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Reserve Now – Fine Choices for Dining Out On Mother’s Day

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Festive & Farm-to-Table

Whether an intimate dining experience with ‘just mom,’ or an event for the whole family, festive gatherings on Mother’s Day are a long held tradition at the Kittle House.Built as a barn in 1790 and named after local farmer John Kittle, how appropriate it is that the Kittle Barn and Carriage House began its existence with a farm-to-table connection, a philosophy and tradition that has continued throughout the years. Crabtree’s Kittle House established itself as the farm-to-table pioneer in Westchester County and has maintained its excellent reputation as an outlet for the finest sustainable, naturally raised and grown products from small, artisanal farmers located in the Hudson Valley and beyond.

Crabtree’s Kittle House
11 Kittle Road, Chappaqua
(914) 666-8044
www.kittlehouse.com

Eclectic & Inviting

Family gatherings have a rich history inside Chappaqua’s eclectic, new world cuisine restaurant. Here, “New York and Parisian style seating lends a city-like feel to a small town joint.” Though Le Jardin has its origin roots in French cuisine, its many other influences have transformed it into the place where you can get a little taste of everywhere. The interior is cozy and inviting, while the outdoor patio (seasonal & weather permitting) offers patrons a truly inviting dining experience surrounded by a beautiful garden–seemingly plucked from the grounds of Versailles and dropped in the little hamlet of Chappaqua. From French classics and steaks, Classic Latin style tacos done to perfection, onward to nationally recognized award winning BBQ and some of the best burgers around, Le Jardin has it all and does it with service that will bend over backwards for you.

Le Jardin du Roi
95 King Street, Chappaqua
(914) 238-1368
Lejardinchappaqua.com

Signature Dishes

Pleasantville residents and visitors alike have been blessed since the quaint and warm Bistro 146 came onto the scene. Still a local fine dining favorite, Bistro 146 has traditionally offered a pre-fixe menu on Mother’s Day. This year, they are promising to include two signature dishes: a Maine Lobster Clam Bake, ‘our style,’ and their ‘famous’ Premium seafood paella!

Bistro 146
146 Bedford Road, Pleasantville
(914) 495-3992

Classics Elevated

Mother’s Day and any day at Amore in Armonk means experiencing the spirit of seasonal simplicity in Italian cooking. Proprietors Mark & Joe Mazzotta describe the menu as “a nod on traditional classics infused with modern-innovation… thus, resulting in the classics elevated to new levels.” An aroma of brick oven pizza and roasted garlic permeate the room. It is comfort food that is truly palate pleasing… “a simple joy.”   The original building was rescued from a dusty, decades old roadhouse and reincarnated into a cozy trattoria–resembling a Tuscan style farmhouse eatery with a rustic elegance inside & out. Established in Armonk almost 20 ago, the new ‘reinvented’ setting is centered in the heart of downtown.

Amore Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen
1 Kent Place, Armonk
(914) 273-3535
amorearmonk.com

A Different Experience

An exciting newcomer promises a “different dining experience this Mother’s Day.” Inka’s Seafood Grill is inviting you to reserve soon to “celebrate all the Moms in our lives.” A special three-course prix fixe menu is being offered, with both Peruvian and American selections. $55 per person. Limited outdoor patio seating, weather permitting. Reservations recommended.

Inka’s Seafood Grill
465 Main Street, Armonk
(914) 730-1122
Inkasseafoodgrill.com

World Cup Gymnasts Are All-Around Sliver Medalists

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Binghamton, NY, March 16-18, 2018 – World Cup Gymnastics boys’ team competed this past weekend at the New York State Championship held at Chenago Valley High School in Binghamton, NY.  Over 400 gymnasts competed at this exciting event.

Level 10 boys had a great meet.   In particular graduating Senior, Miles Miller from Hartsdale, NY was the champion on Floor in the 17-18 age group with a 13.7001 and took home silver medals for Rings (13.7002), Parallel Bars (13.5002) and High Bar (13.5002).  He also was the All-Around silver medalist (80.5002). Teammate,  J.T. Basulto, also from Hartsdale, won on  Floor with a 13.3001 in the 15-16 age group and took home a silver medal for Parallel Bars (13.1002).   Although World Cup’s Level 10 Team vied for the first place title, in the end, they were proud of their third place finish.

