The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

The Inside Press

What is One of Your Favorite Holiday Traditions?

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BY RONNI DIAMONDSTEIN AND ILLUSTRATED BY NAAVA KATZ

Nick Bruel

“Mid October: Haul tree out of basement because we’re bored and forgot to make plans for Columbus Day weekend. Next, spend afternoon looking for decorations in a box labeled ‘Xmas,’ but it’s behind another box labeled ‘broken lamp.’ Swear to family that the lights were not this tangled when I put them in the box last April. Go to CVS to buy new lights. Buy Batmobile ornament that hangs in office because it’s too good to share with the family. Go back to CVS because I forgot to buy lights. Plug in tree. Switch to outlet that works. That’s how we do it every year. And we like it just fine.”

Nick Bruel lives in Pleasantville and is the creator of the NY Times bestselling Bad Kitty series.

Ellen Byck

“Given being born on Thanksgiving, it has always been the most special holiday for me. The tradition of making everyone’s favorite dishes, setting a beautiful table and the scent of roasting turkey creates a warm and welcoming environment. As a child, we spent Thanksgiving at my aunt’s home, and she always had a birthday cake for me with sparklers. Music and singing after dinner was a given and my dad and uncle Sam would dance across the living room which brought lots of laughs from everyone.”

Ellen Byck lives in Chappaqua and works as a medical device sales representative for Abbott.

Rita Madonna Santelia

“Christmas Eve continues to bring my family together for an evening of family time, laughter, and Nonna Rosaria’s original, fresh seafood recipes. I remember, as a child, setting the huge Christmas table in the basement of our Brownstone in the Arthur Avenue section of the Bronx. Decades later, we resume our traditions, now alternating host houses yearly to accommodate 60! Mom continues to make seafood salad, bacala, and stuffed lobster to name a few of ‘the 7 fishes.’ Since moving to Chappaqua, we never miss St. John and Mary’s children’s mass with its pageant and beautifully simulated story about the birth of Jesus.”

Rita Madonna Santelia lives in Chappaqua. She is the mom of 5 and forever a teacher. She works at Grafflin Elementary School.

Cheryl Lynch

“The house feels warm and cozy, filled with love – my family, my sons, my cats, dogs, animals, and chickens in the barn. The trees are lit, cats lying underneath. The room is filled with beautifully decorated gifts and warmth. On Christmas morning we pick leftover herbs from the garden and start cooking. My mom is setting up the cookies. Ryan’s chopping in the kitchen, Jeffrey and my husband Jeff take care of the animals. Aromas fill the air, and the Lord is in our hearts as we await the family.”

Cheryl Lynch is a long-time resident of Armonk and owner of Cherylynn Salon.

Ronni Diamondstein is a journalist, photographer, retired school librarian and the author of Jackie and the Books She Loved. She lives in Chappaqua with her dog Maggie Mae. ronnidiamondstein.com

Naava Katz is an illustrator who lives with her family in Chappaqua. naavakatz.com

Innovative Hand Surgery Technique Offers Comfort and Convenience

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For patients experiencing discomfort or struggling with daily activities due to chronic afflictions of the hand, advancements in hand surgery have brought new treatment options to help relieve pain and restore function in a convenient outpatient setting.

Dr. George Pianka,
orthopedic surgeon
at White Plains
Hospital Physician
Associates.

A technique known as Wide Awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) has proven transformational for patients, says Dr. George Pianka, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates.

“Many procedures that were previously difficult to do without general anesthesia can now be done using WALANT,” explains Dr. Pianka, who has been at the forefront of the specialty for nearly 35 years. In addition to his board certification, Dr. Pianka holds a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand and is a member of the prestigious American Society for Surgery of the Hand.

Relieving Pain, Restoring Function

Dr. Pianka attributes the growing popularity of WALANT procedures to the ease, comfort and convenience they offer patients, especially those whose hand function has been compromised due to stenosing tenosynovitis, also known as “trigger finger” and Dupuytren’s contracture, an abnormal thickening of tissues in the palm of the hand.

