Cover Stories

The Unlikely Story of an Entrepreneur

Every group of girlfriends has one–the “go-to” gal. She’s the one that knows where to go, what to do and how to get anything done.

Even from the earliest age, Stacy Geisinger, was that girl. “I was always the social type,” says Geisinger. “And, I’ve been known to have an opinion.” What’s more, Geisinger, who hails from Bayside, Queens, has a fabulous sense of humor. Who wouldn’t want to hear what she has to say?

Although she’s been living in bucolic Bedford for more than 20 years, you can still hear that city energy in her voice. Yet, this grown woman, whose only son, Alexander, is in college, has surprisingly found herself at the helm of StacyKnows.com, the fast-growing blog that covers everything Stacy knows and then some. If you’d like a great tip or want to know what’s new in the world of beauty, fashion, shopping, music, travel, food, drink, charity or more, just ask Stacy. There’s usually no need for questions because Geisinger fuels her site regularly with everything you want to know and beyond.

Get Ready
How did a suburban mom turn into a savvy, social media entrepreneur? It took a few twists and turns of fate and a willing spirit. Geisenger wasn’t always the one to take risks. Although she wanted to study marketing in college, her father talked her into becoming an accountant. “Those were the days when being happy was not a priority; having a solid job was the goal,” she says. So Geisinger did what good girls from Queens do, she took the route to the solid job. “The goal was to have a job, even if it was a job you hated,” she jokes. Accounting led to marriage, the birth of her son, a move to the burbs and the “Kindergarten to Grade 12” lifestyle. “Life was about homework, projects and car pools,” she says. And, of course, exercise class.

Get Set
Being in the know, Geisinger was taking one of the hottest classes of the day–Power Groove kickboxing, twice a week.

“I don’t remember exactly how it started; the instructor was making a point about toning up our arms for the summer and in a fun way he started this little chant, “Stacy Knows… yes, Stacy Knows.”

Well, it just stuck. “Then my friends started telling me I should have a website because of all I knew, so I looked at some sites, but I didn’t know,” she says. On a trip out to the Hamptons, Geisinger started talking to a gentleman who just happened to be a ‘google guy.’ It was serendipity. “Two hours later, I had a website,” she says. She introduced her site to a mailing list she had of 500 addresses.

That was three years ago. “I am having so much fun,” she enthuses. “With this vehicle, you can make it as much as you want it to be.” She’s joined Facebook, opened a Twitter account, and became enthralled with things like search engine optimization and affiliate marketing.

Go!
So, has she found fame and fortune? “It might not be the best way to put food on the table, but I have some paying advertisers. They’re my favorite people, and I do a lot of barter. Food, books, soap and perfume presents just keep arriving at my door–how fun.” Even her husband, Edmund, thinks it’s cool. Geisinger says it took her a little while to find her niche. “I’m not that private a person, but I wasn’t looking to air dirty laundry and I wasn’t interested in venting,” she says. What she values is sharing new information that can help people in their lives. “I always ask myself–is it blog worthy?” she says. “Doing this is all for good–that’s the point.”

The only downside is that the web never shuts off. When asked if she thought the web is addicting, Geisinger replies, “I could use a good 12-step program!” In the end, Geisinger says she’s glad she’s started StacyKnows.com. “What else would I be doing? This is such a good outlet for me!”

Jean Sheff is a Chappaqua-based writer and editor who is glad someone knows.

by Laurie Fessler
It starts in the evening with the darkening sky. The winds get cold enough to slap your face. You can no longer remember what summer felt like. The seasons change quickly as does life. You see a friend in the distance who looks sallow and frail. You gasp inwardly and feel your stomach plummeting right down to your now-numb toes. You wish on the first star sparkling brightly in the too-black sky.

Not many of us know the details. People, friends, well-wishers talk, not out of gossip, but out of love and concern. There was an entire neighborhood on the watch for her. We followed her slow, measured walk. If I saw her walking alone, I would squish my feet into sneakers and run out the door to join her. She welcomed the company but would never ask for it. Whenever you asked her how she felt, she would flash her brilliant smile and always replied, “Fine.”

