The Inside Press

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The Beauty of Armonk

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The Gazebo at Wampus Brook Park
The Gazebo at Wampus Brook Park

By Miriam Longobardi

As you drive through the hamlet of Armonk you may not realize all the work that goes into the little touches that beautify the area. The wreaths during the holidays, the flags flying proudly from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and countless other seasonal and permanent displays one sees are just some of what the Armonk Beautification Committee makes happen each year.

The Committee, which is comprised of members appointed by the North Castle Town Board, serves Armonk, Banksville and North White Plains. The Armonk Beautification Committee is chaired by Carol Bidjarano and, since North Castle is so spread out, a sub-committee was formed for the other two hamlets. The committees all work together generating ideas for projects in their respective areas to maintain the beauty and appearance of open spaces as well as along streets.

Some projects, such as holiday wreaths and the hanging baskets in the spring, are done annually, with all projects funded by the budget allocated by the Town Board. Larger, more expensive endeavors need to be phased in over a few years to be more cost-efficient, such as replacing street signs as well as the lovely “Welcome to the Hamlet of…” signs welcoming people into each area. The amount of money for new projects is impacted by the costs of the things done annually that must be maintained. Still other projects are just beyond the scope of what the Committee can handle and are beyond their control.

Decisions about what projects to focus on are voted upon by the main committee at their monthly meetings, depending on which area is involved. “Majority rules,” Bidjarano reports. “We always keep an odd number on the Committee to avoid a tie.”

The flags hung for Memorial Day were all recently replaced and are another example of a larger venture. Smaller touches include flowers planted in the grassy triangles at various intersections or other green spaces.

Open spaces, or lack thereof, can sometimes present more of a problem than stretching the budget. “North White Plains is really challenged by a lack of open spaces to beautify,” Bidjarano said. There is also little room for people or organizations, such as scouts or students seeking community service, to volunteer as all work is done by the town.

Weather is another challenge that can impact potential projects. Last year, due to the extremely long winter and late spring, plans for planting flowers in front of St. Mary’s were put on hold. By the time the snow melted and the ground thawed, the town employees were scrambling to  ready the ball fields, parks and pool and the flower-planting was forced to be put on hold. The funds had been approved and allocated but they were unable to use them, but they hope to complete that work this year.

Despite occasional challenges, Bidjarano says that all the women who serve on the committees are proud of what they accomplish each year. “We enjoy the work and make a difference,” she said. “It’s a win-win.”

Miriam is a single mother of two girls living in Westchester. A breast cancer survivor, she volunteers for the American Cancer Society and teaches fourth grade. Follow her on Twitter @writermimilong.

Progress on the ‘ChapLine’: Plans for a “Woodsy Trail” and Much, Much More

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L-R: New Castle Deputy Supervisor Lisa Katz, New Castle Town Supervisor Rob Greenstein, and New Castle Resident and proposer of the ChapLine, Dan Googel
L-R: New Castle Deputy Supervisor Lisa Katz, New Castle Town Supervisor Rob Greenstein, and New Castle Resident and proposer of the ChapLine, Dan Googel

Story and Photo By Matt Smith

Imagine it’s a clear, calm, Spring, Saturday afternoon. You’re in town, having completed a morning of shopping, or finished lunch with a friend. As you would usually do, you head back to your car and prepare for the drive home. But imagine you didn’t bring your car–and instead, you travel home via bike, which is also the way you came. You ride along a woodsy trail, surrounded by trees and steeped in nature. As you pedal, you feel the cool, crisp air brushing against your face and the soothing warmth of the sun washing over your back. Just before you reach the clearing, you cycle across a bridge and look out at a lake, its ripples shimmering in the sunlight. Pure bliss. Wouldn’t that be just wonderful?

With any luck, you could be doing exactly that…and sooner than later, as the New Castle Town Board is steadily making progress on its previously announced plans to construct the proposed ChapLine.

The project would involve upgrading an existing path–cleared and graded in 2005 in order to install a sewer line–to create a fresh, 1.6 mile, multi-use recreational trail connecting Chappaqua Crossing to Horace Greeley High School, and the downtown shopping area (King St. and N. Greeley Ave.)