Level 8 gymnast and National Team Member, Eli Osuna, from West Point was the champion on Rings with a 12.8001, on Parallel Bars (12.3502) and on High Bar (12.7001).  He also took home the silver All-Around medal.  “Eli tried a new vault routine at the competition and, although he didn’t nail it, we believe that true champions are those that have the guts to challenge themselves.  We applaud him for his courage,” said head coach, Jason Hebert.

Our youngest gymnast at age 7, Dylan Davenport, from Stamford, CT won Level 5 Rings with a 10.9001 and Vault (9.3001).  He also took home silver medals on Floor (10.4002) and Pommel Horse (10.7002) as well as placing fourth in the All-Around (59.0004).

“All of our gymnasts showed great focus and, moreover, demonstrated a remarkable desire to be successful.  Our Level 10 boys were especially motivated and driven and it showed in their outstanding performances.  We couldn’t be prouder of their achievements,” added Hebert.  The boys’ team now advance to the regional competitions.

World Cup Gymnastics has been training State, Regional and National Champions for over 25 years.  It is deemed one of the most revered recreational and competitive gymnastics programs in the state offering mommy and me classes for infants, pre-school gymnastics, school-age recreational gymnastics, tumbling for cheerleaders and competitive teams.   For more information, please call 914-238-4967 or visit www.worldcupgymnastics.com.

ICD Contemporary Jewelry: Heaven for Jewelry Lovers and Design Aficionados This Spring

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When most New Yorkers think of jewelry they know that the Diamond District in midtown Manhattan offers gorgeous pieces from top designers but you don’t have to travel to NYC to avail yourself of the most exquisite jewels from top designers. For more than four decades, ICD Contemporary Jewelry located in downtown Chappaqua has been a bastion of beautiful jewelry showcasing some of the leading designers in the world of fine jewelry. Just this past holiday season, ICD Contemporary Jewelry played host to celebrated designer Tovi Farber from Israel. Farber made an in-store appearance at an exclusive trunk show, which helped customers create one-of-a-kind pieces. 

Farber who hails from Israel creates jewelry utilizing gold and colorful semi-precious stones that celebrates every woman’s original, individual style. Farber fans love the organic appeal of her jewelry and her unique sense of style with a keen eye for aesthetics. She embraces the interplay between structures, contrasts and intensities so every piece is distinctly styled and timeless.

Widespread Appeal for Farber’s Creations

Varda Singer, the owner of ICD Contemporary Jewelry was thrilled to see how Farber’s holiday collection appealed to customers across a wide spectrum from millennials in their early 30s to baby boomers. “Once the customers saw her collection they fell instantly in love with it. We didn’t have to sell it. Her beautiful designs sold themselves.” Singer has been busy delivering special orders from that trunk show that were custom created by her and Farber utilizing customer’s seldom worn jewelry and transforming it into modern pieces with timeless appeal.  The shop is busy year long with customers making appointments with Singer who collaborates with Farber on a continual basis.

Tovi Farber helping customers inside ICD this past holiday season.

New Line Nanis: A Hit for Spring

Singer is in the midst of planning upcoming trunk shows and one that she is particularly excited about is Laura Bicego’s Nanis line hailing from Venice, Italy. Laura is the sister of famed jewelry designer Marco Bicego and her work done in 18K gold has been praised for its artistry. Unlike other designers who create pieces with pencil first, she creates with her skillful, delicate hands and her line is synonymous with “well-made.”

Singer‘s favorite part of the job is developing long-lasting relationships with her customers. She has several that travel from all over Westchester County including Rye where they previously had a store and New York City. She prides herself on delivering “concierge” service and can take appointments in people’s homes, in the evenings or work with them virtually via online renderings of custom pieces. She loves to see the “before” and “after” remodels of jewelry that are created in collaboration with her customers. Several are posted on the store’s Facebook page and serve as inspiration to customer’s seeking a jewelry makeover. For more information on jewelry makeovers or upcoming trunk shows, visit ICD Jewelry’s Facebook page.

