The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

New Castle

Horace Greeley High School Presents “The Laramie Project,” A Modern Classic

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Reserve your Tickets for the following performances: March 8th, 9th and 10th at 7 p.m. and March 11th at 8 p.m.

On October 7, 1998, a young gay man was discovered bound to a fence outside of Laramie, Wyoming, savagely beaten and left to die in an act of brutality and hate that shocked the nation. Matthew Shepherd’s death became a national symbol of intolerance, but for the people of the town, the event was deeply personal. In the aftermath, Moises Kaufman and members of the Tectonic Theater Project went to Laramie and conducted more than 200 interviews with its citizens. From transcripts, the playwrights constructed an extraordinary chronicle of life in the town after the murder. Since its premiere, The Laramie Project has become a modern classic and one of the most-performed theater pieces in America.

This docu-drama brings to light startling realities about the society we live in and causes audience members to question their own morals and beliefs and those of their fellow Americans.

Due to the subject matter, this production is not recommended for children under 13. ​  

Tickets:

http://greeleytheater.tix.com/Schedule.aspx?OrgNum=5064&framed=true 

Cast and Crew credits, below.

 

CAST & CREW

Cast:

Sarah Bogner: Allison Mears, Tiffany Edwards, E-mail
Writer, Conrad Miller, Jury Foreperson, Cal Rerucha, Shadow

Oliver Bradley: Jonas Slonaker, Matt Galloway, Newsperson, Russell Henderson

Fiona Dubrosa: Andy Paris, Baptist Mininster, Governer Jim Gerringer, Aaron McKinney, Reporter, April Silva

Jackson Gautreau: Doc O’Connor, Harry Woods,
Dr. Cantaway, Shannon

Violet Gautreau: Leigh Fondakowsk, Marge Murray,
Baptist Minister’s Wife, Matt Mickelson, Lucy Thomson, Newsperson

Tova Greene: Barbara Pitts, Romaine Paterson, Reporter

Sam Harasimowicz: Gil Engen, Jedidiah Schultz, Dennis Shepard, Doug Laws

Amanda McHugh: Catherine Connolly, Sherry Aanenson, Jen

Laurel Kastner: Amanda Gronich, Eileen Engen, Sherry Johnson, Rob Debree

David Katz: Greg Pierotti, Jon Peacock, Aaron Kreifels,
Bailiff

Jacob Kaufman-Shalett: Sargeant Hing, Stephen Belbr,
Father Roger Schmidt, Murdock Cooper

Samantha Phillips: Zackie Salmon, Moisés Kaufman,
Newsperson, Phil Labrie, Anonymous, Kerry Drake, Gene Pratt

Gillian Shenkman: Rebecca Hilliker, Zubaida Ula, Judge

Lindsay Shiner: Reggie Fluty, Trish Steger

Kaylee Sparro: Phillip Dubois, Priest at Funeral, Debbie, Bill McKinney, Jeffrey Lockwood

Izzy Thomasses: Stephen Mead Johnson. Kristen Price, Rulon Stacey, Andrew Gomez, Reverend Fred Phelps
 

Crew:

Student Producer/Technical Director/Sound Assistant JAKE O’DONOVAN
Stage Manager/Light board operator COLLIN DAMMANN
Projection  Assistant  GABE EHRLICH​
Camera Operator/ Program Designer VIVIAN ZYMECK
Costume Assistant ASHKA JHAVERI
Makeup KENNY NOHAVICKA

                     
Construction Crew:

MAX AUERBACHER
ASHKA JHAVERI
ISABELLA JOHNSTONE
BEN KAUFMAN-SHALETT
ASHKAY  KRISHNAN
HOJIN LEE
JAKE O’DONOVAN
ETHAN RICH
MOIRA SEMEL
LUKE SMITH
VIVIAN ZYMECK
 

 

Gun Violence Prevention Groups Promote Coalition Building

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Congresswoman Nita Lowey:  Act Now Despite ‘Tumultous’ Political Climate

By Stacey Pfeffer

Chappaqua, NY— Several Westchester-based gun violence prevention (GVP) groups yesterday presented key action items that community members can take to reduce gun violence in light of the recent Presidential election.