The project received new attention last year when New Castle resident Dan Googel–who was also, at the time, a member of the Master Planning Commercial Work Group–approached the Town Board at a public meeting, with new ideas for moving forward with the plan.

Noting that community members, according to a July 2014 report from the community work sessions run by Pace, had requested “a more walkable community, a more bike-friendly community, [and] more places for the community to gather,” Googel explained that the establishment of such a trail in Chappaqua would “be a cost-effective means to accomplish these goals.”

Though he acknowledges the town master plan is still not yet complete, Googel has been encouraged by the outpouring of positive feedback from the town and residents since his initial presentation. Comments New Castle Town Supervisor Rob Greenstein, on the matter: “There is still a lot of work ahead of us, but there is also enormous support for creating this trail, and I’m hopeful that we will finally get it done.”

Greenstein also recognizes the many benefits to having the trail completed. For one, he says, “it’s good for business,” as the trail would provide easy access to the downtown shopping area. Additionally, it would be good for the community, as according to studies from other towns and communities, such trails “actually increase the home values of these areas,” making them more attractive and vibrant.

Googel, on the other hand, stresses that having a walking/running/biking trail would encourage a healthy lifestyle, “providing a place for people to get exercise [and] to be outside.” Furthermore, “it’s environmentally friendly,” as it reduces the needs for cars (which cuts down on fuel expenses and gas emission) and “allows a great deal more students to get to school without having to drive.”

Equally important, it would provide residents with a safe alternative to biking or walking on the main roads. “Route 117 is dangerous,” comments New Castle Deputy Supervisor Lisa Katz. “So, to have anyone be able to walk from school or town [on a safer trail] would be phenomenal.”

Greenstein also notes that the trail would provide a more appropriate running course for members of the Greeley Track and Field team, who currently train by crossing Rt-117 and running up Annandale Rd, stating “Crossing Rt-117 in the afternoon is far from ideal, but what option do they [currently] have? ChapLine would give the team a safe option.”

While the Town is enthusiastic about the benefits the trail would provide, Board members are also aware of certain concerns and obstacles that may need to be addressed as they move forward. “We understand that there are neighbors who are affected [by this process] and we’ll do everything in our power to try to minimize and lessen those impacts,” comments Greenstein.

On the subject, Googel expressed that he would like to see the Town work with the affected residents during the path development process. “We want the adjacent neighbors to see this as a positive amenity,” he explains. “And we want to build the path in a manner such that it enhances their property in addition to [enhancing] the broader New Castle community.” Of note, the Town owns the land next to the affected private properties, and intends to evaluate either procuring easements and/or relocating the trail onto this Town-owned land.

Additionally, the team has recently issued an RFP for an engineering firm to conduct both a feasibility study and cost analysis for the competition of the trail. “We’ll have to do a SECQR [State Environmental Quality Review] as well,” says Greenstein, which will “identify any [additional] environmental concerns or technical issues.” Though Greenstein is confident in the Town’s ability to mitigate any major concerns, he explains that because the project is in such an early stage, “We may not even know what our biggest obstacle is yet.”

As for additional future plans, the Town would like to assemble a committee of sorts–which might include a member of the school board, the Town Board, the Planning Board, the New Castle Recreation and Parks Department, and a few of the affected neighbors–so that issues and questions about the project can be answered in a forum where everyone can be heard. Greenstein adds that having the committee might also benefit the newly elected Town Board members, giving them “a chance to quickly get up to speed.”

Furthermore, having received a generous donation of $1.5 million by Summit Greenfield (the owner of Chappaqua Crossing), in support of pursuing this project, the Town hopes to explore additional sources of funding after the feasibility study has been completed. “I have full confidence in this community, as family-oriented as it is, that people would be very supportive personally,” states Googel, on the subject. “The town will definitely come together on this issue.”

So, all in all, things are looking up. “This is a great opportunity,” adds Greenstein, “and we’re going to work hard to get it done, and get it done right.” Reiterates Googel, with a smile: “[The trail] is already here. It’s just begging to be completed.” And, when it is, he says, looking optimistically at the grassy path in front of him, “Hopefully, we can all have a great amenity for our families to enjoy.”

