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MARCH/APRIL 2018 | INSIDE ARMONK | 00

THE MAGAZINE FOR NORTH CASTLE & BEYOND | THEINSIDEPRESS.C0M | MARCH/APRIL 2018

Expat Families Share Their Stories

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TO BY ROBERT FLEISHER

02 | INSIDE ARMONK | MARCH/APRIL 2018

MARCH/APRIL 2018THE MAGAZINE FOR NORTH CASTLE & BEYOND | THEINSIDEPRESS.COM

in the know4 Celebrating Spring in the CastlesBY STACEY PFEFFER

features7 Saving Lives…via Organ DonationsBY DEBORAH NOTIS 10 Getting Mindful with Jodi Baretz BY BETTTINA PROBER 12 Byram Hills Education Foundation BY JANIE ROSMAN 14 Camp Fairs: What you Need to Know Before SummerBY SHAUNA LEVY

18 The Expat Experience:Welcome to the Neighborhood!BY STACEY PFEFFER 22 Star Student Scientists

23 Byram Hills Youth Lacrosse BY SHAUNA LEVY

cover story18| The Expat ExperienceBY STACEY PFEFFER At home with the Iyengar FamilyCOVER PHOTO BY CATHY PINSKY, PINSKY STUDIO www.pinksystudio.com

lifestyles with our sponsors26 How Club Fit ‘Keeps Up with the Times’BY AMY KELLEY

27 Think Fit for Kids UpdateBY DANA Y. WU ‘Strong Start in 2018’BY SCOTT M. KAHAN

28 ‘Meet’ Tanya Tochner at ROCKS by Jolie B. RayBY SHAUNA LEVY 29 Inside Dodd’s Wine Shop in MillwoodBY JANIE ROSMAN

30 Desires’ Support for the SPCABY ILANA SCHWARTZ

etcetera32 Local Joe: Independent & DeliciousBY AMY KELLEY

7| Organ Donations Saves Lives

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in the knowCelebrating Spring in the Castles

Associate PublisherDAVID GURSKY

Advertising Manager CAROLINE ROSENGARDEN

Art DirectorLISA SAMKOFFAccounts ManagerANALIA BOLTUCH

Web Design RYAN SMITH, RICK WATERS

EditorSTACEY PFEFFER

Publisher & Editor-in-ChiefGRACE BENNETT

Mailing address: Inside Armonk, PO Box 643, Millwood Road, NY 10546Telephone: 914-238-2600

Inside Armonk is not responsible for and does not endorse any advertisers, products or resources referenced in advertisements appearing in this publication. The Inside Press shall not be liable to any party as a result of any information, services or resources made available through this publication. The Inside Press is published in good faith and cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in advertising that appears in this publication. The views of advertisers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher’s.

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For more information, rates and advertising calendar, go to www.theinsidepress.comGeneral Counsel: Brian Hand

© 2018 All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.Reproduction of any portion is prohibited without permission by the publisher.

March/April 2018Volume 15, Number 1

THE MAGAZINE FOR NORTH CASTLE & BEYOND | THEINSIDEPRESS.C0M

Call me a curmudgeon, but I was deeply disappointed when the groundhog said

we wouldn’t have an early spring this year. I know I’m supposed to relish these last few

weeks of winter but frankly I don’t. We aren’t a skiing or snowboard-ing family so the thought of more snow, icy roads and school clo-sures is enough to drive me batty and have me counting the days until the official start of spring.

But there are subtle signs of spring all around us. I start to notice more bicyclists out by Swiss Re without hats and gloves, the streams bub-bling with running water instead of frozen ice. As I pass Wampus Pond, I see that it is slowly starting to melt and is that a crocus grow-ing in my front yard?

One of my favorite parts of being an editor of this magazine is meeting residents and hearing their stories. The idea of doing an article on some of the expats that live in this community had been germinating in my mind for quite some time. As a former expat living in London, I was highly attuned to accents that I would hear in the library or at a local coffee shop. I wanted to highlight what an enriching expe-rience it can be living in the Castles, and from what I learned, these expats are fully acclimated to the community and you just might bump

into them on the soccer field or in your local park this spring. Be sure to give them a warm welcome!

With spring’s arrival, maybe it’s time to sign the kids up for a new sport. The Byram Hills Youth Lacrosse Board volunteers are ready to teach your kids all about this sport that is gaining in popularity. And don’t forget to take some time out for yourself. Whether it be learning about mindfulness with Jodi Baretz’s new book or catching up with a friend on a walk around town soaking in some early spring sun. Be sure to stop for a delicious (perhaps iced?) coffee afterwards. Check out Amy Kelly’s story for some great local suggestions.

As soon as April showers begin, I’ve got one thing on my mind: CAMP! Preparing for my older two to attend sleep-away for the first time and trying to figure out what to do with my youngest. Luckily, Shauna Levy’s article offers some tips as you plan for summer.

So how do you plan on celebrating spring in North Castle? Write to me at [email protected] and your idea just might turn into an article for a future edition. I love hearing from readers who have story suggestions.

Enjoy,

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BY DEBORAH NOTIS

W hen Pleasantville resident Daniel Flood was 68 years old, he went into renal failure. He was sick,

depressed, and looked jaundiced. Doctors told Daniel that he had six months to find a donor or he would have to go on dialysis for the rest of his life. At that moment, his three daughters, Jennifer, Cynthia and Heather, and their mother, Roseann made it their mission to do whatever they could to find a kidney donor for Daniel.

Amy Silverstein’s first heart gave out in 1988. She received her first transplant, the heart of a 13-year-old child, after spen-ding two lonely months in the hospital. This heart, which was expected to last 10 years, gave her 25 more years of life. When her second heart failed, she realis-tically did not expect to receive a second donor heart.

A Dire Need forOrgan Donations

The American Transplant Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping people to find organ donors and providing emotional and financial support to transplant patients and donors, estimates that over 100,000 people in this country are on a waiting list for an organ transplant. Every 10 minutes another name is added to a transplant list. Both Daniel Flood and Amy Silverstein beat the odds.

When Flood was in his 60’s, he found out that he was born with one kidney. He

developed hypertension, which eventually destroyed his one kidney. Neither his three daughters nor his wife were donor matches for him. His daughters decided to take an unorthodox route and posted for a kidney donor on Craigslist. “The Craigslist ad was a shot in the dark!” states his daughter, Jennifer Flood. “We used Craigslist for selling items, finding jobs, for childcare. It was a success for all these things, and we said why not post for a kidney donor in the volunteer section for dad?” The ad spar-ked the interest of an acquaintance who worked for the tri-state news radio station WCBS 880AM. She interviewed the Flood sisters, enabling a wider audience to hear their story.

Silverstein already outlived doctors’ expec-tations. After her first transplant, she was able to finish her third year of law school, marry her husband, Scott, raise her son, and live an active, fulfilling life. Yet, life with her donor heart was not carefree. She was often nauseous, had around 15 infections every year, underwent over 70 painful heart biopsies, took thousands of doses of

medicines, and suffered from breast cancer caused by the anti-rejection drugs. “I didn’t stop,” says Silverstein. “I went to the gym and stood online at the grocery store, no matter how nauseous I felt that day. I kept going. I always tried to put on a good face.” In 2014, 26 years after she received that first donor heart, her heart failed. Encouraged by her family and friends, she travelled across the country to Cedars-Sinai Hospital in California and put herself back on the donor list.

The American Transplant Foundation estimates that liver and kidney disease kill more than 120,000 people every year. Twenty-six million Americans have kidney disease, and many do not even know it. Every year, there are approximately 6,000 living donations. Living donors can donate kidneys, while hearts are donated by someone who is brain dead but still on life support. A heart donor must be under 65 years old and cannot have a history of heart disease or trauma to the chest. As difficult as it is to receive a kidney, it is significantly harder to find a matching donor

How OrganDonationsSave Lives:Local Transplant Survivors & Advocates Educate the Community


PHOTO ABOVE:Amy SilversteinCOURTESY OF UJA WESTCHESTER

PHOTO LEFT:(L-R) Cynthia, Heather and JenniferCOURTESY OF FLOOD SISTERS FOUNDATION

“Many people cannot afford these proto-cols.” The American Transplant Foundation helps transplant patients to access these medicines. The Foundation’s “Patient As-sistance Program” also offers financial help for donors, helping them to pay for their expenses.

