Cover Stories

Food, Glorious Wholeshare Food

April 17, 2015 by The Inside Press

By Michall Jeffers Photos by Carolyn Simpson/Doublevision Photographers

Robin Murphy is a dynamo. Watch her directing the Chappaqua Moms Wholeshare Group, and you’d swear she’s triplets. Volunteers are busy checking lists, arranging goods, and preparing the products members will pick up in just a couple of hours. It’s a whirlwind of activity, and through it all, Robin greets everyone with a smile and a kind word, never losing her cool.

Those closest to Robin know she’s interested in feeding people, but not her own ego. She’s quick to point out that she’s not the only person integral to the project, and especially credits Debbie Rogers as her co-coordinator. She notes, “There are no titles at Wholeshare. It’s strictly community based, and wouldn’t be possible without the volunteers.”

Robin has lived in Chappaqua on and off since 1990. Born in Great Neck, she attended the prestigious University of Michigan. She’s almost 50, and the mom of daughters Ellie, a 20-year-old Greeley graduate, and enterprising eight-year-old Iphigene; but Robin has the energy and enthusiasm of a teenager, especially when she’s discussing her CMWG endeavor.

“Our Wholeshare Group started on the Chappaqua Moms Facebook page as a result of a conversation about what our town really needs,” she explains. “I began researching organic produce sources and came across Wholeshare. While I realized that it isn’t ideal for an individual family’s purchases, I knew it would work well if even just a few families joined together. I never expected it to grow so big so quickly!”

At the Wholeshare distribution site, from left to right: Ilene Popkin, Debbie Rogers, Robin Murphy, Linda McGetrick and Nancy Silver. Photos by Carolyn Simpson

Robin continues, “Despite our name, “Chappaqua Moms Wholeshare Group,” we have many members from Pleasantville, Briarcliff, Yorktown and towns as far south as Hartsdale and as far north as Danbury. Most of the members are women, but we do have some men in the mix, too.”

Chappaqua Moms are no shrinking violets, and everyone enjoys voicing an opinion. As Teresa Bueti notes, “The whole group is pretty smart-you should see the research we post on recipes, dietary issues, and farming practices.”

Danae Richards, named for a Greek goddess, agrees and cheerfully keeps working. Nancy Silver is almost too busy to chat, but Pleasantville’s Jennifer Frawley raves about the “Fresh food at great prices.”

Of course, there is a down side to all this wonderful food. Slender though she is, Michelle Hecht asserts, “There have been times when I’ve picked up my order and discovered I had Camembert, French baguettes, and duck pate, but no one here is complaining! Robin tells us to beware of The Wholeshare 15.”

Old and new adherents converse easily. Kimber Frank, a founding member since 2014, smiles as she remembers ordering a full case of milk, not realizing it would contain 18 half gallons. “We freeze a lot,” she laughs, recalling a split of duck bacon, and musing that several ladies have bought second home freezers.

Carolyn Ramsey fondly relates, “My favorite features are the large lots, and discovering new products. I’d never even heard about purple organic sweet potatoes. Now, I love them.” Four of her friends have followed Carolyn’s lead, and joined, too.”

When Wholeshare members get overly enthusiastic and there’s just too much for one family, sharing and donating are the order of the day. It’s important to Robin and friends that “We also contribute food and funds to Hillside Food Outreach–a really wonderful organization that’s dedicated to delivering food to those in Westchester, Putnam and Fairfield who aren’t only challenged financially, but physically as well. We happily donate food to other community events and neighbors who are having hard times.

Equally important is the value of supporting individual farmers and finding out how much they do to make sure that their products are safe, cruelty free, and that their methods contribute to the preservation of the soil and the environment.

In addition to her dedication as mom and CMWG leader, Robin and her husband own Maid Brigade, which has been a pioneer in green technology for the home cleaning industry.

There’s an old saying: If you want something done, ask a busy woman. If you want something done that’s fun, healthy, and good for the planet, ask Robin Murphy.

Michall Jeffers writes about food and reviews restaurants, both in print and online. She and her husband, John Warner, are longtime Chappaqua residents.

Cassie Ward: Encouraging Us to Celebrate New Castle’s Vibrant History

April 17, 2015 by The Inside Press

By Deborah Raider Notis

As we gear up for the monumental 50th anniversary of the New Castle Historical Society in 2016, the Historical Society is ushering in a new era of growth and revitalization. Starting with a new leader. This February, public historian Cassie Ward became the new Executive Director of the Historical Society.

