The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Cover Stories

The “Chase” For A Great New Restaurant

by

Peter and Erin Chase, the new proprietors of Chappaqua Station Farm to Town
Peter and Erin Chase, the new proprietors of
Chappaqua Station Farm to Town

By Heather Skolnick • Photo by Carolyn Simpson/Doublevision Photographers

All Aboard! Next Stop: Chappaqua Station Farm to Town! After a prolonged and dramatic bidding process, the Chase family won their proposal to open the first eatery located in the Chappaqua Train Station. They began this process many months ago by drawing up a business plan and presenting it to the board. They met all the requirements, including maintaining access to restroom facilities. They also will be preserving the historic structure of the ticket station. More importantly, they will be bringing an exciting new culinary option to the community! Not a formal, traditional restaurant in feeling, this will be a place to meet up and connect with friends, to share a bite and let the drinks and conversation flow.

Both graduates of the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, Peter and Erin Chase have the educational background for the restaurant business. Indeed their resumes show they put their education to work, as past endeavors include a litany of well-known and successful international hotel bars and restaurants. Erin describes Peter as the “vision,” Peter describes Erin as the “grounded, detail-oriented one,” and accordingly, they perfectly complement one another.

With all those big-name restaurants and bars around the world, as well as over half a dozen other exciting projects currently in the works, why did the Chases pick Chappaqua for their next project? Their decision was a highly personal one, and it started with their decision to move to the suburbs from the city.

After having their second child, Peter and Erin came to the conclusion that they wanted to raise their children in the suburbs. And in conjunction with raising their children outside the city, they also wanted to integrate their professional life with their personal life. They knew that wherever they chose to make a home, they would also develop a project.

As Chappaqua residents now for two and a half years, the two have begun to realize their vision. The café will be named Chappaqua Station Farm to Town and is slated to open in July. Each day will start at the café with morning service catering to commuters. They will offer basics like coffee and tea, as well as fresh squeezed juices and pastry items served from the ticket booth. Peter and Erin’s vision for lunch is friends meeting for fabulous salads or fresh sandwiches, perhaps paired with a hand selected variety of wines.

At dinner time, the ticket booth will transform into a cozy bar area with about a dozen bar stools surrounding it. They have partnered with Eben Klemm, a well- known mixologist, who will create a half dozen or so specialty cocktails using locally distilled spirits and ingredients. They will offer not just beer on tap, but also local wines on tap. The unique, environmentally friendly approach to wine ensures each wine will always be fresh and at the perfect temperature. Apart from the bar, approximately 15 tables will fill the remaining space with warmth and community as well as wonderful food with local ingredients prepared by a renowned chef.

With food sourced locally wherever possible, resulting in a supremely fresh and always evolving menu, customers can rest assured the delicious menu will feed one kind of hunger. However, what makes this café truly special is the soul behind it and the community needs it also feeds. The Chases will work with farmers, artisans, artists, schools and charities from the region from beginning to end.

Inside, the wall décor, curated by the Northern Westchester Artists Guild, will feature rotating local artists and photographers. Moving beyond the art, the Chases will be working with a charity to support local community gardens. At these gardens, plots can be leased out or farmed communally and the food grown is donated to schools or food pantries where fresh fruits and vegetables are not readily available. Lastly, the Chases will work directly with children through the Chappaqua schools. Their goal is to teach and demonstrate the end-to-end process beginning with growing food and resulting in a healthful, delicious meal.

Although there are over 6,000 commuters travelling through Chappaqua each morning, Peter Chase says that the café and bar is “not going to be a tremendous money maker for us.” So why are they opening it? Peter answers: “Because we feel our downtown needs a catalyst to revitalize the energy at nighttime.” He continues by explaining the ancient Greek term “agora.” The literal meaning is “gathering place”; Peter’s explanation is that it represents the idea of a business within a village that brings people together to interact. This was the fundamental idea on which the vision for the café was built. Continues Peter, “Through this warm little small space, we can create a social hub…a center that’s soulful and dynamic.” Erin echoes this statement, saying the café will be “all about the atmosphere and conversation.”