Educating OthersAbout Organ Donations

After helping their father, the Flood sisters wanted to use their newfound knowledge to help other people find living kidney donors. They started Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation and, thus far, have helped to match 11 other people with living donors. Leveraging social media and various media outlets, they share patients’ stories. “Every story is unique. I believe people are driven to help someone in need because they have seen someone close to them receive a transplant or go through setbacks in their lives, and they want to make a difference,” states Jennifer. The Flood sisters hope to enhance and expand their Foundation, in-corporating an educational component and nutritional program. They also recently held a Bon Jovi acoustic concert at Tarrytown Music Hall earlier this month with part of the proceeds benefitting the Foundation.

Silverstein inspired millions with her story. In 2008, Silverstein wrote about her first heart transplant in Sick Girl. In 2017, she au-thored My Glory Was I Had Such Friends, the story of how the support of her friends was life-changing for her when her second heart failed. JJ Abrams plans to bring her latest story to television. “Appreciate when you feel well,” Silverstein says.

“And remember, even in my position, all good things are possible. Try not to be de-fined by it. It is very easy to get swallowed up by the illness that you have. I’ve been lucky not to become my illness and that is my hope for others.”

Deborah Notis is a writer and co-owner of gamechangernow.com, a free re-ferral service connecting Westchester families to highly qualified instructors. Deborah’s writing can be found in The Inside Press publications.


heart. To get on the donor list for a heart, candidates must adhere to a strict set of health-related rules.

After the Flood family’s radio interview, thousands of strangers, reached out to them. They were able to start a widespread campaign to find a matching donor for Daniel. They tracked potential donors via an Excel spreadsheet, personally speaking to every potential donor. Jennifer Flood, a nurse, knew that Daniel’s options were limited as he could only receive a kidney from a donor with an O blood type. After their review, the list dwindled down to six potential donors, three of whom were dis-qualified as a result of other medical issues. According to Jennifer, “The campaign was an emotional rollercoaster.”

Everything was different for Silverstein the second time her heart failed. In a hospi-tal bed across the country, she had little hope that she would survive. Yet she was surrounded by much love and support, which helped her to persevere. Nine of Silverstein’s friends put together a sche-dule, and they took turns flying from New York to California to stay with Silverstein in her hospital room. Visitors were few and far between when she was 25. At 50, after her second heart failed, her friends did not leave her side. These friendships were “life-saving and illuminating,” according to Silverstein, who said that she realized the value and magnificence of her female friendships and spoke about them at a recent UJA event at Chappaqua’s Temple Beth El.

How the OrganWaitlist Works

According to the American Transplant Foundation, the waitlist for an organ transplant is not simply a numerical line. The waitlist encompasses a gigantic pool of patients, all of whom are characterized by their blood types, health needs, severity of the illness of the candidate, geographic location of the candidate and specific genetic characteristics. If a donor becomes available, matching features are entered into the system and a list of potential candi-dates, starting locally and possibly sprea-ding nationally is developed.

Daniel Flood was extremely fortunate. An unknown woman from Monterey, California saw his daughters’ Craigslist ad in 2008 and offered to donate a kidney to Daniel. The donor empathized with the family’s situation, as she lost a close mother figure and was particularly close to her father. In December 2009, Daniel received a new

For more information about becoming aliving donor or finding an organ donor:

American Transplant Foundationwww.americantransplantfoundation.orgThe American Transplant Foundation is not a medical or clinical foundation.

Flood Sisters Kidney Foundationwww.floodsisterskidneyfnd.org For people interested in testing for someone in need, contact the Flood sisters directly at 646-715-8976.

kidney. His family’s unconventional cam-paign to find a matching kidney donor was a success.

Two months into her stay at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, Silverstein was offered another heart. Once again, she matched with a 13-year-old girl, and this child would give Silverstein the invaluable gift of a longer life. “With this second transplant, I don’t know how long I have,” noted Silverstein, who travels back to California every six mon-ths to see her doctors. “But I know that whenever I need to talk to someone, I have nine friends I can call, and I will have an honest, free-flowing conversation. I have an incredible support system.”

Silverstein is particularly lucky. Many people in her situation do not have people on whom they can rely. Autumn Porter, a Se-nior Program Coordinator at The American Transplant Foundation, believes it is vital to create a network of support for transplant patients. The Foundation has a mentorship program to help both transplant candi-dates and donors. This program also gives people a platform through which transplant candidates can help find living donors and to get their stories out to a wider audience. These resources are designed to alleviate some of the stress of this process for transplant patients.

Complications fromImmunosuppresive DrugsSince his transplant, Daniel Flood feels significantly better and appreciates that he can enjoy his life and his family. Silverstein has been re-energized by her third heart, running three times a week. However, she knows that with a heart transplant “you are trading one disease for another.” She is grateful for the medical advances over the past 25 years. All transplant patients must take anti-rejection, or immunosuppressive drugs. These drugs block the immune sys-tem, helping to protect the new organ and help maximize its functionality. Long-term use of these drugs can lead to compli-cations, including diabetes, high blood pressure and some cancers.

These vital anti-rejection drugs are often unbelievably expensive. Porter notes,

To learn more, contact Scott Elwell at 203.622.4900 or [email protected]

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BY BETTINA PROBER

Walking into Millwood resident Jodi Baretz’ office is like walking into a sanctuary. The atmosphere is

hushed, shoes are left at the door, voices are kept to a whisper. The effect is immedia-

tely relaxing.

Baretz, 49, is a psychotherapist specializing in mindfulness and health coaching at The Center for Health and Healing, located on Smith Avenue in Mt. Kis-co. She is also the

author of the new book, Mindful is the New Skinny: 10 Transformational Steps to a Ligh-ter You Inside and Out, due out this spring. Inside Chappaqua sat down to talk to her about the book as well as her own journey to mindfulness.

An Emory and Columbia University-edu-cated therapist, Baretz has more than 20 years of clinical experience. She has spent the last five years focusing her practice on using mindfulness to overcome stress, weight loss issues and family conflicts. Mindful is the New Skinny started out as a six-week boot camp designed to introduce her patients to the practice of mindfulness. “I wanted to create a program that would teach people how to reduce stress,” she said. “We need to change our mindset from our weight to our well-being, which is more sustainable and will help us live happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.” Her message is geared toward helping women who are not only struggling with weight issues, but also with any family and work-related anxiety.

“As a health coach and psychotherapist, it made sense to me to write a book that en-compassed the mind and body,” she said. While the book does address eating issues, it is not a weight-loss book. Rather, it looks at all aspects of life that cause stress with

A Mindful Chatwith Jodi Baretz

the goal of reducing that stress, and getting people to realize that perfection should not be a goal.

But what exactly is mindfulness? And how is mindfulness different from meditation? As Baretz explains it, mindfulness is the awareness of your thoughts, feelings and environment. Once you acknowledge the source of what you are feeling–whether it’s hunger, anxiety, or stress–you use medita-tion to calm and center yourself. In effect, you are striving to create a space between a stimulus and the response.

Baretz’ own path to mindfulness began af-ter she was diagnosed with celiac disease in her mid-thirties. Initially devastated by the diagnosis, she enrolled in a holistic nutrition program at the Institute for Integrative Nutri-tion in New York City to help her unders-tand and control the disease. While there, she was introduced to the concepts of mindfulness and spirituality.

“It was a life-changing experience for me,” she said. “I started to see positive changes flow into my life, and I let go of a lot of worry and anxiety.” Since then, she has continued to study mindfulness and me-ditation as a way to help her patients deal with the stresses of everyday life.

Though weight issues are addressed in the book, her message is more about self-compassion and self-care, and Baretz teaches mindfulness as a way of life. As anyone who has been on a diet and failed can attest, maintaining a strict diet regimen is often impossible and almost always self-defeating.