Ward, who has a Masters in Public History from American University, is determined to ensure that the New Castle Historical Society remains socially relevant and inviting to the community. A native New Yorker, Ward returned north after working for the Heritage Educational Services Department of the National Park Services in Washington D.C. and Virginia’s 400-acre Longbranch Plantation. With years of experience planning special events, working on historical exhibits, and revamping the Longbranch Plantation’s historical museum, Ward is particularly excited about the opportunity to embrace New Castle’s rich and colorful history.

“More than anywhere I’ve ever lived or worked before, the spirit of volunteerism is strongest in New Castle. Everyone seems so involved in the community, and the community has been overwhelmingly welcoming,” raves Ward. As Executive Director, her key role is to manage the historical society and assist committees and volunteers as they plan events.

Almost 99 percent of the New Castle Historical Society is volunteer run, and Ward enthusiastically notes that the volunteers “do a tremendous job of making the Historical Society relevant. They invest their blood, sweat, and tears into the Society.” Many of the volunteers worked with the Historical Society for decades, and they are passionately committed to the future of this program. Ward is excited to leverage their knowledge as she enhances the programs.

As Executive Director, Ward wants the New Castle Historical Society to be a historical and cultural center.  One challenge will be to keep the Historical Society active outside of the Horace Greeley House. Ward plans to build on the existing educational programs and outreach activities. She wants to revamp all of the amazing programs that already exist, including the annual house tours, the Victorian Valentine’s Tea for 2nd through 4th graders, and the Chappaqua Antique Show. Next October, the Antique Show will move from the Horace Greeley House to Bell Middle School.

Currently, the Horace Greeley House is housing three exhibits. A remarkable Wedding Gown exhibit details the history of the tradition of the wedding gown with gowns from the 20th and 21st century on display.

The Curiosities of Yesteryear exhibit is a hands-on display of everyday objects–from typewriters and oil lamps to candlestick telephones–that were used throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Finally, the Notable Neighbors in New Castle exhibit describes the history of the many famous residents of New Castle.  Going forward, plans for an antique toys exhibit are being considered. Plus, the new executive director believes that the upcoming 2016 presidential election warrants a timely exhibit and potential discussion regarding the differences between the election process in 1872 and today.

Encouraging children to become more involved in the history of New Castle is extremely important to Ward, who states, “For me as a historian, it is extremely important to create a new generation of historians so that we can continue the narrative.” Right now, second graders from Grafflin, Roaring Brook, and Westorchard visit the Horace Greeley House every year. She hopes to implement a story time program for young children at the Horace Greeley House. Ward wants to get children engaged at an early age so that they become invested in the vibrant history of New Castle.

And, Ward has several new ideas to energize the New Castle Historical Society. She hopes that  the Historical Society will sponsor more walking tours throughout the town and park trails to highlight the rich history of New Castle. She would like to bring more speakers to the  Horace Greeley House and the New Castle community.

Ward would like to team with local businesses to develop a Historical Happy Hour, during which participants attend a 20-minute presentation followed by socializing, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres. Ward also suggested a pet-focused community day, an event that was well attended when she worked at the Longbranch Plantation. Ultimately, the goal is to constantly engage the community on different levels and effectively relate to all New Castle residents.

“The New Castle Historical Society should provide services to the community that will get everyone excited about the history of New Castle,” says Ward. She hopes that the New Castle Historical Society can unite generations of community members.

And, finally, she wants to hear from the residents of New Castle. So stop in, introduce yourself, see everything that the Historical Society has to offer, and share your ideas with Cassie Ward, the new Executive Director of the New Castile Historical Society.

Deborah Raider Notis is a writer and co-owner of gamechanger, LLC. She lives near New Castle with her husband and their four boys.

The Impact of Girl AGain Empowering Young Women With Autism

April 17, 2015 by The Inside Press

The White Plains store overflows with gently used American Girl doll merchandise.

By Gillian Hand

At first glance, it might appear like any other store. Colorful merchandise, carefully handled and placed, lines the walls, and enthusiastic and knowledgeable workers greet you with a smile. You feel welcomed, and in the hands of experts.

But this is more than just a store. It is Yes She Can Inc.’s Girl AGain American Girl © resale boutique–a center of learning, progression and happiness for young women on the autism spectrum.

