• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

  • Home
  • Cover Stories
  • Features
    • Portraits and Profiles
  • Advertorials
    • Lifestyles with our Sponsors
    • Sponsor News!
  • Wellness
  • Happenings
  • Advertise
    • Advertise in One or All of our Magazines–And/Or Subscribe
    • Advertising Payment Form
  • Contact Us
  • Search

Features

Open Door Marks 50th Anniversary with New Name and A New Look

November 25, 2025 by Laura Joseph Mogil

Newly renovated Open Door facility in Ossining
Photo by Bjorg Magnea

There is no better way for the Open Door to celebrate its 50th anniversary than with a new name and a new look. The organization just announced it will now be called the Open Door Care Network. The new name and accompanying rebranding reflect the organization’s evolution over more than a half century and its expanding commitment to comprehensive, wrap-around care across multiple locations throughout the region.

“The new name and updated logo better represent the organization’s comprehensive approach to care and its growing network of services. Open Door’s commitment to providing quality, affordable health care to all members of the community remains steadfast,” says Lindsay Farrell, Open Door Care Network’s president and CEO.

The Open Door Care Network’s team-based care approach recognizes that health extends far beyond medical treatment. True health care means addressing mental health, social determinants of health, providing care coordination, case management, early childhood services, and connecting families with resources that support their overall well-being. This preventive approach became even more apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the importance of accessible, comprehensive care was highlighted like never before.

“Open Door and other community health centers, sit at the intersection of private practice and public health,” explains Farrell. “We focus on people-centered care, making sure that everyone in our community can live robust, productive lives and take care of their families.”

While Open Door serves everyone in the community, the organization maintains a preferential option for low-income individuals and families, many of whom depend on the sliding fee scale that makes quality health care accessible regardless of ability to pay. This commitment to serving all community members, especially the most vulnerable, distinguishes community health centers from other health care providers.

This steadfast commitment to community service has deep roots–Open Door is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, marking five decades of building capacity and expertise in serving communities with comprehensive, accessible health care. This milestone coincides with the opening of a new state-of-the-art facility at 2 Church Street in Ossining, which will house medical and behavioral health teams.

Dr. Swiderski and patient

“The new facility exemplifies the team-based care philosophy by co-locating multiple services under one roof, eliminating barriers to care and creating seamless experiences for patients. When families can access primary care, behavioral health support, and other essential services in one location, it transforms how they engage with their health care and improves outcomes across the board,” says Farrell.

This facility renovation is the first of a two-phase Ossining project designed to modernize the entire network. The new building complements services at 165 Main Street, which will continue offering dental, podiatric, optometry women’s health services and wellness services. The second phase, already underway, involves upgrading and renovating the existing 165 Main Street facility. The two offices will serve some 18,500 patients annually. (Open Door serves 60,000 patients annually at their six health care centers and nine school-based health centers in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties.)

Beyond providing health care, Open Door serves as a significant economic anchor in the local community, employing 650 people whose spending supports local businesses and contributes substantially to the regional economy. This economic impact demonstrates how community health centers create ripple effects that strengthen entire communities.

Farrell explains that the transition to the Open Door Care Network comes at a particularly challenging time for Community Health Centers nationwide. She points out, “Federal funding streams face uncertainty, Medicaid programs are under threat, and the very viability of many health centers remains a concern. Despite these challenges, Open Door continues expanding its services and reach thanks to increasingly important philanthropic support.”

As the Open Door Care Network, the organization is well-positioned to meet these challenges while continuing to expand its comprehensive approach to community health care. With enhanced care coordination, case management, and early childhood services, Open Door remains committed to its team based, wrap-around care philosophy and its vital role at the intersection of private practice and public health. The network will continue serving as both a health care provider and community anchor, ensuring that quality, affordable care remains accessible to all.

To learn more about Open Door programs and ways to get involved and support our services, please visit opendoorcarenetwork.org, or contact Elisabeth Gilbert, Senior Director of Development at egilbert@odfmc.org.