For 45 Years, Club Fit Keeps Up With The Times

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On a recent weekday afternoon, lime and cantaloupe infused waters awaited members at the entrance of Club Fit in Briarcliff, and the fruit’s colorful cheer was echoed by the motivational sayings lining the walls. “Do something your future self will thank you for,” urged one.

But while Club Fit Briarcliff certainly offers many opportunities for the individual, what sets it apart from many gyms and fitness facilities is a focus on serving the entire family. Now celebrating its 45th year, the club, and its sister location in Jefferson Valley, offers a family-friendly experience with a special focus on giving back to the community, while offering a wide range of standard and modern fitness offerings.

From areas for children that are divided by age to special times for basketball for ages 40 and up, Club Fit supplies things to do for all ages. And with a focus on offering fun, age-appropriate childcare, parents can take advantage of all the club has to offer.

“One thing we’ve really expanded in the last 15 years is our childcare,” Ellen Koelsch, an owner of the club with her brother, Bill Beck, said recently. “We have enough space to dedicate to kids under five and kids five to 12. As a working mom myself, I know you can’t just leave the 6-year-old home alone.” The space for older kids has a small basketball court, air hockey, plus video games, with a catch–they’re played standing. “They’re getting used to a fitness environment early,” Koelsch said.

Childcare manager and party coordinator Melissa Lawrence, a longtime Club Fit employee, agreed. “I’ve been here 22 years and it’s great to see these kids grow up and see them return as adults–it’s pretty cool.”

After school, some kids come to Club Fit by bus. They can unwind, then take a swim or tennis lesson and “you can get out of work, do 20 minutes of cardio and grab your kid,” Koelsch said.

At Club Fit, the fitness center is flooded with natural light; and off to the side is something a little unusual–a space reserved for women only.

The club also has nine tennis courts, physical therapy on-site, and a huge pool area with spaces for lap swimming, lessons, swim team practice and a large hot tub. Parents with little ones can utilize the zero-entry area. There’s a spin area with more than 60 seats and racquetball as well.

There are also many spaces for group exercise classes–and Club Fit keeps up with the trends, offering the types of classes often found in small boutique gyms. Currently, members can take CFX classes, which are “our version of a functional fitness class, using your own body weight,” Koelsch said. “We’re kind of blending going to a studio for small-group attention with a full-service experience with childcare. We know family is important and time is valuable, so we make that kind of class available to the community. Exercise is important–people know that, they know it has to be a part of their lives, but what’s hard is to keep it interesting.” Besides CFX, the club offers TRX classes as well as more standard classes such as Zumba, which tend to be larger. The goal is to offer smaller studio-like classes within the club. “So your ‘neighborhood’ can stay the same, but you’re always on the cutting edge of fitness,” Koelsch said.

Club representative Wendy Courtney is another of many long-term employees. “When I started with the club, Ellen was little,” Courtney said. “The club was born and raised for the community and that’s how we developed – everything here was born for this community.” The club is constantly sending surveys to members and uses the responses to direct growth and change and improvement, Courtney and Koelsch said.

“It’s great to hear the good news but we learn from the bad news. Our members are our eyes and our ears,” Courtney said. “Our membership knows we want to hear from them.”

Personal trainer Beth Kear said at Club Fit, “the owners are very involved and supportive of the staff. Anywhere you go, you’ll see it – everything, from the minute you walk in the door has that family feel–friendly, welcoming, non-intimidating. Member integration is a big priority.”

That’s why newcomers to the club are given not just a session with a trainer, but are walked through every aspect of using a club–from how to use a membership card to how to use the machines. “You should feel comfortable from when you walk in the door,” Koelsch said.

Because some people who need to start exercising are very unaccustomed to the health club environment, Club Fit has a special program called Help RX. It’s a short-term, discounted program with “a lot more hand-holding,” Koelsch said. That way, prospective members who have been told by their doctors that they need to start exercising can try the club out.

Club Fit also offers a senior discount and half off membership fees to active duty police, firefighters, EMTs and military. And if there are area power failures–well, Beck said, they’ll open their doors to those who need hot showers, as they have before.

“We’ve been in our community a very long time,” Koelsch said. “And we love giving back.”