With only a short time until the café opens, excitement is rapidly building within the New Castle community for a place that fits this very bill. Chappaqua Station Farm to Town promises to be it!

Heather Skolnick and her husband Neal have been New Castle residents for eight years. They, along with their three children, are anxiously awaiting the opening of the new cafe!

 

A Musical Mid-Week Break

by

The gazebo at Recreation Field serves as a bandstand for the Summer Concert Series. Photo © 2015 Marianne A. Campolongo
The gazebo at Recreation Field serves as a bandstand for the Summer Concert Series.
Photo © 2015 Marianne A. Campolongo

By Marianne A. Campolongo

What could be nicer than enjoying a picnic with your friends and family on a warm summer evening? Whether your tastes run to big band, classical music or classic rock, the Summer Concert Series serves up a wide range of talent providing choices for everyone, so bring a blanket or beach chair, pack a hamper and join the fun. While you visit with friends and enjoy an outdoor meal and concert, your children can dance to the tunes or burn off some energy in the bouncy castle and other games in the Fun Zone. 
The evenings are a great excuse to take a break mid-week and relax.

If you do not have time to pack a picnic yourself, no worries. “We’ve gotten a lot of support from the local merchants,” said Superintendent of Parks and Recreation Robert Snyder. A variety of local and area restaurants will be on site, with options from simple treats to gourmet offerings.With so many choices, give yourself the night off and let someone else do the cooking. If you do bring your own, no alcohol or glass. And, no dogs.

Jointly sponsored by the Town of New Castle Department of Recreation and Parks and the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce, with major support underwritten by Breezemont Day Camp, this summer’s concert series gets underway on Wednesday, July 8th at the Recreation Field in Chappaqua by the gazebo, and runs for four consecutive Wednesdays; each beginning at 7 p.m. A town tradition since 1989, the summer concert series draws crowds of anywhere from 300 to 1000 people per concert from all over Westchester, according to Snyder. “It’s a wonderful night,” he said.

The Schedule:

“We open with a local favorite, The Don DuPont Big Band,” said Snyder. 
Veteran bandleader and trombonist Don DuPont Sr. brings the Big Band era of the 1930s and 40s to life with a mix of swing, jive and Latin music featuring vocalists Don DuPont, Jr. and Michele DuPont Eames.

On July 15th, another local gem, The Chappaqua Orchestra, under the guest baton of Davis Knobloch, “a fine chamber musician and a great teacher,” who retires from Horace Greeley High School later this June, will perform a program of Sousa marches, film scores and show tunes celebrating American music, said Orchestra Music Director Michael Shapiro.

On July 22nd, local resident Mark Salore and his Bruce Springsteen tribute band, Tramps Like Us will get you rockin’. Seasoned musicians and vocalists who have been bringing the Boss’ music to appreciative crowds since 1990, they are sure to have you enjoying the glory days of summer.

For the final concert on July 29th, it’s back to the future with more rock and roll performed by The Ronald Reagans Big ’80s Show. Big hair may have gone the way of VCRs, but the music never goes out of style. This tribute band’s male and female vocalists have both Broadway and national touring experience. Dressed in “bodacious” costumes, they put on a show covering favorite tunes from Don Henley, Michael Jackson, Pat Benatar, Van Halen, The Go-Gos, and many more.

Besides the usual festivities, closing night will feature additional games and fun. There will be “more of a party atmosphere though it always feels like a party out there anyway,” said Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dawn Greenberg.

Rock out again with Mark Salore and his Tramps Like Us at this year’s summer concerts. Photo by Carolyn Simpson
Rock out again with Mark Salore and his Tramps Like Us at this year’s summer concerts. Photo by Carolyn Simpson

The added festivities are a special tribute to Making Headway Foundation, a charity dedicated to the care, comfort and cure of children with brain and spinal cord tumors “to help them kick off their 20th Anniversary year,” she said. There will be a special emphasis on children and Chamber members whose focus is on children. Making Headway was founded in 1996 by parents whose own children had undergone treatment for brain tumors, including Chappaqua residents Maya and Edward Manley.