Filed Under: Features Tagged With: 50 Year Celebration, Open Door Medical Center, providing health care, serving the community

Homerun Hopefuls: Local Students Join a 22-Year Tradition of Giving Back

November 25, 2025 by Luisa Vieira

For more than two decades; the Homerun Hopefuls Foundation has carried out a simple mission: delivering baseball equipment to children and teenagers across the Dominican Republic. What began as student, Brett Kalikowʼs, Bar Mitzvah project is now a U.S.-based nonprofit in its 22nd year, connecting communities across countries where the game is much more than a pastime; it’s a source of opportunity and hope.

Guided by its motto, “Play hard, study hard,” the foundation encourages young athletes to pursue both education and sports. Executive Director Matt Neibart contributed, “Playing baseball is essential, but so is studying and valuing family. Our goal is to promote both.”

This summer, the 2025 delegation visited leagues and clubs, distributing equipment and working with coaches who mentor the next generation. Among this year’s group were two Armonk students, Justin Wolf and Josh Goldman.

Local Students Take the Field

For Wolf, joining Homerun Hopefuls was both personal and meaningful: “I loved the idea of combining baseball, a sport that has always been a big part of my life, with helping kids who don’t have the same opportunities,” Justin said.

Goldman shared a similar perspective: “Growing up as a huge baseball fan, many of my favorite players are Hispanic. When I learned about this organization, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to pass on the game I love to people who needed the help to succeed.”

One moment that stood out to him was in Cotuí: “After hitting batting practice with the older kids, their swings amazed me. They had little access to gear or facilities, yet they were so skilled…some were signed to an MLB team.” Goldman added that the trip wasn’t just about baseball, “for me, I got a much better understanding of their culture, and how hard it really was for all of the Dominican players growing up.”

For Wolf, one of the most powerful moments was the groups first stop in Janicó. He describes that after watching a men’s league game, “the mayor of the town invited us into his home for a delicious home-cooked meal, and sharing Dominican food gave us a chance to really connect beyond just baseball.” Wolf added that his favorite part was seeing the direct impact: “Handing out mitts and bats and seeing the kids’ faces light up made [the impact] real,” and despite the language barrier, “we were still able to connect through the universal language of baseball.”

The Director’s Perspective

Matt Neibart has witnessed the growth of Homerun Hopefuls for twenty years now, but expressed that this year, the most impactful moment didn’t happen on a baseball field, but in a community gym east of Santo Domingo. More than 300 kids waited for Homerun Hopefuls, “cheering like we were rock stars arriving with treasure,” Neibart said. He continued describing how student volunteers add a new dimension to the trip: “Homerun Hopefuls operates on a kids-helping-kids philosophy, so we rely on motivated young volunteers to be successful on our mission. Justin and Josh really embodied that spirit. They were always willing to help, pushed themselves out of their comfort zones, and made a real effort to create connections with the children we were supporting.”

A Season of Giving

As the Armonk community looks toward the holidays, Homerun Hopefuls serves as a reminder that small acts–a donated bat, a packed bag of gloves–can have life-changing effects. With another successful year, Homerun Hopefuls continues to show how sports can bridge countries, communities, and young people committed to making a difference!

Filed Under: Features Tagged With: Homerun Hopefuls, kids helping kids, play hard, Students giving back, study hard

Pets Get the Winter Blues, too … 10 Tips to Keep Your Fur Babies Feeling Fabulous During the Colder Months

November 25, 2025 by Ariana Reese Guido

Winter can be harsh on our furry friends. Just like us, our pets miss the outdoors and the frequent walks enjoyed during warmer seasons. The decrease in activities, such as running in the yard, rolling in the grass, or playing fetch, takes a toll on their bodies. Unlike us, our pets can’t simply go to the gym or hop on a Peloton to compensate for the sudden shift in activity level. Nor can they do a detox or cleanse to reset their shifting metabolisms.

So, what can we do to help them stay healthy and safe? Not to fret! We asked local veterinarians, Dr. Lindsey Thomas and Dr. Valerie Carril of Healing Paws Veterinary Center, and professional dog groomer, Kelly Leveille of Zenfully Yours Grooming, for their expert advice and compiled a list of “Top 10 Tips” to keep your pets feeling fabulous all winter long.