Preparing for the Workforce of the Future

Yes She Can Inc., founded by former corporate marketer Marjorie Madfis, provides these women with the training and education of business skills transferable to the competitive work world. Girl AGain taps into their passion for and expertise with American Girl products while creating a safe working environment, training them in the skills that will enable them to acquire and sustain employment.

Madfis found inspiration for Girl AGain in her daughter Isabelle, a teenage girl with autism. Though a fan of, and expert on, all things American Girl, the store in Manhattan posed the threat of sensory overload*. “What if I could create a mini version of the store?” Madfis thought, and Girl AGain was born. Alongside Chappaqua resident and psychologist Sheri Baron, Madfis opened the White Plains store in February 2014. The program provides coaching and support in the development of retail-related business skills, along with a nurturing place where their expertise is needed,  appreciated, and valued.

Girl AGain co-owners Marjorie Madfis (L) and Sheri Baron (R)

Twelve young women–high school students and graduates in their teens to early twenties–currently work in the boutique, receiving experience in all aspects of the business. Most work approximately two days per week, and get trained “end-to-end” in the variety of skills needed both in Girl AGain and in the work world. This includes preparing donated products for resale, researching and determining appropriate prices, and performing business transactions with customers. They solve problems, collaborate with colleagues and make decisions, all while learning how to deal with uncertainty. By sharing and justifying their ideas, the young women develop the ability to debate and compromise–skills that are crucial in any work environment. Madfis and Baron are aware that this program isn’t for everyone; the participants must be willing to put in effort, cooperate with others, and have motivation to pursue a career.

“There is such an insecurity to give answers and trust their own instincts,” says Baron regarding the training. “They have not yet been given the opportunity to use their own judgment.” Girl AGain’s non-profit mission confronts both this insecurity and the attention, sensory and emotional problems associated with autism disorders. Madfis describes the store as “a safe place to learn new skills without worrying about possible consequences of errors.”

Real World Training Working at Girl AGain has allowed the young women to discover their own strengths and weaknesses. The workers must learn to interact with customers, adjust to distractions, understand the levels of authority, and manage situations they have not anticipated. These experiences teach them the expectations and responsibilities of competitive business –but if they ever feel overwhelmed, they can “chill” in the boutique’s “Cozy Corner” and take a break from the hustle of  the workplace.

To develop social communication skills, the young women lead special events at Girl AGain where they demonstrate their knowledge and interact with members of the community. Whether it is American Girl doll “Hair Do’s and Don’ts” or a special book reading, these “workshops” provide the women with leadership experience. In addition, weekly business meetings feature the exchange of strategies and ideas followed by a group pizza dinner, both of which are important in the social development of these otherwise isolated young women. Interacting with peers, especially those who share their interests, creates a comfortable social environment where they can stretch in areas that are difficult for them and build their confidence around others.

Madfis and Baron describe the program as an “incubator” where the young women receive the experience they need before progressing to a paid job or additional training. Girl AGain is their first step toward finding success in the competitive workforce, world they hope will discover the potential and capability of workers with autism.

Helping the Mission

Girl AGain’s eager customer base–both young American Girl enthusiasts and older collectors of the brand –happily support the program for its mission of educating the young women as well as its constantly evolving inventory of reasonably priced merchandise. These customers act as part of the training, presenting social and professional interaction opportunities. Girl AGain is grateful for any donations, as they excite the workers, enrich the training, and expand the store’s offerings.

Girl AGain is the first venture of Yes She Can Inc., but certainly not the last. Madfis and Baron continue to develop the program and increase the learning and employment opportunities for girls on the autism spectrum. There is no doubt at all that these young women will develop the vital life skills necessary to live, work, and prosper on their own, bringing their unique talents to whatever they chose to pursue.  Yes She Can, indeed.

For more info, visit: www.yesshecaninc.org or www.girlagain.com or contact Sheri Baron at sbaron2001@aol.com

*Editor’s note: Sensory overload occurs when one or more of the body’s senses experiences over stimulation from the environment; many people with autism are acutely, uncomfortably and/or overly sensitive to various sensory stimuli–a large, bustlingly crowded store such as American Girl in Manhattan would present a significant challenge.

Gillian Hand is a sophomore at Horace Greeley High School and a frequent contributor to Inside Chappaqua Magazine. She was thrilled to be able to donate her old American Girl products to Girl AGain.