She was an extraordinary woman, loyal friend, devoted wife, nurturing and supportive mother. She was kind to everyone she met. To witness her determination and lightning-quick spirit was, to say the least, awe-inspiring. She was the stubborn warrior.
In the middle of the night, when things feel grossly exaggerated and emotions run high, we look for dawn, for the first glimmer of hope. We huddle beneath layered blankets thinking we will never be warm again all the while knowing she is saying in her most determined voice, “I will fight this.” She left an indelible mark on every person she met, and if you asked her if she knew this, she would tilt her head back, laugh heartily and deny it. Yet we know the truth. We all do.

I will never look at the winter light in the same way again. My friend, Dawn, passed away on February 11, 2011, after her long battle with cancer. The sky was blue and the sun shone through the wind-swept trees and beamed on the empty branches like golden necklaces. From my window, it looked way too pretty a day to lose a loved one. Dawn peacefully passed away at home surrounded by her loving family.

We pray, we love, we ask for blessings. Let the dawn come quickly erasing the troubled nights, replacing them with hope and a circle of love from near and far. We pray individually and collectively and in a thousand different ways because we know love has no religion. We pray in hushed whispers for Dawn and ask that her family be blessed with the same strength with which Dawn lived her life.

As time marches on, may we take with us our endearing memories of Dawn Re, everyone’s friend.

By Laurie Fessler, wife, mother & friend of Dawn’s. You can find her blogposts on: Hibernationnow.wordpress.com

By Donna Abemayor

As I entered the office of Isa Marrs, MA CCC-SLP, board certified speech language pathologist, I found her friendly waiting area decorated with primary color furniture and children’s toys and books a warm welcoming environment. Children played in the waiting area with their parents, while others were participating in children’ groups, and the sound of children’s laughter was heard throughout the office.

In the Beginning
Isa knew from the time she was a teenager that wanted to be a speech language pathologist. At age 15, she took a summer position at Jawanio in New City, New York, as a teacher’s aide for preschool children with special needs. Isa describes seeing a speech language pathologist with a preschool child at a picnic table.

She reports “at that moment” she decided she wanted to work with children with special needs and be a speech language pathologist. She obtained a Masters Degree in Communication Disorders from New Mexico State University and became a board certified speech pathologist.

In 1999, she began working with Etoile LeBlanc, world-renowned expert in the area of craniofacial speech disorders. In 2003, she opened her own practice, Isa Marrs Speech Language Pathology in Valhalla and in 2007, her current office in Briarcliff.

Isa has in-depth experience treating children with a wide-variety of medical conditions and genetics syndromes, but not limited to Cleft Palate, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Downs Syndrome, Trisomy 18, Aperts Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury, Fragile X, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and Autism.

The Balancing Act
Isa Marrs has been practicing speech language pathology for nearly 20 years. As a mother of
4 1/2 year old Maya and 18 month old Aaron, she manages to balance the demands of her growing practice and parenting. Isa, along with her husband Jason assume almost all of the caretaking of their two children. She often brings her children to work. Maya and Aaron can often be found playing in her office or participating in groups within her practice. When her children are not with her, they can be found with their dad, Jason, participating in an array of activities. Isa reports that “being a parent” helps you to truly relate to other parents and grandparents. “Understanding their struggles and appreciating their efforts” is an important part of her communication with parents and grandparents.

Innovative Programs
Isa has developed an array of programs for children with speech language disorders. Two of these programs are Where I Can Be Me and Jumpstart Talking. Where I Can Be Me is a social skills program that is facilitated by board certified speech pathologists and utilizes behavior techniques, social communication, music, art, and social skills training to improve a child’s play skills, social interaction and behavior. Isa describes “teachable moments” that emerge when working with children in groups that incorporate art, play, and other social activities. For further information about this program, go to www. WhereICanBeMe.com. Another creative program that Isa has developed is Jumpstart Talking. This program is designed for children who are late talkers and often get “lost in the shuffle in traditional preschool.” This engaging communication based program is designed to get children talking while preparing them for school. For further information, go to www.JumpstartTalking.com.