Trigger fingers have multiple symptoms, including finger stiffness, a popping or clicking sensation as the finger moves, tenderness, and one or more fingers being locked in a bent position.

The WALANT procedure to address trigger fingers is known as percutaneous trigger finger release, and is performed in the office during a routine visit with a small needle puncture. The band of tissue along the tendon sheath at the base of the finger known as the A1 pulley is divided, allowing the tendon to move freely. The procedure takes one to two minutes and return to normal activity is allowed immediately. Patients can easily receive treatment for multiple fingers affected over time.

Dupuytren’s contracture is believed to be hereditary, although the specific causes are not known. Symptoms can include uncomfortable lumps and pits within the palm, bending of the finger(s) towards the palm and difficulty doing daily activities, such as washing hands or putting on gloves, or shaking hands.

Similar to trigger finger, patients with Dupuytren’s contracture can also find relief for their symptoms with a short in-office WALANT procedure known as Needle Aponeurotomy. During the procedure, under local anesthesia, the abnormal tissue in the hand is weakened with multiple passes of a needle and then separated to open the finger from the palm. There is no open wound.

Benefits of WALANT Procedures for Patients

In addition to comfort and convenience, a key benefit that WALANT procedures offer is making treatment available to patients who may not be candidates for traditional surgery due to the risks that general anesthesia may pose to their health, such as those with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); cardiovascular conditions; those who have had a recent heart attack or stroke; or who take blood thinners.

What’s more, patients who take medications to manage chronic health conditions who may have had to stop their medications in advance of a surgery can instead continue these regimens as normal. Additionally, many patients in good health but who are unable to take time away from work and family obligations for surgery can now access treatment that fits into their lifestyle. As a result, “a whole new patient population can get the care they need,” explains Dr. Pianka.

Many times, the consultation and procedure can be done in the same
in-office visit, after which patients enjoy rapid recovery, including minimal wound care. “A small adhesive bandage over the needle puncture is all that is required. Hand washing is allowed later that same day,” shares Dr. Pianka, emphasizing that patients can feel better and get back to their lives even faster.

This article originally appeared in Health Matters, a White Plains Hospital publication.

Dr. George Pianka sees patients at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates in Hawthorne and Yonkers. To make an appointment, call (914) 631-7777 (Hawthorne) or (914) 375-7777 (Yonkers).

Managing Holiday Stress Around Body Image & Eating Issues

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Repose was founded in 2019 by Mary Breen LCSW, SEP, RYT (center)

The holiday season is often a time for celebration, but for many struggling with body image or eating issues, it can also bring added stress. Gatherings centered around food and family can increase anxiety and self-doubt. At Repose Therapy & Wellness in Pleasantville, NY, a team of therapists offers valuable guidance on how to navigate these challenges with compassion and self-care.

Identifying Holiday Triggers

“Understanding your triggers is essential to reducing stress during the holidays,” says Daniella Dombey, a psychotherapist at Repose specializing in eating disorders and trauma. Daniella frequently works with clients who experience the intersection of eating disorders, body image issues, perfectionism, and OCD, often connected to trauma. “Holiday gatherings can amplify perfectionism and lead to restrictive behaviors or negative self-talk.”

These social events may come with unsolicited comments about appearance or food choices, which can be particularly triggering. Daniella advises preparing responses ahead of time. “Rehearsing how to handle difficult conversations with a therapist or supportive friend helps in setting boundaries and protecting your emotional well-being.”

Strategies for Athletes Facing Body Image Pressures

Body image stress isn’t limited to those with eating disorders. Athletes often face unique challenges related to maintaining a specific physique, which can be difficult during the holidays. Brooks Perkey, LMSW, a therapist at Repose specializing in sports therapy, notes that the disruption of routine can be unsettling for athletes.

Kaylee Bayer, LCSW

“The holidays can make athletes feel disconnected from their bodies, especially if their identity is tied to performance or appearance,” Brooks explains. “It’s important for athletes to give themselves permission to rest and remember that their value isn’t tied to their body size or athletic performance.”