Speaking at a forum held inside New Castle Town Hall, Congresswoman Nita Lowey, a long-time gun safety advocate, noted that despite a “tumultuous” political climate, it is our responsibility to act now – regardless of the politics – to spare families the pain that gun violence brings. I will continue working with local legislators and activists to stand up for what is right when it matters the most and keep guns out of the wrong hands.”

Inside New Castle Town Hall: Congresswoman Nita Lowey together with members of several Westchester-based gun violence prevention groups during a forum held on Saturday, Feb. 4.

Representatives and members from Million Mom March/Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, Moms Demand Action, The Campaign to Keep Guns Off Campus, New Yorkers Against Gun Violence and Prevent Gun Violence Westchester were all in attendance. The event was sponsored by Up2US (an outgrowth of Chappaqua Friends of Hillary) and the New Castle Democratic Committee. Concerned citizenry from the UP2US group were in attendance as were Town Supervisor Robert Greenstein and Town Councilman Adam Brodsky. 

Jessica Meller, one of the leaders of Northern Westchester’s Million Mom March, noted that many of these groups collaborate on efforts and events together but this was the first time that the groups held a forum so that members could get “a clear picture of each group’s unique profile, goals and actions, and how we function both individually and as a coalition.”

Assemblyman David Buchwald (D-Mount Kisco) who attended commented that “it’s events like this that help galvanize people to action and to advocate for gun safety legislation.” Buchwald has been a strong advocate for gun safety and noted that Westchester has a gun safety storage law and he is one of the co-sponsors to support that bill so that it is adopted state-wide.

With 91 Americans killed everyday with guns (7 are children), Barry Graubart, the head of Westchester’s Moms Demand Action group noted how important it is to keep this issue front and center even when so many other progressive issues such as immigration and abortion are in peril. 

He explained that women are five times as likely to be shot when there is a gun present at home and that LGBT teens are four times as likely to commit suicide if a gun is available. He urged all in attendance to join Gun Sense Action Network, a group of over 200 gun sense activists from states across the country who spend a daytime hour each week reaching out to voters in battleground states and fighting for stronger gun laws in America. http://everytown.org/act/

While New Castle may seem immune to gun violence, there are areas of gun violence throughout the county. Mount Vernon had several shootings over the holiday period this year. Another particular area of concern for GVP groups locally is the Gun Show that was held two weeks ago at the Westchester County Center (WCC) in White Plains. The gun show was banned from the center for four years by County Executive Rob Astorino following the shootings in Newtown, CT but the ban was lifted this year. 

Prevent Gun Violence Westchester’s Chuck Bell stated community members can work to prevent the show returning next year to a county-owned building like the WCC. He urged those in attendance to call their legislators to override Astorino’s veto. “We also have no way of tracking how the firearms purchased at the show are used,” Bell noted.

Stacey Pfeffer is a frequent contributor to Inside Chappaqua and Inside Armonk. Her articles have also appeared in NY Family Magazine, Westchester Family Magazine, Westchester Parent and Kveller.com.

 

Aura Style Bar Aims to Have you Radiate Beauty

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Premium Blowdry and Makeup Studio in the Heart of Chappaqua

Looking for somewhere local where, following expert and convenient services, you can walk out and ‘radiate beauty’?” Introducing: The new “Aura Style Bar,” a premium blowdry and make up studio at 191 King Street in Chappaqua. According to stylists Leticia and Jenn, the goal every time will be to help you radiate beauty ‘from the inside out.’ As per the opening promotion information here, you can enjoy special introductory rates on all services, a complimentary scalp massage and conditioning masques through the end of February. ‘Sunrise hours’ of 7-9 a.m. are available by appointment, and walk ins are welcome during regular business hours. See additional info below or visit:  www.auraboutiquesalon.com

At Aura Salon: Jenn Filardi (left) and Leticia Villagran.