Practice made Perfect
Isa feels that the best ways to assess the effectiveness of speech language therapy are testimonials by families that have utilized her practice. Currently, she has seven board certified speech language pathologists and a special educator who is a reading therapist that are part of her practice. Isa’s philosophy is for the therapists to deliver “one-hundred and twenty percent” when working with children and families.

Isa feels this can be done by continuing to review and assess the engagement process; asking such questions as “ What can I do different with this child and family?”; and “ How, as a therapist, can I be more creative?” Isa’s goal is to deliver “quality care” which is evident from families that come from as far away as Putnam County., Connecticut, and New Jersey. Isa Marrs Speech Language Pathology is located at 127 Woodside Avenue, Suite 201 Briarcliff, New York. You can call her directly at 914-488-5282. Visit her on the web at www.SpeechLanguageFeeding.com.

Donna Abemayor is a frequent writer for Inside Chappaqua.

By Jeff Cohen

“We didn’t want to see our father wait on a death list or have to be on dialysis the rest of his life.” Jennifer Flood and her sisters, Cynthia and Heather, craved a happier outcome for their father, Daniel, of Pleasantville, NewYork.
The Flood sisters’ journey began with a simple Craigslist ad that read “Please help me find a kidney for my dad.” As Jennifer recalls, “the three of us were Craigslist regulars for everything from finding child care to selling jewelry, so why not get creative and go
for a kidney?”

Media attention for the ad ensued and soon over 100 people had offered to be tested. While approximately 50% of responders were genuine, the bigger hurdle was finding a blood type match for Daniel. His O-negative blood type meant the chosen donor would need to be O-negative or O-positive. Ultimately six responders were tested and in December 2008 Daniel was the lucky recipient of a living kidney donation from Dawn Verdick of Monterey, California.
The Altruistic Donor Dawn was not the Flood sisters’ aunt, distant relative, or even close friend. She was a complete stranger compelled to help.

As Dawn recalls, “when I saw the Craigslist ad I had just been to a memorial service for someone very close to me who had made such a difference in the lives of others.” At the outset, Dawn didn’t know her volunteerism desires would lead to kidney donation. “After seven months of conversations, research and testing, the answer to donate was obvious,” says Dawn.

To this day, the primary question asked of Dawn is why she would want to help a complete stranger. She is also frequently asked “What if something happens to your good kidney” or “What if the kidney recipient dies?” Dawn fervently believes that “helping others and being outward focused is truly the only remedy we need to create a better world.”

Inspirational words from someone whose altruistic ways extend beyond kidney donation. Dawn is also the President and Founder of Dare to Dream (www.daretodreamfund.org), an organization with the vision of providing every young person with the opportunity to discover his or her potential in school, at work, and in life through goal achievement and life preparedness programs.

A Foundation
is Born
Thanks to Dawn, Daniel Flood has a new lease on life. You could argue that saving dad is a noble enough cause, but it was just the beginning for the Flood sisters. En route to finding a living donor for Daniel, the sisters founded The Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation of America, www.floodsisters.org. The Foundation’s mission is to educate people on alternative ways to find a donor for kidney transplantation. Their focus is centered on the idea of the “altruistic donor,” or unrelated living donor.

According to the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) more than 93,000 Americans are currently on the national kidney transplant waiting list. While up to 16,000 or so kidney transplants are performed annually, the average wait time can surpass seven years. Sadly, many waiting list candidates will pass away before a kidney donation match is made.

“If we can raise awareness for living donation, word will spread, and waiting lists will shorten,” says Jennifer. With a wait list generally within a year, the Flood Sisters have facilitated four more transplants since their dad’s. Currently, 53 additional patients are registered, with 25 donors on hand getting tested for compatibility.