Rain? No Worries!

“A lot of people think that if it rains it’s over, but it’s not,” said Snyder. If rain seems likely, the concerts move indoors to the Wallace Theater at Readers Digest. “Indoors is a little different,” said Snyder, “but last year Don DuPont packed the place, which is a credit to his reputation.”

If rain is in the forecast, check the town website to see if there has been a change in venue www.mynewcastle.org or sign up for town alerts.

Fun Facts

The current gazebo, financed entirely by donations, was dedicated in 2011. After the town did the site work and the concrete and stone foundation, a team of Amish builders erected it in just three or four days, said Snyder with a smile.

Movie Night

Across town at Millwood Park, 
235 Saw Mill River Road in Millwood, the Recreation Department and the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce are also sponsoring Friday Night Movies in June at 8 p.m. At press time, this year’s selections, Toy Story, Mighty Ducks, Tangled and Jungle Book were chosen but check the town website for the specific 
dates of each film. Movie nights 
are June 5th, June 12th, June 19th 
and June 26th.

Marianne A. Campolongo is a freelance writer and photographer from Chappaqua, New York. Her website is www.campyphotos.com.

Getting to Know Georgia Hobaica Frasch

by

georgia-f
Georgia, multi-tasking per usual. Melani Lust Photo

A Chappaqua Mom Extraordinaire!

By Grace Bennett

When Georgia Hobaica Frasch (friends call her Georgie) arrived in Chappaqua eight years ago, she could not have predicted that, fast forward three years, she would be so heavily involved with a powerfully influential social media platform (now over 5,000 members strong) that has been all the rage in New Castle: Chappaqua Moms on Facebook!

Georgia, and her husband Ron Frasch, a former President of Saks Fifth Avenue and CEO of Bergdorf Goodman’s, arrived here for the same reasons so many of us do: they viewed Chappaqua as a wonderful place to raise a new family, and they prepared to take advantage of our highly ranked schools and all the natural beauty this town has to offer.

And it is here that the couple has been happily raising twins: Honor, a 5th grader at Bell, Christian, a 5th grader at the Windward School in White Plains; and Gracie Bea., a second grader at Roaring Brook. The most recent adorable addition, Buster, a mini goldendoodle puppy greeted me too, wagging his tail happily from inside his crate.

While their house hunting began in Greenwich, the couple shifted their sights to Chappaqua, after falling in love with a 1902 Center Hall Colonial on Hardscrabble Road, a home they have lovingly and completely refurbished, including restoring an original, stone chapel in the backyard–and in 2013, adding a jewel of a pool. Their quaint and welcoming but meticulously restored home has since been featured in a New Castle House Tour by the New Castle Historical Society, and Georgia has added membership on the board of the NCHS to an impressive list of volunteer activities. “I have a million ideas for ways to promote local music, art and history,” she excitedly shared.

Georgia and Ron at a St. Luke’s Orchestra gala
Georgia and Ron at a St. Luke’s Orchestra gala

Indeed, what emerged most from meeting Georgia is that while many of you may know her best as the lady who so diplomatically manages so much of the chatter on Chappaqua Moms–the page originally founded by professional photographer and Chappaqua Mom Julie Scott–there is way more to Georgia than her role with Chappaqua Moms. The same combination of TLC and professionalism she displays on a Facebook page is in full swing elsewhere too.

But first, there are humble beginnings to note…underpinnings of the seemingly storybook life Georgia leads today. Her early life experiences shaped her deeply ingrained work ethic and also a profound sense of appreciation for everything she enjoys today.  That is as true for her as it is for her husband Ron too, she related. “I pinch myself every day. I never lose sight of the fact that I’ve been blessed to have everything I’ve ever wanted. I’m so content,” she said. “Ron and I both come from similar backgrounds and feel honored to be able to give back to the community”

For Georgia, giving back has been an exercise of offering her time toward what she is most passionate about. Music, and specifically a love for Bach, ranks as #1. 
“I studied piano as a child and classical music really spoke to me, especially Bach,” said Georgia, who, after ten years on the board, is now Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the prestigious Orchestra of St. Luke’s–the orchestra that is in residency at Carnegie Hall and the Morgan Library from fall to spring, and every summer at Caramoor.

