The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

The Inside Scoop

Healthy Vibes

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Me with Michele Zipper and Deb Ross of The Well Center in Armonk

Every March and April, I feel a sense of relief when the snow finally melts – especially after this winter – and we can return outdoors and ease back into routines that involve movement and fresh air. From a walk with friends, to a bike ride, or any activity that gets us moving and soaking up some sunshine.

This season has a way of encouraging us to pause, reset, and take better care of ourselves. As the days grow longer and the air feels lighter, it becomes easier, and more appealing to focus on our overall well-being: physically, mentally, and emotionally.

In these Spring/Health & Wellness issues, we explore growing shifts in healthcare and what it truly means to feel well through some wonderful articles.

Armonk highlights holistic medicine and the power of treating the whole person through a local business, The Well Center. It has been a true joy getting to know founders and owners Deb Ross and Michele Zipper. A heartfelt thank-you to writer, Ella Ilan, for offering such thoughtful insight into their history, philosophy, healthcare model, and impressive depth of knowledge.

Our Chappaqua cover story, written by Ronni Diamondstein, takes a close look at dance – movement with meaning. Through the wide range of dance classes offered by the New Castle Recreation Department, residents can build strength, balance, and confidence while experiencing the joy and connection that dance brings. Whether you’re just starting out or rediscovering your rhythm, these classes offer physical, mental, and social benefits for all ages and abilities.

In Pleasantville, fitness isn’t just a routine – it’s an experience. Writer Abby Luby shows us how boutique studios are redefining wellness by offering personalized workouts, expert guidance, and a strong sense of community that big-box gyms can’t match. She speaks with the owners of three neighborhood studios about finding the perfect fit for every body and achieving unique fitness goals. Discover how these local gems are helping residents move, work hard, and thrive – one boutique session at a time.

Together, these stories – and many others in these issues – invite you to rethink wellness not as a one-size-fits-all solution, but as a thoughtful and intentional partnership in your health journey.

As you read these articles, you’ll discover meaningful perspectives on wellness, from the importance of physical therapy for women throughout life to the restorative power of nature and the outdoors on both body and mind.

They are designed to inform, inspire, and encourage small but worthwhile steps toward better health this spring. Whether you’re exploring a new approach to care, moving your body with intention, or simply spending more time outside, we hope these stories help you embrace the season feeling energized, balanced, and well.

Enjoy our health & wellness editions.

– Elise Trainor, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

The Heart of the Holidays

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Me with Marie & John DeCicco in the cheese section of the Armonk DeCicco’s store.

Every November & December, amidst the sparkle and bustle, I find myself reflecting on what really makes this season shine. It’s the moments of connection, the simple kindnesses, and the spirit of generosity that weave through our communities and beyond.
These issues are filled with stories of goodness, gratitude and a link to those around us.

My three cover stories, although very different from each other, follow a theme that resonates with me.

The act of giving back.

For my Armonk cover story, I spent some quality time with Marie & John DeCicco and felt incredibly fortunate to do so. Their genuine care for their customers, employees, and neighbors goes far beyond groceries. There is no doubt why this couple runs such a successful business – it starts with kindness, giving, and lots of heart! I hope that everyone has the opportunity to meet this special couple.

For Chappaqua, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with a friend from my past. Jessica Rosh is the newly appointed Chairperson of the Hudson Valley arm of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Helping to grant wishes and bring joy to ill children takes a special kind of person and Jessica has all the qualities that this takes and more. What a privilege this experience was and having people like Jessica in my orbit is a reminder of what giving back really means.

In Pleasantville, I was able to uncover an extraordinary business that for me was a bit of a mystery but now I’m convinced it’s the ‘place to be’. ZWILLING has consistently given back to the community – supporting local events and initiatives that strengthen the fabric of the village. They bring people together around something universal: the joy of cooking and sharing meals. I’ve been referring to ZWILLING as the hidden gem of Pleasantville, and you’ll see why.

Each of these individuals and businesses play a unique role in making our communities stronger. Together, they remind us that when people and organizations invest in the place they call home, everyone benefits.

As you read through this issue, I hope you feel inspired by those who give of themselves to make the community and beyond a little warmer. Because when we come together in kindness, there’s no limit to the good we can do.

Wishing you a holiday season filled with goodwill, connections, and a little extra gratitude.

– Elise Trainor, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Class Acts

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Me with Jackson, Christie, & Scott Krase of The Kittle House Inn
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

This cycle I’ve tried something new for the back-to school issue. In my short time as Inside Press publisher, I’ve come across many incredibly smart, talented, and successful alumni from our school districts. I decided to focus on an alumnus whose accomplishments I thought were worth sharing with the community.

Tom Kitt and Me

Tom Kitt, Byram Hills High School Class of 1992, our Inside Armonk cover story, has won a Tony Award for Best Original Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize in Drama for his show Next to Normal. Tom is a distinguished composer and musician who has also won Emmy’s, a Grammy and his list of nominations goes on for days. All this and he is kind, grounded, and a father of three. I was thrilled, honored and a bit star-struck in getting to know Tom and gaining some insight about his time at Byram Hills.

In Chappaqua, I found that most residents were familiar with the beloved restaurant, The Kittle House and that the new owners are a fantastic Chappaqua family – The Krase’s. The day-to-day operations will be handled by the oldest child, Jackson, Horace Greeley Class of 2015. Jackson along with his parents Christie & Scott and the newly renovated Kittle House Inn are the fall Inside Chappaqua cover story. I so enjoyed learning more about this very special family and the cherished landmark they are now proud owners of.

