The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Ronni Diamondstein

The Joy of Dance in New Castle

by

Loretta and Michael Mangino (ballroom dance class participants) and Cameron Kelly (dance instructor)
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

New Castle residents are moving and grooving to the music in dance classes at the town’s Community Center on Senter Street. It’s more than just fun for them, it’s great for their health and wellness. For adults over 18 years old, the Recreation Department offers Ballroom, Country Line and Belly dance, and EZ Dance Fitness, a class for seniors (60+).

“Getting people in and moving is important,” says Christine Grey, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation who coordinates the town programs and the dance classes. Classes are open to all New Castle residents and non-residents are also welcome.

Dancing is aerobic exercise that increases strength and endurance, balance and coordination, bone health and flexibility, boosts endorphins and burns calories for weight management. It’s a benefit for brain health too. Studies have found that dancing is more challenging to the brain than puzzles. And it’s a great way to build community and make new friends.

Ballroom Dance
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

Ballroom Dance is designed for participants to dance with their special someone for “date night” or to make a new friend in class. Participants learn swing, cha-cha, smooth, hustle and the basic steps needed to dance to any of their favorite music. Partners learn how to lead and follow confidently on the dance floor. Singles are welcome in the class.

Cameron Kelly, the instructor loves ballroom dancing. Kelly, who is International Dance and Exercise Association trained and certified, says dance is full body movement, not just steps for your feet. “Holding your frame means strength building. Balance is all about stopping and starting and turning to the rhythm of the music. An hour of dancing is heart healthy as it is continual rhythmic body movement.”

Susan Wolf and her husband Michael have taken the class for many years. “It started out by being our date night when our kids were little and now it’s our mental health retreat,” says Wolf. “The class has been invaluable as a coping mechanism for stress during our work week. Cameron is a fantastic teacher whose down-to-earth style puts everyone at ease.”

Cha Cha Cha Line Dance
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

Country Line Dance, the latest craze, is also taught by Kelly. It’s not only fun, but a great way to exercise to today’s popular and very hip new country music. Partners are not needed. Kelly breaks the dance steps down, so they are easy to learn. She shares information about all the popular clubs and dance halls in the area where participants can line dance all year round.

“Dancing in a group situation, either line dancing, or dancing with a partner adds an additional wonderful feeling of being in a group activity and feeling a sense of belonging,” says Kelly.

Megan Smith has been taking the line dance class for a year and likes that it’s an artistic exercise and is a fun alternative to the gym. “Dance has been great for my physical health by helping improve balance and coordination,” says Smith. “For mental health, it promotes memory skills, and it can be stress relief.”

Belly Dance
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEW CASTLE RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Belly Dance, with its roots in folk dance, is a combination of exercise, artistic expression, culture and camaraderie. The class consists of a warm-up, technique, a traveling sequence and short combo Sistine or veil work. This class is suitable for all levels with a focus on the basics. Participants wishing for an extra challenge can sign up for the additional half hour session to learn advanced steps, choreography and props. Participants wear comfortable workout clothes and work barefoot or in a dance, yoga or gymnastic shoe. A belly dance hip scarf or shawl is recommended but not mandatory.

“Belly dance is good for self-esteem and a joyful alternative to exercise. It accepts your physique as beautiful, so you are starting with a positive body image,” says instructor Gina Bergamini, who studied dance at SUNY New Paltz. “You use muscles you didn’t know you had, especially in the torso.” Belly dance is low impact and a very gentle technique.

Belly Dance
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEW CASTLE RECREATION DEPARTMENT

“Elders do it. I’ve even had three generations, a mother, daughter and grandmother in one class. The concept of dance being a young thing is changing,” says Bergamini. “People enjoy dancing whether it’s for fitness or social activity. They are doing it later, and later in life.”

“Gina teaches a Cabaret-style form of belly dancing that is deeply expressive and rooted in body positivity, promoting self-confidence through her art,” says Gricel DeCuffa who appreciates the cultural aspect of belly dance. “Dancing to Middle Eastern music is energizing and joyful.” Nancy Lonigro has been a student of Bergamini’s for many years and values the camaraderie. “There is a core group here that has developed a wonderful network of friendship and support, and it is a beautiful thing.” says Lonigro. “And the new dancers are welcomed with open arms.”

