on our fabric. It’s community. When we lose that, we’ve lost half the battle–the only half worth writing about.

Chappaqua alumnus and 35-year resident of Chappaqua, humorist Rick Reynolds resides in southern New Hampshire with his wife, daughter,
and 2 dogs.