Remembering Penny Vane

April 17, 2015 by The Inside Press

Penny Vane with her family, from left to right, daughter-in-law Amanda, son Ian, Penny, husband Manny Areces, and son Quinn.

Editor’s Note:

Penny Vane, a vibrant member of our community, died in late December, at the age of 61, after a short but vigorous battle with brain cancer. For those of us who knew her, finding words to describe Penny, her life and impact on each of us, our community and the world, is no small feat. In this article, we provide a glimpse into this amazing woman through the words of one of Penny’s protégés, her friends and co-workers at the New Castle Arts Center and her longtime friends and colleagues from 25 years as a  business professional in the world of direct marketing.

New Castle Arts Center Community:

Jennifer Hutchens

June 22nd, 2014 was the day of the Horace Greeley High School Prom. I spent my day as most girls did–worrying about my nails, hair, and makeup. But that day, I also said goodbye to one of the most influential people in my life. And I had no idea at the time that I had.

To give a little history: in Fall 2004, my mom signed me up for an elementary school ceramics class at the New Castle Art Center. The teacher was a woman named Penny Vane. I loved Penny from the beginning, and over the years, Penny went from teacher to mentor to co-worker and friend. In my sophomore year of high school, I joined Penny as her assistant teacher in the middle school ceramics class I had once been a part of.

Penny Vane, July 2014, at her birthday celebration with friends from the New Castle Arts Center.

Penny was a genuinely wonderful human being. The world can often be a cold and harsh place, but Penny was a bright spot in everyones’ lives. She was quick to crack a joke, but always had kind words for everyone. She gave incredibly warm hugs, and was one of the most genuinely loving people I’ve ever met. She was wildly opinionated, had eclectic taste in music, and was an incredibly gifted potter. For ten years, she put smiles on my face.

When my mom called me in late September of 2014, after I had left for college, and told me that doctors had found a growth on Penny’s brain, I’ll admit I wasn’t scared. I wasn’t sad. If there were anybody in the world that could beat it, it would be Penny. She would beat it with the same attitude with which she approached everything in life, with a smile on her face and a song in her heart. And so, with these thoughts, I didn’t worry.

December 27th, 2014, my mom called and told me that Penny had lost her fight. I didn’t know what to think. This was the kind of thing that other people experienced. This wasn’t something that happened to Penny. She was too strong to lose the battle. And yet, she had.

It sounds cheesy, but Penny is the type of person who wouldn’t want people to mourn her death. She would want people to remember the love she spread in life. And while Penny’s absence has left a hole that can never be filled, I, and everyone who knew her, am truly lucky to have had the time I did with her. Rest in peace, my good friend.

Andrea Samuelson

Penny Vane first entered the world of the New Castle Art Center in 1998 when she and her father enrolled in my Friday Adult Ceramics class. She was running her own advertising business, but set aside Fridays to spend with her father, which made a great impression on me. Her enthusiasm and talent were immediately evident. Then in 2004, she started teaching clay classes at the Art Center. Over the next 10 years of teaching she built up a following of loyal students, especially those in middle school ceramics. She was kind, thoughtful, patient and never judgmental and she was an inspiring teacher.

Penny Vane with Jennifer Hutchens at their end-of-year celebration for the middle school ceramics class at the New Castle Arts Center, June 2014.

The members of the Friday class and the Art Center teachers became a special community. Penny soon encouraged us to look beyond this small group. She planted the seeds to direct some of our time and skills for the benefit of a larger community. First, we sold our pottery at the annual Strawberry Festival and have done so for the last eight years, donating all proceeds to Hope’s Door (previously known as the Women’s Shelter).

Then she challenged us to have our own Empty Bowls event. Empty Bowls is a nationwide potter’s movement to raise awareness of hunger in local communities. Over two years we, the members of the Art Center adult classes and teachers, made over 700 soup bowls and sold them at two soup dinner events. Local restaurants donated the soup. We raised over $20,000 and donated all proceeds to the Mt. Kisco and Pleasantville Food pantries.

This is the spirit of Penny. She was our most cherished friend and colleague at the Art Center. She was a great role model for me and for all of us, just by being herself.

Nicole Aron, Ruth Parnes,  Judy Flicker, Ellen Rhoda,  Ellen Smithberg, Carol  Madole, Andrea Samuelson

We are a community of women brought and bound together in no small part by Penny Vane. Most of us met at the Art Center in Chappaqua. Initially our interactions were limited to a class on Friday mornings. But, as children grew and workloads shifted, our activities evolved into evenings at homes and restaurants, as well as the occasional day trip, perhaps nominally connected to art but more importantly tied to a good meal. Together we eat, drink, celebrate, talk endlessly and some of us, like Penny, do wonderful things with clay. Others just chat and occasionally play with some clay. Penny saw the best, the talent in each of us. We are grateful for the privilege of her friendship.