Bergamini, who also teaches youth dances classes, brought members of the belly dance choreography class together to perform with the children for a “Nutcracker” recital making this an intergenerational experience.

EZ Dance Fitness
PHOTO BY SUZANNE SAMSEN

EZ Dance Fitness is an easy to follow, go at your own pace format of low impact cardio dance, toning, balance, coordination and stretch, created and lead by Amy Olin. “It’s my version of Zumba Gold,” says Olin who has group fitness certification from the Aerobic Fitness Association of America. She puts together a variety of genres of music and wants everyone to like what they are hearing. “My mission is to make it unintimidating, easy and fun. It’s kind to your body. Moving to the music is joyful.” Olin says dance exercise stands out from other forms because you’re using your brain and your body.

EZ Dance Fitness
PHOTO BY SUZANNE SAMSEN

“My strength and flexibility have improved since taking Amy’s classes,” says Madeleine Accardi. “This in turn has been good for my mental and emotional health since I know I’m helping myself stay in shape. And of course it’s good for my step count!”

The class has made a huge impact on Susan Welling who says Olin’s approach is both welcoming and inspirational. “Amy Olin has helped keep me healthy both physically and mentally. In my mind, I’m dancing not exercising.”

EZ Dance Fitness
PHOTO BY SUZANNE SAMSEN

Participants in the classes agree that there are many more benefits than exercise. They meet new people and make new friends, which has contributed to their improved overall well-being.

“We always encourage people to reach out to the Recreation Department office at 914-238-3909 or they can email the general email at recnpark@mynewcastleny.gov with any inquiries,” says Grey. “If anyone wants to try a class, they should call our office.”

EZ Dance Fitness
PHOTO BY SUZANNE SAMSEN

Grey is very happy to see the community center bustling. “People are here for different reasons. Socialization is the biggest part.”

For more information or to register: https://secure.rec1.com/NY/new-castle-ny/catalog

Jessica Rosh: Restoring Hope With A Wish

by

Photo by Carolyn Simpson

As the newly elected Board Chair of the Hudson Valley chapter, Chappaqua resident Jessica Rosh knows well the impact of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Embarking on this new role, she will lead the chapter in celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026. “It’s an absolute honor to have the opportunity to be part of an organization that makes such an impact and transforms the lives of kids and their families during the most difficult times in their lives,” says Rosh.

Rosh’s connection to Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley goes way back to her childhood in the Catskills. More than 30 years ago when her then 17-year-old brother David was being treated for leukemia he was contacted by wish granting volunteers. David wanted to meet the winner of the 1988 Presidential election. While this seems like a huge ask, his wish was graciously granted when the family was invited to the White House to meet with President George H.W. Bush, who had lost a daughter Robin to the disease. President Bush’s reception, kindness and thoughtfulness made an impression on Rosh as she saw how this special moment meant a new chapter in her brother’s life. “Our whole family was touched by that event. In that moment the spark was ignited in me,” says Rosh. “I wanted families to feel the power of a wish.”

“I’ve tried to live my life guided by empathy,” says Rosh who was strongly influenced by her professor at Boston University, Elie Wiesel and his words of wisdom, “think higher, feel deeper.” Rosh began her career as an attorney and now teaches bioethics at New York Medical College in Valhalla.

Rosh started volunteering nearly twenty years ago and has been on the Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley Board for the past eight. As Board Chair she wants to continue to nurture and develop more partnerships and relationships in the community and to allow people to see the impact of a wish. Community support is vital to Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley that is 100% donor funded. “I want everyone in the community to know that they have a role to play. It’s not only wish families and volunteers. We have support from clinical partners, local businesses and restaurants. We can grant wishes, but we need the community support to do that.” The average cost of a wish is $10,000. “We have 150 wishes in our pipeline now and we granted 145 this year,” says Rosh. While wishes are often thought to be unobtainable, Make-A-Wish makes things happen.