She is also on the advisory board of the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee and on the Board of Directors for The Bach Vespers in New York City.

Georgia and her family in Paris
Georgia and her family in Paris

Georgia was born in Utica, New York, in 1962.  Her parents were both first generation Lebanese. The family struggled for a time while her father went to dental school (thanks to the provisions of a GI Bill) and her mother raised Georgia, the eldest of three children. She describes jobs cleaning homes in Utica at age 12 to start saving money for college. “I had three or four houses I cleaned. I did what I had to do. I raked leaves too and sold Christmas cards door to door.” 
Georgia was also a bright, diligent student. And in high school, she studied Italian for all four years.

With a proficiency in Italian, she was off to enjoy a three-month exchange program “all over” Italy immediately post high school. Soon, Georgia (while working full time at Barney’s) attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and graduated in 1982. Her next plan was to attend Boston University to study art history. She never made it to B.U., she explained, after being approached by Zanella, the Italian men’s clothing company, to help them develop a fledgling women’s wear line. (They were impressed by her Italian language skills!) The only caveat was “that I’d have to be available to travel every six weeks to Italy.”

“I was having doubts about art history, and wondering how I would parlay that into making more money to support myself,” she said.  Accepting the job offer, Georgia began to lay the groundwork for a highly successful career in the merchandising and production of Italian luxury goods.

Early on, at Zanella, Georgia met her first husband from Stockholm, a marriage that lasted three years. Between that time and when she met Ron, Georgia described a “Sex in the City” single-woman lifestyle, living in several Italian cities:
“I dated but I also had a knack for staying friends with most of the men I went out with- some are still my closest friends!”

At the same time, Georgia’s career catapulted her to roles at different Italian wear companies, and she continued to grow professionally–first at Malo (an eight year position running their women’s cashmere division in Florence) and finally at the famed Rebecca Moses, north of Milan.

While at Rebecca Moses, Georgia met Ron Frasch (but not for the first time), at the Principe Hotel in Milan; they were both there for the Italian fashion shows. He was with his people and Georgia was with hers. The encounter was professional: “In fact, I had been keeping a clipping folder on Ron since my days back at Zanella,” she recalls. Following one meeting in which Ron was clearly harboring a secret crush, a date followed at Calle Ocho in NYC. “We had such a great time, and discovered we were both from upstate. We laughed our heads off; I thought he was a wonderful man but that maybe I could set him up with an older and beautiful woman I knew.”

Chappaqua Mom’s founder, photographer Julie Scott with Georgia
Chappaqua Mom’s founder, photographer Julie Scott with Georgia

She continued, “I didn’t think of him as a candidate. I was 38 and he was 53. I still wanted kids; he already had grown children!” (Ron’s kids from his first marriage are Nicholas, who lives in New Mexico, and Laura, outside of Atlanta.) A cat and mouse game ensued for weeks as Georgia did possess a clear “sense that he liked me.”

“Ron was everything I was looking for but we seemed to be in different places in our lives.” Ron wasn’t letting this one go without a fight, however.  On Bleeker Street, over another date at Da Silvano–a hot spot of “who’s who in the fashion world”–the two kept comically being interrupted by fashion celebrity figures.

“Just as Ron was getting confessional, Calvin Klein came over to our table, and then the fashion director of Bloomingdales. Finally, Ron found a quiet, intimate moment in which to say to Georgia that he thought we made a “great couple” and would make “even better parents!” Basically, Ron Frasch made crystal clear to Georgia that he was open to having more children. “We quickly fell head over heels, crazy in love, and went off for a magical year of travel, south of France, Capri, Portofino…

That these love birds eventually found their way to raising three children in Chappaqua in recent years has proved to be a boon to the community at large.