Randi Brosterman

How do I describe Penny? Creative, loving, giving, generous, thoughtful, fun, down to earth, truest friend. Mentor and second mother to my daughter. Dear friend to me. Her equanimity in the pottery studio enabled my maximum creativity. I will forever embrace and carry forward the warmth, inspiration, encouragement, positive energy and beauty of Penny Vane.

Penny’s Longtime Colleagues:

Jon Fabian

It didn’t take long to see that Penny was no ordinary boss. She encouraged and inspired everyone to try new directions, follow their intuition, and never be afraid of failure. The network she built, the “Friends” of Vane & Friends, continues to be a source of friendship and expertise.

Deborah Keller

Penny and I met 40 years ago when she married my brother. When they split we told everyone they only married so we could become sisters. Over the years we have shared a deep friendship, respect, love, tears, and a whole heck of a lot of fun. We lived in different towns so we had two-hour phone conversations. We were each others’ dates at important events neither of us wanted the other to miss. We traded clothes back and forth via the US Postal Service. And we danced. Sisters forever.

Cara Tobin

Penny Vane changed peoples’ lives, certainly mine. Her inspiration was powerful because she was so genuine and full of love. She built bridges between people and had faith in unlimited possibilities. Penny’s words, whether written or spoken always uplifted! She was my best friend. We delighted in each other.

Maddy Stoller

Penny ran a successful ad agency on more than just brains and creativity. Penny had heart. She actually hired me when my dad was dying. I wasn’t even sure I could handle a new job. But she saw in me what I didn’t see in myself. That was Penny Vane.

Tamara Draut

Penny brought out the best in people. She seemed able to squeeze extra hours out of the days, making quality time available for anyone–her staff, her children, her husband, her friends. She lived life so fully, with the kind of fun and energy far too many adults leave behind in the grown-up world. Penny gave me my first job out of college, shaping my formative years in such a profound way. She was my role model–as a writer, as a working mom, as a wife and as a human.

Joel Clark Mason, former Minister, Church of St. Mary the Virgin

Nietsche wrote, “What is done out of love always takes place beyond good and evil.” Penny Vane was a person who acted out of love. She was deeply involved in the life of the Church of St. Mary the Virgin as a Sunday School teacher, Vestry member, and Choir member. Her generosity flowed out into various outreach projects at St. Mary’s like the Pumpkin Patch, the Auction Dinner, Midnight Run, among many, many others. Her self-giving nature enriched not only the parish but reached out into the community as well. Her memorial resides in the many lives she touched.

Penny Vane-Areces, born July 27, 1953, is survived by her loving husband, Manny Areces, son Ian and daughter-in-law Amanda, son Quinn, sister Wendy Vane Harrington, as well as extended family and many very close friends. For more information about Penny, go to the on-line version of this article at: www.insidechappaqua.com. Additional links appear at the end of the article.

Into Africa and Turkey…my Journey Covering Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

April 12, 2015 by The Inside Press

Memories of a Historical Trip Brought Home to YOU–her Friends and Neighbors

Article and Photos by Grace Bennett

Dakur, Senegal. Juba, South Sudan. Kampala, Uganda. Nairobi, Kenya. Lilongwe, Malawi. South Africa (Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town). Abuja, Nigeria. Accra, Ghana. Cotonou, Benin. Istanbul, Turkey…

Imagine, if you will, visiting 10 countries in 11 days, and following Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to meetings throughout regions of sub Saharan Africa “and beyond!” And imagine listening to the Secretary cite its lofty and wide ranging stated goals: “to promote opportunity and development; spur economic trade and growth; advance peace and security; and strengthen democratic institutions.”

Consider underlying problems which hover–threatening to thwart such goals: whether deep and widespread corruption, election havoc, warring factions and regions, a raging HIV epidemic, and still, in so many places, extreme levels of poverty–all must be addressed too during the short time span that is a Secretary of State’s temporary “open window” into an entire continent.