 

 

DeCicco’s in Millwood: Dec. 30th Grand Opening and The Talk of the Town

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https://www.facebook.com/InsideChappaquaMagazine/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10154853596423669

By Grace Bennett

The end of the year Grand Opening of DeCicco’s in Millwood is THE talk of the town this week, and very good news for New Castle residents long anticipating the opening of a supermarket in the area. Meanwhile, the DeCiccos are pulling out all the stops and are as excited as any New Castle resident.

“It’s the perfect community for us to expand to,” stated John DeCicco, Jr., in a joint release from the Town of New Castle and the DeCicco family this morning.  “John Jr.” is the President of the award-winning DeCicco & Sons chain of family-run supermarkets. 

He pointed out that the Milllwood location marks the seventh store for the DeCicco family, and proudly pointed out “the advanced environmental-friendly technologies which are proudly setting the standards of ‘clean & green’ supermarkets throughout the country.”

Some facts if you are planning to stop by tomorrow’s opening of the new DeCicco’s:

  • The 20,000 square foot store is located at the Millwood Shopping Center on Saw Mill River Road at Routes 100 & 133,  Millwood is the “sister hamlet” of Chappaqua, part of the Town of New Castle.
  • The Grand Opening will be Friday, 3 p.m. on December 30th
  • Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino will cut the ceremonial ribbon, declaring it “DeCicco & Sons Millwood Recognition Day in Westchester County.

And more, here, per the release (this story will be updated with original coverage following the grand opening):

Stated DeCicco “This is a true team effort made possible by the incredible assistance and hard work from Town of New Castle Supervisor Rob Greenstein, Deputy Supervisor Adam Brodsky, Steven Wolk of The New Castle Sustainability Advisory Board, and shopping center owner Chris Santomero.. just to name a few,” said DeCicco. They have worked with us hand and hand throughout every detail, assuring us and the community that our newest DeCicco & Sons market will become a reality in Millwood.”

“Congratulations to the DeCicco family on opening its newest supermarket in Westchester County,” said Astorino. “Their commitment to quality, customer service, the community and the environment is a true recipe for success. I wish them all the best and thank them for their continued dedication to the people of Westchester.”

 Commitment to the Schools

DeCicco expressed how impressed he is with the New Castle-Chappaqua-Millwood area: “DeCicco & Sons has a strong commitment to the school districts in every community we are a part of. We look forward to supporting the over 4200 students and their families who make up the three elementary schools, two middle schools and Horace Greeley High School in the area. We provide “Cashier Receipt Give-Back Programs” that accumulate a percentage of the receipts collected throughout the school year, then contributed back into the many educational and community programs that assist the students and their families. This is a huge part of what we believe in.”

Their benevolence has not gone unnoticed, as DeCicco & Sons continues to be acknowledged with significant awards, most recently, Westchester’s Best Family Run Business, The PTA Golden Oak Award, the Rotary Club’s 2015 Honorees, and the 2016 Pelham Civic Association’s Persons of the Year Award.

Green & Clean

“Green & Clean” technologies with the old world philosophy of Quality First, DeCicco & Sons has established itself as a visionary supermarket that stresses consistent quality of the food & service that they and their family have been known for over 40 years.

In addition to this year’s 2016 Best of Westchester’s “Best Gourmet Market,”  this new DeCicco & Sons is one of the nation’s most energy-efficient, and cleanest & Greenest supermarkets. In fact, it has just achieved the EPA’s highest certification: The Platinum Level Green Chill Certification.

Visually, the 20,000 square ft. store will be a sparkling beauty, complete with a Beer & Wine Tasting Bar, a multi-level Café… and rotating selections of world-renowned craft beers on tap…,a full-service Sushi counter… and hot seafood selections …and more!

Remarkably, this area is only one facet of DeCicco & Sons’ magnificent shopping experience. It’s the unique, technological advancements that’s “behind the scenes” that makes this extraordinary new DeCicco & Sons supermarket, well, extraordinary.