In 2008, Chappaqua-based photographer Julie Scott, then a parent of preschoolers, decided that a “Chappaqua Moms” page on Facebook would foster a much-needed sense of community. And not only as a place to exchange tips for travel or find a referral to a good plumber.

“In dire circumstances, especially, such as Hurricane Sandy and the recent Metro North tragedy, it has been an incredible tool.” Over time, Julie tapped Georgia for help with the page. “She was very encouraging and supportive of me and has become a great friend too,” Julie explained.

“Georgia puts so much of her time into it, and I applaud her efforts. Three years ago, after Sandy hit, Georgia said they thought it would be good to “open the group to other towns to share information and resources,” and membership then quickly exploded.

So, of course, I had to ask: “With all you do, Georgia, why are you taking the time to manage Chappaqua Moms?” She was very prepared to share her reasons:

“I view it as a civic obligation to the community.”

“I enjoy it.”

“I enjoy seeing people come together for the greater good.”

“I feel satisfied and fulfilled to be part of that process.”

“I am proud of the many philanthropic and kind people in this community. When a call to arms is raised, we come together: whether it is helping a family forced out of a home on account of a fire, or helping to find transport for a mom going through chemo, or creating meal trains for people who are ill or otherwise challenged. We have collected eyeglasses for third world countries and bundles and bundles of clothing.”

What have you learned, I asked. Georgia is unequivocal when she states that she believes in the goodness of everyone. “If people are given a chance to do good, they will. Chappaqua Moms offers that platform. I am very proud to be part of a virtual Main Street USA that connects people in the community.

It is not without its issues.

The exchanges can create a guise of intimacy that can be somewhat false, Georgia offered gently. “People write things they might say to a friend but forget it is being broadcast to 5,000 people.”

“Sometimes, comments exceed the boundaries of graciousness and good manners,” she adds too, with a wink.

“I give everyone the benefit of the doubt, however; I’m not Judge Judy; I don’t want to act as the arbiter of what is polite and what’s not. But I draw the line if there is character assassination, name calling and business bashing. I’ll private message the offender first with a heads up.”

By and large, the greater good far outweighs the occasional conflict. “It’s a wonderful group of people. We support our local moms and help get the word out about who we are and what we can do for each other and the community.”

Grace Bennett, publisher and editor of Inside Chappaqua and Inside Armonk Magazines, has gotten great story tips “listening to Chappaqua Moms talk” and appreciates the opportunity to share Inside Press posts with this virtual community. 

 

A Memorable Parade

by

Memorial Day 2014: Former Secretary of State and now candidate for President of the United States Hillary Clinton with Chappaqua resident Ellen Byck
Memorial Day 2014: Former Secretary of State and now candidate for President of the United States Hillary Clinton with Chappaqua resident Ellen Byck

Three cheers for the red, white and blue! This is a town that embodies the patriotic spirit of the country and proudly so. In the weeks preceding Memorial Day, colorful flags wave in the spring breeze, creating an emblematic border on the sidewalks of Chappaqua.

Notes penned by John Phillip Sousa cascade down King Street as marchers follow the cadence, or not, while sauntering down the hill. It’s a glorious day for all, a wonderful opportunity to witness and partake in the portrayal of a caring small town.

There is also a very special something in this parade which boosts attendance tremendously: the presence of one of the town’s most illustrious residents, former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. Her allegiance to the event is exemplary. Every year since she has established residence in the hamlet, no matter how far away work takes her, she is here, marching, waving to her fellow townspeople, posing for prized photos.

Often, she is accompanied by former President Bill Clinton, another extremely friendly, famous person. He greets those he has come to know over the years and he seems always happy to meet and chat with new neighbors.

Invitations are sent to all Chappaqua-related dignitaries and many attend year after year. Schedules permitting, the town hopes to see frequent participants: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (one of Hillary Clinton’s fellow Wellesley alumnae), Governor Andrew Cuomo, County Executive Rob Astorino and Board of Legislators Chairman Michael Kaplowitz.