“We are building relationships here in West Africa and across the continent that are not transactional or transitory. They are built to last. And they’re built on a foundation of shared democratic values and respect for the universal human rights of every man and woman.” Dakur, Senegal

And finally, imagine the responsibility of responding to crises in other parts of the world at the same time, and having to, late into a journey, extend an already jam-packed trip by another day to continue diplomacy in yet another continent…this time, to Istanbul, Turkey, reeling from a sudden influx of refugees from now war torn Syria. Once upon a time, I certainly couldn’t imagine any of that. Well, now…I can. And here I hope to share at least some of the flavor of U.S. diplomacy abroad to you, as I promised Madame Secretary I would! Ready?

In each country, Special Air Mission (SAM) 757 would land. Before heading to our “press van” in a long motorcade, several of us would wait for Secretary Clinton to “deplane” to photograph or film the reception (often quite festive) in each new country before she continued on with her diplomatic mission. She travels with her closest advisors in each country, this time, most notably Johnnie Carson, Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of African Affairs, and Robert Hormats, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment–and a special U.S. delegation attending the first U.S. Africa Business Summit held in Pretoria to address issues relevant to Africa, which Secretary Clinton referred to time and again as seven of the ten fastest growing economies in the world.

Ten journalists followed the former first Lady and two time U.S. Senator–our long time neighbor in Chappaqua–to witness her confer with and often downright dazzle yet another welcoming president, foreign minister, or chief justice. Or, we’d be there to watch her graciously sign a guest book at a health center (there were tours in three…meeting with doctors, nurses, local residents, patients and their children). Or, bolster workers in a dairy co-operative with new U.S. aid, offering a symbolic “bull” to drive home a message of agricultural self sufficiency and productivity. Or, empower young girls at an all girls’ camp, where, after speaking, she determinedly made her way through aisles, shaking each young hand…leaving an imprint in a young girl’s heart forever.

“The eyes of the world will be on this election. I have absolute confidence that Kenya has a chance to be a model for all other nations, not just here in Africa, but around the world.” Nairobi, Kenya

Or, we’d listen to her commend Peace Corps. workers, U.S. military personnel, or the proud recipients of the U.S. State Department’s Human Rights Defender Awards. And always, in every country, she’d rally Embassy staffs during any one of the mission’s traditional “Embassy Meet and Greets.”

Making History
History making moments for the Secretary were plenty too, including a meeting with 94-year-old President Nelson Mandela and his wife Graca Machel in their home in Qunu. She praised his beautiful smile which Machel noted is his trademark! (The meeting with Mandela was limited to one “pool” writer–which meant, while I couldn’t attend, I was privy to the writer’s notes.) Clearly inspired by the visit, in Cape Town, she invoked Mandela’s profound influence over South Africa during a keynote speech at the University of Western Cape. She challenged the students in attendance at one point, saying: “You, the young generation, are called on not just to preserve the legacy of liberty that has been left to you by Madiba and by other courageous men and women. You are called to build on that legacy, to ensure that your country fulfills its own promise and takes its place as a leader among nations and as a force for peace, opportunity, equality, and democracy, and to stand up always for human rights at home and around the world.”

Secretary Clinton also attended the State Funeral and services honoring Professor John Mills in Ghana after his sudden death two weeks post meeting with Pres. Obama. But it was her time in Malawi, as the first U.S. Secretary of State ever to step on its soil–to meet with its first woman President, Joyce Banda–and the colorful excursions from there, that she indicated was a definite highlight in this journey.

The diplomatic mission communicated the overall Africa agenda of President Obama. In a speech setting the tone in Dakur at the outset, she revoked his earlier words: “Africa doesn’t need strong men. It needs strong institutions.” In Johannesburg, she stated too: “We want partnerships in Africa that add value rather than extract it…(The region’s) emerging market present enormous opportunities not only for the people themselves who we hope will benefit because of inclusive, broad-based prosperity arising from growth, but also for American businesses who have a lot to offer.” Toward the end of the journey, she also emphasized the Obama Administration’s commitment to renewing the African Growth and Opportunity Act with South Africa before the act expires in 2015, and specifically a new provision especially beneficial for entrepreneurs and job creation.

“Successes” could be gauged too, as was the case early on in South Sudan where Secretary Clinton urged South Sudan leaders to open up oil reserves which had been shut down in South Sudan’s ongoing and brutal battles with North Sudan. In a statement addressing the end of the impasse, she stated: “As I said in Juba yesterday, the interests of the people were at stake. The oil impasse has lasted more than six months…an agreement was hammered out…The future of South Sudan is now brighter.”