One of the community connections Rosh is most proud of is Chappaqua’s Horace Greeley High School Make-A-Wish Club. In 2024 the club received the Chris Greicius Award for their decade of service raising thousands of dollars. Rosh says they have been a phenomenal partner and is proud of how the young people have taken this on. The club takes part in the annual Walk for Wishes and has raised funds to support three wishes, trips to Disney and Japan, and a clubhouse. They held a variety of fundraisers including a raffle, pickle ball tournament and bake sale. “Our connection to Jessica is super special,” says Sheila Jacob, the longtime faculty advisor. Jacob values Rosh’s connection to the students. “Jessica knows how to make people feel special,” says Jacob. Rosh meets with the club members in the beginning of the school year and attends their events. “I’m thankful I had Jessica to partner with. She’s a real role model for all of us to be dedicated to community service, and an inspiration. She always shows much gratitude.” Additionally, three Greeley club members have done their Senior Experience internship at the Make-A-Wish office in Tarrytown.

Jessica Rosh speaking at the Walk for Wishes 2025
Photo by Rana Faure Photography

A highlight of the year is the Walk for Wishes: A Family Fun Festival at Kingsland Park in Sleepy Hollow. This year the annual fundraiser brought together wish families, volunteers, sponsors, and the community raising over $190,000. They surprised 17-year-old Emily with a trip to Greece, granting the milestone 3,500th wish for the chapter at the festival on October 5th.

As a wish granter Rosh meets with Wish Kids and their families and helps children determine a wish. She also works with the Make-A-Wish staff and wish families during the wish process. Rosh developed deep relationships with wish families that have continued after wishes were granted. The Koch family is one. Their son Benjamin’s wish of attending the Major League All-Star game was granted in 2017. Benjamin’s mother Stefanie says that Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley made such a difference for her family. “The Wish Kids are in the hospital, dealing with taking medicine, being sick and not being a kid. Make-A-Wish gives them a chance to be excited about something,” says Koch. “Families get to make memories and it’s not about going to the doctor.” Her family was part of a group wish to attend the All-Star game with six other families. “As a group wish it was so special to cheer all these kids on through their journeys and their love of baseball. To be able to be a cheerleader and celebrate the journey that these other kids had faced, and to see the joy in the wish they were granted, that’s the big thing.” Koch is grateful to stay in touch with Rosh. “Jessica is very special to our family,” says Koch. “She is so inspirational and a beautiful choice for the Board Chair. She’ll do greatthings. I can’t think of a better face for the organization.”

Like many Wish Alums, Benjamin Koch has stayed active. When he co-hosted the 2022 Wish Ball with fellow Wish Alum Bianca Muñiz that honored the longtime co-hosts WNBC Today in New York anchor Darlene Rodriguez and WHUD’s Mike Bennett he said, “While the hope of a wish was instrumental in my physical and emotional recovery, the memories afterward have inspired me to use my voice to spread the restorative power of a wish.”

The 2026 Wish Ball at the Westchester Country Club on April 17 will commemorate the anniversary with the theme 40 Years of Wishes. They will be celebrating the impact the chapter has had with granted wishes over the decades. Wish families will speak and community partners will be honored. “It’s a magical night,” says Rosh.

There have been a variety of wishes granted, and some are holiday themed. “We did a wish for a child who wanted to give back for the holidays donating gifts to patients in the hospital,” says Rosh. “And I worked on a wish for a young girl who wanted to spend Christmas in London.” The holidays are the busiest time with their end of the year and holiday giving appeal. “While holidays are a special focus–what it means to give and receive–but it’s what we do all year long; 365 days of the year we’re focused on giving and improving the lives of our Wish Kids and their families,” says Rosh.

Jessica with Kristine Burton, President/CEO of Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley
Photo by Rana Faure Photography

The chapter has 250 volunteers and a staff of 11 that Rosh calls her dream team. “Everyone has something to give whether it’s their time, talent or treasures,” says Allyson Curtis, Director of Development. “There is a way for everyone to experience the power of a wish whether that’s through giving their time, donating or partnering with us through a business. The holiday season is a great time to host events. It takes a village.” Abraham Almanza, Senior Director of Marketing and Wish Alum, says the biggest hurdle they have to jump over is the myth that wishes are only for the terminally ill. “Wishes are granted to children between the ages of two and a half to eighteen years old who have a life-threatening critical illness, degenerative, progressive or that puts the child’s life in jeopardy at the time of referral. We encourage families, when in doubt just refer,” says Almanza.