“Ultimately, we’d like to complete one transplant per month and provide hope for renal failure patients besides the traditional deceased donor transplant.”

Spreading the Word
Raising awareness is a primary mission for the Flood Sisters Foundation. Their annual fashion show does just that. On December 2, 2010, The Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation of America presented the 2nd Annual “Love. Give. Life.” Park Avenue Fashion Show at the Audi Forum of New York City, sponsored by the National Association of Profession Women (NAPW). Top fashion designers joined together to highlight the importance of altruistic/unrelated living donors.

As designer Elene Cassis noted, “I was extremely touched by the Flood sisters’ amazing story of how they saved their father’s life.” Elene is no stranger to tragedy herself, as her own father drowned. “The fear they had knowing they could lose their father is something I can certainly relate to and understand. It’s wonderful how they found someone to save their father’s life and continue helping others who are in a difficult situation in finding the right donor.”

Fellow Chappaqua resident Pam Zonsius, founder of “The Brelli” biodegradable umbrellas, supplied Brellis for some of the models to hold in their hands down the runway. According to Zonsius, “in the name of their father, The Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation fundraising event was very personal. They have been successful in creating a model to match people in need of a kidney with a donor and Brelli
is happy to be part of this passionate mission.”

The star-studded affair was co-hosted by CNN producer Phil Rosenbaum and medical producer Maria Dorfner. Household name companies participated in a silent auction, including Calvin Klein, David Yurman Jewelry, Build-a-Bear, the Tony Hawk Foundation and Ivanka Trump Jewelry. A February fundraiser is in the planning stages.
Touching Lives, Inspiring Hope
Live speakers touched by donation inspired the crowd, including Jamie Howard and Lisa Williams. 
Jamie’s daughter Caitlyn was
born with reflux and needed a
kidney transplant.

“I was very worried Caity would be on the waiting list for years, so I contacted the Flood Sisters.” Just before joining she got the call a deceased donor had been found. Caitlyn quickly went from a very, very sick child with dark circles
and yellow skin to a very healthy 13-year old.

Still, Jamie feels the Flood Sisters’ impact to this day. “I am comforted knowing that should Caity ever need another kidney I have somewhere I can go without having to feel hopeless and go on that waiting list. It really makes a very scary situation have some hope.”
For Lisa, she did some soul searching in arriving at the decision to give her kidney to a dear friend.

“I knew he needed it and felt as though I was extremely blessed to be able to give him an opportunity to lead a more normal life.” Lisa consulted with her Rabbi, who said, “to save a life is to save the world.”

The Terrific Trio…

Jennifer: spent six years in psychiatric nursing before working in finance, where she began building the Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation from her cubicle.

Cynthia: Jennifer’s twin, Fashion Institute of Technology graduate with a masters degree in art business from Sothebys, now working in compliance on Wall Street.

Heather: a Westchester social worker currently in training to become a therapist.

Today Lisa feels complete when she sees how well her friend is doing and thriving. She also stares in awe at the Flood Sisters. “They have such a passion and their journey was not completed when their father received his new kidney.” Lisa is a Flood Sister advocate for life and will continue to let people know that donating their organs to save a life is the most gratifying and honorable thing one can do.

The Journey Has Just Begun
Altruistic donation really is all about love. As the Flood Sisters’ website explains, “In the field of organ donation, it is love that carries the day, whether its for an individual recipient or simply for humanity. Organ donors are truly heroes. Everyday, they give of themselves to help others, gaining nothing of material value in return.”

In the end, The Flood Sisters’ philosophy sums it all up. “We changed our father’s life for the better. Now, we want to help others fight Kidney Disease. The power of one can save so many lives-imagine what can be done with all of us.” 

To learn more about The Flood Sisters Foundation of America, visit www.floodsisters.org or call 646-287-2900. Donations can be made online or by check payable to The Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation of America, 100 Park Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10017.

