The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

The Inside Press

Adieu… and Hello to my New ‘Not on Deadline’ Life

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Elise has graciously provided this space for a ‘final’ goodbye to Inside Press readers from its founding publisher – yours truly!

Upon launching the Inside Press with the Inside Chappaqua title in the spring of 2003, I had no concrete idea about the incredibly rewarding ride I was embarking on…

I have felt honored to be the recipient of several Westchester County awards, a speaker at events, a moderator on panels, and the crème de la crème opportunity took place the summer of 2012, when I joined Hillary Clinton for a 12-country State Department tour through Africa and Turkey. I will always be grateful to her of course but also equally appreciative of every sponsor and contributor to the company, too many to name in this short space.

More than accolades and recognition, however, I cherish the friends and memories made, the ‘little moments’ enjoyed at a myriad of fabulous events ‘inside’ the vibrant northern Westchester communities in which I raised and enjoyed great times with my beautiful kids.

Being a busy publisher also requires some breathing room. At the time that I launched, I had created an email address with the three words: ‘Not on Deadline.’ It was my ‘personal email’ address, and it came in handy navigating everything from travel arrangements to, ahem, the dating life. It was, by and large, my ‘fun’ space where I could step away from the all-consuming publisher role, one which Elise has stepped into with renewed vigor and pizzaz! I wish her all the best!

Today, I’m embracing being ‘Not on Deadline’ to hopefully pursue assorted project ideas including possibly a general blog space for assorted writings and musings and most importantly a memoir I hope to tackle over time. I didn’t retire so much as ‘take a pause’ to tap into other dreams.  If you wish to reach me now, write to: notondeadline@hotmail.com 

Wherever the next chapter takes me, ‘On Deadline’ or ‘Not on Deadline’, please know that I am grateful to all my readers for 22 years of support. Rest assured, I still plan to use my voice for positive change. I also encourage your continuing support to Elise and the entire Inside Press team! Wishing you all a very happy Mother’s Day and Father’s Day and much good health, happiness and success every day!

Grace Bennett
Founding Publisher

What is One of Your Favorite Holiday Traditions?

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BY RONNI DIAMONDSTEIN AND ILLUSTRATED BY NAAVA KATZ

Nick Bruel

“Mid October: Haul tree out of basement because we’re bored and forgot to make plans for Columbus Day weekend. Next, spend afternoon looking for decorations in a box labeled ‘Xmas,’ but it’s behind another box labeled ‘broken lamp.’ Swear to family that the lights were not this tangled when I put them in the box last April. Go to CVS to buy new lights. Buy Batmobile ornament that hangs in office because it’s too good to share with the family. Go back to CVS because I forgot to buy lights. Plug in tree. Switch to outlet that works. That’s how we do it every year. And we like it just fine.”

Nick Bruel lives in Pleasantville and is the creator of the NY Times bestselling Bad Kitty series.

Ellen Byck

“Given being born on Thanksgiving, it has always been the most special holiday for me. The tradition of making everyone’s favorite dishes, setting a beautiful table and the scent of roasting turkey creates a warm and welcoming environment. As a child, we spent Thanksgiving at my aunt’s home, and she always had a birthday cake for me with sparklers. Music and singing after dinner was a given and my dad and uncle Sam would dance across the living room which brought lots of laughs from everyone.”

Ellen Byck lives in Chappaqua and works as a medical device sales representative for Abbott.

Rita Madonna Santelia

“Christmas Eve continues to bring my family together for an evening of family time, laughter, and Nonna Rosaria’s original, fresh seafood recipes. I remember, as a child, setting the huge Christmas table in the basement of our Brownstone in the Arthur Avenue section of the Bronx. Decades later, we resume our traditions, now alternating host houses yearly to accommodate 60! Mom continues to make seafood salad, bacala, and stuffed lobster to name a few of ‘the 7 fishes.’ Since moving to Chappaqua, we never miss St. John and Mary’s children’s mass with its pageant and beautifully simulated story about the birth of Jesus.”

