The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Inside Press

Making Headway Foundation Approves Over $350,000 in Grants to Help Children with Brain Tumors

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Chappaqua, NY — The mission of the Making Headway Foundation is provide care and comfort for children with brain and spinal cord tumors while funding medical research geared to better treatments and a cure. Over the past 20 years, Making Headway has invested over $20 million in research and services to these children and their families. In January 2017, Making Headway continued this incredibly valuable work by approving over $350,000 in new grants to The Stephen D. Hassenfeld Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at the NYU Langone Medical Center. These grants will fund a variety of programs that address both the short-term and long-term needs of children with brain or spinal cord tumors.

Patients and care givers at NYU’s Hassefeld clinic.Photos for the Making Headway Foundation.

Today, there are more than 28,000 children living with a brain or spinal cord tumor, commonly referred to as a Central Nervous System (CNS) tumor. Over 2,500 children (seven every day) are diagnosed every year. In 2016, pediatric CNS tumors caused more deaths than any other type of pediatric cancer. Making Headway is committed to helping these children by providing Care, Comfort, and a Cure.

In order to have the most significant impact Making Headway focuses on holistic approaches to research and services. With this in mind, it approved funding for four significant, but very different research grants. For example, one grant will fund the NYU Center for Biospecimen Research & Development, which catalogs and stores thousands of invaluable medical samples from children with brain or spinal cord tumors. Doctors from around the world can request and receive samples for their research, at no cost. Making Headway is trying to encourage more research and collaboration, with an expectation of practical improvements related to the treatment and prevention of pediatric brain and spinal cord tumors. This grant is complimented by another that supports a Clinical Trials Manager. Clinical trials are important research studies that explore whether a medical strategy, treatment, or device is safe and effective for humans. The Clinical Trials Manager will oversee 35 active research projects that are devoted to pediatric brain or spinal cord tumors. Each trial has the potential to discover a new treatment or possibly a cure for these pediatric tumors.

Making Headway is also investing in research to help children from a psychological perspective. It is well-established that children with brain or spinal cord tumors present with a host of cognitive, academic, and socio-emotional challenges both during and after treatments are completed. Funded by Making Headway, the Hassenfeld Neuropsychology Testing Program evaluates and monitors newly diagnosed children. This is part of unique, formal protocol created at Hassenfeld (through another Making Headway grant), in which all newly diagnosed patients receive pro-active interventions, such as educational support and related services as needed.

Making Headway understands that in order for children to receive the highest quality medical services, there must be specifically trained doctors who understand the unique technical needs of pediatric brain and spinal cord tumor patients. Making Headway has been helping to meet this need through an annual grant to support a pediatric neuro-oncology fellowship at NYU Langone Medical Center. Chosen from among the best candidates in the country, these fellows evaluate and treat a broad range of brain or spinal cord tumors in children, manage neurological complications of systemic cancer in children, participate in the conduct of clinical trials and prepare for an academic leadership career in pediatric neuro-oncology. Now in its 6th year, this program has been very successful, as each fellow has moved forward with a robust career in pediatric neuro-oncology.

Making Headway was created 20 years ago by a few families who had a child diagnosed with a brain or spinal cord tumor. Since that time, this Westchester-based non-profit organization has been dedicated to helping other children and their families. Its investments in medical research and training have been critically important, leading to new breakthroughs and training the next generation of pediatric neuro-oncologists. Beyond research, it provides a true continuum of services in order to help families impacted by pediatric brain or spinal cord tumors. Its ongoing programs include educational and psychological counseling, fun family events, a scholarship fund, and a variety of in-hospital care services.

To learn more, or to donate to Making Headway, visit www.MakingHeadway.org or call 914-238-8384.

 

 

Multi Faceted Katonah Arts Center “A Creative Force” in Westchester

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An upcoming show, Arbor Vitae: Tree of Life, the tree paintings of Susan Stillman, are on exhibit at the Anderson Chase Gallery from January 9 – February 3, 2017. The opening reception to meet the artist is scheduled for January 14, 2017 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Open House and Free Arts Day:  Sunday, January 15th, 1-3 p.m.

Goldens Bridge, NY— The Katonah Art Center has been a creative force in Northern Westchester for over 2o years. During that period, KAC has grown from a small painting and drawing studio to a large multi-arts center. 2016 was an especially transformative year, with a move to our dream space–a 1912 schoolhouse which once home to the Northern Westchester Center for the Arts. Our new building far surpasses any of our former locations in size, lighting and character. The well-lit, high ceilinged classrooms upstairs became our drawing and painting studios, computer art and 3D printing lab as well as our office space. The lower floor now houses our spacious pottery and sculpture studios, children’s studio and new specialty studio equipped for metal-smithing, fused glass and printmaking.