Jeff Cohen recently lost his mentor and father-in-law to kidney disease but lives his dream as a writer and consultant at Boldroad.com.

by Sarah Ellen Berman

Editor’s Note: Sarah tells IC she “thoroughly enjoyed” meeting so many members of the diverse group of advertisers featured in this Winter edition. Her mission was clear cut: to find out what gifts might fall into “the kind you can really treasure” category, whether it’s something that brings joy and meaning to your own life or to that of any loved one. We hope there are any number of ideas in these next few pages that will encourage you to shop local and engage with our great area merchants! And from this publisher: Thank you time and again for support for the pages of Inside Chappaqua, a publication delivered each time free and chock full of articles for the reading pleasure of over 6,000 area households. –Grace

At Bet Torah Nursery School in Mount Kisco, Mindy Citera suggests gift certificates to “give the gift of fun.” Grandparents may wish to give a mommy and me or mom’s day out class. Contributing toward tuition is another gratifying option.

For the quintessential New Year’s resolution. Maria Briones, M.D., has the answer. Her patients can attest to the efficacy of her weight loss program. Briones offers the support and guidance which are vital to success. Through a carefully planned diet and exercise program, she insures that the weight loss is permanent.

Ellen Koelsch of Club Fit recommends a gift card. She noted that the card contains, “The nice message that you care about their health.” Cards may be used toward anything at the club including massage, clothing, personal training, or a meal at the cafe.

A gift card or customized basket from Emmary Day Spa affords your friend the gift of indulgence. Hydrafacials are their most popular treatment. Emmary is the only spa in Westchester to offer this type of facial which is designed for sensitive skin.
Massage, soy candles, teas,
cleansers, and moisturizers are also available.

At Eye Designs, optician Jamie Herman noted that prescription sunglasses by Oliver Peoples and Tom Ford are popular gifts for the holidays. He also recommends digital progressive lenses. The advantage of these multifocal lenses is that they are easy to adapt to. Eye Designs also features optical fashion accessories. They carry eye-bobs (ready made readers) in funky shapes and patterns and la loop; eye catching eye glass holders seen on Heidi Klum.

At the dermatological practice of Lydia Evans, M.D., treats for a friend or loved one are copious. Dr. Evans suggests a gift certificate for a microdermabrasion or glycolic acid peel, facial, personalized skin care routine or the surprise of a pre-arranged procedure that one has longed for. Dr. Evans loves what she does and it shows. For those who are interested in cosmetic services, she eschews doling out recommendations, verbatim. When a client comes in to inquire, she listens intently to discern, “What it is they’re looking for,” and plans “what’s best for them.”

This year, put a gift certificate from Eye Gallery on your list. They showcase, “The most important accessory you can own,” according to co-owner Michael Rosen. When greeting someone, “Sunglasses are the first thing people see,” he noted. A fashionable look is not complete until the latest in eyewear is added. Eye Gallery carries Robert Marc worn by Nicole Kidman and Barton Perreira sported by Brad Pitt. Styles by Chanel and Oliver Peoples are also on hand. While looking good, your loved one will be protecting the health of their eyes year
round from omnipresent ultra violet rays.

At Family Britches, altruism reigns supreme. Co-owners Barry Mishkin and Rick Buggee are soliciting donations of suits and sport coats. These garments will be donated to Twigs Thriftree Thrift Shop which benefits Northern Westchester Hospital. “What shouldn’t get lost in the holidays is the spirit of giving,” Mishkin noted. This idea may provide the impetus for a husband or partner to give away clothing that is no longer cherished. In return, customers will receive a discount of $50 off toward the purchase of a new suit or sport coat.

Gail Patrick’s Cafe has gift baskets, “full of epicurean delights,” according to co-owner Gail Filacchione. Gift certificates are great for teachers and middle schoolers (who just can’t get enough of those dumplings.) Highlights from their extensive Chanukah menu are: latkes, matzoh ball soup, brisket, and rugelach. The Christmas and New Year’s menu includes: Italian Wedding soup, roast rib eye of beef, whipped sweet potatoes with brown sugar, and cookies galore.