“The book is all about nourishing yourself from the inside, so you can flourish on the outside,” she said. While many women focus on trying to be the perfect size (in our society, that means skinny), Baretz stresses that mindfulness can help switch our priority from what we look like to the acceptance of ourselves as we are, which is very empowering.

Mindfulness can also help with all aspects and relationships in your life, Baretz notes.

“Mindfulness increases your capacity to deal with stress and overwhelming situa-tions because you are learning how to calm your body and your mind,” she said. “It’s not shutting off your thoughts; rather, it’s pressing a ‘stop’ button on them so you can change your relationship toward them.” After all, we all face adversity in one way or another, and there are many things in life that are beyond our control. While we can’t control the challenges we face, mindfulness and meditation help us “struggle well,” she said. “By taming our minds and focusing on the present, we can decrease our anxiety.”

The book brings mindfulness and meditation to people who wouldn’t normally seek out a practice that does have some negative stereotypes–something only for the yoga and Zen set. But Baretz hopes that the book will open people’s minds to the power of the practice. And that, she says, is her goal.

“I love watching people transform,” she said. “When they change the way they think, their whole world changes.”

Each chapter of Mindful is the New Skinny, which is Baretz’ first book, features a medi-tation session that can be downloaded. The book will be available this spring/summer on Amazon in print and kindle versions, and Baretz will conduct a free book talk at the Chappaqua library upon the book’s release. Visit www.Jodibaretz.com for more informa-tion on her practice, upcoming talks, as well as a sneak peek free chapter of her book.

Bettina Prober is a Chappaqua resident and stay-at-home mom who looks forward to more mindfulness in 2018!

PHOTOGRAPHED BY PETER LINDBERGH

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BHEF 2016/2017 Board (Standing L-R): David Zimmerman, Elvis Grgurovic, Kristen Mathis, Leslie Ilany, Evan Goldman, Bart Sokol, Stefan Safaei, Nanci Keltz, Pat Bucciero, Khatija Ladhani, Lynda Baquero, Paulette Bannon (Seated L-R): Lisa Rosenberg, Elise Margolin, Nicole Stern, Jason Berland, Shari Fruhling, Cathy Kirschner, Melissa Jacobs, Melissa TolchinPHOTO BY NINA KRUSE FOR PINSKY STUDIO

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BY JANIE ROSMAN

It was a slam dunk when the Harlem Wizards took on all-star teams of tea-chers from Coman Hill, Wampus and H.C. Crittenden last September, dazzling and entertaining with tricks and humorous interactive games thanks to the Byram Hills Education Foundation (BHEF).

The basketball spectacular and the spring gala are BHEF’s two annual fundraising events. Save the date, March 23, for this year’s gala, which takes place at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase.

Since its formation in 1994, BHEF raised more than $4 million for more than 349 grants impacting more than 6,000 local students, thanks to the generosity and support from families, local businesses and the Armonk Chamber of Commerce and two annual fundraising events.

Its financial support to the district enables teacher and administrators to introduce creative programs and equipment beyond what is covered within the district’s annual operating budget.

“One of my goals is to make people more aware of the BHEF and the integral part it plays in our school district,” emphasized Shari Fruhling, President, BHEF.

Last September, BHEF introduced a free wellness movie series hosted at the high school. The first, Screenagers, a 2016 do-cumentary about growing up in the digital age, drew an audience of more than 300 students and parents, Fruhling said. Close to 200 people came out on a cold Janua-ry night to see Angst, an hour-long film discussing and debunking misconceptions about and treatments for anxiety disorders.

“The films prompt discussions at home and at school the next day,” she said of the thought-provoking choices. A date for its third film, Finding Kind, 2001, about two friends traveling across the United States to expose truth about girl-on-girl crime, is tentatively scheduled for mid-April.

Fruhling said this year’s grant, the Wellness Initiative, “focuses on the wellness of the whole student, mind and body and impacts all four schools with a designated Indoor Creative Play space, an outdoor Obstacle Course for the elementary schools; a space for yoga, meditation and relaxation in the middle school and a lounge space for the high school.”

“These are supported by a Stanford Survey to determine stress levels and create a comprehensive and impactful way of mana-ging and mitigating stress on our student population. The BHEF is proud to be a part of this groundbreaking change in educa-tion,” she said.

Byram Hills CSD Superintendent Jen Lamia called BHEF “integral in our district’s history and future. “In the past five years alone, the BHEF has supported projects to revitalize our libraries into 21st century learning spaces, provided 1:1 technology for all students and is now undertaking a K-12 Wellness Initiative to benefit all students.”

BHEF’s support “means that every child in every school is provided with every op-portunity to grow, learn, and thrive,” Lamia said. Fruhling noted, “There are so many grants the BHEF has funded that parents sometimes don’t realize that they are not part of the district’s budget.”

These include SMARTboards, Chrome-books and Library 2.0 and, most recently the motivational speaker Shaun Derik for this past Byram Hills High School’s Wellness Day.

Two annual events–the fall Harlem Wizards’ dazzling and entertaining basketball court show and the spring fundraiser–celebrate and raise support for education.

Money raised for the spring event journal will also go toward funding the grants. Tickets are available until March 23; for information, www.byramhillsfoundation.org.

Janie Rosman is a freelance writer and editor whose work appears in local and regional publications. She chronicles the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project at Kaleidoscope Eyes.

Taking Care of Mind, Body and Spirit:District Plans new Wellness Initiative

Current board members after Harlem Wizards event in Fall 2017 (L-R): Jason Berland, Jamie Kahn, Melissa Tolchin, Nanci Keltz, Mark Benerofe PHOTO COURTESY OF BHEF

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To make an appointment call 914-849-7900. Visit wphospital.org/armonk for more information.

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URGENT CARE 914-849-7999Weekdays: 3pm -11pmWeekends: 9am - 9pm

WHITE PLAINS HOSPITAL IS A MEMBER OF THE MONTEFIORE HEALTH SYSTEM

Shalini Bobra, MDCardiology

Stephanie Casper, MS, RDRegistered Dietitian

Kira Geraci-Ciardullo, MDAllergy & Immunology: Adult / Pediatric

Paul Fragner, MDOrthopedic Surgery; Hand Wrist & Elbow

Jeffrey Jacobson, MDPlastic Surgery; Hand Surgery

Zsolt Kulcsar, DORheumatology

Ellen Lestz, MDPediatrics

Kay Lovig, MDEndocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism

Samantha Lowe, MDPediatrics

Tejas Patel, MDInternal Medicine, Nephrology & Hypertension

Joshua Raff, MDHematology & Oncology

Sara Sadan, MDHematology & Oncology

Swati Sehgal, MDHematology & Oncology

Simi Suri, DOObstetrics & Gynecology

Louis Vizioli, MDPulmonology, Critical Care & Internal Medicine

Michael Weintraub, MDNeurology

to make an appointment with a physician call: 914-849-7900


BY SHAUNA LEVY

espite the low temperatures, many parents’ minds are on the summer months that lay beyond the snow.

Much consideration goes into the camp selection process. As the American Camp Association notes, “camp presents a tre-mendous opportunity for your child to wid-en horizons, make new and lasting friends, and discover new strengths.” But, with all the options ranging from day camps to sleep away camps in addition to specialties such as dance, art and sports, pinpointing the right one can be downright daunting.

Local camp fairs feature an array of highly curated prospects that parents can be-come acquainted with in just one afternoon. Since many attend these events with a laundry list of questions and children in tow, arriving with a strategy is instrumental to reaping the benefits.

Why A Camp Fair? There is a plethora of information about each camp online and in glossy brochures, but camp fairs give parents the unique occasion to meet the individuals who set the tone of a camp in person. Tables are typically manned by two representatives including the camp director or high ranking camp personnel. “Many camps offer similar activities and amenities, but it is the director and staff who infuse their distinct philosophy into the program that sets them apart,” according to Renee Flax, director of camper placement at the American Camp Association of NY and NJ. “These face-to-face opportunities give families the chance to see if there is a true connection between them and a camp,” she says.