1. Limit Time Outdoors

Pets can be affected by very cold temperatures, just like people. Even those with a thick coat can find it uncomfortable or even dangerous when temperatures get below freezing. Tiny dogs and cats, and those that are young or old, can be more susceptible to conditions like hypothermia and frostbite. Cold weather can also worsen certain conditions in older pets, such as arthritis.

2. Don’t Skip Paw Patrol Duty

Ice, snow, and harsh conditions can dry out paw pads. Check paws frequently in the winter and ask your veterinarian or groomer about safe products to use if you notice signs of damage. Salt can also irritate paws and cause gastrointestinal upset if a pet licks their paws after coming in contact with it. It’s best to cover paws with booties or wipe paws promptly after walking outside.

3. Watch Out for Winter Toxins

Keep anti-freeze and other deicing products out of reach of pets in the winter. Anti-freeze can have a sweet flavor, so it is a common toxicity seen in veterinary practice. Ingestion can lead to very severe issues and even death.

4. Practice Fire Safety

Make sure to keep pets away from space heaters and block access to fireplaces to prevent burns. This is especially concerning with cats, as they often seek heat sources when temperatures are low.

5. Be Prepared for Storms

Storm preparation should include pet supplies too – When preparing for impending blizzards or heavy snowfall, make sure you have enough pet food and medications to last at least a few days in case you are unable to travel.

6. Don’t Overlook Grooming

While overbathing is not recommended during the winter months, consistent grooming is essential to maintain a healthy coat and prevent matting, especially if you like to keep your pet on the fluffier side.

7. Don’t forget the H20 & Moisturizer

Pets can get dehydrated in the winter months, too! This is especially true when the heat is turned on, and the indoor air becomes drier. Make sure fresh, clean water is always available. Indoor heating can also cause noses and paws to get incredibly dry, so be sure to have an ointment or balm on hand to combat this.

8. Don’t Get Carried Away With “Sweater Weather”

While it’s tempting to keep your pets well-dressed and warm around the clock, it is highly recommended to remove sweaters periodically and keep up with regular brushing, as wearing sweaters for extended periods can lead to mats and knots.

9. Practice Portion Control & Be Mindful of Extra Treats

A no-brainer – active pets burn more calories. With pets spending more time indoors, overfeeding them can lead to weight gain and health issues. Even if you don’t give your pets table food, try to prevent extra treats and snacks from being fed to your pet by guests in and out during the holiday season.

10. Create a Fun and Cozy Space

A warm bed and a fluffy blanket, positioned in a draft-free space where family members also gather, makes for a very happy pet. Enjoy teaching your pet a new trick, playing hide-and-seek with their favorite toys, and extra snuggling time during the winter!

Enjoy moments and snowy adventures with your pets this winter but remember to keep their comfort and safety in mind. A little extra care ensures the season stays fun and healthy for everyone.

Filed Under: Features Tagged With: cold weather pet care, don't overfeed, maintain exercise, take care of paws

Beyond the Budget: The Byram Hills Education Foundation Impact

November 25, 2025 by Inside Press

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE
BYRAM HILLS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

For thirty years, the Byram Hills Education Foundation (BHEF) has been instrumental in shaping Byram Hills into one of the most renowned districts in our area. A non-profit organization, made up of volunteer parents, school administrators and educators, the BHEF has become the district’s innovative engine, enhancing education for all students by funding grants that are beyond the school district’s budget.

With over $6 million awarded – its impact can be felt everywhere. “The BHEF is capable of doing what school budgets cannot do alone. The BHEF has been behind major initiatives of the District for decades, from 1:1 technology initiatives to library renovations and program development. EVERY child in Byram Hills benefits from the support of the BHEF–at every turn in their school years–and that is a big part of what distinguishes a Byram Hills education,” says Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia.

Working collaboratively with the district and community, everyone can help shape the future of Byram Hills by sharing grant ideas, donating and taking part in events.

Every Child, Every Day

The BHEF relies entirely on the generosity of families and businesses. Last year, the BHEF awarded over $575,000 for 20 new grants benefitting every school. These grants nurture every aspect of the educational experience such as a cutting-edge theater projector that creates digital scenery, a new Executive Functioning program, the first Fashion Design course, an outdoor ropes course, and innovative 3D Lego kits and social-emotional resources.