Ensuring the Health of the Planet for Future Generations

According to John DeCicco, Jr., President of DeCicco & Sons, “Life is only important when it has an impact on the lives of others. So when it comes to the world we live in, our generation has to make a commitment to meet the energy challenges put before us and sustain a clean and healthy environment… for now, and for future generations. With our new DeCicco & Sons store in Larchmont, we have the opportunity to continue to provide our customers and employees with a new paradigm in the supermarket shopping experience: a store that incorporates intelligent, energy-efficiency and on-site clean, and green renewable energy, every minute, every day. At the same time, it will continue to be true to our Quality First brand by delivering the very best quality food and products, the very best selection, with the very best service”.                                                                                                                                             

Technologically Advanced Heat Reclaiming Refrigeration System

This is only the third in the State, and the second of its kind in Westchester County. (the first being the DeCicco & Son in Larchmont) So advanced, this zero-ozone, state-of-the-art equipment will be the subject of a comprehensive case study being conducted by leading governmental scientific and engineering agencies.It systematically takes all of the wasted heat that’s generated from the refrigeration system and transfers it to reusable energy to power machines to chill water, and provide heat and hot water for the entire store! Simple, clean, reusable energy. cost efficient, and ultimately, less reliance on fossil fuels. Think of 80,000 less cars this year because of the CO2 emissions we save by using CO2 in place of HFC refrigerant. And also 120,000 more trees can live this year, thanks to our reduced carbon emissions.

“Technology Teamwork”… at work.

DeCicco continued,” I have learned that the successful solution for utmost energy efficiency is not doing only one thing, but doing many things …  having all of the advancements and technologies working together as one… not individual or independent installations, but a multiple of components that feed off one another. So it’s a significant investment, but we firmly believe, a smart one with long lasting dividends for this generation and the ones to follow.”

Quality First – In More Ways Than One

As DeCicco explained, “Our brand mantra ‘Quality First’ extends far beyond our superior food products. It means caring for the environment and the communities we serve by supporting clean energy technologies. We have a “green philosophy” that includes protecting our environment with advanced, innovative energy solutions. The objective is to increase energy efficiency with renewable energy, and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. The benefits the environment and our economy, and helps move our country toward a cleaner energy future.”

So DeCicco & Sons brings to Millwood a supermarket that includes their high level of taste and culinary knowledge…  their “Quality First” brand and philosophy…  and their leadership commitment to an intelligent, clean and safe environment. In other words, they’re re-writing the cookbook for all other supermarkets to follow! The new DeCicco & Sons Millwood will be located on the site of the former A&P in the Millwood Plaza, 230 Saw Mill River Rd, Millwood, NY 10546. For more information, visit our website at www.DeCiccoAndSons.com Also, be sure to follow us on our new Facebook page: facebook.com/deciccosmillwood

About DeCicco & Sons…

For over 40 years, DeCicco & Sons has a proud history of bringing the largest selection of high quality food available to customers with a personal, family touch. In addition to the finest meats, poultry, seafood, fish, fruits and vegetables, deli, bakery, pizza and sushi, they offer their famous Signature Series product line of homemade foods…one of New York’s largest selection of world-famous craft beers…and DeCicco & Sons Events & Cuisine to meet any size catering and event needs. They have stores located in Pelham, Harrison, Ardsley, Armonk, Brewster, Larchmont and now Millwood.

 

Toward Community Renewal: An Update on the Streetscape Improvement Project

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streetscape_1a

New Castle’s Adam Brodsky (left) and Robert Greenstein at an Election Watch Party at Chappaqua Tavern
New Castle’s Adam Brodsky (left) and Robert Greenstein at an Election Watch Party at Chappaqua Tavern
We’ve all heard the saying, “Good things come to those who wait,” but we’re guessing no group believes in it more than the members of the New Castle Town Board. For the better part of the last three years, the Board-appointed Streetscape Committee been vigorously reviewing, revising and deliberating over various developments concerning the Chappaqua Infrastructure and Streetscape Improvement Project.

Now, with the late September announcement that final plans have been approved and are officially underway, New Castle residents are anxious to see the outcome of the result. No fear, Chappaquans. Board members attest that if there’s any truth to the aforementioned adage, you’ll be anything but disappointed.

