The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Alexa Troob

About Alexa Troob

Alexa Troob is a freshman at Duke University planning to major in Public Policy and minor in Journalism. She graduated from Horace Greeley High School in 2024.

Vibrant Visions: Rich Hanlon Captures the Local Scene

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Though Rich Hanlon spent his childhood painting flames on model cars for his friends in the orphanage and redrawing every issue of MAD Magazine, he never believed he would be an artist. Throughout his life, he enrolled in the army, serving as an Army Ranger for almost 15 years, attended college, and worked at UPS. He continued to paint, but he never pursued art full time. However, “one thing expands into another and another and another,” he says, and life takes us by surprise.

In October 2022, Hanlon retired from his job at UPS to commit to painting as a career, and his business has only grown from there.

Now, as Hanlon embarks on an art study throughout Pleasantville, where he has resided since 2011, his work is displayed in stores across town such as The Black Cow, Pubstreet, Dolphin South Trattoria, Jacob Burns Film Center, and more.

Hanlon often paints seascapes and landscapes, but his work for Pleasantville storefronts has taken a different form. He captures local shops and restaurants from a unique perspective that highlights the warmth, ambiance, and energy they bring to the community. And he never knows when inspiration may strike.

After eating at Pubstreet late one night, Hanlon stepped outside to see the lights on in The Black Cow illuminated against the darkness. Reminded of Edward Hopper’s painting Nighthawks, he took a picture and began painting the next morning. His work is now displayed in The Black Cow for customers to enjoy as they sip their morning coffee. Though this type of work is different than Hanlon is used to, he thoroughly enjoys it: “I like the challenge,” he says.

Even as the focus of Hanlon’s paintings shifts, the heavy texture, depth, and brilliant colors that define his work remain. Completely self-taught, Hanlon learns and grows with each painting:
“I immediately look at the painting I just finished, and I know I could’ve done better… so you grow with every painting,” he shares.

Whether in regard to his creative process, a new commission, or the direction of his career as a whole, Hanlon is simply “letting it free flow and seeing where it goes.” After all, he never thought his art would be so successful in the first place. “I’m actually surprised,” he says. “Everybody says you can’t make a living doing art, to get a real job and keep that as a hobby, but it’s actually really been growing… and it’s surprisingly fun.”

Rather than putting energy into a rigid plan that will likely change, we can learn from Hanlon to put our energy into where we are now and take a chance. He is giving his all to each new painting and opportunity, allowing life to surprise him, and enjoying it along the way.

Hanlon is able to see his hard work pay off as he walks around Pleasantville to see his art displayed. “It makes me just melt,” he shares. “I just want my art to be on other people’ walls.” As his art hangs in homes and local shops, Hanlon hopes that the joy his paintings have brought him can be shared and enjoyed by others.

Behind the Success of Westchester Legislature Chair Vedat Gashi

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Fostering a Sense of Cooperation & Collaboration

PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

“The way forward has to be together.”

In a time that can feel so divided, Vedat Gashi, Chair of the Westchester County Board of Legislators, emphasizes the importance of working together. Whether leading the legislative board, working with state, federal, and municipal governments, or listening to his constituents, Gashi prioritizes collaboration to make genuine progress in our county.

Gashi was elected unanimously by the board to the position of chair and continues to advance bipartisanship through his position: “Part of the reason I got involved in the first place was after Trump was elected (or at that time), I felt like it was so inflamed and heated between the parties. It felt like every voice I heard was super extreme on both sides, and most of the people I knew – most of my friends and family – were closer to the middle. And I think I worry about the fact that if someone’s in a different party, we shoot them down and we’re not gonna listen to them at all.”

By fostering cooperation, Gashi has been able to pass landmark bills and initiatives in Westchester that, piece by piece, are making a substantial difference.