“What is she Like?”
People have been asking me: “What is she like?” and “What was it like to travel with her?” I’ll try to answer that here! Even with ten days of relative proximity, I could never pretend to describe Hillary Clinton “up close and personal” or based on one trip. However, I can tell you her manner toward the press is always cordial and good humored. In my first time and limited observations of her interactions with world leaders, I humbly offer that she appears to carry out her role effortlessly–with an easy smile and warm handshake for everyone–and the occasional hug too. With the general populace, I witnessed her border on playful sometimes, whether delighting in a dance troupe’s performance or song (sometimes asking for an encore. She really loves music!) or even boogying herself with respectable abandon (in my opinion) at a festive State dinner in Pretoria. Listen, no one can argue that this Secretary of State does not know how to have some fun too!

Most importantly, she projects a deep intelligence and command of the distinctly different and pressing issues facing each country, shifting easily to the issues at hand…a testament to her State Department staff as well, of course. But whether in a speech or in simple remarks along the way, her “smarts” is just never in question. From my chair, anyhow, she consequently seemed to command a reception that is both warm and extremely respectful. One Ambassador commented to me that her “rock star” status abroad is simply unprecedented for a Secretary of State and that she is received more as a presidential figure. She has a wry sense of humor I “caught” over and over. At one point, with all the cameras snapping away, as usual, I overheard her say to a president, “You know, I never know what happens to most of these pictures they take!” Well, with this issue of IC anyway, I hope she feels differently!

As a Journalist on this Trip
Each night, or every two nights, I crashed in another hotel bed (some very, very nice places too!) in another African city, checking my emails (the WiFi worked well almost everywhere) for word from home, to post on social media (I welcomed the support and palpable excitement about my being on this trip from family, friends and many of you!) and always, for new instructions from our main State Department liaisons, Caroline Adler and Nicholas Miller, and also from universally competent State Dept. personnel stationed in each country, on everything from “baggage drops” and breakfast times to available “camera sprays.” For survival’s sake, I got used to the lingo…fast.

At a festive State dinner in Pretoria, Foreign Minister Mashabane magnanimously honored Sec. Clinton with an African name: Nomkita Noligwha, Zulu for: “She who shines light on all who follow.”

The press is privy to “embargoed” information (meaning you can’t report it till after the fact!) and, as press, were briefed periodically, with background info, a kind of “what to expect” from the deeply knowledgeable Johnnie Carson, who has held ambassadorships in Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Carson would give us the lowdown each time pre-landing in anywhere from five to 25-minute briefings.

There was one casual outing with the Secretary for about 45 minutes of early evening drinks and snacks with our entire press group, in Cape Town, in the lounge of the beautiful Cape Grace Hotel. Joining her were the State Dept.’s Senior Advisor Philippe Reines and Spokesperson Victoria Nuland. Relaxed and friendly, Sec. Clinton made general off-the-record observations about many places we had visited and offered insights into the trip that still lay ahead to Istanbul.

“As the first country to voluntarily give up nuclear weapons, South Africa speaks with rare authority. You can most convincingly make the case that giving up nuclear weapons is a sign of strength, not weakness…this means South Africa can play an even greater role on issues like curbing Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons or preventing nuclear materials from falling into the hands of terrorists.” Cape Town, South Africa

Just Between Us Again
There was also a very special few moments for me as a journalist and woman business owner–for which I’m grateful to Secretary Clinton. It took place in Pretoria, following detailed joint remarks in tandem with Foreign Minister Nkoana-Mashabane, about the broadening of economic ties between our countries–including a $2 billion dollar agreement to provide credit guarantees to stimulate the growth of South Africa’s renewable energy sector.

As the two left their respective podiums, I began my usual picture taking with a little wave to the Secretary too. She then stunned me by motioning me to come join her and Minister Mashabane. “I’d like you to meet Grace Bennett. She is a successful woman entrepreneur from my town who started her own magazine,” said the Secretary. A brief conversation ensued, interestingly, about the challenges facing print media. Then Minister Mashabane said to me: “We need more women like you in South Africa.” I don’t know if that’s true, but I’d be glad to consult on launching a hometown publication anywhere in Africa after that! I’d been granted a unique opportunity indeed. And it was all stemming from an “on the fly” remark to Hillary Clinton when she was in town for Memorial Day that it would be an honor to fly with her–anytime, anywhere–and bring international images and stories home to her neighbors and friends. With a glint in her eye, she told me she thought that was an interesting idea…

And now, here I am, weeks post trip, contemplating my trip…and Africa. Over the years, I have shed tears, along with you, as pictures have streamed in from there to here, whether it was wrenching shots of victims of famines in Ethiopia and Somalia or the survivors of genocide from Darfur and Rwanda. One past Inside Chappaqua cover story reported on local volunteer efforts to “Save Darfur.” From a seemingly always very sad media barrage, a negative image of a poverty stricken and dangerous continent can naturally take hold.