With the new space came a new gallery. The Anderson Chase Gallery is intended to serve as a source of inspiration and opportunity for not only our immediate KAC family, but also the wider Northern Westchester and NYC communities. So far, the gallery has greatly exceeded our expectations. Our upcoming show, Arbor Vitae: Tree of Life, the tree paintings of Susan Stillman, will be on exhibit at the Anderson Chase Gallery from January 9 – February 3, 2017. The opening reception to meet the artist is scheduled for January 14, 2017 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

KAC course offerings cater to all ages and diverse disciplines including painting, drawing, pottery, photography, fused glass, and metal-smithing, among others. Our staff are all professional artists. Our newest instructor, Christopher Zacharow,  has been a long-time instructor at The Cooper Union, Parsons School of Design and Pratt Institute. Other instructors include well known artists such as Wende Caporale, master portraitist, and Rae Smith, master pastel artist. Both have been featured in numerous magazines and have won many awards.

Also on staff is Tracy Burtz, a local artist whose works have been displayed in group and solo exhibitions throughout New York. Jock MacRae, one of our most popular teachers, has taught at KAC since it opened its doors. Jock’s paintings are part of many private and corporate collections throughout the US. KAC also hosts visiting artist workshops, most recently with re-known painter Mary Beth MacKenzie, whose works are in several museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC. This spring we are thrilled to welcome Charles Reid, one of the nation’s foremost watercolorists, who will be teaching a three-day watercolor workshop.

KAC has extensive teen class offerings, including drawing and painting, metal-smithing, pottery, and more. Our very popular portfolio development program has gained our students entrance into all of the top art colleges in the U.S. For students needing more of a guiding hand we also offer the service of Donna Ferreiro, our portfolio coach. Children who love art are thrilled to find a place filled with like-minded kids and staff.

KAC’s  expressive arts program for young children is completely process driven, encouraging creativity and imagination while developing hand eye coordination. Fine art training begins at age 6 and is focused on teaching a wide range of mediums and techniques while making sure children retain their own creative vision. Birthday parties are a long-time favorite at KAC. We have many party options for children teens and adults; each party is custom designed with our party coordinator.

We want to take this opportunity to thank our loyal customers for their continued support and for their participation in the vibrant community that is KAC. Our move, six minutes north of Katonah, did not deter our long-time students. You can check out KAC’s offerings at katonahartcenter.com. We invite you to come see our beautiful new home and meet some of our instructors at our Open House and Free Arts Day Sunday, January 15th, 1-3 p.m.

This information was made possible via a release from the Katonah Arts Center

Aura Style Bar Aims to Have you Radiate Beauty

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Premium Blowdry and Makeup Studio in the Heart of Chappaqua

Looking for somewhere local where, following expert and convenient services, you can walk out and ‘radiate beauty’?” Introducing: The new “Aura Style Bar,” a premium blowdry and make up studio at 191 King Street in Chappaqua. According to stylists Leticia and Jenn, the goal every time will be to help you radiate beauty ‘from the inside out.’ As per the opening promotion information here, you can enjoy special introductory rates on all services, a complimentary scalp massage and conditioning masques through the end of February. ‘Sunrise hours’ of 7-9 a.m. are available by appointment, and walk ins are welcome during regular business hours. See additional info below or visit:  www.auraboutiquesalon.com

At Aura Salon: Jenn Filardi (left) and Leticia Villagran.

 

 

DeCicco’s in Millwood: Dec. 30th Grand Opening and The Talk of the Town

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https://www.facebook.com/InsideChappaquaMagazine/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10154853596423669

By Grace Bennett

The end of the year Grand Opening of DeCicco’s in Millwood is THE talk of the town this week, and very good news for New Castle residents long anticipating the opening of a supermarket in the area. Meanwhile, the DeCiccos are pulling out all the stops and are as excited as any New Castle resident.

“It’s the perfect community for us to expand to,” stated John DeCicco, Jr., in a joint release from the Town of New Castle and the DeCicco family this morning.  “John Jr.” is the President of the award-winning DeCicco & Sons chain of family-run supermarkets. 

He pointed out that the Milllwood location marks the seventh store for the DeCicco family, and proudly pointed out “the advanced environmental-friendly technologies which are proudly setting the standards of ‘clean & green’ supermarkets throughout the country.”

Some facts if you are planning to stop by tomorrow’s opening of the new DeCicco’s:

  • The 20,000 square foot store is located at the Millwood Shopping Center on Saw Mill River Road at Routes 100 & 133,  Millwood is the “sister hamlet” of Chappaqua, part of the Town of New Castle.
  • The Grand Opening will be Friday, 3 p.m. on December 30th
  • Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino will cut the ceremonial ribbon, declaring it “DeCicco & Sons Millwood Recognition Day in Westchester County.