Kristine Burton the Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley President & CEO sees Rosh as an inspiring volunteer leader. “Her unwavering personal commitment and passion for our mission have been pivotal in driving our success. Over the years, Jessica’s dedicated service has fostered a culture of compassion and dedication, making a profound impact on the lives of countless children and families. As we approach our 40th anniversary, I am filled with hope and excitement for the future, knowing that her vision and guidance will continue to lead us toward creating even more life-changing moments for the children and families we serve with critical illnesses.”

Rosh reflects on her work with the chapter. “I have found a place where I can see goodness in action, especially with everything going on in the world, and I can see kindness to do the work to make the world a better place,” says Rosh. “The absolute very best part of this is the Wish Kids and meeting them and knowing them. They teach me how to be brave and courageous and understand that life will throw you some curve balls but the best you can do is move forward.”

“It’s really difficult to explain fully the impact that Make-A-Wish has had on our family,” says Rosh. “It has changed all of us.” Her parents have stayed involved. Jessica and her brother David are wish granters, and her brother Rob is an oncologist.

Rosh is grateful to her family for their support, “I couldn’t do what I do without my husband David and my daughters Lauren and Emma. My family is all in, and they share my passion.”

Now Rosh has her very own special wish. “As Board Chair, my wish for Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley would be that no child ever faces life-threatening illness. However, as long as there are children with critical illnesses who need hope, strength and joy during these challenging and difficult times in their lives, we will be there for them to provide life-changing, transformative experiences. I wish to lead with moral clarity and look forward to collaborating with our remarkable board, staff, volunteers, donors and supporters to keep the well-being of our Wish Kids as the primary focus, while steadfastly maintaining the integrity and strength of our chapter.”

About Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley

Serves eight counties: Delaware, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester

The Wish House

832 South Broadway
Tarrytown, NY 10591
(914) 478-9474
info@hudson.wish.org
hudson.wish.org

Get involved:

hudson.wish.org/help
Fundraise
Volunteer
Corporate partner
Alumni community
Donate

Refer a child:

hudson.wish.org/refer
A child between ages 2.5 and 18 years old who has a critical illness that is placing the child’s life in jeopardy.

2026 Wish Ball:

For sponsorships, journal ads, and ticket details visit:
hudson.wish.org/wishball

New Beginnings at The Kittle House Inn: Meet the Krase Family

by

(L-R): Scott, Jackson & Christie Krase in the Tap Room at The Kittle House Inn
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

Since 1790, the Kittle House has been a mainstay of the Chappaqua community serving as a cherished landmark and symbol of Chappaqua’s enduring allure.

The historic Kittle House is now in the hands of The Krase family who have taken hold of its stewardship with the promise to retain the charm of this renowned venue that is meaningful for so many, and to make it a community meeting place.

In January 2024 Christie and Scott Krase, 24-year Chappaqua residents who’ve celebrated many happy occasions at the Kittle House, were having dinner when they learned that the storied establishment was for sale. Christie and Scott exchanged a glance. Instantly they knew that they wanted to be the next caretakers of the Kittle House legacy, and that week Scott met with John Crabtree, the longtime owner and they came to a deal in September 2024.

The crucial condition for the Krase family was that the senior staff, whose average tenure is 25 plus years, stay on. “The staff was a big reason we decided to buy it. It came with people that meant something to the community,” says Christie. “The entire senior staff has been welcoming, supportive, excited and collaborative. We now have a new family.”

Along with respecting the senior staff and venerable Kittle House traditions, the Krase family will be bringing in their son Jackson, a 2015 Horace Greeley High School graduate. “I thought it could be a really cool family adventure,” said Christie who had worked in hotels previously. “It was very instinctive. It seemed like a great legacy project.” Christie and Scott also have three daughters: Arin (HGHS ‘17), Piper (HGHS ‘19) and Tatum (HGHS ‘22).

Christie Krase
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

“It’s not every day that you get the opportunity to be a part of the community in a way such as this,” says Jackson. “This place is special to a lot of people for a lot of different reasons and being part of that is something we were really excited about.” He credits his A+ Greeley experience for giving him that great sense of community and the town. Even though he was only there for two years having spent his first two high school years in London at the Southbank International School, he formed lasting relationships.