Infrastructure and Job Creation

PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

Gashi is proud of the work he has done on infrastructure, including bridges, buildings, flood mitigation, and roads: “things that are expenditures of money, but investments so we can have the infrastructure that we need – and doing that while being fiscally responsible,” he shares. By building and improving infrastructure, it in turn leads to the creation of local jobs. The board recently passed the rehabilitation of the Glen Island Bridge, which both improves our county’s safety and promotes business by creating jobs. “It’s important because our friends in labor really do need those jobs, and then the more jobs they can have, it helps the local economy… they all work together,” says Gashi.

By finding these efficiencies, the board can maximize its success. Gashi attests to the power of this collective effort: “One-on-one doesn’t always equal two. Sometimes one-on-one can do quite a bit more if you’re working together,” he says. “And I think we’ve been doing that: passing a tax cut and doing more work almost sounds like we shouldn’t be able to do it, but we have been. And I think it’s by finding efficiencies, economies of scale, doing things in a collaborative effort rather than fighting each other.”

Environmental Efforts

While building new infrastructure, Gashi is promoting the use of renewable energy sources. In fact, every vehicle in the county fleet has been converted from gas and diesel to hybrid and electric. “To be able to transition that whole thing to hybrid and electric, I think makes a meaningful difference,” says Gashi. “And the interesting thing is it’s… better for the environment than the older technology was, but it’s also been saving us money.” Once again, through these efficiencies, the county can do good and simultaneously bolster the local economy.

Women’s Rights and Health

While ensuring the health and safety of our planet, Gashi is dedicated to ensuring the same for his constituents. Despite the overturning of Roe v. Wade, which stripped women of the constitutional right to an abortion, he is committed to ensuring that women maintain the right to choose in Westchester County. “My primary objective is going to be to provide for the health and safety of the people that live here. And that includes making sure that women can access the medical attention they need by licensed professionals.”

After an incident in White Plains where anti-abortion protestors obstructed women’s ability to enter a women’s health clinic, the county passed a bill that established a buffer around such centers to make them a safe, accessible space. “Reproductive health is women’s health,” says Gashi. “It’s a mantra that’s said often, but it’s true. And in this instance, being able to provide and protect for that was something that I’m proud of.”

Gun Control

Continuing to prioritize safety, Gashi has also championed legislation to combat gun violence. The board recently passed a first-in-the-nation bill that requires places that sell guns to post a warning disclosing that the rate of death for gun owners is significantly increased (similar to the warnings posted on a cigarette package). The bill was passed unanimously, supported by both Democrat and Republican members of the board.

While Gashi hopes the bill can make a real difference, he also acknowledges that federal government action must still pass more substantial initiatives for gun control such as comprehensive background checks. He expressed disappointment that the federal government hasn’t yet passed some of these larger initiatives, but he remains optimistic and motivated: “There are things we can do along the margins. Just because you can’t do the biggest thing doesn’t mean you can’t do anything.”

Combating Hate

PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

Gashi’s commitment to safety extends to his efforts in combating hate, specifically antisemitism and Islamophobia.

He notes, however, that antisemitism “is not a new phenomenon. This is something that’s been going on for quite a while.” In his first interview after his election to the board in 2019, he addressed the rise of antisemitism in Westchester. Now, as antisemitism has been heightened in light of October 7th, he continues to address this pressing issue, working diligently to let both his constituents and people in Israel know that they are not alone.

In November, he joined the County Executive and other legislators to visit Israel after the attacks, an experience he describes as both amazing and incredibly sad. “I think if we did nothing else, it was an effort to show the people in Israel that they are not alone. That we are with them. We support them and would like to continue to do so,” he shares.

Being born in Kosovo and the first person of Muslim faith to be elected to the board and serve as chair, Gashi is saddened to see people attacked because of who they are and the religion they practice: “I obviously feel a parallel,” he says. “I obviously empathize and sympathize, so it was hard to see.” The county, along with the state and federal governments, have helped obtain funds to provide for the safety of mosques, synagogues, and other places of worship so that people can, hopefully, freely practice their faith and be who they are in peace.