ROCKS by Jolie B. Ray: A Unique Shopping Experience

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Upon entering ROCKS by Jolie B. Ray in Armonk on a late winter day, the snow is lightly falling outside, giving the shop the appearance of a literal jewel box in a snow globe. The cozy, well curated space dazzles with eye candy from the glittering jewels in the shelves to the art on the walls.

Tanya Tochner, the polished owner, greets customers as she artfully arranges jewelry in amethyst toned displays.

In a town that’s experiencing its own renaissance of sorts, ROCKS is a mainstay, offering consistently on-trend, yet unique jewelry to a loyal customer base for almost seven years. For Tochner, who’s designed jewelry with partner Marjorie Troob for over ten years, opening the shop was a natural progression in providing a higher level of service to her clients. She recounts the shop’s inception, saying, “My design partner and I shared a passion for fine jewelry and left successful corporate careers to pursue our creative interests. Our line, Jolie B. Ray, named for our children, Joshua, Lindsay, Ben and Rachel, was born. Recognizable for its contemporary, timeless designs that incorporate hammered looks, intricate mixed metal work with 18k gold and beautiful gemstones, Jolie B. Ray quickly grew a cult-like following. ROCKS was the logical next step and is now the exclusive provider of our collections.”

Tanya Tochner
PHOTO BY CHELSEA COOK
ROCKS is renowned for its concierge style approach and carrying uncommon, contemporary, artistic jewelry. Tochner painstakingly scouts couture shows around the country to handpick the designers that will be displayed alongside the Jolie B. Ray designs. Though there are some staples, approximately 20 new lines are added each season at all price points. “We seldom carry the same items twice and work with clients to carefully select just the right piece. If that perfect piece is not in the shop, we will source it and follow-up to ensure satisfaction,” she asserts.

As a jewelry designer, Tochner is adept at forecasting the trends her discerning clientele will crave. In 2018 she predicts, “Younger customers are becoming quite sophisticated, gravitating towards dainty rings and necklaces and little hoop earrings. Similarly, women are layering contemporary jewelry and long necklaces with their more traditional pieces.” Customization is also fashionable with women favoring a more modern take on name plates, while tweens and teens are incorporating monograms within their designs. “Women are now buying multi-functional jewelry,” Tochner adds, “We are veering away from pieces that are solely for special occasions.”

Seeing jewelry as an expression of art, the shop also functions as a gallery.  Tochner uses the same discerning eye to select contemporary artists that are in synchrony with ROCKS aesthetic to grace the walls. “The high ceilings of the space simply lent themselves to functioning as a gallery. Jewelry is a form of wearable art and follows similar sensibilities. Curating the gallery is a natural extension of our product offerings and appeal to our customers’ creative expressions.”

It is this holistic approach to servicing the community that also extends to Tochner’s commitment to making the shop accessible for philanthropic endeavors. ROCKS regularly hosts events benefitting local organizations close to her clients’ hearts such as Kids Kloset, a Westchester Jewish Community Services program and the Pleasantville Cottage School, a residential treatment center for young people.

And that community is expanding.  Tochner clarifies, “Armonk has become a destination town, boasting many new shops and restaurants. We are enjoying traffic from our neighbors in Bedford, Katonah, Greenwich and Chappaqua.” With the advantages of its setting, also come the challenges of operating a business in a suburban environment. “Business in the suburbs is cyclical,” Tochner says. “Summers, when many children are away in camp, can be slow. Similarly, snow days are quiet. These are issues that NYC retailers don’t experience.”

To combat the challenges inherent in any retail business, Tochner is continuously evolving the shop’s business model. The website, for example, was recently revamped to optimize clients’ virtual shopping experience on those slow summer and snow days. In response to demand, Tochner also now provides liaison services to coordinate the sale of customers’ estate jewelry and is providing jewelry rental for special occasions. These services join ROCKS’ existing menu of offerings including wish lists, heirloom jewelry redesign, repairs for both costume and fine jewelry and personal shopping.

Visit ROCKS by Jolie B. Ray to enjoy an unparalleled shopping experience. For the latest product offerings and jewelry trends, follow them on Instagram, Facebook or visit www.rocksbyjoliebray.com.