Jean Sheff, editor and co-publisher of Westchester Family, says, “This is your

Making the Most Out of

chance to read between the lines and get to know a camp’s nuances.” Sheff knows more than a thing or two about the topic as the publication recently hosted two “Westchester Family Camp Fairs” in both southern and northern Westchester. She enthusiastically describes the events as “not massive, noisy functions, but intimate, personal gatherings of approximately 30 thoroughly vetted camps.” “Camp fairs are ideal for those who are truly starting from scratch,” according to Flax. “These events offer a wide array of camps spanning all philosophies and price ranges.” For all of those multi-tasking loving parents, Sheff also points out that camp fairs offer efficiencies, for example “visiting with a sleep away camp for one child and a day camp for another.”

Not all camp fairs, however, are created equally. Flax recommends looking at the list of camps that will be exhibiting and advises “if the programs do not stand out to you, don’t waste your time!” An added benefit of these events is that they are often attend-ed by impartial experts in the camp arena such as representatives from the American Camp Association or the organization hosting the event. Therefore, it’s important to identify who the organizer is and whether they are legitimate and responsive. Sheff counsels, “Camp fairs should be free to the public as the camps pay to attend. Any fair charging an admission fee is a red flag!”

Set yourself up for success. Attend a camp fair on a convenient day that’s close to home, particularly if you are visiting with day camps as they tend to promote at local events. Consider whether it makes sense to bring your children as some may be bored or present as distractions, while oth-ers enjoy the fun activities exhibitors offer. For older children especially, it presents a chance to be involved in the decision mak-ing process and get them excited for what

the summer has in store. “The beauty of a camp fair,” Renee explains, “is that it can be eye-opening to see what excites your child. Their enthusiasm can be instrumental in guiding your final selection.”

Mission Possible“Investing a little bit of time to narrow your options in advance can be so helpful,” Flax points out, saying, “Identify factors import-ant to your family. Don’t simply think of your children as they exist today, but look at camps that could work for them in the long-term.” Sheff adds to that, “Know what you are looking for, know your family, know your child. There are camps for everyone.” She advises against, “becoming dazzled by a camp’s vast offerings if they are not right for your child.”

Visit the camp fair website in advance and familiarize yourself with the exhibitors if the information is available. Assess your fam-ily’s needs and narrow down the options by identifying some of these differentiating factors:

ages the camp servesday camp vs. overnight campavailability/location of busingsession camps vs. full summer campsavailability of early hours/aftercare food offerings, i.e., allergiesindoor vs. outdoor focused programmingspecial needs services

Seek a map of the event space upon your arrival to locate the camps you found appealing. Flax warns against roaming aimlessly and highly recommends arriving with time to spare before the event closes. Additionally, be patient if the camp rep-resentatives are engaged for a short time upon your arrival.

The Li Family of Greenwich checks out various camp

options at a recent camp fairPHOTO BY ROBERT FLEISHER


Harriet LibovYO U R 2017 M A R K E T L E A D E R

M 914.659.6200 | [email protected]

With over $42 Million in sales volume, 2017 was a momentus year. Thanks to a strong professional network and eff ective marketing platform, sales grew exponentially. Some of my new marketing initiatives launched included aerial drone imagery, Facebook and Google Targeted Ads and Wee Westchester advertising campaign.

momentus year. Thanks to a strong professional network and eff ective marketing platform, sales grew exponentially.

[email protected]

Some of my new marketing initiatives launched included aerial drone imagery, Facebook and Google Targeted Ads

momentus year. Thanks to a strong professional network and eff ective marketing platform, sales grew exponentially. Some of my new marketing initiatives launched included aerial drone imagery, Facebook and Google Targeted Ads

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Source: HGMLS, 1.1.17-12.31.17 total volume of single-family homes sold by agent: Armonk P.O; Byram

Hills Schl Dist; Westchester County; and Byram Hills Schl Dist & Chappaqua Schl Dist.s combined; Agent

total volume for all property types sold in 2013-2017 individual years; 2017 includes off -market sale.

# 1 AGENT in BYRAM HILLS SD 2017

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A R M O N K B R O K E R A G E · 3 9 9 M A I N S T R E E T A R M O N K , N Y 1 0 5 0 4

Follow-UpWhile undeniably informative, camp fairs can result in information overload. Review your notes, taking into account the intrinsic connection you may have had with camp personnel. Following this exercise, one to three camps should emerge. Contact those camps to schedule off-season tours and use that opportunity to meet with the director and ask any questions you didn’t ask during the fair. Flax recommends requesting references from parents who have children in the same group that your child would be placed in to get an insider’s perspective on the camp experience.

Once you make your selection, feel confident that you have truly done your research and prepare your children for a wonderful experience. Flax provides peace of mind, asserting, “People who do their homework thoroughly and make a decision based on their family’s needs don’t tend to make mistakes.”

Shauna Levy is a writer, communications professional and stay-at-home mom. She is currently raising her three boys, ages 8, 6 and 4 alongside her husband in Chappaqua.

What Matters MostPrepare your questions in advance and bring a notebook. “It’s not about the right number of questions, but more importantly, the specific issues that are your family’s top priorities,” says Sheff. Curate your questions using the sample list below. Good questions will result in a strong sense of the camp’s culture and enable you to learn which simply do not work for your family.

1. Does a camp provide your child with your definition of safety, i.e., lifeguards, supervision, during field trips, etc.? 2. What does the camp strive to achieve, i.e., what’s considered a successful summer?

3. What activities does the camp focus on, i.e., frequency of swim-ming program, etc.

4. How is staff selected and trained?

5. What is the counselor-to-camper ratio and is it higher for younger campers?

6. What is the staff retention rate?

7. How are disciplinary problems handled? 8. How do you deal with child specific issues including homesick-ness, bedwetting, food allergies?

9. Do you offer busing and if so, who provides the service, where does it pick your child up and who is monitoring the children? 10. What do the children do on rainy days?

For overnight camps, how is bunk placement determined and how do they incorporate new children into existing bunks?

Breezemont Day CampBreezemontDayCamp.com914-367-1936 Club Fit Summer Campwww.ClubFit.com914-250-2768 Future Stars Summer CampFScamps.com914-273-8500

Harvey Cavalier CampHarveyCavalierCamp.org914-232-0581 Jodi’s Gym Campwww.JodisGym.com914-244-8811 World Cup CampWorldCupNurserySchool.com914-238-9267WorldCupGymnastics.com914-238-4967

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BYR A M RIDG E ES TATES 60 Byram Ridge has beautiful flat land, a pool site and will be ready for 2018 summer occupancy. WEB# IA1435092 $2,395,000 | Harriet Libov

BYR A M RIDG E ES TATES Stunning home under construction with pool site in a new Armonk subdivision. WEB# IA1425845 Armonk | $2,295,000 | Harriet Libov

N E W CON S TRUC TIONPerfectly situated on cul-de-sac with fantastic layout and high end quality throughout. WEB# IA1403746 Armonk | $2,300,000 | Jaimme Pudalov

Unmatched luxury and resort-style entertaining in this stately stone Manor. Gated for privacy and set across from the 10th green of the Whippoorwill Golf Club. Superbly designed floor plan with an abundance of architectural details and a sparkling pool.