And more, here, per the release (this story will be updated with original coverage following the grand opening):

Stated DeCicco “This is a true team effort made possible by the incredible assistance and hard work from Town of New Castle Supervisor Rob Greenstein, Deputy Supervisor Adam Brodsky, Steven Wolk of The New Castle Sustainability Advisory Board, and shopping center owner Chris Santomero.. just to name a few,” said DeCicco. They have worked with us hand and hand throughout every detail, assuring us and the community that our newest DeCicco & Sons market will become a reality in Millwood.”

“Congratulations to the DeCicco family on opening its newest supermarket in Westchester County,” said Astorino. “Their commitment to quality, customer service, the community and the environment is a true recipe for success. I wish them all the best and thank them for their continued dedication to the people of Westchester.”

 Commitment to the Schools

DeCicco expressed how impressed he is with the New Castle-Chappaqua-Millwood area: “DeCicco & Sons has a strong commitment to the school districts in every community we are a part of. We look forward to supporting the over 4200 students and their families who make up the three elementary schools, two middle schools and Horace Greeley High School in the area. We provide “Cashier Receipt Give-Back Programs” that accumulate a percentage of the receipts collected throughout the school year, then contributed back into the many educational and community programs that assist the students and their families. This is a huge part of what we believe in.”

Their benevolence has not gone unnoticed, as DeCicco & Sons continues to be acknowledged with significant awards, most recently, Westchester’s Best Family Run Business, The PTA Golden Oak Award, the Rotary Club’s 2015 Honorees, and the 2016 Pelham Civic Association’s Persons of the Year Award.

Green & Clean

“Green & Clean” technologies with the old world philosophy of Quality First, DeCicco & Sons has established itself as a visionary supermarket that stresses consistent quality of the food & service that they and their family have been known for over 40 years.

In addition to this year’s 2016 Best of Westchester’s “Best Gourmet Market,”  this new DeCicco & Sons is one of the nation’s most energy-efficient, and cleanest & Greenest supermarkets. In fact, it has just achieved the EPA’s highest certification: The Platinum Level Green Chill Certification.

Visually, the 20,000 square ft. store will be a sparkling beauty, complete with a Beer & Wine Tasting Bar, a multi-level Café… and rotating selections of world-renowned craft beers on tap…,a full-service Sushi counter… and hot seafood selections …and more!

Remarkably, this area is only one facet of DeCicco & Sons’ magnificent shopping experience. It’s the unique, technological advancements that’s “behind the scenes” that makes this extraordinary new DeCicco & Sons supermarket, well, extraordinary.

Ensuring the Health of the Planet for Future Generations

According to John DeCicco, Jr., President of DeCicco & Sons, “Life is only important when it has an impact on the lives of others. So when it comes to the world we live in, our generation has to make a commitment to meet the energy challenges put before us and sustain a clean and healthy environment… for now, and for future generations. With our new DeCicco & Sons store in Larchmont, we have the opportunity to continue to provide our customers and employees with a new paradigm in the supermarket shopping experience: a store that incorporates intelligent, energy-efficiency and on-site clean, and green renewable energy, every minute, every day. At the same time, it will continue to be true to our Quality First brand by delivering the very best quality food and products, the very best selection, with the very best service”.                                                                                                                                             

Technologically Advanced Heat Reclaiming Refrigeration System

This is only the third in the State, and the second of its kind in Westchester County. (the first being the DeCicco & Son in Larchmont) So advanced, this zero-ozone, state-of-the-art equipment will be the subject of a comprehensive case study being conducted by leading governmental scientific and engineering agencies.It systematically takes all of the wasted heat that’s generated from the refrigeration system and transfers it to reusable energy to power machines to chill water, and provide heat and hot water for the entire store! Simple, clean, reusable energy. cost efficient, and ultimately, less reliance on fossil fuels. Think of 80,000 less cars this year because of the CO2 emissions we save by using CO2 in place of HFC refrigerant. And also 120,000 more trees can live this year, thanks to our reduced carbon emissions.

“Technology Teamwork”… at work.

DeCicco continued,” I have learned that the successful solution for utmost energy efficiency is not doing only one thing, but doing many things …  having all of the advancements and technologies working together as one… not individual or independent installations, but a multiple of components that feed off one another. So it’s a significant investment, but we firmly believe, a smart one with long lasting dividends for this generation and the ones to follow.”

