The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Elise Trainor

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

Spreading Holiday Cheer

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PHOTO BY DONNA MUELLER

As we embrace the holiday season, there’s no better time to celebrate the arts in all forms. The creative spirit that fills the air brings people together through music, theater, visual arts, and more – reminding us of the beauty and connection that art inspires.

Growing up the arts played a significant role in my life. Whether it was through film (my family loves the movies), art (my mother was a ceramic artist), or theater (my father was and still is a Broadway theater producer) we always appreciated the joy, beauty, and purpose of the arts.

As an adult, I can’t get enough live music, love a good comedy show, and I’ve turned my passion for the arts into a career – starting with a long run in television production and now in publishing – embracing photography, writing, magazine layout and design, and much more.

In these issues we dive into the arts full force!

We take a behind the scenes look at the world-famous Carnegie Hall with Ella Ilan where we meet the General Manager of Artistic Operations, Anna Weber. Anna is a long-time Armonk resident and has devoted herself to the service of music and musicians. She leads the planning and implementation of the 700 concerts and events that take place at Carnegie Hall.

Stacey Pfeffer gives us a look into what makes Westchester County such a draw for shooting films and television shows. There are many fabulous locations close to NYC, and it is a huge, viable revenue stream that maybe we’ll see more of our favorite shows shoot closer to home!

Briarcliff  local Bill Gorlin – Structural and theatrical engineer – has worked at every Broadway theatre in NYC using engineering principles to design and develop safe, functional, and creative sets over his 25+ successful year career.

Our own, Grace Bennett, shares her first-hand experience participating in a workshop at Arc Stages in Pleasantville. She has been embracing and enjoying the art of improvisational comedy and the focus, and fun that comes with performing live.

Pamela Brown introduces us to the co-owners of Chappaqua Creative Arts (CCA). Charley & Carmel Riggs offer a range of theatrical classes to both children and adults in a creative, warm and encouraging space for participants to feel free to express their passions.

We highlight local painter, Rich Hanlon from Pleasantville, sculptor Heather Maione and painter Amy Shaw both from Chappaqua and much more in these issues.

We are showcasing creativity in our towns, trying to spark dialogue, and share stories because art is the heartbeat of culture – it challenges, inspires, and brings us together in ways that nothing else can.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s a time of celebration and reflection. Take a moment to pause and appreciate the arts – go to a museum, take in a show, or catch a concert.

Or try something new. This one is a favorite of mine! Check-out 54below.org – An unforgettable cabaret-style, dinner theater, nightlife experience featuring legendary artists in an elegant living-room like setting.

Remember to shine a light on the arts this season and celebrate the power of creative expression.

Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Here’s to a wonderful 2025!

Elise

Autumn Vibes

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I hope you’re all embracing every last bit of summer – enjoying vacations, time with your family and creating unforgettable memories.

As the warm, sunny days of summer gradually give way to the crisp, cooler ones of fall, we find ourselves at the threshold of a new season. This time of year, brings a unique blend of excitement and nostalgia. The air is filled with the promise of change and for many it’s a season of renewed focus and a time to press the reset button.

Our back-to-school issue is brimming with inspiration and practical advice to help you, and your family navigate this season with confidence and enthusiasm. From tips on creating effective study routines to the importance of regular sleep habits to an essay written by Pleasantville’s beloved author Ben Cheever about how kids should get back to nature and spend less time on their screens.

A visit to the enchanting grounds of Caramoor this summer had me thinking what a special place this must be in the fall, as the leaves are changing. Ella Ilan takes us behind the scenes of this hidden gem with interviews from key players. Make sure to put it on your ‘to do’ list to catch an event or have a picnic and take a stroll. Also, Ronni Diamondstein shares a touching tribute about the beloved Richard Lange, a well-known pillar in the Chappaqua community.

Deborah Raider Notis shares a wonderful story about Pleasantville’s Superwoman and Mount Pleasant’s County Legislator, Margaret Cunzio. A nod to our back-to-school theme as Margaret graduated from Byram Hills and grew up in Armonk. She has remained local and wears more hats than you can imagine. Margaret is a firefighter in Thornwood, an animal activist, on the Westchester Board of Legislators, and this is the tip of the iceberg.

In the spirit of Back-to-School, I was fortunate enough to speak with Byram Hills alum and celebrity actor, David Harbour, of the Netflix series Stranger Things. He grew up right here in Armonk, and it was fascinating to learn about his journey to success.

Ella Ilan also shares the story of Byram Hills High School’s latest accolades as the number one ranked high school in Westchester County. First-time contributor Ashley Stangel brings us an informative and motivating story about the success of the Growth and Awareness Group for Alzheimer’s – commonly known as GAGA.

As we embark on this new chapter, let’s remember that each season brings its own set of opportunities and challenges. Fall invites us to reflect, to learn, and to grow. It’s a time to set new goals, rekindle old passions, and make cherished memories with friends and loved ones.
Thank you for joining The Inside Press on this journey. We hope this issue inspires you to welcome the season with open arms and an open heart.