Ali Ewoldt and me at Pleasantville High School

Ali Ewoldt, Pleasantville High School Class of 1999 is our Pleasantville/Briarcliff Manor back-to-school cover story. Ali, a proud native of Pleasantville, has dazzled audiences on Broadway with standout roles in The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables. She made history as the first Asian American Christine in Phantom on Broadway and has proven herself a true trailblazer in musical theater. Ali’s career is a testament to talent, perseverance, and star power and was pure joy to work with on this issue.

There’s something about the start of fall that feels like a fresh notebook – crisp, clean, and full of possibilities. Around town, the air turns a little sharper, the leaves begin their quiet show, and families trade beach towels for book bags. It’s back-to-school season, but it’s also back-to-routine, back-to-community, and back to the small-town rhythms we love.

So, whether you’re chasing the bus, chasing your sanity, or chasing the perfect cider doughnut, welcome to fall in our favorite community.

Elise Trainor
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

May & June: My Sweet Spot

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Peter Kelly and I in front of Basso by PXK
PHOTO BY CAROLYN SIMPSON

As spring gives way to summer, May and June emerge as months of profound celebration, marking both personal and cultural milestones. These months are filled with transitions, and moments of joy that bring people together. From academic achievements to weddings, from honoring parents to commemorating history, May and June remind us of life’s important passages and the beauty of shared experiences. 

In May, we honor our moms on Mother’s Day, observe the official start to summer on Memorial Day and let’s not forget Cinco de Mayo! 

In my family, June is a huge month of celebration! It’s every family member’s birthday, including mine, except for my son who refused to join us until July. My parents will be married for 60 years this June – a big milestone! There’s also Father’s Day, Juneteenth a variety of graduation ceremonies.  

Our Armonk cover story introduces us to the Livanos’s, owners of Armonk’s Moderne Barn Restaurant. Writer Abby Luby spoke with Livanos siblings Nick, Bill, and Corina who shared stories of their journey in the food business, the importance of family and their love of Armonk. Thanks to Cathy Pinsky www.pinskystudio.com for capturing beautiful shots of this remarkable family. 

What a thrill to meet the extraordinary chef Peter Kelly, now of Basso by PXK in Chappaqua. Stacey Pfeffer wrote a great article about the culinary genius who is as nice as he is talented. The best part was sitting with Stacey to sample some of Chef Kelly’s dishes. Thanks to Carolyn Simpson www.doublevisionphotographers.com for her gorgeous photos. 

Martin Wilbur, who had been the long-time editor-in-chief for The Examiner, took on a few assignments with us and we were lucky to have him. Our cover story takes us to the bustling streets of Pleasantville where the village has welcomed Wonder – a fast-food delivery, take out and dine in service combining multiple restaurants in one place. Thanks to Donna Mueller www.greatkeepsakes.com for her wonderful photos of the event. 

As the days grow longer and summer approaches, May and June invite us to pause and appreciate life’s milestones, both big and small. Whether celebrating academic success, love, family, or historical progress, these months remind us of the importance of honoring achievements, cherishing connections and embracing the spirit of celebration. 

A huge thanks to our incredible contributors! I love these issues – my first as Publisher/Editor-in-Chief. A final thank you to Grace Bennett, Inside Press Founder, for sharing her wisdom and trusting me with her prized possession. I promise to make you proud! 

Have a joyful spring season! 

Elise Trainor
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating Health & Wellness

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After my recent hip surgery, I am deeply grateful for the gift of good health. The journey has been one of resilience, endurance and purpose. I’m thankful for the skilled hands of my medical team, the support of loved ones and my body’s strength to heal. Each step forward reminds me how precious mobility is and how important physical and emotional well-being are.

The March/April issues are focused on health & wellness and filled with insightful content to help you put your health front and center as we head into spring.

Our Armonk cover story, written by Stacey Pfeffer, provides a glimpse into the world of seniors in the Armonk Hergenhan Center where we saw how important this community is to its members. What an incredible gift we have in our town – a warm, inviting location where our seniors can go and be socially and physically engaged. Thanks to Cathy Pinsky www.pinskystudio.com for photographing our seniors in action.

Andrew Vitelli wrote our Chappaqua cover story which focuses on gross motor skills as an essential part of children’s physical and mental growth. He spoke with the team at World Cup Gymnastics and Nursery School where they shared their philosophy on allowing children to progress at their own pace and help to build their confidence. A huge thanks to Carolyn Simpson www.doublevisionphotographers.com for capturing our adorable 4-year-olds.

Writer, Beth Besen introduced us to the delightful and talented Ali Stroker on the Pleasantville/Briarcliff Manor cover. Ali is an actress, singer, author and speaker and the first actor in a wheelchair to win a Tony award for Best Performance in a Featured Role in the musical “Oklahoma” in 2019. I had the pleasure of meeting Ali in her Briarcliff Manor home where I learned about her strength, her charm and got to see firsthand how her smile lights up a room! Thanks to Donna Mueller www.greatkeepsakes.com for the stunning photos.

Spring is a time for new beginnings. Let this season be a reminder to nurture and take care of your body, keep your mind calm, and let your spirit shine! Because wellness is the foundation for a bright and limitless future.

It’s your time to thrive!

Elise