Quality First – In More Ways Than One

As DeCicco explained, “Our brand mantra ‘Quality First’ extends far beyond our superior food products. It means caring for the environment and the communities we serve by supporting clean energy technologies. We have a “green philosophy” that includes protecting our environment with advanced, innovative energy solutions. The objective is to increase energy efficiency with renewable energy, and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. The benefits the environment and our economy, and helps move our country toward a cleaner energy future.”

So DeCicco & Sons brings to Millwood a supermarket that includes their high level of taste and culinary knowledge…  their “Quality First” brand and philosophy…  and their leadership commitment to an intelligent, clean and safe environment. In other words, they’re re-writing the cookbook for all other supermarkets to follow! The new DeCicco & Sons Millwood will be located on the site of the former A&P in the Millwood Plaza, 230 Saw Mill River Rd, Millwood, NY 10546. For more information, visit our website at www.DeCiccoAndSons.com Also, be sure to follow us on our new Facebook page: facebook.com/deciccosmillwood

About DeCicco & Sons…

For over 40 years, DeCicco & Sons has a proud history of bringing the largest selection of high quality food available to customers with a personal, family touch. In addition to the finest meats, poultry, seafood, fish, fruits and vegetables, deli, bakery, pizza and sushi, they offer their famous Signature Series product line of homemade foods…one of New York’s largest selection of world-famous craft beers…and DeCicco & Sons Events & Cuisine to meet any size catering and event needs. They have stores located in Pelham, Harrison, Ardsley, Armonk, Brewster, Larchmont and now Millwood.

 

Local Clinton Supporters Plan to Join Marches in NYC and Washington, D.C.

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“This is just a general march to say, ‘We are all humans first, and we expect to be treated with the equality promised in our constitution.’” Katherine Siemionko, commenting about the NYC March planned too.

By Andrew Vitelli

Like many of Hillary Clinton’s neighbors in Chappaqua and the surrounding communities, Pleasantville resident Francesca Hagadus had hoped to travel to Washington D.C. next month to for the historic inauguration of her neighbor and hero.  Recount efforts and evidence of Russian interference (as confirmed by the CIA) notwithstanding: Assuming the Electors approve the results of the election on December 19th, Donald Trump will take the oath of office on January 20th. So Hagadus, like many of Clinton’s backers, will still be making the trip.penn-ave

Busses from Chappaqua and Armonk would be among those coming from across the country to bring marchers to Washington on Jan. 21, the day after President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, for the Women’s March on Washington. The march aims to mobilize Clinton’s supporters, and others concerned about the incoming administration, as Trump begins his term in the White House.

“The Women’s March on Washington will send a bold message to our new administration on their first day in office, and to the world, that women’s rights are human rights,” the march’s organizers write on their website. “We stand together, recognizing that defending the most marginalized among us is defending all of us.”

The march will convene at 10 a.m. near the U.S. Capitol Building, meaning those traveling to Washington from New York that day must leave before dawn. As of Monday, Dec. 12, 68 people had signed up for a bus from Chappaqua to the march, while a bus leaving from Armonk at around 4:15 a.m. had 26 riders signed up.

“I hope that it makes a statement. It shows people that we are not just going to wait out the next four years,” said Hagadus, a retired teacher in the Chappaqua school district. “We are a majority, and we want to make sure that our voices are heard.”

Hagadus may not go to Washington to make her voice heard. For locals who don’t plan on making the four-hour trip to the U.S. capital, there is an option closer to home. Katherine Siemionko, a Brooklyn resident and a professional project manager, has organized a sister march in Manhattan, with the march concluding outside Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue.

“[People] are afraid that their rights are at risk,” said Siemionko. “People want to come out and voice their opinion, and say that we support equality for everybody.”

Siemionko said she is planning for up to 100,000 people to attend the march, with marchers flying in from across the country and even from abroad to participate.

“This is just a general march to say, ‘We are all humans first, and we expect to be treated with the equality promised in our constitution,’” Siemionko said. “The goal of this is to bring the community together.”

Hagadus, who volunteered for Chappaqua Friends of Hillary and went to Pennsylvania to knock on doors for the Democratic nominee, said she plans to attend one of the two marches, though she hasn’t decided which one.

“Considering I live in Pleasantville, [the New York march] would be a lot more convenient for me,” said Hagadus. “The question is where we can have the most impact.”

For information on busses to the Women’s March on Washington, visit rallybus.net/womens-march-on-washington. To register a group for the Women’s March on NYC, e-mail volunteersmarchonnyc@gmail.com.  

Andrew Vitelli is the Editor of Inside Armonk Magazine.

 

Editor’s Note: We will add info on busses leaving to this article as more information becomes available.