Here’s to a fantastic fall and a successful start to the school year!


— Elise

Off The Record…

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PHOTO BY DONNA MUELLER

Here I am – writing my first The Inside Scoop for Inside Press. Elise Trainor is taking off the training wheels! Having spent many years in the media and advertising world, I’m excited to take these skills and enter the fast paced, creative, and ever-changing business of publishing.

My family and I have lived in Armonk for 23 years and I’m still learning more about our vibrant community and the surrounding towns every day. I intend to highlight as many extraordinary people and events as I can and will always be open to new ideas.

As I reflect on the past three months, I’d like to express my gratitude to the exceptionally gifted Grace Bennett. Grace has had tremendous patience while imparting her invaluable wisdom about the publishing business. It is an honor learning from someone who has inspired, informed, and entertained her readers for 21 years. So, a heartfelt thanks to Grace and to the entire talented Inside Press team – Lisa Samkoff, art director; Ryan Smith, host at insidepress.com; and Tara Madden, account manager. Here’s to our continued success together in the years to come.

To our many remarkable contributors: Your hard work, creativity, and dedication have made my start at The Inside Press exceptional. From thought-provoking articles to stunning visuals, your contributions enrich our publications and provide our readers with engaging content that goes beyond expectations. To our advertisers: We can’t do it without you, and I’m enjoying getting to know each of you personally.

To our moms, dads, & grads – this one is for you! Celebrate the season and be mindful to cherish, appreciate, and connect with your loved ones.

Family is everything!

A special shout out to my mom and dad, whose support knows no bounds. To my kids who make me a proud mom every day. And to my husband – who makes the journey of life full of laughs. Much love and many thanks to you all!

Fresh Beginnings

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Grace Bennett
PHOTO BY DONNA MUELLER
When I conjured up the theme of “fresh beginnings,” I had hoped we’d see the hostages come home… with that, a new peace in a troubled region, and a collective sigh of relief everywhere! I’m sad that wasn’t the case, at least not at press time, but I remain, I know we all remain, ever hopeful.

Holding onto hope in the battle against cancer is the reigning sentiment for all the participants of Chappaqua’s always amazing Relay for Life, our Inside Chappaqua cover story by Mia Brown. Kudos to all the Greeley volunteers!

The historic inaugurations in January seemed to promise a bright, new future for our residents, with Victoria Bayard Tipp now at the helm as the Town of New Castle’s first BIPOC Town Supervisor. We are proud to present Zoya Nabeel’s poignant coverage, and my own report of all the newly sworn in public officials, in our first 2024 edition, kicking off a 21st year of publishing.

Elise Trainor
In the meantime, some fresh beginnings have taken place Inside the Inside Press. In December, we extended a warm welcome to our new Associate Publisher and Editor Elise Trainor, a consummate media pro who has been busy gearing up to assume many of my current responsibilities (my goal is to pursue special projects long put on hold!). Elise, an Armonk resident who has raised her family in North Castle together with her husband John, rolled up her sleeves right away getting to know our present sponsors and securing new ones in our vital print/online market. She is also already bringing us great stories including the Inside Armonk cover story written by Stacey Pfeffer about Stayin’ Alive, a gift to First Responders and the residents in Armonk, but also in nearby towns. To reach Elise, write to elise@insidepress.com.

Speaking of gifts, we celebrate spring in a debut of Ronni Diamondstein and Naava Katz’s fun new column, Portraits & Profiles. We hope you enjoy it.

Ella Ilan’s article about newly elected Town Supervisor Joseph Rende offers our readers an opportunity to ‘get to know’ him a little better, and offers some insight into his priorities for North Castle. As a prime example, look for a remounting of the Armonk Eagle with details to follow about the beloved landmark. 

We are also thrilled to hear that the Byram Hills Varley Players are gearing up to present Mamma Mia!, a personal Broadway favorite. So, mark your calendar for an event the entire community will surely enjoy.

Music is always a great salve during challenging times, so we are very proud to bring you Marco Lamberti’s story, the Inside Pleasantville and Briarcliff Manor cover story, as told by Christine Pasqueralle. A 10-year-old drummer rocking venues around the county felt inspiring to us, and we’d like our readers to perhaps one day say ‘they knew him when’ as they recall Marco’s ‘beginning’ 15 minutes of fame in their favorite local magazine.

In entirely different arenas, Michael Gold continues to bring stories to local presses intended to protect our precious planet, this time in a conversation with Nicole Asquith on the future of renewable energy. Fran Goldstein’s interview with Briarcliff Manor’s Audrey Birnbaum about her extraordinary new Holocaust memoir is a must read, and we wish Audrey well on her publishing journey. You’ll also find sage ‘midlife’ advice from the one and only René Syler. Also, if winter sniffles strike again, check out our new roving food reviewer interns who sampled hot soups in the area, and report their favorite to take out.

Please take time to check out all our new stories. Wishing you all fresh beginnings!