The day begins at the top of King Street, at Victory Corners, the intersection between King Street and Bedford Road, in front of Talbots. 
A ceremony is conducted at 10:30 a.m. in front of the war monument. 
A wreath is laid and taps are played. The parade begins punctually at 11, a fact proudly related by Parade Marshall James McCauley.

memorial-dayWe checked in first with Russell Maitland, Fire Chief of Chappaqua who said that the parade has “grown quite extensively” during his tenure of 33 years. Members (including those as young as 16) of both the Chappaqua Fire Department and the Millwood Fire Department put on their finery and take their places. “It’s a multifaceted event which brings the entire community together on one day,” Maitland said. And yes, the town is assured of fire protection during the parade as well as on every other day. The sirens did sound one year during the event when they were summoned to put out a blaze. Both departments hastened to the scene and the parade immediately resumed.

Another vital service member of the community, the Chappaqua Volunteer Ambulance Corps, also participates. Dressed in uniform, some line up and others drive the vehicles. As for a strict interpretation of formal marching procedures, keeping members in a straight line suffices, Captain Joe Gentilesco related. This sentiment was echoed by many, the day being one for remembrance and joy after all.

For those cheering from the sidelines, it is heartening to hear that the support is truly valued. The rounds of applause resonate as the marchers’ sense of purpose is validated: “It’s different when you actually march in the parade. It’s a different perspective. It’s a real opportunity to see that people do appreciate you,” Gentilesco said.

Months of practice precede the appearance of the Horace Greeley High School symphonic band. Flautist Rebecca Schelling described practicing not only the music, but its execution in motion as well. The band lines up in formation on the track at Greeley and parades around. She related her actual parade day sentiment: “I like the excitement that you feel when you line up with everybody, decked out in their holiday spirit.” Band members wear red, white and blue attire.

parade-fourFor the Girl Scouts, playing a role in the parade is one of the highlights of the year and one taken very seriously; some march every year. It instills “a sense of respect,” Service Unit Manager of Chappaqua Girl Scouts Lori Townsend observed. “Even the youngest girls recognize the importance of paying tribute.” Each troop makes a banner to carry, adorned with their names. Lining up in age order, they appear in a variety of colorful uniforms. At the closing ceremony, they regard the red, white and blue flowers, designed in a chevron military symbol with pride for they added the white petunias and red begonias to the perennial salvia.

Supervisor Robert Greenstein spoke appreciatively of the bravery demonstrated by veterans and those who have given their lives in service to their country. He spoke fondly of Gabriel “Gabby” Rosenfeld, an active member of the community and purple heart recipient, who passed away on August 6, 2014. During the parade, Rosenfeld always rode in the side car of a motorcycle. “It won’t be the same without him. He was a hallmark of this event,” Greenstein noted.

Regular parade goers have their usual spots along the route (from the top of King Street down to the train station). For Ellen Byck and family, their spot of choice is in front of Bank of America, across from Dunkin’ Donuts. Amid the throngs on the busiest day in town, their friends can always find them.

Byck and her family always look forward to parade day. “We make a conscious effort to be there,” she said. As the daughter of a Korean War veteran, she is particularly concerned with recognizing those who have served: “It’s important to show our support, to actively participate in something that shows our support for veterans and those currently serving,” she noted.

This year’s parade “won’t be the same” without Gabby Rosenfeld, who was awarded a French Legion of Honor medal. Here, Gabby in the motorcade alongside his son Eric.
This year’s parade “won’t be the same” without Gabby Rosenfeld, who was awarded a French Legion of Honor medal. Here, Gabby in the motorcade alongside his son Eric. Grace Bennett photo.

For Parade Marshall Jim McCauley each parade is considered special but there was one particularly poignant moment (cited by several people) that stands out. In 2007, the newly renovated bridge was dedicated in memory of Staff Sergeant Kyu H. Chay, who died in Afghanistan. His parents operate the New Castle Cleaners on King Street. 
“The fact that we had one of our own die in combat really brought the meaning home,” McCauley said.