Brooks recommends incorporating movement in a joyful and non-punitive way. “Light activities, like a walk or yoga, can help you stay connected to your body.”

Addressing Food-Related Anxiety

For many, holiday meals can be particularly stressful due to food-related anxiety. Kaylee Bayer, LCSW, a therapist at Repose who specializes in treating anxiety disorders in both adults and children, provides practical strategies for managing anxiety during meals.

“Holiday meals can be overwhelming for those with disordered eating due to social pressure around food choices,” Kaylee says. “Grounding techniques, such as mindful breathing or focusing on your senses, can help ease anxiety during meals.” Kaylee suggests communicating with family members ahead of time. “Let them know what boundaries you have with foods so they can more easily respect your working relationship with eating.”

Holistic Approaches to Healing

The therapists at Repose emphasize a holistic approach – important when healing from food and body-related issues. “We can’t address eating issues purely on a cognitive level,” says Mary Breen, a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and founder of Repose. “Somatic therapy, which helps clients reconnect with their bodies, is a key part of the healing process. Often, eating disorders develop as a way of controlling the body, but healing comes from listening to and trusting your body.”

Mary encourages clients to engage in body-honoring practices such as therapeutic breathwork, yoga, or mindful eating. “Tuning into your body’s natural signals can help rebuild trust and shift away from a punitive relationship with food.”

Building a Supportive Environment

At Repose, the therapists agree that having a strong support system during the holidays is essential. Whether it’s a therapist, trusted friends, or family, surrounding yourself with those who understand your healing journey can make the difference.

“Talk to your therapist or a supportive friend before and after holiday gatherings,” Daniella advises. “It’s also important to practice self-compassion. Healing isn’t linear – there will be ups and downs, but those don’t define your progress.”

Knowing when to seek professional help is essential, especially if body image or eating concerns intensify during the holidays. Persistent negative thoughts about your body, preoccupation with food, avoiding social events, or feeling out of control with food may indicate it’s time to reach out.

Repose Therapy & Wellness, located at 351 Manville Road in Pleasantville, offers in-person and online services throughout New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey.

What book from your childhood had a strong impact on you?

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BY RONNI DIAMONDSTEIN AND ILLUSTRATED BY NAAVA KATZ

Katie Alvarez

“Hatchet by Gary Paulsen had a strong impact on my life. This was one of the first books that gave me that feeling of wanting to read non-stop to find out what happened in the end. I was on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. It jump-started my love of reading for the sense of adventure. The book delivered a great lesson on perseverance and the will to survive. It spoke to my spirit of being a problem solver and determination to succeed in the face of adversity.”

Katie Alvarez lives in Pleasantville and works in the White Plains School District.

Jessica Rappaport

“When I was four, my older sister Alyssa taught me to read my first book, Kangaroo Stew. My sister infused within me the belief that I was limitless, even when I was diagnosed with an ocular condition that left me legally blind in one eye. My first book opened me to a world where I would regularly escape. I eventually became an English teacher. Now it was my turn – I opened up worlds through literature for hundreds of students. I have always thought that books are an imagination gateway.”

Jessica Rappaport is an Assistant Principal at Seven Bridges School in Chappaqua.

Judy Willsey

“I was never much of a reader even though I was really good at it. My mom was a kindergarten teacher, and I was surrounded by books. But I loved reading the encyclopedia. I loved the little snippets of information and distinctly recall reading about this stuff called ‘gold leaf.’ So apropos as I am a professional picture framer who deals in gilded gold leaf frames every single day. So, there you have it. Catcher in the Rye. Nope. How to Win Friends and Influence People. Nope. Funk and Wagnalls. You bet.”

Judy Willsey is the owner of Framings in Armonk

David Helfenbein

“The Great Gatsby had a strong impact on me. I read it for the first time at Greeley and was particularly moved by the final line of the book, which discusses the relationship between our past, present and future selves. That line resonates even more now that I have returned to Chappaqua.”

David Helfenbein graduated from Greeley in 2004 and is now the Vice President, Public Relations at Burford Capital, the leading financial firm focused on law. He holds a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and a J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis.