Web# IA1427803 · $3,975,000Presented by Lesli Lynne Hammerschmidt

Capture the FinestArmonk

CH A R MING COLONI A L Young four-bedroom Colonial with large level backyard is designed with an open floor plan. WEB# IA1402835Armonk | $1,750,000 | Julie Schneider

B ET TER TH A N N E W Superbly crafted, amenity rich, open floor plan. 1.67 acres on a cul-de-sac. Best location. WEB# IA1445242Armonk | $1,649,000 | Amy Singer

G R ACIOUS COLONI A L Impeccable four-bedroom Colonial set on two park-like acres bordering 36 acre estate. WEB# IA1444907 Bedford | $1,300,000 | Aurora Banaszek

C A LIFOR NI A ZEN Renovated four bedroom with rich architectural details on sprawling park-like property. WEB# IA1442811Armonk | $1,555,000 | Julie Schneider

MODER N AT ITS FIN ES T Beautiful 4-bedroom home located on cul-de-sac in prestigious Whippoorwill. WEB# IA1442729 | Armonk | $1,495,000 Lesli Lynne Hammerschmidt

H O U L I H A N L A W R E N C E . C O M


S TRIKING CONTEM POR A RY Custom-built four-bedroom with great flow features expansive deck, pool, spa and cabana. WEB# IA1421533 Armonk | $1,295,000 | Julie Schneider

Stunning French Normandy-inspired home set on more than three hilltop acres. Exceptional design by Kenneth Nadler. Quality craftsmanship throughout. Many special custom details. Two inviting stone terraces with a ready to-be-built pool site. Geothermal heating and cooling.

Web# IA1445033 · $2,395,000 Presented by Aurora Banaszek

Spectacular TudorArmonk

SU N NY CONTEM POR A RY Custom designed on almost 3 acres on quiet cul-de-sac. Open and spacious with many updates WEB# IA1436458 Armonk | $1,265,000 | Barbara Greer

CON V ENIENT LOC ATION Light-filled immaculately maintained Contemporary on one level acre in The Estates. WEB# IA1444800 | Pleasantville$1,275,000 | Aurora Banaszek

E A SY LI V ING Superlative location defines this impeccable home set on Whippoorwill golf course. WEB# IA1444601Armonk | $1,195,000 | Amy Singer

Source: HGMLS: 1/1/2017 – 12/31/2017, total volume sold by office, single family homes, Byram Hills School Dist.

Trust the No. 1 Team in TownCO N S U LT O U R T E A M O F E X P E R T S TO DAY TO D I S C U S S YO U R O P T I O N S .


BY STACEY PFEFFER

Next time you are at the library or your local coffee shop, take a close listen and perhaps you’ll hear a

British or Brazilian accent. No these aren’t tourists visiting New or North Castle but instead they are expatriates (also com-monly referred to as expats) who have chosen to make our lovely slice of Northern Westchester their home. While some plan to remain long-term others have defined job assignments and a specified duration of time here. The Inside Press wanted to spotlight some recent expats to our com-munity and hear their unique perspective about what makes living in the ‘Castles’ so special….

Meet the Mansfields

Meike Mansfield, originally from Germany and her British husband, Luke and two children, Heidi and Robin most recently hail from Kent, United Kingdom. A place that she describes as “picturesque with fields and horse paddocks.” Their life was hectic though with both Meike working for a multinational food company and Luke working for Samsung and having an arduous daily commute to London. When Luke received a call from a headhunter for a job for another multinational company in innovation based in Purchase, she was initially hesitant. But she also knew that she was frazzled and stressed in the U.K. working a job with two young kids, and no sitter or support system. After watching a close friend’s battle with cancer and ulti-mate death, she reevaluated. “It made me think life is so short. We have this amazing opportunity and you only live once, so let’s do it.”

After accepting his position, the Mansfields moved here in 2015. Her husband was on a local work contract with an “O” visa. This type of visa is for workers that have a unique skill set or expertise. The visas that expats receive to work in the U.S. vary from

The Expat Experience:Local Residents Share their Stories

About Moving to the ‘Castles’

individual to individual. As an expert in the field of innovation, Luke was well-qualified for an “O” visa but it meant that Meike and her two children were “just attachments. We were allowed to be here but I could not work here.”

Pinpointing a Townto Call Home

Relocating is a difficult process but luckily Luke’s employer has housing and school consultants at the ready for expats. The Mansfields looked at many towns all over Westchester including Scarsdale, Larch-mont, Dobbs Ferry, Irvington, Pleasantville, Briarcliff, Armonk and Chappaqua. Towns in Lower Westchester including Scarsdale, Larchmont and Rye are expat hubs, accor-ding to Expat Exchange, an online resource for expats but as more businesses expand or open in Northern Westchester such as Regeneron, Pernod Ricard and IBM, expats are slowly starting to discover that the towns of Northern Westchester offer ample space and great schools. The Mansfields

also considered Greenwich and seriously considered Ridgefield, CT which has an easy commute to Purchase. But when Luke learned that he’d have regular travel to New York City, Ridgefield was knocked off the list and Chappaqua rose to the top. “It was the perfect compromise where we would get land and still have that feeling of being surrounded by nature. Plus it’s beautiful with reasonable proximity to NYC and great schools, so it ticked all the boxes for us.”

A Rough Start

Like many expats, they had to live in tem-porary housing in White Plains upon arrival to the U.S., because their house wasn’t ready. It was the winter of 2015 and the snowy weather was relentless. Meike had to drive her daughter Heidi to Westorchard Elementary and her son Robin to World Cup Nursery School in a rental car without four-wheel drive. “I wasn’t used to driving in the snow and I got the flu too. Plus it was my daughter’s birthday and we knew no

The MansfieldsPHOTO BY CAROLYN ANGELINA PHOTOGRAPHY


one here. I had to somehow make her a party and I definitely doubted if we had done the right thing by moving here.”

Settling In

But those feelings of doubt quickly dissipated once she mo-ved to Chappaqua. Meike’s outgoing personality was key to helping her and her family settle in. “I emailed all the parents in Robin’s class and said we just moved here. I don’t have any friends. Want to come out for a drink? What’s funny is a lot of people got back to me and said they were in the same boat and home with young kids all day. Many of those ladies who I met that night are still my friends to this day.”

Meike is currently a stay-at-home mom and an active member of the Junior League of Northern Westchester. She chairs the human trafficking committee, which supports minors who have been trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation. She is also a Girl Scout troop leader. In order to preserve their German heritage, her children attend German school in White Plains on the weekend.

The family enjoys living on Hilltop Drive, which has neighbo-rhood barbeques and dinner parties. “We have no plans to go back to the U.K. We have a great quality of life,” she notes. The family also recently received their green cards and Meike is now able to accept freelance projects and legally work here.

From Au Pair Days to Homeownership

Claire Fletcher Gilvar, a British citizen and founder of Boo-ked Parties, a children’s birthday party resource website and booking platform has fond memories of Chappaqua after spending four summers here working as an au pair for a family on Garey Drive while studying at Oxford University through a British Royal Navy program. Fast forward to almost two decades later when Claire and her husband Adam were living with their two young children in Long Island City, Queens, they knew they needed ample space for their growing family. They decided to come full circle back to New Castle. “Chappaqua hasn’t changed much since 1992. My time as an au pair here was definitely part of the pull back to this area.”

Introducing the Iyengars

Mrinalini (Mili) Iyengar and her husband Chaithra first came here from Bangalore, India with their now 5-year-old son Na-man in the spring of 2016. Mili works in IT sales for Capgemini and her husband is in sales at IBM. Mili wanted to work in the U.S. since it leads the way in IT innovation. Initially, Austin was on their radar and friends suggested that they move to Texas for the lower cost of living but Northern Westchester was very attractive to Mili. Almost three months before moving here, she signed up for town e-newsletters for both Austin and New Castle. She loved that the New Castle one listed activities for adults and children. “I saw various avenues where I could integrate into the community. Something as simple as when the Farmers Market begins and ends and the fact that there was a kid’s hockey team was a real draw for me. The Austin newsletter put me in a black hole,” she commented.

Initially they moved to New Castle but now live in North Castle. “Good schools have always been priority number one

The Gilvar FamilyPHOTO BY JESSICA PASCHKES,PRETTY PICTURES MARKETING

The Iyengar FamilyPHOTO BY CATHY PINSKY, PINKSY STUDIO


for us” and when their lease ran out on their rental in New Castle they were happy to find another town nearby with great sch-ools and accessible to Westchester County Airport, which they both use regularly for domestic travel.