Matt Smith is a proud graduate of Skidmore College and a regular contributor to the Inside Press.

The Little Hamlet that Could

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Beth Besen
Beth Besen

What’s in a Name?

ChappaQUAlity. Seemingly, the overarching reason we all move here is built right into our town’s very name. Ask anyone what they cherish about Chappaqua and you’ll likely hear some version of the American dream. Outstanding schools, pastoral beauty, small town vibe and values within commuting distance of big city lights.

Certainly, that was my husband’s and my thinking when we moved here nearly 20 years ago. Having grown up in Westchester, he already knew it as a great place to be a kid. And so, the thinking followed, why not follow suit with our own? We looked at a handful of communities, but chose Chappaqua for its pretty woodsy vistas and CHArmingly QUAint village appeal. Little did we know then the many ways it would come to spell home.

Noteworthy Education

There are a great many ways to define and determine “quality.” At this time of year, it’s natural to think about it in terms of our esteemed schools and children’s education. June graduation means mortar boards tossed high and pomp-and-circumstance celebrations. But it stands for so much more. Students work extraordinarily hard in this town. Parents and teachers do too. And, while college may be the ultimate goal for most (HGHS graduates regularly gain entry to many of this nation’s finest universities), the years upon years of committed focus are also about the learning process, and the students’ ability to synthesize knowledge while moving it and themselves forward in the world.

Without doubt, there are many distinguished scholars among us, but a handful of local men and women take that distinction to the very highest level. Remarkably, given our town’s size and relatively small population, Chappaqua is home to no less than five Rhodes Scholars. We profile each, and invite you to feel proud by association as you read about them and their many fine accomplishments in Chappaqua’s Rhodes Scholars.

A Caring Community

Our cover story is another testament to quality; quality of character. The photo captures former President Bill Clinton at the Tina’s Wish Global Women’s Award evening. Guest-of-honor Clinton, recognized for his outstanding contributions to global healthcare through the Clinton Foundation, gave a passionate acceptance speech in which he praised founder Andy Brozman and all involved in Tina’s Wish for their tremendous efforts in the funding of, and research leading to, early detection of ovarian cancer. As a woman, as a cancer survivor myself and as the mother of a daughter, I am both moved by and appreciative of the vital importance of 
this work and the incredible people who are involved.

Also tremendously inspiring, the American Cancer Society’s emotional Relay for Life, held annually at Horace Greeley High School. The goal of the event is to raise funds for, and awareness of, the many ways this devastating disease invades lives regardless of gender, culture, age or other qualifiers. But it is the event itself, and the many ways the community comes together for it, that takes this particular fundraiser from ordinary to extraordinary. A celebration of survival and salute to hope, Relay is, as well, a memorial to beloved family members, friends and neighbors taken too soon. Ready, Set, Relay gives us an Inside look at the quality thinking, effort and goodwill that goes into the making this impactful event for a worthwhile cause.

YouthQUAkingly Awesome

When it comes to health, our physical well-being is but part of the equation. Mental and social health, too, are critically important to living a full and balanced life. Helping to make this possible for the ever-increasing number of children (and, by extension, their families) diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), are five of the most engaging eighth-grade boys I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. Collectively, they’re known as the Robobenders. And, together with their parent-mentors, they’ve developed an internationally recognized iPhone App that helps those on the spectrum to decode facial expressions and related underlying emotions. What’s My Face might very well help make the neuro-typical world become an easier place for ASD others.

Want more? How about a group of local teens who, instead of dreaming about making it big someday are already entrepreneurial forces to be reckoned with? Chappaqua Teens Start It Up shows us all how quality work and a can-do attitude translate to market-place success in today’s competitive work environment.

Good Things, Small Packages

When John Cougar Mellencamp sings Small Town, I always smile to myself and picture ours. I see the gazebo, where, speaking of music, we gather mid-week in summer to enjoy the al fresco Concert Series. I recall one of my first images of Chappaqua, the train station; an iconic part of downtown and soon the site of the much-anticipated new restaurant, Chappaqua Station Farm to Town. And I note our town merchants’ welcoming shop windows, like those of long-standing Family Britches, which add distinction to our downtown area and provide a pretty backdrop while we meet up with friends to grab a bite, share a moment and shop local.