Jackson, who will be starting out as the assistant manager has had an interesting career path. He studied Political Science and Foreign Policy at the University of Richmond, then worked in Israel at the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism and the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C. On a wine tour in South Africa he had an “aha” moment. Realizing that he needed a change, he found a job in a vineyard in Cape May, New Jersey. Now Jackson will be learning all the aspects of the business. “I’m new in this industry. I’m green. I am a sponge. I will be doing a series of six-month rotations in different parts of the business. Once completed I’ll have a better understanding.” Jackson has organized the extensive wine cellar and will be working in the front of the house, the back of the house, the kitchen and events.

The Krase family has exciting plans for the future. “The Kittle House 2.0 is going to be a central community gathering place with many new weekly events,” says Jackson. They will continue Women’s Wednesday Wine Night and wine pairings and have something for men and other surprise events. There will be many opportunities to partner with community groups. They hope people will continue to see it as “the” place to have their holiday parties, birthday celebrations and other special occasions.

As part of their vision, from the Tap Room to the guest rooms to the restaurant and the event space, every single area on the property, landscaping included, with be touched and refreshed and updated. Sitting in the Tap Room discussing the renovations, Christie says, “Everyone wants to be in the Tap Room, so we’re expanding it. That’s what the community has asked for.” They have gotten opinions from neighbors in Lawrence Farms East and other community members. The entire event space downstairs is being completely renovated and will be brand new by the spring of 2026.

The Krase family was also very thoughtful about whom they hired to do the work. “It was important to us to use local professionals and tradespeople who have interacted with and understand the history and value of the Kittle House to the local community,” says Christie. “From our architect Ken Anderson, a long-time Chappaqua resident, construction contractors, Lasberg Construction Associates – Lee Lasberg grew up in Chappaqua and is a HGHS ’76 grad–and designer Janine Rosenblum, a long-time Chappaqua resident.”

“The Town has been phenomenal working with us. They have been so supportive: the planning board, building department, fire department, and environmental planning, “ says Christie. “I think they understand the history of the building and what it means to the community

Jackson Krase
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

Scott adds “They have been great partners in helping us getting a very complicated project to the launching pad.”

With the renovations for the guest rooms, Christie sees it not only for out-of-town visitors to the area, but also as a place for the community. If people have guests coming in for the holidays and don’t have enough room in their home or if they need to move out of their home when it is being renovated, they can stay at the inn.

And fans of the restaurant can count on a great new menu with all the Kittle House classics and updated with new offerings and specials. “Outside will be a go-to spot in the nice weather,” says Scott. “There’s going to be a pergola for outdoor dining.”

The Krase family sees the Kittle House as both an embodiment of this quaint colonial town and a breath of fresh air. They are thrilled to build on its historic legacy and rich tradition, innovating and elevating where they can while maintaining its character.

Scott also saw this as a great business opportunity. “How many times do you get to buy something that is iconic? How many times do you get to buy something that is a brand that is so good that they win the best awards in the country for wine and food? And add in the reputation and all the good stories.”

The Kittle House Inn
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

Christie reflects on their endeavor. “Change is difficult. Most people don’t like change. We will get some things wrong, but for the majority of what we think we’re changing, it retains the essence of what the Kittle House is, just freshening it to better serve the community and the neighborhood.”

Jackson is looking forward to his new experience at The Kittle House Inn, a place where like so many people he has experienced many memorable family occasions. He will enjoy two very special ones at The Kittle House Inn when he weds his fiancé Rebecca Pallant (HGHS ‘15) on June 6, 2026, and his sister Arin is married on October 10, 2026. “I love this town. I don’t want to be anywhere else. It’s a privilege to be able to work here.”

For more about The Kittle House Inn, go to thekittlehouseinn.com

Remembering Maggie Mae, Chappaqua’s Canine Journalist

by

Maggie Mae, a black and white toy “Parti” Poodle, much-loved member of the Chappaqua community, and longtime and recurring Maggie Mae Pup Reporter columnist for Inside Press passed away on June 28, 2025. She was 17 years and 8 months old. Born on October 20, 2007, she came to Chappaqua in January 2008. Because she was so tiny with such an outgoing personality she was named for the main character of Chappaqua author Jean Van Leeuwen’s picture book “Wait for me,” said Maggie McGee. Maggie Mae was so beloved that she was featured in the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival mural on South Greeley Avenue painted by Sophie Mendelson. Known beyond Chappaqua, she appeared several times on the WNBC Storm Team 4 Dog Walking Forecast, and on News 12.