Rita Madonna Santelia lives in Chappaqua. She is the mom of 5 and forever a teacher. She works at Grafflin Elementary School.

Cheryl Lynch

“The house feels warm and cozy, filled with love – my family, my sons, my cats, dogs, animals, and chickens in the barn. The trees are lit, cats lying underneath. The room is filled with beautifully decorated gifts and warmth. On Christmas morning we pick leftover herbs from the garden and start cooking. My mom is setting up the cookies. Ryan’s chopping in the kitchen, Jeffrey and my husband Jeff take care of the animals. Aromas fill the air, and the Lord is in our hearts as we await the family.”

Cheryl Lynch is a long-time resident of Armonk and owner of Cherylynn Salon.

Ronni Diamondstein is a journalist, photographer, retired school librarian and the author of Jackie and the Books She Loved. She lives in Chappaqua with her dog Maggie Mae. ronnidiamondstein.com

Naava Katz is an illustrator who lives with her family in Chappaqua. naavakatz.com

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!

Meet The Inside Press Contributing Team!

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PHOTO BY CHRISTINA SCHOONMAKER

I hope these pages make it clear that ‘the secret sauce’ to the Inside Press is very much our valued contributors. I knew from the start, to succeed, I’d need editor/contributor relationships to offer a regular roster of compelling voices whose professional work I could also rely on. Over the years, so many wonderfully talented individuals have approached me to help me produce all ‘the Creative’. I had just the right space available here to bring out ‘the faces’ and descriptors of the individuals who have been part of our team over the last two years, to paint the picture. Please know I’m forever grateful to every past, present and future contributor. – Grace

The Inside Team…

Grace Bennett

Publisher, editor & writer Grace Bennett, proud mom to Anna and Ari, launched Inside Press two decades ago. A child of Holocaust survivors, Grace is a former board, and now advisory board, member of the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center. She enjoys walking and the arts.

 

Beth Besen

Beth, a former Inside Chappaqua and Inside Armonk editor, is a freelance writer and essay coach. She, along with her husband, two children and dogs, called Chappaqua home for 27 years, but they now split their time between Tarrytown, NY and Park City, Utah.

 

Pamela Brown

Pamela, a resident of Connecticut, is a 20+-year journalist and founder of PMB Writing & Consulting.  In her free time, Pamela plays tennis, gardens, cooks, and spends time with her daughter, Alexis, and their dogs, Rafa and Andy.

 

Cathy Deutsch

Cathy is a freelance writer, essayist, and former restaurant columnist. She is a regular contributor to Inside Press Magazines and to other platforms supporting essay writing. Formerly the owner of Tiger Lily boutique, she is also a private shopping/stylist and closet rehabber.

 

More Inside Players…

Vicki deVries

Vicki is a local freelance writer/editor and a former adjunct Associate Professor of English (Pace University), Editorial Director for a Manhattan marketing agency, and in-house magazine and book editor for several companies. Vicki has contributed to Inside Press publications since 2009 and enjoys wordsmithing.

Ronni Diamondstein

Ronni is a journalist, photographer and the author of her debut picture book biography “Jackie and the Books She Loved”. She lives in Chappaqua with her dog Maggie Mae. Follow her at www.ronnidiamondstein.com

 

John Fisher

John joined Inside Press in October 2021 as Director of Business Development to help re-launch Inside Pleasantville & Briarcliff Manor. A long-time resident of Pleasantville, John heads up his own marketing consulting firm, John Fisher & Associates. John’s clients have been concentrated in the fields of health, education & publishing.

 

Michael Gold

Pleasantville-based writer Michael Gold’s articles have appeared in numerous publications here and abroad. A Queens native, Michael also loves the New York Mets more than can possibly be warranted by their long record of futility. A kidney donor, he regrets he only had one kidney to give to his country.

 

Pia Haas

Pia is a long-time performer/director and artistic director of academic, community, and regional theatres, including The Theatre Connection at Westchester Community College and The Armonk Players. She was the director of press and public relations at Westchester Broadway Theatre. Pia also writes about the arts and other subjects.

