The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

The Inside Press

Feathers in Our Caps

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By Emily Haft Bloom

Emily-Bloom-FINAL-pix
Bill Bramswig Photo

When I met with Grace to discuss my gig as guest editor, I told her I wanted to focus the issue on all the amazing things New Castle women do, for their families, their employers, and our community. I realized that while many of us have traditional responsibilities of homemaking and raising kids, we also wear so many other hats. Some of us regularly perform the most selfless work, and receive no financial remuneration. We are information providers, health care workers, legal eagles, and educational supporters. We provide emotional and therapeutic services and a hundred other things. There is one common thread, though; we all seem to wear these hats with aplomb, confidence and a willingness to work as hard as we can to do the best job possible.

I thought about all the hats I have worn since I left college. Seven years were spent at an investment bank, as an IB analyst, then as a bond trader, then I found an amazing partner in my husband Don, had a kid, moved to the ‘burbs, had another kid, was Society Editor for the now-defunct Patent Trader, and served on a bunch of non-profit boards. Next, I had a parenting column in a widely read magazine, wrote three books, went back to school, and finally arrived at what I am absolutely sure is my final destination–independent college advisor. Oh, and when I hit the big 5-0, I joined the Chappaqua Fire Department to assure I always made time to serve my community. My friends and family declared me nuts (again!), but it’s one of the best decisions I have ever made.

One of the greatest aspects of living here in Chappy, for me, has been meeting and getting to know so many women who also wear and have worn many different hats. One good friend is Editor in Chief of a major magazine, another is a chef, another a partner in a big law firm, another a docent at a museum, and yet another is a relentless fundraiser and volunteer, deeply committed to many causes. Did we all think we would arrive at our current occupations when we were handed that sheepskin so many years ago? Probably not, but to me, that is the essence of feminism–choosing to do what each of us finds meaningful, rewarding and fulfilling, beyond our more traditional roles, or just embracing those traditional roles and being at peace with our decisions. Many of us raised or are raising kids, run houses, manage active social lives and still find time to volunteer our skills and talents to worthy organizations from the PTA to the Chappaqua Volunteer Ambulance Corps. And, we can’t discount the value of the example we set for all the girls in our community–women can do anything if they are determined, and supported and encouraged by their families and friends.

In this issue, find stories by and about just a tiny fraction of the amazing women who live here. The cover story, written by the eminently capable Ronni Diamondstein, focuses on the women volunteers of the CVAC and CFD, and explores what drives these women to become first responders. A lawyer/not-for-profit consultant finds her poetic voice, a tireless volunteer reflects on Mother’s Days past, present and future, and another tells us about one of the most courageous women you will ever read about. Another essay shares a son’s experiences as part of a two-mom household, and others address aging parents, career reinvention, information resources for every woman and recognizing when we might need a hand keeping ourselves mentally fit as a fiddle.

My dear friend Maud Bailey, who keeps a local non-profit nearby running smoothly, is volunteering on the Master Plan update committee and raised two amazing young men, put it best: “All the women I have met who wear so many different hats bring a different perspective to every conversation. That is what makes New Castle a great place to live.” I couldn’t agree more!

I Love you, Mom!

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gold-pendant-ICD-storySigal, a graduate of Bezalel Academy in Israel, is the house designer of Padani Jewlery, the leading manufacturer of fine jewelry in Tel Aviv. Her unique collection includes sentimental jewelry of friendship & love. The collection is based on the form of a heart–a classic tender, very personal design. In this Love pendant, “many languages for love,” the words “I love you” are laser engraved in 32 languages. A classic, elegant, timeless gift for Mother’s Day. Visit us at ICD Contemporary Jewelry in Chappaqua to view the Padani collections. Also, visit www.padani.co.il

From the Inside Out… a note from the editor

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Beth Besen
Beth Besen

“If you build it, he will come.” These words, made famous in the modern day fairy tale, Field of Dreams, would seem a perfect platform for the launch of our very first issue of Inside Armonk: the Magazine for North Castle and Beyond.

After all, you built it, and here we are! The recent opening of Armonk Square created a physical and cultural town center, becoming a beacon that calls many from near and far.

And, while Armonk has always been one of Westchester’s crown jewels, it now shines bigger and brighter than ever before. We’re thrilled to be part of what’s going on; a resource for information and a forum for community topics and events.

History and popular culture are rife with renaissance stories. Whether referring to the “capital R” Renaissance that brought Europe out of darkness, or the smaller but much-closer-to-home renaissance of the hamlet of Armonk New York, stories of re-birth abound and draw us to them.

Yes, from the smallest of children to the more senior among us, we all love a good “once upon a time.” The familiar cadences and characters soothe us, 
as the expectation of a happily-ever-after gives us much to look forward to with pleasure.