The BHEF has also pledged $1MM towards the district’s transformative “Lights, Learning, Action!” initiative, bridging the gap between the budget and the $9MM project cost. With the foundation’s support, the 1965 BHHS library and lecture hall wing was re-imagined into a collegiate quality Learning Commons and a second turf field was added. Donations are still needed to install permanent outdoor lights on BHHS fields and courts – bringing the thrill of night events to Byram Hills.

Taking Byram Hills Beyond Limits

Byram Hills is a special district. While our schools offer extraordinary opportunities, they operate on a public-school budget. Many of the programs and facilities that set a Byram Hills education apart – from innovative curriculum, cutting edge technology, wellness resources and modern learning spaces – were made possible by the BHEF.

There are many ways to support the foundation’s mission, including corporate sponsorships and BHEF Leadership Circles that include donor benefits. Donations of any amount are truly appreciated and make a difference. Byram Hills graduates can also leave their legacy with a personalized brick on the new Bobcat Alumni Walkway, paving the way for future bobcats.

What Will You Make Possible?

This is an exciting time to be at Byram Hills! Whether your child is at Coman Hill, Wampus, HCC or BHHS, your donations today to the BHEF will elevate their Byram Hills experience for years to come. YOU can help our children learn and grow beyond limits.

Donate: supportbhef.org
Learn: byramhillsfoundation.org
Follow: Facebook Instagram
Get in touch: BHEF1@byramhills.org

Filed Under: Features Tagged With: Byram Hills Education Foundation, educational grants, help your children, support the foundation

Why I Give a (Damn)!

November 25, 2025 by Leslie Lampert

Feed Me Fresh 2025

When my friend Elise asked me to write an essay on “giving back” to coincide with the holiday theme you’ve seen throughout this issue, I replied, honored and (mostly) unhesitatingly, yes (explanation to follow).

As a longtime magazine writer/editor in NYC – the chapter before I founded Ladle of Love 22 years ago – I began writing (actually, thinking – which is the foundation of putting fingers to keyboard) for days on how I would manage the daunting job of reporting my contributions as a journalist, food curator and community thought leader. Not an easy objective for someone who is more comfortable parlaying personal kindness than deliberately shining a spotlight on it.

I definitely struggled with proclaiming all the gifts of food, friendships, and possible optics I’ve presented to our neighbors, organizations, frontliners and everyday folks. But my discomfort came from something else – the constant reflection of how those in need, need us.

All of us.

What I mean is: we all have the means to give. Not just thanks and gratitude. Or checks and monetary donations. But actual impact to our respected recipients.
While I know this culture is comfortable with communicating – well, everything – as reflected on our social media platforms, I still bristle at megaphoning my acts of care. But, in an effort to nudge even one person to give in ways they may have not thought of before, I’m going out on a limb here, to present a written selfie for the food-related and feel-good ways I have given and perhaps that will motivate you, dear reader.

First – let’s define Givers.

It starts with empathy – the inherent emotion of compassion for others. Not an expression of sorrow but in a how-can-I-help-out kind of way. Givers embrace humanity. Care. Dignity. We thrive on helping others. For those of us who possess this characteristic, Lady Gaga said it best (cue music:) “Baby I was Born This Way.”

As a small child, I was always befriending the recipients of bullying. As a teen, I gravitated toward high school teams or projects with community impact. Which led me to journalism. Reporting the truth; relaying the perspectives of the times.

Cookin’ with Love

And then, I found food. As a way to nourish and nurture. As Senior Editor at Ladies’ Home Journal, I wrote the food features, spending many hours in the test kitchen. And then, close family members were battling cancer, so I started making soups for their chemo treatments. And then, 9/11 hit. I started sending soups to Ground Zero for the firefighters pressed into service there.

I needed to help in the ways I could. And food was the gift I could share.