 

Janine Crowley Haynes

Janine is a freelance writer and author of My Kind of Crazy–Living in a Bipolar World. Her book is used in AP Psych classes and in colleges. She has been a guest speaker for various mental health organizations and has helped raise funds for Silver Hill Hospital.

 

Ella Ilan

Ella is a frequent contributor to the Inside Press. She is a former attorney who has always had a passion for writing, a knack for editing, and a love of interviewing interesting people. Her favorite pastimes include family time with her husband and kids, reading, cooking, and traveling.

 

Megan Klein

Megan graduated from Boston University in May 2022 and has found the perfect combination of sports and communications in her job with the Boston Red Sox. In her free time, she freelances for local Boston publications as well as the Inside Press.

 

Tara Madden

Millwood resident Tara Madden, a graduate of Greeley High School (2017) and Chapman University (2021), is an accounts manager for the Inside Press. She appreciates all the experience she has gained from this opportunity! She loves spending free time outdoors, specifically at the beach or on a hike with her dog!

 

Donna Mueller

Capturing treasured moments is what fuels Donna Mueller’s soul, and it’s what she does best! Mueller loves photographing events such as Sweet 16’s, Mitzvahs and small Weddings. Despite being a 3x Best of Westchester winner specializing in Family Photography, Donna still considers herself ‘Just a Girl with a Camera’.

 

Christine Pasqueralle

Christine is a freelance writer, wife and mom of two who makes her home in Hawthorne, NY. She has worked in the marketing and public relations fields. Christine enjoys reading, travel and the arts. She also works part-time at the Briarcliff Manor Public Library.

 

Stacey Pfeffer

Stacey, a Chappaqua-based freelance writer, lives in a noisy household with her husband, Larry, plus three kids and three dogs. She can be spotted walking her dogs on the North County Trailway or swimming laps at Club Fit. She writes for many regional publications and local businesses.

 

Lisa Samkoff

Lisa has been The Inside Press contributing Art Director since 2016. It was then she designed and introduced new branding and style formats for the publication. She is a freelance graphic designer and also Founding Partner and Creative Director for the local media collaborative–King Street Creatives.

 

Jean Sheff

Jean is an award-winning writer, editor, and Pilates instructor. Her local roots are deep. She grew up in Yorktown Heights and raised her daughter in Chappaqua. She writes for a variety of industries including healthcare, manufacturing, education, and retail. Her Pilates studio, INSPIRE: Personalized Pilates, is in Briarcliff Manor.

Carolyn Simpson

Carolyn has been a professional photographer for over 30 years. She is the owner of Chappaqua-based Doublevision Photographers which specializes in family portraits, lifestyle/corporate headshots, and events.She strives to capture the moment and works closely with clients to create beautiful and natural photos.

 

Ryan Smith

Ryan is the founder of Play Nice Together, Inc., a full-service digital design agency based in Westchester County. The company serves local businesses with branding, graphic design, website development, website hosting, and systems integration services. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and ballroom dancing.

 

Nolan Thornton

Nolan is a journalist and screenwriter based in New York’s Hudson Valley. When not writing, he enjoys creating music. He dreams of one day writing his own television show or movie–maybe even based on an original article. More than anything, he enjoys a good story.

 

Irene Unger

A retired English teacher and now freelance writer, Irene Unger has been living with MS for 24 years. Irene volunteers with the NY Southern Chapter of the MS Society and captains the 2Steppers WalkMS team. She resides in Briarcliff Manor with her husband Geoff, son Ben and dog, Jesse.

 

Andrew Vitelli

Andrew has been a journalist in Westchester since 2009 and has served as editor of Inside Armonk and as editor-in-chief of The Putnam Examiner and The White Plains Examiner. A Hastings-on-Hudson native, he now lives in White Plains with his wife Zeynep, daughter Zoe, and dog Beasley.