Raising AGlobal Citizen

The Iyengars appreciate the educational system here. “We want to raise Naman as a global citizen.” While Mili feels that India has a strong academic system, she doesn’t like the fact that on the flipside you make career choices very early. “If you are training to be an engineer, there is no option to take any humanities classes.” She also appreciates the fact that Naman is now more “culturally aware. He now knows that there is a menorah and you light it on Chanukkah.”

Challenges for Expats:From Mortgages tothe More Mundane

Mili is on an L1A visa, which allows her to work in the U.S. for up to seven years. They hope to buy a home here. “Beyond a three year horizon, it doesn’t keep sense for us to keep renting.” But getting a mortgage or making any large purchase has been challenging for her family. “Every time we have to bring money from India, we lose out on the exchange rate.” When they wanted to purchase a car, they only got a $600 credit limit from their bank. “It doesn’t matter that our combined salaries might be close to the upper 1 percenters in terms of income. Credit history here is just so important.”

While financial concerns are a big focus for many expats, more mundane problems can also be taxing for newcomers. “Last year a tree fell in my backyard and I had no idea what to do.” Harnessing the power of technology, Mili who is a member of Chappaqua Moms and Armonk Parents Facebook pages was able to find reputable tree removal providers. “I literally feel like these groups are watching my back all the time. These groups have been instrumental in helping me and my family get ingrained into the local culture.”

Moving from Isolationto Inclusion

Like most expats, there have been mo-ments when Mili has felt homesick. The first

year that they moved here during the Indian festival of Diwali she saw her relatives all celebrating on social media. Chaithra was traveling at the time and it was the first time that she realized that she was all alone in the U.S. That experience jolted her to main-tain a connection with the Indian commu-nity here and propelled her to actively seek out other Indian families in the area. Again, technology came to the rescue and helped her connect with Indian families nearby. Mili is now part of a kitty party, a group of ap-proximately 16 Indian women from nearby towns who meet monthly and socialize in each other’s homes. There is a very set social framework for these gatherings and no men or children are allowed. The group has helped her find Indian ingredients for cooking or advice on music teachers for Naman to learn to play Indian instruments. She now meets and celebrates Indian festi-vals and holidays with these families.

Just as she’s made inroads within the In-dian community, Mili loves the fact that half of Naman’s class at Coman Hill Elemen-tary are new to the area. She’s met many families through school activities and she also has used technology to help her build an extended network of local friends that helped her recreate a family environment for her son. In Bangalore, they lived in a gated community and Naman would go to the park daily and interact with children and adults of all ages, so that he never felt like he was an only child. Robin and Gary Murphy who are Chappaqua residents hold badminton parties at their house and

the Iyengars are frequent participants. “I love the fact that it helped us to recreate a family environment for our son with other kids from all age groups.”

It Takes a Village

Mili has a long laundry list of local folks who have helped her family with a warm welcome. In addition to the Murphys and Georgia Hobaica Frasch who was one of the creators of the Chappaqua Moms Facebook page, Kathy Boyle, a member of the Chappaqua Recipes with Friends Facebook page has been especially sup-portive. “Kathy posted that she needed an Indian recipe and I replied and then we began communicating. She doesn’t even live in Chappaqua or Armonk but she was enthusiastic and wanted to meet me. She helped me connect with the Murphys.” Mili also jokes around that she wants to provide a good citizen’s award to Roberta Offenhut-ter Lasky for having advice on everything from tree removal companies to restau-rants. Chandana and Madhu Hugehalli and Jagruti and Neeru Patel also served as liaisons to the wider Indian community. “All of these people had nothing to gain by helping us. They just had a lot of goodness in their hearts.”

Taking Advantage ofLiving in Armonk

The family is very integrated in the commu-

The Roversi FamilyPHOTO COURTESY OF MAIRA ROVERSI


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nity with Chaithra volunteering as an AYSO soccer coach and Mili volunteering at the Armonk Outdoor Art Show and Naman attending Breezemont Camp during the summers. With a very different climate than Bangalore, the family has been mesmerized by the wintry weather here. “When the blizzard was coming, we stayed up until midnight to watch it.” They’ve also taken Naman for ski lessons at Thunder Ridge. When they have free time, they also like to visit art museums in the city. One of the highlights of living here for Naman has been trick or treating for Halloween on Wampus Street. “Everyone in this town has been so forthcoming and helpful. We’ve really had a very warm welcome,” concludes Mili.

Like the Iyengars, Maira Roversi, an expat from Brazil, loves living in Armonk with her husband Ricardo and her three children, Caio (10) and her 4-year old twins Rafael and Bea-triz. The family also brought their dogs Lion, a golden retriever and Minnie, a maltese with them for their Armonk adventure.

Roversi is working for IBM on an L1A visa like Mili and has a two year international assignment with the company. She has worked for IBM for the past two decades

in various locations in Brazil. Her first stint in the U.S. was in Raleigh and she loved living in the U.S. so decided to make the move to Armonk in 2016. Ultimately, she hopes to return to Brazil after this assign-ment is completed but is used to the expat peripatetic lifestyle and is accepting of moving to another location if IBM needs her to transfer.

Roversi loves the fact that her twins saw snow here for the first time. Besides the snowy weather though, the Roversis are outdoor enthusiasts and take full advantage of biking nearby, the parks and playgrounds in town and playing soccer and tennis. Caio is enjoying playing music here and has even performed on the upper level at the local DeCicco’s supermarket while Maira and Ricardo enjoy a beer.

They also love the proximity to the city for family outings and have been to the Natural History Museum, Times Square, basketball games at Madison Square Garden and ice skating at Bryant Park. Like the Iyengars, Halloween happens to be a favorite holiday for her children too who also loved seeing the pumpkins on display at the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at Van Cortland Manor.

Facing a Medical Issueas an Expat

Each expat faces different challenges and for Maira she faced a medical issue upon arrival to Armonk. “Even with a very good insurance plan, things here are really diffe-rent than Brazil and it took a while until the doctors realized that I had kidney stones. It was tough to find some support knowing no one in the area: no referral, no previous experience in terms of hospitals but luckily we figured out how to deal with that and everything is calm again now!”

Maira still considers her family in the dis-covery mode and is eagerly awaiting the warmer weather. Ricardo practices down hill bike riding and Maira enjoys running outdoors. “With these freezing tempera-tures, I am not brave enough to go out on the street!” quips Maira. With spring just around the corner, feel free to give a warm welcome to Maira or any one of the expat families featured in this story.

Stacey Pfeffer is a former expat having lived in London for two years working in public relations.


Byram Hills High School (BHHS) students participating in the Dr. Robert Pavlica Authentic Science Research Program have received a record number of awards in the first quarter of 2018. Five–the most from any single Westchester County high

school–were selected as scholars in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, one of the most prestigious pre-college science and math awards for high school seniors and was previously known as the Intel Science Talent Search. In addition, four BHHS students were recently selected as national finalists in the Neuroscience Research Prize awarded by the American Academy of Neuroscientists (AAN) Research Prize for high school students. One student was named a top finalist for the prize.

BHHS Student Scientists Receive Several Prestigious AwardsIn First Quarter of 2018

Regeneron Award RecipientsFrom the select pool of Regeneron scholars, 40 finalists will be invited to Washington, D.C. this month to parti-cipate in final judging, display their work to the public, meet with notable scientists and compete for the top award of $250,000. The five Regeneron Scholars are Alexis Aberman, Alexandra Brocato, Stella Li, Jeremy Ma and Kylie Roslin.

The goal of the Regeneron competition is to recognize the best and brightest young scientists for demons-trating exceptional scientific leadership potential. It is the result of years of study, research and dedication by the students, along with encouragement and direction from the Byram Hills School District and the Dr. Robert Pavlica Authentic Science Research Program, directed by Stephanie Greenwald.

AAN Finalists The American Academy of Neuroscientists is the largest organization of neurologists in the country and each year the group awards 15 high school students who have completed extraordinary work exploring the world of the brain and nervous system through laboratory research. The AAN finalists from BHHS were Stella Li, Jeremy Ma, Alexandra Remnitz and Kylie Roslin. Remnitz was selected as a top national finalist and has been invited to present her project on the marine fish, Sailfin Molly, at the 70th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in Los Angeles, CA in April.