Though uncomfortable divulging my acts of kindness, here is a list of various ways I have given back to our communities throughout the years:
  • Sent food to many Westchester organizations that feed our food-insecure populations
  • Provided food to frontliners and support teams at our renowned hospitals
  • Served as Culinary Director at The Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester – ensuring the kids and staff were nourished with (sneaky) healthful foods like mac ’n cheese made with butternut squash
  • Offered counsel and expertise pro bono to worthy nonprofits that needed help with program management and implementation
  • Hired employees with disabilities at Ladle of Love

While the ideas above are specific to my talents and skills, there are ways that anyone can give back.

Everyone has the ability to pitch in and help those less fortunate. Here are a few of my favorite ideas that you, dear reader, can try this holiday season:
  • Leave anonymous bottles of water and containers of soup for homeless people sleeping on park benches
  • Play the lottery frequently in the hopes of being able to donate lotsa $$ to those in need
  • Fulfill gift requests for disadvantaged youth on holiday wish lists
  • Donate time to food pantries to help sort goods and get them in the hands of those who may face empty holiday tables this year with SNAP benefits cut

I’m gonna say it. I’m not interested in being an influencer. I’ve always had the goals of informer and impactor. I’ve listed my actions as well as some suggestions above to inspire you. And now you can decide how to best transform your giving abilities to make a difference.

Finally – Thank you. For Listening.
For Becoming a Giver.

Ladle of Love stands for consciously sourced food, community support and a caring work family. As the first locally sourced, prepared-food brand in Westchester, Ladle of Love has nourished neighborhoods, businesses, food insecure and frontliners with healthful, contemplative cuisine. Learn more about Leslie at ladleoflove.com.

Filed Under: Features Tagged With: give this holiday season, Ladle of Love, ways to give

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Page 2
  • Page 3

Primary Sidebar

Please Visit

White Plains Hospital
William Raveis – Armonk
William Raveis – Chappaqua
Northwell Hospital
Houlihan Lawrence – Chappaqua
Houlihan Lawrence – Armonk
Houlihan Lawrence – Briarcliff
NYOMIS – Dr. Andrew Horowitz
Stacee Massoni
Purple Plains
Compass: Donna Gordon
Westchester Table Tennis
Compass: Miller Goldenberg Harris Team
Repose
Dodd’s Wine Shop
Rocks by Jolie B. Ray
Outer Boundaries Travel
Jean Jacques
The Briarcliff Manor
Eye Designs of Armonk
Compass: Natalia Wixom
Sonny Pilates
Houlihan Lawrence: Harriet Libov
Armonk Tennis Club
Gleason Plumbing and Heating
Houlihan: Tara Siegel
Breathe Pilates and Yoga
Wags & Whiskers Dog Grooming

Follow our Social Media

The Inside Press

Our Latest Issues

For a full reading of our current edition, or to obtain a copy or subscription, please contact us.

Inside Armonk Inside Pleasantville and Briarcliff Manor Inside Chappaqua and Millwood

Join Our Mailing List


Search Inside Press

Links

  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Digital Subscription
  • Print Subscription

Publisher’s Note Regarding Our Valued Sponsors

Inside Press is not responsible for and does not necessarily endorse or not endorse any advertisers, products or resources referenced in either sponsor-driven stories or in advertisements appearing in this publication. The Inside Press shall not be liable to any party as a result of any information, services or resources made available through this publication.The Inside Press is published in good faith and cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in advertising or sponsor driven stories that appear in this publication. The views of advertisers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher’s.

Opinions and information presented in all Inside Press articles, such as in the arena of health and medicine, strictly reflect the experiences, expertise and/or views of those interviewed, and are not necessarily recommended or endorsed by the Inside Press. Please consult your own doctor for diagnosis and/or treatment.

Footer

Support The Inside Press

Advertising

Print Subscription

Digital Subscription

Categories

Archives

Subscribe

Did you know you can subscribe anytime to our print editions?

Voluntary subscriptions are most welcome, if you've moved outside the area, or a subscription is a great present idea for an elderly parent, for a neighbor who is moving or for your graduating high school student or any college student who may enjoy keeping up with hometown stories.

Subscribe Today

Copyright © 2026 The Inside Press, Inc. · Log in