Maggie Mae graced the cover of Inside Chappaqua magazine three times. Beginning in 2010 she wrote articles on a wide range of topics. She interviewed town officials, veterinarians, authors and rescue and therapy dogs. One of her favorite interviews was the beloved Chappaqua children’s book author Jean Craighead George. In another interview she came face to face with a parrot when she interviewed an exotic pet veterinarian. Her columns addressed pet health, pet safety, what to do when your dog is lost, and the importance of registering your dog. She ventured into Armonk writing about shopping with your dog and strolling in Wampus Park. In 2023 she wrote about the powerful relationship of a dog and its owner. https://www.theinsidepress.com/tag/maggie-mae-pup-reporter/

In October 2020, Maggie Mae had a “Bark Mitzvah” in an online Temple Beth El of Northern Westchester shabbat service.

Maggie Mae loved to ride in the car and her annual visit to the Red Lion Inn in the Berkshires. The belle of Chappaqua, she was often spotted in town on her daily walks and greeted by merchants and many of her fans and readers. She met President Bill Clinton and Secretary Hillary Clinton in town and was the inspiration for their dog Tallie. Jeffrey Mester, former Chappaqua Board of Education member who was her neighbor and friend said, “Maggie was such a great girl! She will be missed by the entire New Castle and Chappaqua community.”

Maggie Mae was a dog to love. She was the best girl ever. She was my girl.

What public place in your town do you enjoy visiting to lift your spirits?

by Ronni Diamondstein & Naava Katz

Abby Woodworth

“My favorite local place to get away is Rockwood Hall on Phelps Way in Sleepy Hollow. It is the grounds of an old Gilded Age mansion. There are miles of hiking trails, the old stone foundation of the mansion and amazing Hudson River views. I enjoy going for sunset hikes with my husband, catching up with my college son over an am walk, but my favorite visit was seeing fireworks over the Hudson on the 4th with my youngest son.”

Abby Woodworth lives in Mount Pleasant. She is a member of the Byram Hills Education Foundation Board and volunteers regularly at 914Cares in Armonk with her friend 92-year-old Loretta Adamo.

Hidenao Abe

“Being raised in several countries, my ‘town’ could be several places including Tokyo. I have lived in Chappaqua for the past 17 years, the place I’ve stayed put the longest and now consider home. Flights to New York thus feel like coming home. Spending some moments on Haneda airport’s rooftop observation deck prior to boarding fills me with joy, relief and optimism. Its ambience awakens joyful memories of my childhood airplane obsession. Spotting the plane for my flight to New York gives me a sense of relief and parked within reach from the deck – a sign of peaceful society – makes me feel optimistic that freedom from fear is indeed possible”

Hidenao Abe lives in Chappaqua and is a photographer and former board member of Chappaqua School Foundation and Horace Greeley Scholarship Fund.

Chris Hildenbrand

“There are so many areas in Town that are spirit-lifting, but two that stand out are Whippoorwill Park and Glazier Arboretum. It is not an exaggeration to say that we have spent parts of almost every day with our dogs in one of those two incredible preserves! They are five minutes from our home but allow for a total escape into nature, for both active exercise and peaceful contemplation.”

Chris Hildenbrand has lived in Chappaqua with his family since 1998. Chris works in investment management, and in Town ran youth baseball and softball and served on the New Castle Town Board.

Jennifer Sugar Frawley

“I love Rockwood Hall in Mt Pleasant on the Hudson. It has the ruins of William Rockefeller’s majestic house and beautiful special trees. When you walk the property you feel transported to the Gilded Age. The beauty of the 1,000-acre park is that anyone can walk or enjoy the ruins of the house and the nature surrounding you. I remember my children rolling down the grassy hill on a warm summer day.”

Jennifer Sugar Frawley is a Pleasantville resident who resided in Chappaqua for 58 years. She works for a local chiropractor and as a personal assistant for a friend and artist.