A common observation on the parade is that the event brings the town together. The sidewalks are full of residents and the route is full of proud participants. In addition to the aforementioned, here is but a partial roster of marching groups, most of whom are predicted to take their places again this year: New Castle Police Department escorts, veterans, clergy, Kerry Pipers, school bands, boy scouts, Revolutionary War squad, senior citizens, various community organizations, American Youth Soccer Organization teams and members of the town, school and library boards. At 11:30 am, a concluding ceremony is held at Memorial Plaza, in front of the train station.Veterans are recognized and names are read. Sometimes, the lives of several of New Castle’s fallen are recounted by students who have conducted research on their journeys. A second wreath is laid and taps reverberate. Ambulances and fire trucks stand at the ready. Lucky youngsters climb aboard.

McCauley wears his Green Beret and military uniform as he leads the parade. “Having served myself and having lost many colleagues, it’s a personal way of remembering those who have given their all and those who serve now.”

Secretary Clinton with our State Assemblyman David Buchwald. Carolyn Simpson/Doublevison Photographers
Secretary Clinton with our State Assemblyman David Buchwald. Carolyn Simpson/Doublevison Photographers

The parade strikes the right balance between reverence and revelry. There are many moments of solemnity, tears are shed. American values are proudly displayed and the rights of all people defended. Smiles abound and the sound of patriotic music wafts through the air.

So come on down, grab your flag or pick one up as they are distributed. Here’s a chance to show your support for your country and the hamlet.

Sarah Ellen Rindsberg’s prized memory of the parade is that of watching her own children march when they were young.

No Place Like Home
 for World Traveler 
Varda Singer

by

Varda_038-EditBy Jennifer Leventhal • Melani Lust Photos

“My home is my sanctuary,” says ICD owner and Chappaqua Mom Varda Singer. Nestled in a tranquil, wooded neighborhood, Varda and Roy’s (husband Dr. Elliot Roy Singer is known as Roy) stylish, contemporary home is filled with the treasures collected from all over the world. “I love to travel and I love to be in our store, but when I come home and open the door, all the stresses of the outside world fade away, because I am surrounded by so many of my favorite things.”

Indeed, her collections are museum quality. Richly hued Roman glass, a magnificent iron Tree of Life sculpture from India, bronze sculptures from Vietnam, tribal art from Papua New Guinea, and ancient coins made of 22-karat gold and natural pearls. Scattered 
casually amid the beautiful bounty are small, signed photographs of her with several past presidents and dignitaries. They are not blown up and framed; they are just modestly part of Singer’s everyday surroundings.

ICD’s motto, “Timeless Elegance,” suits Varda Singer perfectly. She is both glamorous and down-to-earth. While she exudes a worldly confidence, she is also a warm and approachable mother and grandmother. And just as her Feng Shui designed home is a perfect backdrop for her art collections, her luxurious neutral dresses and suits are a fitting canvas for her own favorite pieces of jewelry. “I personally love the warmth of high karat gold jewelry, 18-karat and 22-karat gold, with special detailing and granulation,” Singer says, “I also love South Sea pearls. My favorite pieces are very organic and interesting, and those that tell a story.”

40 Years in Chappaqua

Her home is Varda’s sanctuary, one filled with beautiful art from around the world.
Her home is Varda’s sanctuary, one filled with beautiful art from around the world.

Singer and ICD have been part of the Chappaqua community for nearly 40 years. She was born in Israel, the daughter of a prominent diamond merchant. After serving in the Israeli army, she came to the United States to attend Columbia University, and then she began her career as a jeweler. In Chappaqua, she raised two children who attended Grafflin, Bell, and Horace Greeley High School. They are grown now, but live in Manhattan, so she is able to see them often and to spend time with her four beloved grandchildren, as well.