We now invite you to sit back and settle in for our version. Enjoy our look at Armonk’s storied past. Read about your renowned school system, and check out your local library. Take us along as you head to a local café, and share a shot of conversation along with your latte. Working out later today, perhaps with a friend? Discuss our fitness and friendship article and watch as exercise time flies by.

Before we know it, June will be here–Father’s Day looms large for all of us. We bring you a touching ode to dad, and hope it’ll inspire you to think about the man, the men, who’ve made a difference to you!

Also in June? Graduation, of course! Armonk schools rock, and we share some of the reasons why! From pre-school to and through the renowned Byram Hills High School, Armonk helps educate and grow tomorrow’s leaders and thinkers, future renaissance men and women!

Our congratulations and best wishes to this year’s graduating class! Remember, this isn’t just an end, it’s a brand new beginning.

Which brings us full circle. We invite you to celebrate yourselves, and celebrate along with us; you’ve an exciting new downtown and we’ve an exciting new magazine! Let’s make it a shared beginning to a companionable and thriving journey–one of discovery, support, healthy growth and happy ever-afters! Cheers…

P.S. I’d love to hear your stories and ideas: please feel free to write to me at beth@insidearmonk.com

Synergy Between our Towns

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Grace Bennett
Grace Bennett

Ok, I admit it. As a Chappaquan, I’ve been a little envious of your new, cool and swanky Square* anchored by such a great Supermarket and hopping restaurants too. What a boon to the community! However, plenty of folks here wouldn’t change a hair on Chappaqua’s head, and that’s all easy to understand too. The two hamlets possess their own distinct charms–and for years what I’ve appreciated most is more the synergy between the towns, with residents in the “two Castles” happily enjoying and taking advantage of shops and services in both of our vibrant neighborhoods! Indeed, residents in our townships hardly live in a bubble and enjoy learning about opportunities near and far.

On that note, I’d like to say that I’m simply thrilled to be introducing a sister edition of The Inside Press, Inc., to Armonk “and beyond,” and hoping for the same long term relationship with many of the merchants in and around town that I’ve had the honor of enjoying as publisher and editor of Inside Chappaqua (IC).

A little about me…I started out my career as a journalist in daily newspapers and women’s magazines. Like many moms, I eventually searched for a family friendly approach to working while raising my kids. And long story short, the idea for a magazine for my hometown was born. With Chappaqua being home to the Clintons, of course, I’ve had the good fortune of covering their various activities in town…and sometimes very far out of town, too. In the summer of 2012, Hillary Clinton, then Secretary of State, graciously included me as a member of the press corps. to cover one of her missions. 
I flew with her, State Department staff and a group of journalists for 11 days throughout sub-Saharan Africa and Turkey after promising to bring international news home to her neighbors and friends. I can’t imagine hometown journalism getting much more exciting than that, and such unexpected adventures have made me perfectly happy to “work local!”

Inside Armonk (IA) magazine is a free publication, but as with Inside Chappaqua, I have always offered the opportunity for either voluntary subscriptions or gifts to anyone outside the closed circulation (see page eight). The business of print continues to present challenges in an internet age, so I do hope, if perhaps not yet, that you might consider a subscription 
(to IA, IC, or to both!) sometime down the road.

For now, just enjoy this first edition–and most importantly, convey your appreciation to the merchants who have thrown their support behind the magazine. Tell ‘em you saw it in Inside Armonk and continue to shop local! I’m also very proud and appreciative of the talented writers and photographers who rose to the occasion, and of Beth Besen, IA’s executive editor, who worked closely with them.

Before this year’s end, you can anticipate two more editions of IA, a back to school edition mailing toward the end of August and a winter/holiday edition mailing toward the end of November.

So here’s wishing you all a very happy and love filled Mother’s Day and Father’s Day–and joyful graduations, if those are happening. I’ve got two seniors myself at home, a son graduating high school and a daughter graduating college. As for me, I’ve graduated from one pub to two! Empty nest beckons, and I’m ready to use the “extra” time to serve two terrific Castle communities. See ya ‘round town.

Grace Bennett’s hair and makeup courtesy of the Richard Scott Salon and Day Spa in Mount Kisco.

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*The “action” downtown is hardly limited to the Square itself although it seems “merchant row” benefits from the excitement it generates! ROCKS and its signature jolie b. ray designs and other gorgeous pieces are just around the corner. So is the friendly staff and well stocked Armonk Wine and Spirits. And after 17 years of already serving the community, the Mazzotta brothers, Joe and Mark, opened the all new Amore Kitchen and Pizzeria. “To complement the contemporary appearance of downtown Armonk, and match its overall character,” said Joe, “we completely renovated an existing building that had been there since the 1950s and had seen a lot of restaurants come and go.”