Balancing Work and Family

Gashi is proud of all the board has been able to accomplish in Westchester and loves making a positive impact through his work. His least favorite part of the job, however, is the time away from his family – his wife and two children. He says that he strives to balance life and work, and make sacrifices as not to miss important family events – like his daughter’s unmissable championship basketball game.

Despite the job’s time-consuming requirements, Gashi said making a difference makes it all ‘worth it.’ “The ability to solve or to make somebody’s life better through your actions is amazing. And it’s the thing that drives me. There are a lot of headaches, but at its core, this is a job that allows you to do things that are going to have real impacts on people’s lives.”

Making a Difference, Brightening Someone’s Day: Do Something’s Zoe Harris

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The Do Something Club at Byram Hills High School undertakes simple projects to make a substantial difference. Started last year by Zoe Harris, a current junior at Byram, the club has already conducted numerous campaigns that spread smiles, increase climate awareness, connect the school community, and more. The club is part of the national organization, DoSomething.org, that is committed to “fueling young people to change the world.”

Zoe’s involvement with Do Something began in middle school when she was homebound due to a mystery illness. She was suddenly unable to walk unassisted, sleep, or partake in almost any normal activities, but rather than allowing this to remove her from the communities around her, it inspired her to get involved. “Even though she could do ‘nothing,’ she still wanted to do something,” shared Zoe’s mom, Heather Harris. And thus, she found the organization Do Something. “Do Something allowed me to help others without needing to walk and helped me connect with my community when it felt impossible to do so,” says Zoe.

Zoe held her first Do Something campaign, “Jeans for Teens,” in seventh grade, where she collected jeans to donate to teens in homeless shelters. Before she knew it, she had collected almost 500 pairs of jeans. After being home and feeling disconnected for so long, Zoe was able to help herself by helping others. Amidst COVID, the importance of helping those around us became even more apparent, and Zoe continued her involvement, “excited to be feeling part of something,” shared Heather. When she was in eighth grade, she collected toiletries and created bags to deliver to people living in transitional shelters. She started small, asking neighbors and family members for any extra products they had in their homes and ended with around 250 bags for donation; small steps led to a big difference.

A Club ‘Accessible to Everyone’

After seeing the impact she could have through Do Something, Zoe was determined to incorporate the organization into her high school. Last year, she began the club alongside Ms. DeRosa as club advisor. Ms. DeRosa teaches students with learning differences, and Zoe was determined to make the club accessible to everyone: “I approached Ms. DeRosa about starting the club because I felt this club would allow her students to help others like it had helped me when I was unable to walk. She agreed and the rest is history,” said Zoe. Heather also explained that Zoe “wanted to work with this particular population of students to show that we can all make a difference. Every single one of us can make a difference.” By helping others, the kids in the club are able to feel more confident, connect with their community, and value themselves as changemakers.

The club’s campaigns address a variety of social issues with a large focus on mental health. Last year, through the campaign “Bubble Break,” they created bubble bags for children in homeless shelters to teach them how to use breathing as a tool to help with anxiety. They held the “Mirror Message” campaign during the weeks of finals, APs, and regents, leaving inspirational notes on all of the mirrors in school bathrooms. “It’s the littlest things, but they have an impact,” says club advisor Ms. DeRosa. Zoe was touched when she “even heard someone say that they really needed to see that because they were having a bad day.”

Many of the club’s projects are also environmentally focused. Last year they held an “Unplug It” campaign to teach about energy waste. They hung up sticky notes around the school with facts about how much energy is wasted by leaving unused appliances plugged in. Ms. DeRosa noted that this seemingly small initiative sparked conversations and habit changes around the school as teachers in the faculty lounge shared that they now unplugged their coffee pots and toasters each morning!

The Do Something Club at Byram Hills High School shows each and every student that they can brighten someone’s day, make a real difference in their local communities, and, ultimately, change the world.

Chappaqua’s Summer Sale Beckons! July 27th – July 29th

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By mid-summer in Chappaqua, things can begin to feel a little slow. Anticipation and excitement have subsided, and town residents are left searching for new activities to bring a change of pace to their daily routines. 