We’ve all heard that ‘good things come in small packages.’ ChappaQUAlity over quantity. That’s us.

Good Things Come in Small Towns

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Beth Besen
Beth Besen

Ask anyone in town what attracted them to Armonk and you’ll likely hear some version of the American dream. Outstanding schools, pastoral beauty, small town vibe and values within commuting distance of big city lights. Young families move here with every hope that they and, especially their children, will put down roots, grow and thrive.

I too grew up in a relatively small town; one in Connecticut. When I mention this locally, is widely assumed that I’m likely referring to Greenwich or, more generally, Fairfield County. Not the case, not by a long-shot. But I have come to understand the assumption as not so much a reflection of me personally, but of a collective expectation–the fact is, many who live here now grew up here too; if not right in Armonk, then in one of the beautiful Westchester or Connecticut towns nearby. People return because what worked then, works now.

Take, for example, the many options available to families through the North Castle Recreation Department. There’s something special about a community pool; this year, run by town recreation, the Anita Louise Ehrman Pool promises to be that place. Day camp and sports programs for kids and adults alike mean town is the ticket to Ready…Set…Summer!

Of course, a community is about more than its public face. While most would agree that Armonk is, as the New York Times once called it, “an area of rugged beauty”, it is the caring community that makes it equally, if not more, attractive.

As Jason Rosensweig puts it in our profile piece Armonk’s Answer to UBER, people move here to be able to walk into any store and see a friendly and familiar face. His business is built on just that philosophy of neighborly goodwill and trust.

The same can be said for a business like Raymond James. Sure, one can get advice from the internet or an anonymous large city financial planner, but how much nicer, friendlier and, frankly, easier it is to know there’s a local business with a vested interest in town families’ lives and livelihoods. Whether your children are close to college age or still part of sandbox-set, College Planning 101 is a great reminder that we can all use a little help from our (savvy business) friends.

Speaking of college, let’s talk about Armonk’s schools. Widely recognized among the finer public high schools in the country, Byram Hills regularly sends graduates to many of our nation’s outstanding universities. However, while June graduation means pomp-and-circumstance celebrations, a BHHS diploma stands for so much more. Students work extraordinarily hard in this town. Parents and teachers do too. And, while college may be the ultimate goal for most, the years of committed focus are also about 
the learning process, and the students’ ability to synthesize knowledge while moving it and themselves forward in the world.

Armonk resident Betty Knoop would agree that education is paramount. A Holocaust survivor, Knoop’s own childhood was cut short by the horrors of war and the atrocities of concentration camp existence. All too aware that “that racism is evil…and it debases men,” she speaks about her experiences in order that others may bear witness, and think about how the past affects our collective present and future. Through her efforts, hundreds have heard first-hand about a chapter in history in which the world went dark. And yet, her message is one of Hope Not Hate.

When it comes to hope, another attention-worthy story comes courtesy of five of the most engaging eighth-grade boys I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. Collectively, they’re known as the Robobenders. And, together with their parent-mentors, they’ve developed an internationally recognized iPhone App that helps those with Autistic Spectrum Disorders decode facial expressions and related underlying emotions. What’s My Face might very well help make the neuro-typical world become an easier place for ASD others.

And then there’s our cover story: Former President Bill Clinton was Guest of Honor at the Tina’s Wish Global Women’s Award evening. Clinton, recognized for his outstanding contribution to global healthcare through the Clinton Foundation, gave a passionate acceptance speech in which he praised local founder Andy Brozman and all involved in Tina’s Wish for their tremendous efforts in the funding of, and research leading to, early detection of ovarian cancer. As a woman, as a cancer survivor myself and as the mother of a daughter, 
I am moved by and appreciative of the vital importance of this work and the incredible people involved.

When John Cougar Mellencamp sings Small Town, I always smile to myself and picture towns like ours. Like him, “I can breathe in small town.” How about you? Please send your thoughts my way: Beth@InsideArmonk.com or post a comment to our facebook page.

Have a great summer!