La Mer Gourmet Seafood is a cherished neighborhood market offering delicious, fresh take home (or stop in to eat!) homecooking–now celebrating its 25th year in Armonk. Up Main Street, Eye Designs boasts a dazzling array of designer eyeglasses, shades, accessories and optometry services for the entire family; Beascakes offers mouthwatering baked goods and party cakes galore; Beginnings Bleus bustles with male and female customers drawn to its cool, contemporary styles; and the new Eiluj, with its quality makeup and luxurious bath items, is open for your cosmetic care and more. On Bedford Road, visit the new and fabulous Bewies Holistic Market where Amy Berman is wowing near and far with organic product lines and creative fresh juice drinks for anyone on the go or in need of a restful/healthful stopping point. Dinner not complete without vino? Pick up a bottle of your favorite red or white at Moderne Barn and Spirits next door and you will be good to go too.

A Stroll Around Armonk

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On a Spring walk, Nate, a Cavapoo stops at the Gazebo at Wampus Pond Park in Armonk with his owners Renate and Charlie Golden. Photo by Ronni Diamondstein
On a Spring walk, Nate, a Cavapoo stops at the Gazebo at Wampus Pond Park in Armonk with his owners Renate and Charlie Golden. Photo by Ronni Diamondstein

(As seen in Inside Armonk)

By Maggie Mae with Ronni Diamondstein

I’m a dog–a very special dog. I’m a six-year-old, black-and-white, Toy Parti Poodle.  My name is Maggie Mae, and some of you may know me because I am the Inside Chappaqua Roving Pup Reporter. I was so excited to hear about the new, Inside Armonk magazine and to be able to write about a neighboring town I enjoy visiting. With a nose for news, I will give you the dog’s eye view of Armonk and beyond.

I thought it was important to find out about the Town of North Castle for dogs, so I got in touch with the Town Clerk, Anne Curran. She told me that the town has a leash law for dogs, and the least can’t be longer than eight feet. “The leash law protects dogs as well as people,” says Curran. I agree. I like to run around on my own, but I’ve seen cars suddenly come around corners and whiz by. A leash keeps me from forgetting the rules and dashing into the road where I might get hurt. If other dogs are on leashes I know they’ll be safe.

Registering your dog is important and I wear my dog tag proudly. No dogs are allowed in Town parks unless they are licensed. And it’s a good way for your dog to be identified if you 
get separated. The North Castle Town Hall issues dog licenses, but only to North Castle residents. Your owner can apply for the license in person at Town Hall or by mail using the application that is found on the Town website. The fee is $10 for spayed and neutered dogs and $18 for unspayed and unneutered dogs.

“People like to walk their dogs in our parks and the nature preserve,” says Curran. I know North Castle has nice parks, and sometimes walk in Wampus Brook Park with my owner. My friends Max and Peanut like to walk there, too. Max is an 11–year-old Pug and his sister Peanut is an almost 2-year-old French Bulldog. They know a lot of great places to get exercise in Armonk. “We like to walk at the track at North Castle Community Park on Business Park Drive,” says Max. Milo, a Pug I know, also loves to walk in town. You can often see him walking with his buddies Max and Peanut.

Some of the other places to walk in the town are Betsy Sluder Nature Preserve, Winkler Park, Cat Rocks Park, a designated nature conservancy, and Johnson Tract and Fountains Park which are wooded areas.

The Town of North Castle has some important rules when dogs visit the Town Parks that we must follow. Besides being leashed and licensed, we must be under the visual and voice control of a responsible person at least 18 years old.  Of course, whoever is with the dog in any Town park or recreational facility must pick up after their pet.

Some dogs just like to walk in their own neighborhoods I learned when I reached out to my friend Nate, a two-year-old Cavapoo to get the scoop on the town from his point of view. Nate, a Cavalier King Charles and Poodle crossbreed doesn’t like to go in the car that much so he enjoys walking the loop in his lovely Windmill neighborhood with his 13 year old sister, Lizzy, a Standard Poodle.

It’s so exciting to be a roving reporter in Armonk as well as Chappaqua. Please let me know where you like to take walks. You can contact me at maggiemae10514@gmail.com

Visit Maggie Mae’s blog at www.maggiemaepup.com

Maggie Mae lives in Chappaqua with her adoring owner Ronni Diamondstein, who, when she isn’t walking Maggie is a freelance writer, PR consultant, and award-winning photographer.

Maggie Mae’s Must Do:

ECAD – Denim Heels Boot Tail, Thursday, May 15

starting at 6:30 P.M. at Brynwood Golf & Country Club 
in Armonk, NY.

This annual fun-filled event raises funds for ECAD 
(Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities,) 
the not-for-profit organization that raises, educates and places Service Dogs with people with disabilities, many of them Veterans.

An evening of dinner, dancing and an inspiring program, ECAD will honor individuals and entities that have shown their support for ECAD’s work and for help given to Veterans of the Armed Services. ECAD clients and their Service Dogs will be in attendance. 
Tickets are $200.00 per person. 
For information call

914-693-0600, ext. 1950. 
For further information visit www.ecad1.org