But it’s a skewed image, and I know that now. I firmly believe Chappaqua’s first couple, the Clintons, along with President Obama, have done more than any other leaders in the history of the United States to “open up” Africa to the greater U.S. population and to provide decidedly different glimpses of regions from every corner of that great continent. They have helped make Africa, in many ways, a compelling place to understand and hopefully to support and to visit.

From the window of a press van or from inside official state buildings, and a few precious assorted outings, I can’t claim to have “seen” Africa. My own “mission” was rather simple: to be an observer of Secretary Clinton, to the extent that I was welcome to, in action on one of her diplomatic missions.

Over 11 days, I focused heavily on picture taking while also scribbling notes. I “hung out” a lot, waiting in press “holding areas”–some of them quite beautiful with generous spreads of delicious local fare to munch on. It was also fun keeping company with seasoned foreign correspondents and photographers for major media outlets including AP’s Matthew Lee and Jacquelyn Martin, Reuters’ Andrew Quinn, Agency France Presse’ Nicolas Revise, the Washington Post’s Anne Gearan, Voice of America’s Anne Look, a three person Fox News team: Pat Summers, Wayne Lowman and Greg Khananayev, and Ayelet Waldman, an accomplished novelist on assignment for Marie Claire magazine.

Back Home
Of course, the globetrotting clock never stops for many of those folks, and nor for the State Dept. Just three days post my arrival, and seriously jet lagged, I received word of another late August 10-day trip throughout Asia, including Beijing, Jakarta, Laos and Mynamar. With seriously mixed feelings, I declined, so that I could focus on the other demands of this edition and, every bit as important, meet back to school responsibilities, including driving my daughter back to college! Still, after a few more days, I experienced second thoughts and fired off a note stating that I thought I could make arrangements after all. Too late!

But that’s ok. Clearly, a new kind of travel bug had got hold of me in Africa–and I’m watching international developments with a new eye and far greater interest and understanding. With the rest of the country, I was deeply distressed by the mayhem that had broken out in the Middle East, and thought about how the State department folks I had met were coping. I asked if I could continue at least limited coverage while Secretary Clinton was in New York City. Permission granted!
She arrived here in late September to meet over the course of a week with leaders from every corner of the globe (including with groups of Central American and Arabic foreign ministers, Korean, Japanese and Haitian leaders, oppositional leaders from Syria, and, toward week’s end, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu), and to communicate and promote her own initiatives too.

At a “Feed the Future” presentation, moderated by Nick Kristof of the New York Times, it was heartwarming to witness a reunion with Malawi’s President Joyce Banda. Together, they joined hands to address how to meet world wide “food security” challenges–… “increased investments in agriculture and nutrition are paying off in rising prosperity, healthier children, better markets, and stronger communities,” she said, announcing too a commitment by InterAction, an alliance of 198 U.S.-based organizations, to allocate $1 billion of private, nongovernmental funds toward food security efforts.

Sec. Clinton also partnered with world leaders to address gender equality during the launch of her “Equal Futures Partnership,” its mission, in a nutshell, “to expand economic opportunities for women and to increase women’s participation in politics and civil society.” Addressing challenges and initiatives in their own countries were charter members from Jordan, Tunisia, Australia, Denmark, Peru, and more. Jim Yong Kim, the new president of the World Bank, offered his commitment to track the Partnership’s progress, and Michelle Bachelet, director of UN Women, promised her support as well.

It was a privilege to have had a “full circle” opportunity to observe Secretary Clinton at work at home too. Imagine that.

Grace Bennett is the Publisher and Editor of Inside Chappaqua.

Publisher’s Note: This story is dedicated to the memory of the four Americans killed in Libya: U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, ex-Navy Seals Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods, and to Sean Smith, a foreign service officer. It also honors all diplomats and Embassy staff who devote their skills and talents each day in their service abroad.