At Grappolo Locando we love the holiday season! We can help you plan an exciting and festive intimate at-home wine tasting dinner with family and friends. Chef/Owner Thomas Cuomo will personally go to your home with his sommelier. (Think Prosecco with a wild mushroom bruschetta, luscious braised short ribs and creamy mascarpone polenta with a hearty Moltepulciano and biscotti with Vin Santo!) Another idea might be to book an at-home cooking class for you and your friends – a great way to enjoy a sumptuous and scrumptious meal while learning how it’s done!

At Hilltop Wines and Spirits, describe the type of wine you’re looking for and owner Peter Costello will find the ideal match or assemble a customized gift basket. Additionally, Costello recommends offering a membership in his Wine Club. Members receive a case of wines selected by certified sommelier Costello, delivered to their home each month. On Saturdays from 2-6, he hosts wine tastings from different regions and producers. All featured wines are on special during the tastings. Costello’s top picks for this holiday season are the: 2009 Bordeaux, vintage ports, single malt scotch, champagne, and prosecco.

For timeless gifts, visit ICD Jewelry. The staff is truly passionate about jewelry and provides invaluable assistance in the selection of the perfect piece. Designs by Varda feature 22K gold medallions with 2nd to 4th century ancient coins, geodes, and many other gemstones. Matching earrings are also available. Marco Bicego’s semiprecious 18K gold creations are adorned with amethyst, peridot, and blue topaz. Penny Preville’s line sparkles with diamonds. Israeli designer Marika’s artisanal works include a delicately crafted cuff. For children looking to shower their friends and relatives with jewelry, there is a full array of moderately priced items. Gift certificates are also available.

At Ivana Denniston Aesthetics, gift certificates and gift boxes contain the keys to beauty. Ivana is renowned for her skill in brow shaping. She focuses on the natural shape and insures a “perfect, glamourous look.” Ivana also offers makeovers, the Decleor skin care line, and makeup.

Holiday camp will be offered at Jodi’s Gym during the December vacation. Here kids will learn the basics of gymnastics on balance beams, bars, rings, vault, tumble track, and the space bouncer. The fun never ends during camp. Music, art, story time, games and lunch are on the menu!

Consider a gift card for a Nutritional Consultation with one of Westchester’s best nutritionists, Dina Khader in Mount Kisco. Her individualized plans help individuals with various weight loss and medical conditions–whether it’s eliminating pain or getting cholesterol under control or losing 75 pounds via state of the art testing to streamline nutritional requirements. During a visit, you can also create an individualized gift basket of skin care or food items, all organic, including Dina’s signature box of 16 dark chocolate truffles, extra virgin olive oil, healthy jams and snacks.
Gift certificates at Le Jardin du Roi are welcomed by teachers, friends, and family. The cozy ambiance at this bistro is particularly appreciated during the wintry, holiday season. The menu at Le Jardin du Roi is replete with favorites and new additions. Send those on your list here for hearty soups, cassoulet, coq au vin, mixed berry crumble, and tarte tatin.

Rosemary Devlin at the serene
O2 Living Holistic Wellness Center in Cross River suggests a gift certificate “for a holistic well-being and healthier 2011.” Along with tantalizing spa treatments and award winning yoga classes, O2 carries the Dr. Haushka line of skin care products, juices and delicious smoothies.

Visit Loungerie for intimate wear apparel and for special picks perfect for the season, such as the b.tempt’d by Wacoal fashion line made popular by the beautiful up and coming recording star Esmee Denters. Also check out the store’s special holiday time promotion: Purchase any two items of the same style, different designers, and buy a third item for half
the price.

At New Castle Physical Therapy, co-owner Adam Pliskow recommends the gift of health. He is offering an orthopedic or fitness assessment for $50 from now until the end of March. He sees many people who relate that their spouses suffer from back or neck pain but are not inclined to seek treatment. A gift of an assessment will facilitate the road to recovery. Assessments “can lead to either physical therapy or personal training,” Pliskow observed. His location offers a pristine, relaxing environment. Everyone receives individual attention and only one person is booked per hour.