Now that Singer’s children are grown, she can say with confidence that, “A mom is a mom forever. Your children depend on you whether they’re three-years-old or 40-years-old. It’s great to now be able to communicate and consult with my children in more of a friendship role. For me, the feelings and experiences you gain from being a mother cannot compare or compete with any feelings or experiences in your other relationships.”

Earlier in her career, the balance of raising a family and running a successful business was a bit more challenging, and Singer suffered the same moments of guilt as most working mothers.

“There were some times when my children were younger that I was worried because I couldn’t be two places at one time. I think that all mothers struggle a bit with some guilt or questioning of this balance,” she says. “When my daughter was in college, I asked her if she ever felt I should have spent more time at home when she was growing up, and she replied, ‘No, mom, I felt that the quality of the time you spent with us was so wonderful, and you were a great role model to me as a working mother. I wouldn’t have wanted you to do it any other way.’ Now, she is a successful working mother, and I’m so proud to watch her balance it so well.”

Singer’s strong relationships with her extended family still create an important balance in her life as a business owner. “I carry these family values with me into the store,” she says, “which I hope creates an environment that is very warm and very welcoming.” Both clients and staff feel that sense of family.

When the February 3rd Metro North train accident took the lives of four members of the Chappaqua community, including ICD employee Ellen Brody, the outpouring of grief and love and support for the business was enormous. “Ellen was one of us, and she had a heart of gold,” says Virginia Shasha, ICD Director of Private Sales.

“We are absolutely heartbroken, but we are not only heartbroken because of Ellen. We grieve all 
of the losses that our community has suffered. We grieve for all of the victims and their families, and we grieve along with everyone else in Chappaqua.”

Respecting Values

The people of Chappaqua mean a lot to ICD and to Singer. Her clients are her neighbors. “I’ve had the privilege of working with several generations of families,” she says. “Their values have stayed constant, but the trends in fine jewelry have changed a bit over the years. When we first opened, the jewelry was chunkier and heavier, but today it’s more streamlined and wearable with an active lifestyle. But it’s still always classic and meaningful.”

Singer enjoys getting to know the younger generation of Chappaqua Moms. “So many of the moms in town today are professional 
women–whether or not they are taking some time off to raise their children,” she says. “The women who shop in Chappaqua are very worldly, intelligent, and stylish. They are fun to be with and to 
create pieces for.”

Custom design is a big part of ICD’s business, and Singer herself designs more than half of those pieces. She travels the world to find the very best diamonds, gemstones and South Sea pearls. “We’re doing more and more redesigning of pieces clients already own. We work with them to recreate outdated or inherited heirlooms into fresh, new, wearable works of art.”

Over the years, Singer has shared with her clients her philosophy that there is so much more to a special piece of jewelry than just the intrinsic value of the gold or the gemstones. “People today are looking for more meaning in the jewelry they wear,” she says. “They want their jewelry to be timeless and beautiful, of course, but also to bring good luck, good memories, and good Karma.”

Amy Knox of Millwood recently had the opportunity to work with Singer on a meaningful piece of jewelry. “The necklace I made with Varda was something I dreamed about for many years. Her enthusiasm for the design and truly understanding what it meant to me is what made it so special. Making a custom piece requires many steps, and Varda did all of the legwork for me and kept it fun along the way. I agree with Varda that jewelry should have meaning, whether it’s to mark a milestone or elicit a great memory. Her passion for this makes me want to work with her again when I am lucky enough to buy or design something new.

A Very Special Client

While all of Singer’s clients are important to her, she has particularly enjoyed working with President Clinton on creating custom fine jewelry for his wife, Hillary. “A couple of years ago, President Clinton brought me a gorgeous Tanzanite that he had selected and purchased in Africa, and together we designed spectacular statement ring for his wife. Then last year, we worked together to create a special bracelet for her to commemorate their new granddaughter.”

Jennifer Leventhal is a former lifestyle and fine jewelry editor. Her current venture, with partner Rachel Rader, is By the Book Fundraising, 
a marketing and book production company that helps non-profit organizations create meaningful fundraising tools that tell stories that donors can actually hold in their hands.