Fueled by the urgent need to replace the rapidly-failing waterlines and overall underground infrastructure_a project that was initially attempted, then halted, with the rebuilding of the Route 120 Bridge in 2012_the idea was revisited anew in May 2014, when members of the Town Board saw the perfect opportunity to revitalize the downtown landscape, and joined forces with national engineering firm WSP Sells to make it happen.

“The idea was ‘if we’re going to rip up the sidewalks [anyway], why put in concrete? Why not take a step back and put [in] something more aesthetically pleasing?’” explains Deputy Town Supervisor Adam Brodsky, who chaired the aforementioned Streetscape Committee in charge of green-lighting the majority of the enhancements. In addition to correcting the pipeline issues, “this new plan will also improve the layout of the sidewalk, as well as the regulation of both pedestrian and automobile traffic,” while adding a fresh, new vibrancy to the hamlet. In simplest terms, “it’s a win-win for everyone.”

As New Castle Town Supervisor Rob Greenstein outlined in an earlier statement, residents can look forward to enjoying a variety of new amenities when the project reaches completion, from bike racks to bus shelters to spacious communal gathering spots_the most notable to be a 3,000-square foot seating area stationed at the corner of King Street and S. Greeley Avenue. On the whole, “It’s going to be a fundamental change to the downtown [area] that’s never really been seen before,” comments Brodsky, with a smile.

On the financial end, Greenstein commended his staff for “[striking] the right balance between being cost effective and selecting quality materials and finishes that are timeless and classic.”
To that point, Brodsky admits to feeling the pressure of the economic factors looming over him throughout the entire deliberation process, fully aware that “we didn’t have a blank check [and] we couldn’t buy gold faucets,” so to speak. For that reason, he too, commends himself on “striking that balance” — without fully compromising the style of the finish — calling the feat his proudest achievement within the scope of the project. (Rather than have the entire area done completely in solid brick, the final product will be a sidewalk constructed in concrete with “beautiful brick accents along the perimeter.”)

No doubt these intricate details will breathe new life into our little town. But it’s not all about the beautification. As mentioned, the new developments also–and perhaps most importantly–aim to improve pedestrian safety.

First, the plans will see the removal of the slip lane at the intersection of King Street and South Greeley Avenue, to be replaced by a stoplight, to “allow for better traffic flow,” says Brodsky. “It’ll become more of a traditional intersection with two lanes… You’ll come to the traffic light and either turn left or right.”

streetscape_2aAdditionally, “the parking spots on the right hand side of on North Greeley Avenue are being flipped to the other side of the street,” Brodsky explains. “There’s a jog in the road as you’re coming down to the hill, and by flipping the parking spots, that jog will be removed, so when you drive, you’ll actually go straight into the lane.” Furthermore, the triangle at the South Greeley Avenue and Quaker Street coming off the Route 120 bridge will be reconfigured into more of a teardrop shape, and the lane configuration will be modified to allow for better traffic flow.
But Brodsky also wants to remind residents that it’s not all done yet, adding, “We still haven’t hired a contractor.” Bids are expected to go out this winter with construction slated to begin in the Spring.

And how to answer to those who are worried that such massive construction will disrupt the daily function of downtown activity? “We’re going to require that the majority of the work be done at night,” Brodsky responds. And yes, he acknowledges the proposal may upset those residents living downtown “who don’t want a jackhammer going off at 3 a.m.,” but urges all residents to trust that, with negotiation, “we’ll find a nice balance.”

Regardless, it’s just one price to pay for the incredible transformation we’ll get in exchange, notes Brodsky, claiming he can only see the upside: “It’s a real vision for the future, and it’s [ultimately] going to be a reflection on our whole community,” he says, calling it a “brand-new welcome mat for visitors. If you take a snapshot three years from now, you’ll see how much it will help to increase property values, overall appeal, and more. Without a doubt, it’s going to be a change for the better.”

For more information on the Streetscape Project, please visit www.mynewcastle.org.