Oasis Day Spa is an award winning spa recently named favored day spa in the country by American Spa Magazine.Their array of services includes facials, massage, manicures, yoga, yoga wear by Lululemon, and personal training. Co-owner Bruce Schoenberg related that anyone who
comes in for a service will walk out “six inches taller.” “What you’re giving is not just the gift of wellness, we’re bringing out the inner you,” he added. This oasis of tranquility has special offers on the first 25 days of December. Each day a different product or service is discounted.

When it’s time to celebrate, call the party planner par excellence. Monique Ross Banks is now the event planner and coordinator of Party! By Monique. She recommends giving the gift of a celebration this holiday season. “I’ve always loved gifts that you wouldn’t necessarily go out and get yourself,” she said. When there’s a reason to fete a friend or relative, Monique is the go to gal. Ever since Monique planned bar and bat mitzvahs for her three children, she has been receiving compliments and requests for advice from friends and family. Today she plans a myriad of events including bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, and corporate events. From cocktail and dinner parties to lavish affairs, Monique does it all, with inimitable flair. When planning a bar or bat mitzvah she related that her goal is, “to make this event the most memorable event of a family’s life.”

The Rosenthal JCC is promoting their Chanukah Gift Factory & Shalom Sesame Launch Party on December 5th. This is a family friendly event where children create gifts such as keychains, picture frames and menorahs to give to family and friends. The program “Can Grover find the missing menorah” will be screened. Children can also make and eat dreidels made out of marshmallows, Hershey kisses, and pretzels. Latkes will be sizzling for hungry artists and their families. The Rosenthal JCC also offers gift certificates for programs such as mommy and me classes, drop-in childcare, or nursery school.

At Squires, one will find a trove of Hunter boots in a wide array of colors as well as coordinating, “welly” socks, for added warmth. Owner Michael Kushner is restricting sales of this hot item to local residents who come into the store. No orders are being shipped. Other attractive gifts include the ever popular, cashmere sweaters in v-neck and shawl collar cardigan models. He also has trendy, Volcom sweatshirts which are sure to please even the most discerning teenager.

At Steffi Nossen School of Dance, Judy Ross recommends a gift certificate for “grandparents, aunts, and uncles to support their dancing child.” Additionally, she advocates coming in for free dance week from January 10-15. Dancers may try as many classes as they would like, sans obligation.
At The Perennial Chef in Bedford Hills, presents abound. The gift of having food appear on the table effortlessly is sure to please during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Turkey, ham, filet mignon, brisket, salmon, latkes, chestnut stuffing, and cheese platters are on the holiday menu. The real creme de la creme are the desserts created by chef Michael. French macarons –not to be confused with coconut macaroons–are his delectable pastries which begin with a crunch and end with cream. Cookies are fashioned in the shape of Santas and dreidels. Proprietor Francoise Jarry has selected herb mills, (for grinding herbs) hors d’oeuvres sets, truffles, plates, and stemware. Her gift certificates and baskets will bring holiday cheer to the foodie in your life.

Wags and Whiskers has presents for the family dog as well as their owners. They are touting truly durable toys including balls; made of recycled seat belts in the shape of a spider and bear and rabbit shaped toys (sans stuffing). “We have pet beds with the most gorgeous fabrics,” owner Christine Meyer noted. Marble topped pet dishes are designed to compliment the kitchen. And of course, Fido may be treated to a luxurious shampoo and cut.

At World Cup Gymnastics and Nursery School, gift certificates are available for giving holiday cheer. The kids’ night out program provides fun for kids and fun for parents. Kids are entertained for four hours while parents are free to catch a movie and have dinner. Grandparents may also be interested in purchasing a session of nursery school, enrichment, gymnastics, or a junior scientist class for the light of their life. Jeannine Johansen of World Cup is a huge proponent of gymnastics. “When you leave gymnastics, you always feel like you’ve accomplished something,” she said.