The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

The Inside Press

Useful Tips for a Successful Kitchen or Bathroom Renovation

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By Richard Mucci

10. When shopping for kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, be sure to compare apples to apples as to cabinet manufacturer, construction options, and most importantly quality of finish. There are a million cabinet makers out there from low end to the most prestigious; pick one that fits your budget.

9. Find the right salesperson. Work with someone who understands you and can guide you properly. Be sure he or she has several years of experience in the kitchen and bathroom industry.

8. Spend a little time researching cabinets and cabinet dealerships. You will feel much better about your purchase decision and you will be armed with information when you enter a showroom. Knowledge is key.

7. Ask around for opinions as far as design and cabinet details (door style, finish, etc.). One idea may lead to another and all of the sudden you have the start of something beautiful!

6. Start a “kitchen ideas” file. When something catches your eye in a magazine (door style, finish, design, counter top, etc.), clip and file it. After awhile you will return to the file and eventually find exactly what you want.

5.  Hire a General Contractor to manage the renovation. Unless you have been through a renovation by yourself, the value of a one-stop-shop is priceless. You work with one person who in turn hires the trades. Ask for referrals to be sure they are reliable and professional.

4.  Be sure the contract for any renovation includes a payment schedule. Never give more money than necessary up front; ask for payments to be payable upon completion of job tasks.

3. Make a decision and stick with it. Your first decision about something is usually your best; never second guess yourself.

2.  Remember that your renovation is an investment! Kitchens and baths are the selling points of a home on the market. On the other hand, if you plan to live in the home after the renovation, what better way to spruce up your house and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

1.  First and foremost, avoid being pound wise and dollar foolish.  You get what you pay for, so do your homework and you will definitely make the right deal with the right person.

Richard Mucci is the owner of Euphoria Kitchen & Bath LTD.; a family owned and operated business since 1965.

Facts your Child Should Know about Camp Kiwi!

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10: You will always go home with a smile on your face!

9: You will make at least one friend that will be part of your entire life!

8: You will gain a tremendous amount of confidence, self-esteem and experience success!

7: You will excel in many fun areas!

6: You will learn to swim!

5: You will be filled with large amounts of camp spirit, everyday!

4: You will always be around positive role models!

3: You will enjoy many varied activities, in one beautiful location!

2: You will develop life-long skills and grow more independent!

1: You will gain social skills!

Important Questions to Consider about Sleepaway Camp

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10. Have I discussed my child’s interest with him
 or her?

9. Do I have an idea of the kind of camp? There are single sex or co-ed camps; specialized or generalized camps.

8. How long do I want my child to attend camp? Length can span from one to eight weeks. Or opt for an all inclusive experience in a 3 1/2 week camp.

7. What is our budget? There is a camp to fit every budget.

6. Do we want a large, medium or small sized camp? Camper population can vary from 80-600 campers.

5. How far away feels OK? No matter where or how far away, a good camp will have excellent security, medical facilities and communication.

4. What activities does my child like? Choose from specialized interests or general programming.

3. How can I find a camp? Work with an experienced Camp Advisor who has visited camps while in operation, met with directors and keeps up to date on any changes.

2. What will my child gain? Campers develop a strong sense of self, gain confidence and social skills in a shared, nurturing, and healthy environment.

1. With whom should I consult? The Camp Connection, the Summer Camp Matchmakers for over 25 years. Our FREE service represents over 600 summer programs that have been visited while camp is in session, referenced and reviewed. Contact Susan at: susan@thecampconnection.com or call her at 914-273-8010

Ten Considerations During Divorce

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By David Bennett, CPA, CFF, CITP

10. Ensure that the standard bases are covered–childcare and a parenting plan, the home, financial assets, real and personal assets, retirement plans, taxes, life insurance, health insurance, beneficiary designations, trusts, geographical location, and possible hidden assets.
9. Money is not top priority; take care of the important things and the money will take care of itself.
8.  To the extent possible, check your emotions at the door…but always bring your passion.
7. The children…they know. Take care of them but do not try to protect them; listen to them, they deserve respect and need your love and guidance.
6. Anger and fear are toxic and not productive. Forgiveness is healing and productive. Forgiveness is as hard or as easy as you decide, it is your choice. Forgiveness has everything to do with you and very little to do with the offender. By letting go of the hurt, you will free yourself from the emotional bondage that you are in.
5. Reflect upon whom you were in the marriage; expand your vision of the possibilities of who you will be after the marriage. Think outside the marriage.
4. DO NOT compromise. Do not do something or agree to something just because you are tired or want it to be over and are scared, tired, emotionally drained; you will without a doubt regret it at some point. Develop your goals for the process and work backwards from there. Focus with tenacity until you have achieved your goals.
3. If you and your attorney are not 100% in sync, find a new one. It may delay the process somewhat but it will also expedite it. Go with your gut.
2. Keep your focus on the big picture. When it comes to dividing personal property that is personally special or sentimental, do not spend more on legal fees than the item is worth.
1. Regardless of who initiated the divorce or why, this is your life. Love yourself, honor yourself, and do not settle for one bit less than what you deserve and are entitled to.

David Bennett, CPA, CFF, CITP founded RAA Services, LLC in 2007. He has more than 25 years of expertise in tax accounting, financial planning, divorce mediation and collaboration, corporate finance and operations, and financial systems. David is also on the Board of Directors of Rock Asylum, a non-profit organization that creates opportunities for elementary age students to engage in learning the Common Core Standards through original music, both recorded and live. These songs are written to target specific academic areas for children. Concerts are donated to schools with the intention of inspiring students to learn these educational songs and stimulate performance in other school subjects. Visit the website at
 www.rockasylum.com

Top Ten Reasons to Enroll Your Child in Preschool Gymnastics

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By Jodi Levine

10. GYMNASTICS is a positive and fun introduction to movement.
9. GYMNASTICS is an exercise which leads to healthy habits to last a lifetime.
8. GYMNASTICS improves overall balance, strength, flexibility, body awareness, confidence and coordination like no other sport.
7. GYMNASTICS helps to develop strong bones.
6. GYMNASTICS improves reading readiness.
5. GYMNASTICS improves motor skill development.
4. GYMNASTICS helps kids to focus and set attainable goals.
3. GYMNASTICS allows children to focus on their own skill development and their personal best (it’s non competitive).
2. GYMNASTICS is the foundation of movement education and all sports.
1. GYMNASTICS is sooooooo much fun!

Jodi Rosenwasser Levine is the founder/director of Jodi’s Gym in NYC and Mt. Kisco. She has been loving gymnastics for over 
40 years!