Luckily, they need not look any further. 

Chappaqua’s Summer Sale taking place townwide always seems to arrive at the perfect time, bringing life and action to the town!

From Thursday, July 27th through Saturday, July 29th, various local businesses will present their merchandize at never seen before prices, we are told. With over 20 merchants participating, there will be everything from clothing to jewelry to home goods — making this the perfect event for any shopper eager to take advantage of great discounts and one-of-a-kind items all while supporting local shops.

Some stores, including Desires by Mikolay, even offer special VIP preview days — this year on July 25 and 26: “This is a wonderful chance for insiders to shop early, getting the first chance at coveted items with record breaking pricing,” shares Tara Mikolay, co-founder and designer of Desires by Mikolay, who helps launch the event each year, together with many other favorite downtown shops and restaurants and eateries working in tandem with the local Chappaqua Millwood Chamber of Commerce and the Town of New Castle.

While browsing, residents can also enjoy food, music, and the general vibrancy of the atmosphere. Desires will serve a sweet treats dessert bar daily and complimentary gourmet hot dogs by the famous Chez Lenard https://chezlenard.com/ on the final day (amongst other dining options for everyone to enjoy); they will also be providing a DJ on Thursday to add to the good vibes. 

With the town gathered, collectively enjoying the Summer Sidewalk Sale and all it has to offer, the event allows residents to socialize, connect, make the most of their summer, and, of course, shop!

“It’s a chance for the community to come together, support local businesses, and enjoy the Summer weather and incredible deals!” says Mikolay. 

 

A Meaningful Tour & Case for Saving Buttonhook Forest

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The Case for Saving Buttonhook Forest Following a Guided & Meaningful Tour

Leon Sam Briggs, Elder, Hawk Clan,Tonawanda Seneca who visited Buttonhook Forest with Tyler Chase. Chase is producing a documentary film about preventing cultural erasure of Native American History.
Photo courtesy of Tracey Bilski and Friends of Buttonhook

Walking through Buttonhook forest, I was immediately taken aback by the beauty of it all: the native plants, sunlit trees, vast amount of contiguous open space, and, of course, sacred indigenous stone structures. On a guided tour led by the Friends of Buttonhook Forest, I learned about not only the land’s diverse ecosystem, but also about the history of Native Americans in a way more interactive and meaningful than I had ever experienced.

Friends of Buttonhook Forest (FoBF), led by Tracey Bilski and Victoria Alzapiedi along with their tireless team of both long-time and new residents of New Castle, is a local non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the 20.3-acre Buttonhook forest that is currently owned by the Chappaqua Central School District (CCSD), who has been looking to develop the land.

Initially, the fight to preserve the forest stemmed from environmental concerns. When CCSD put the property on the market for sale in 2019, Alzapiedi and former Chappaqua resident and environmentalist Haley Ferraro started an advocacy effort in the hopes that the community would purchase the land from CCSD to preserve the forest.

“It was unthinkable that our community would intentionally cut down a forest – a precious and rare climate sink that helps clean the air that we and our families breathe – especially during a climate crisis.  We wanted to save these trees that are home to countless birds, beneficial insects, and other animals – who would be displaced if bulldozers come to cut down this forest. Advocating to save this land just seemed like the right thing to do. The just thing to do. The ethical thing to do – to save this forest from being cut down to build luxury homes,” says Alzapiedi.

Saving Wildlife & Addressing a Climate Crisis

How could Chappaqua, a community that always seemed to value the importance of sustainability, choose to actively contribute to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and water and air pollution? “We’re in a climate crisis. It’s not anymore that you can just sit by and let things happen,” says Maxine Margo Rubin, member of Friends of Buttonhook Forest (FoBF).

Buttonhook forest is home to thousands of creatures such as bobcats, foxes, coyotes, flying squirrels, box turtles, bats, many species of amphibians, hawks, owls, and migratory birds that would all lose their habitat if the forest is destroyed. “We have to help the animals that can’t talk for themselves,” Rubin adds.