Her project determined that this hardy species did not alter their typical behavior due to increasing ocean acidi-fication, unlike most fish. This is a novel finding demons-trating the robustness of this specific species. Remnitz is a certified scuba diver and her love of marine life and her concern for the future of our oceans was the inspiration for her study.

PHOTOS COURTESY OFBARBARA NACKMAN OF PNWBocesByram Hills Regeneron Finalists (L-R, top row): Stella Li,

Jeremy Ma, Alexandra Brocato. (L-R, bottom row): Alexis Aberman, Kylie Rosl

AAN Finalists (L-R): Kylie Roslin, Stella Li, Alexandra Remnitz and Jeremy Ma

BY SHAUNA LEVY

When one thinks of America’s greatest pastimes, lacrosse is seldom top of mind. In truth, however, lacrosse is the oldest North American team sport,

with roots dating back to Native American competitions. Despite its rich history, lacrosse has not enjoyed the same enthusiasm as its counterparts such as soccer, baseball and football. Rachel Milim, recently named president of the Byram Hills Youth Lacrosse (BHYL) board, also the Girls Grade 3/4 coach, is seeking to change that and is forecas-ting a surge in the program’s popularity.

Milim is embracing her new leadership position and op-timistic for the season ahead. She says, “The board has recently turned over to a new generation of families who are enthusiastic about getting our children, their friends and the overall community involved. We are approaching this year with a flexible philosophy that focuses on having fun and enables children to play multiple sports, which I believe will encourage participation.” According to Milim, fall clinics have already been packed, indicating that BHYL’s trend of steadily increasing registration will continue. Rob Manowitz, co-director of the Boys BHYL program and Boys Grade 6 Coach, adds, “Lacrosse is amongst the fastest growing sports in the country. Some refer to it as the best combina-tion of soccer, hockey, and basketball.”


DON’T CALL ITA COMEBACK,

LACROSSE HAS BEENHERE FOR YEARS

Coach Milim with past lacrosse participants


For Milim, athletics is not only a pastime, but a passion that has played center stage in her life since childhood. She played multiple sports throughout childhood and was captain of her lacrosse and basketball teams in high school. She also captained her lacrosse team at Cornell University and was an All-American on a final four team. These experiences parlayed into her current role as the director of Brant Lake Sports Academy, a 3.5 week summer camp for sports-loving girls. Milim clearly understands first-hand the positive impact that playing multiple sports can have in shaping a child’s future. She, along with the entire board, is committed to sharing their love of the game with the community.

Manowitz explains how lacrosse skills are gradually introduced to the children. “Our great parent-volunteers and paid coaches teach our kids age-appropriate competi-tive lacrosse skills. At the earliest ages, we focus on basic catching-throwing and crad-ling. As the kids age, the game migrates to a team-unit approach where we focus on offensive ball movement, off-ball positioning and team-oriented defense.”

While teaching the basic techniques of the sport is a major focus of practices and games, the overarching BHYL philosophy is centered upon having fun. Jon Schneider, co-director of the Boys BHYL program and Boys Grade 5 Coach says, “Most impor-tantly, as a parent run organization, we emphasize the life lessons that youth sports provide; winning and losing, teamwork,

community and confidence. Respect for one another, our opponents, coaches and referees are also emphasized. Our main hope is for the kids to have fun, be competitive, be challenged and grow mentally.” Milim concurs, “Our number one priority is for the kids to have fun. The skills will develop without them even knowing it. If the kids are having fun, the skills will organically follow.”

It appears that the coaches’ philosophies are successfully infiltrating the league’s culture. Ava Gitler, a 3rd grader says, “It’s fun to be challenged on the field and to work with my teammates to get better each game. I love running behind the crease to find players open and trying to score. Besides lacrosse, I play travel soc-cer and tennis. Sports are my life!”

Luke Weiss, a 4th grader, has been playing lacrosse since kindergarten and radiates the same positive attitude, “I like playing lacrosse because it’s fun to play a game with my friends that we all love. One of the best things I have learned is teamwork. We play as a team and support each other and I like that. It’s also fun when the high school kids come and teach us skills. I hope to play at Byram Hills High School one day.”

Whether your child plays lacrosse or not, BHYL strongly advocates exposing children to as many sports as possible at a young age. Milim says, “Kids need constant change or they will burn out

quickly. It’s also important that they deve-lop different muscles.” Schneider agrees, “While our program has gained ground, we try to coordinate scheduling with other town-based sports to minimize conflicts and reduce the need for youth athletes to choose a sport to focus on at too early of an age. There is a lot of research that concludes our children are physically and mentally better-off playing a combination of sports throughout the year.” The bot-tom-line is that children benefit from being active and learning good sportsmanship. “Beyond the physical benefits, team sports build social skills through the unparalleled camaraderie that develops, increases confidence and develops time manage-ment skills. And, let’s face it, for older kids, it keeps them out of trouble!” laughs Milim.

BHYL registration for the spring 2018 sea-son is currently open. Please visit:byramhillsyouthlacrosse.org!

Shauna Levy is a writer, communica-tions professional and stay-at-home mom. She is currently raising her three boys, ages 8, 6 and 4 alongside her husband in Chappaqua.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RACHEL MILIM(L-R): Sydney Hecht, Ryan Milim and Emery Matusow

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BY AMY KELLEY

At a recent weekday afternoon, lime and cantaloupe infused waters awaited members at the entrance of Club Fit in Bri-

arcliff, and the fruit’s colorful cheer was echoed by the motivational sayings lining the walls. “Do something your future self will thank you for,” urged one.

But while Club Fit Briarcliff certainly offers many opportunities for the individual, what sets it apart from many gyms and fitness facilities is a focus on serving the entire family. Now cele-brating its 45th year, the club, and its sister loca-tion in Jefferson Valley, offers a family-friendly experience with a special focus on giving back to the community, while offering a wide range of standard and modern fitness offerings.

From areas for children that are divided by age to special times for basketball for ages 40 and up, Club Fit supplies things to do for all ages. And with a focus on offering fun, age-appropri-ate childcare, parents can take advantage of all the club has to offer.

“One thing we’ve really expanded in the last 15 years is our childcare,” Ellen Koelsch, an owner of the club with her brother, Bill Beck, said recently. “We have enough space to dedicate to kids under five and kids five to 12. As a working mom myself, I know you can’t just leave the 6-year-old home alone.” The space for older kids has a small basketball court, air hockey, plus vid-eo games, with a catch–they’re played standing. “They’re getting used to a fitness environment early,” Koelsch said.

Childcare manager and party coordinator Me-lissa Lawrence, a longtime Club Fit employee,

LIFESTYLES WITH OUR SPONSORS

agreed. “I’ve been here 22 years and it’s great to see these kids grow up and see them return as adults–it’s pretty cool.”

After school, some kids come to Club Fit by bus. They can unwind, then take a swim or tennis lesson and “you can get out of work, do 20 minutes of cardio and grab your kid,” Koelsch said.

At Club Fit, the fitness center is flooded with natural light; and off to the side is something a little unusual–a space reserved for women only.

The club also has nine tennis courts, physical therapy on-site, and a huge pool area with spaces for lap swimming, lessons, swim team practice and a large hot tub. Parents with little ones can utilize the zero-entry area. There’s a spin area with more than 60 seats and racquet-ball as well.

There are also many spaces for group exercise classes–and Club Fit keeps up with the trends, offering the types of classes often found in small boutique gyms. Currently, members can take CFX classes, which are “our version of a functional fitness class, using your own body weight,” Koelsch said. “We’re kind of blending going to a studio for small-group attention with a full-service experience with childcare. We know family is important and time is valuable, so we make that kind of class available to the community. Exercise is important–people know that, they know it has to be a part of their lives, but what’s hard is to keep it interesting.” Besides CFX, the club offers TRX classes as well as more standard classes such as Zumba, which tend to be larger. The goal is to offer smaller studio-like classes within the club. “So your ‘neighborhood’ can stay the same, but you’re always on the cutting edge of fitness,” Koelsch said.