Ronni Diamondstein is a journalist, photographer, retired school librarian and the author of Jackie and the Books She Loved. She lives in Chappaqua with her dog Maggie Mae. ronnidiamondstein.com

Naava Katz is an illustrator who lives with her family in Chappaqua. naavakatz.com

How to Help Children Develop Healthy Sleep Habits

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Dr. Ranaan Arens

Creating and sticking to a healthy sleep routine for every child is essential for successful school year. Getting ample sleep (9-11 hours a night) ensures that children get enough rest to meet the cognitive and physical demands of their days.

Keep in mind the following five tips to foster healthy sleep habits in children:

1. Set a regular bedtime and wake time. On weekends, don’t let them sleep more than an hour or so longer than usual.
2. Establish a regular bedtime routine – such as a bath followed by reading, and not eating close to bedtime.
3. No screens before bed. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that we stop using electronic devices 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Keeping TVs and computers out of their rooms is also helpful to create a restful environment.
4. Turn off bright lights at night. Nightlights are okay, but stronger lighting can affect a teenager’s ability to fall asleep even more than usual. Teens have a delayed melatonin release, which is why their bodies naturally want to stay up later at night and sleep later in the morning.
5. Take advantage of morning light. Exposure to natural light in the morning advances the circadian rhythm to shut down brain melatonin production and promote daytime alertness.

When Trouble Sleeping Signals a Sleep Disorder

Many people think of snoring as an adult problem, but children also sometimes exhibit snorting, rasping or gasping sounds while sleeping. In some cases, the problem might be caused by oversized tonsils and adenoids or being overweight. In others, the snoring could be the sign of a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

This is one of the most common sleep disorders I see in children. In sleep “apnea” (which means to stop breathing), children temporarily stop breathing and have reduced oxygen supply to their brain for 10 or more seconds at a time during their sleep. This condition is harmful to their and may affect their growth, development and behavior and lead to significant conditions as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Today, up to 5-7 percent of kids have sleep apnea. The size of their tonsils remains a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea, in addition to upper airway anatomical abnormalities. As with adults, being overweight is one of the biggest causes and risk factors; 17 to 30 percent of children today are in this category. The added weight in the chest and neck impinge on the mechanical construction of the airway.

Kids themselves may not realize they are having trouble sleeping, but parents might.

Signs include:

  • Frequent snoring
  • Abrupt arousals at night and difficulty staying asleep
  • Waking with a sore throat or dry mouth
  • Waking up with headaches
  • Difficulty waking in the morning
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Poor attention and poor school performance
  • Moodiness or other behavior problems
  • Depression
  • Bed wetting

How a Sleep Study Can Help

If your child displays any of the above symptoms – and especially if they have more than one – the AAP recommends that you have your child evaluated for a sleep study.

It’s actually a very easy process – all the kids have to do is sleep! Polysomnographic sleep studies involve spending an overnight (with a parent) in our sleep lab. At our new facility, we have a special pediatric room with a private bathroom where parents can sleep in the same bed as their children, or in a separate bed next to them. The children are monitored overnight as they sleep using highly advanced diagnostic equipment that checks for things such as airflow and oxygen intake. A sleep technician is there all night to monitor equipment and attend to any needs.

And that’s it. In about a week, we’ll have analyzed the study data and be ready to make a diagnosis. Treatment for large tonsils could be as simple as a tonsillectomy to cure the apnea. In other cases, treatments include an airflow regulating mask to facilitate breathing in cases of apnea, as well as a weight management plan. Other sleep disorders such as parasomnia or “night terrors” might warrant behavioral health treatment.

Whatever the diagnosis, our credentialed staff is dedicated to getting to the source of the problem and helping your child get the sleep he or she needs.

Dr. Ranaan Arens is a Professor of Pediatrics at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is the Director of the Pediatric Sleep Center and Director of the Postgraduate Training Program in Pediatric Pulmonology at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM).
He sees patients at White Plains Hospital’s Pediatric Specialty Center in White Plains. To make an appointment, call 914-849-5437.