But the animals are not the only living creatures at risk: CCSD’s construction plan calls for 676 of the 1400 trees residing in the forest to be cut down, all of which sequester immense amounts of carbon dioxide, maintaining a healthy air quality and curbing the speed of climate change. Since the school district bought the land in 1973 to build an additional school (a project that was never put into action), these trees were left untouched, growing, thriving, and holding carbon, for nearly 50 years. Evalyn Bladstrom, FoBF member, believes that we must “not just think short term, like the next 20 years, in terms of getting as much as we can monetarily, but long-term, the next hundreds of years, thinking about our own evolution as a species. What is sustainable, and what can we really expect when we remove nature?”

It was not until 2010 that CCSD decided to sell the land, hiring an engineering firm to subdivide the land into six lots for the construction of six $2 million homes. The plans received Preliminary Approval from the New Castle Planning Board in 2019 and CCSD put the land on the market for $3.5 million. After about a year with no bids on the land, it was taken off the market in 2020 during Covid, and returned listed at $2.5 million during the summer of 2021. CCSD eventually accepted a bid of $2 million from a developer in August 2021 subject to them receiving necessary approvals by March 2022.

Happening Now

Since the streams on the sides of Buttonhook forest lead to the Gedney Brook, which leads to the Croton reservoir, approval from the NYC Department of Environmental Protection is necessary before construction can begin. Despite persistent efforts, the school has been unable to receive the necessary NYC Stormwater Approval, which caused their initial contract with the developer to fall through last spring. So, the property went back on the market last summer, and FoBF saw this as the perfect opportunity to make a bid and secure the forest’s protection.

By this time, the fight for preservation had become even more critical as various elaborate and carefully crafted stone structures on the land had been confirmed by various archaeologists and indigenous leaders to be not at all random, but rather an entire complex of prayer stones, turtle effigies, and water markers laid by the Native Americans who once lived on this land. Now, saving this forest will not only preserve a diverse ecosystem, but also a sacred historical site for indigenous people who have time and time again had their history destroyed.

Lessons about Indigenous Culture

The Ramapough Lunaape Nation stated in a letter sent to the New Castle Town Board and Council that “Prayers and intention set years ago will be broken, if even one stone is moved.” Our community has been given a momentous opportunity to right our history’s wrongs, and to set a local example of how to respect and teach about indigenous culture and history. Tracey Bilski, leader of FoBF, reflected upon the minimal information she was taught about who lived here in the past, and how her journey has served as a learning process for her: “we can use this as a case-study,” she shares.

To respect the value that this land holds for Native Americans, FoBF partnered with numerous tribes in order “to make sure that [they] are hearing them right and doing what is best for the earth and the animals, as well as the original caretakers,” shares Lynn Trotta, a local nature-mentor and member of FoBF.

And when the school opened a public bid on the land in June 2022, Friends of Buttonhook Forest partnered with Brothertown Indian Nation to place a bid for which they are still waiting to hear a response. They have extended the bid for review until May 2023, and until then, they remain hopeful. In the meantime, they are holding a fundraiser on April 25 at the Chappaqua Performing Arts Center to “celebrate Earth Day and showcase the importance of thinking globally and acting locally,” as stated on their website.

As a junior at Horace Greeley High School, currently studying United States History, I know firsthand that the district encourages students to learn from the mistakes of the past and apply what we have learned to injustices today. Throughout the year, we have learned about far too many massacres of Native Americans, forced removals, and destruction of their land, resources, and culture. Often, I am left feeling lost in terms of what I can do to help make up for this heart wrenching history of oppression: how can one begin to right thousands of years of wrongdoings?

Saving Buttonhook forest is where we can begin.

Land acknowledgements only mean so much: our words become worthless when they are not backed by action. Preserving this historical site is the perfect opportunity to put truth behind our promises of social and environmental justice, and to make a difference right here from our backyard. Because, as Rubin shared, “what we do local, goes global.”