Club representative Wendy Courtney is another of many long-term employees. “When I started with the club, Ellen was little,” Courtney said. “The club was born and raised for the commu-nity and that’s how we developed - everything here was born for this community.” The club is constantly sending surveys to members and uses the responses to direct growth and change and improvement, Courtney and Koelsch said.

“It’s great to hear the good news but we learn from the bad news. Our members are our eyes and our ears,” Courtney said. “Our membership knows we want to hear from them.”

Personal trainer Beth Kear said at Club Fit, “the owners are very involved and supportive of the staff. Anywhere you go, you’ll see it - everything, from the minute you walk in the door has that family feel–friendly, welcoming, non-intimidat-ing. Member integration is a big priority.”That’s why newcomers to the club are given not just a session with a trainer, but are walked through every aspect of using a club–from how to use a membership card to how to use the ma-chines. “You should feel comfortable from when you walk in the door,” Koelsch said.

Because some people who need to start exercis-ing are very unaccustomed to the health club environment, Club Fit has a special program called Help RX. It’s a short-term, discount-ed program with “a lot more hand-holding,” Koelsch said. That way, prospective members who have been told by their doctors that they need to start exercising can try the club out. Club Fit also offers a senior discount and half off membership fees to active duty police, firefighters, EMTs and military. And if there are area power failures–well, Beck said, they’ll open their doors to those who need hot showers, as they have before.

“We’ve been in our community a very long time,” Koelsch said. “And we love giving back.”

Amy Kelley is a freelance writer and editor living in Mount Kisco.

For 45 Years, Club FitKeeps Up With The Times


BY DANA Y. WU

Jumpy castles, hoop games, Zumba for kids, face painting–the annual Think Fit For Kids (TFFK) Family and Fitness

event, generously hosted at Club Fit in Briarcliff, is a community fundraiser that has been going strong for eight years.

As we went to press with this issue, the 2018 TFFK team of volunteers, is ensuring that the event on Sunday, March 4, 2018 meets its goal of raising $250,000 to sup-port state of the art pediatric brain cancer research. Getting ready for TFFK involves the support of corporate sponsors, with more than 75 local merchants all donating the food, DJ music, entertainment and photography.

Since 2011 when Chappaqua’s Kim Gilman and Amy Weinstein approached Club Fit’s owner, Ellen Koelsch to sponsor the TFFK event, $1.5 million has been raised for A Kids’ Brain Tumor Cure Foundation, which currently funds two extremely promi-sing projects at Massachusetts General Hospital and Memorial Sloan Kettering. Most excitingly, a Phase 1 clinical trial to test the safety and efficacy of combining immunotherapy agents in children with brain tumors has now expanded into a large-scale clinical trial at 58 centers in 13 countries. This study brings new hope to

Think Fit For Kids 2018Raises Funds for Pediatric Brain Cancer Research

children across the globe who have run out of treatment options and may provide a completely new avenue for battling deadly brain tumors in children.

Cancerous brain tumors have now sur-passed leukemia as the leading cause of cancer death in children. There are 28,000 children battling brain tumors in the U.S., including some in our community, and an additional 4,300 will be diagnosed this year.

Through Horace Greeley High School’s club, SHARE (Students Have A Responsi-bility Everywhere), enthusiastic student volunteers help before, during and after the TFFK event. In addition to manning a booth at Community Day to publicize the event, SHARE hosts a Ben & Jerry’s fun-draiser in Mt. Kisco. “It’s great to see many Greeley students come to get ice cream and help out this cause and raise commu-nity awareness around the dire need for funding pediatric brain cancer research. Plus, we always have fun scooping ice cream!” says Alice Heyeh, a SHARE Com-munity Partners Executive, HGHS ’18.

It’s not too late to donate to the cause. Visit www.thinkfitforkids.org. for additional information.

Dana Y. Wu is a frequent contributor to the Inside Press.


It’s almost spring and now is the time to give your financ-es a “spring cleaning!”With the stock market sell off and continued volatility after record highs, interest rate increases, new tax laws and the ongoing uncertainty as to what is going on in Washington, now is the time to organize. Here are a few quick things to address toget started.

• Review your portfolio. With the return of volatility in equity prices and rising interest rates, it’s probably a good time to review your asset allocation. A simple way to re-balance your portfolio is to first set what percent of your portfolio should be in each asset class. Then when reviewing your portfolio, the sectors that have gone up will be over weighted and should be reduced, while the underperforming sectors will be under weighted and can be added to. If you follow this practice, it forces you to sell high, buy low and take the emotions out of investing. • Review Your Taxes and Cash Flow. New tax laws have ushered in much confusion. With a limitation of $10,000 for SALT deductions, (State and local tax), along with various other impactful changes, now is the time to review your 2018 taxes. Even though you may be in a lower tax bracket, you still could end up paying more tax due to the lower allowed deductions. Check your withholding tax to make sure you are not under or over paying your taxes during the year. Then look to see if you are fully funding your retirement plans and look for all possible deductions to minimize your income tax. When you file your 2017 taxes, make sure to do a projection for 2018 as well.

• Review Your Estate Planning. When was the last time you looked at your wills and other estate planning documents? Make sure all beneficiaries are in place in retirement accounts. Review to make sure you have named guardians for minor children. If you have avoided setting up your estate plans, now is the time to address this important issue. A simple review can help bring focus to your overall financial picture. A qualified Certified Financial Planner Professional can help ensure your financial affairs are consistent with your current and long-term goals and objectives. Get a strong start for 2018! Scott M. Kahan, is a Certified Financial Plan-ner® professional and President of Financial Asset Management Corporation, a fee-only wealth management firm located at 26 South Greeley Avenue in Chappaqua. Call Scott Kahan at 914-238-8900.

Getting a Strong Start

to 2018BY SCOTT M. KAHAN



BY SHAUNA LEVY

Upon entering ROCKS by Jolie B. Ray in Armonk on a late winter day, the snow is lightly falling outside, giving the shop the

appearance of a literal jewel box in a snow globe. The cozy, well curated space dazzles with eye candy from the glittering jewels in the shelves to the art on the walls. Tanya Tochner, the polished owner, greets customers as she artfully arranges jewelry in amethyst toned displays.

In a town that’s experiencing its own renais-sance of sorts, ROCKS is a mainstay, offering consistently on-trend, yet unique jewelry to a loyal customer base for almost seven years. For Tochner, who’s designed jewelry with partner Marjorie Troob for over ten years, opening the shop was a natural progression in providing a higher level of service to her clients. She recounts the shop’s inception, saying, “My design partner and I shared a passion for fine jewelry and left successful corporate careers to pursue our creative interests. Our line, Jolie B. Ray, named for our children, Joshua, Lindsay, Ben and Rachel, was born. Recognizable for its contemporary, timeless designs that incorporate hammered looks, intricate mixed metal work with 18k gold and beautiful gemstones, Jolie B. Ray quickly grew a cult-like following. ROCKS was the logical next step and is now the exclu-sive provider of our collections.”

ROCKS is renowned for its concierge style ap-proach and carrying uncommon, contemporary, artistic jewelry. Tochner painstakingly scouts couture shows around the country to handpick the designers that will be displayed alongside the Jolie B. Ray designs. Though there are some staples, approximately 20 new lines are added each season at all price points. “We seldom carry the same items twice and work with clients to carefully select just the right piece. If that perfect piece is not in the shop, we will source it and follow-up to ensure satisfaction,” she asserts.

As a jewelry designer, Tochner is adept at fore-casting the trends her discerning clientele will

ROCKSby Jolie B. Ray:A Unique Shopping Experience

crave. In 2018 she predicts, “Younger customers are becoming quite sophisticated, gravitating towards dainty rings and necklaces and little hoop earrings. Similarly, women are layering contemporary jewelry and long necklaces with their more traditional pieces.” Customization is also fashionable with women favoring a more modern take on name plates, while tweens and teens are incorporating monograms within their designs. “Women are now buying multi-func-tional jewelry,” Tochner adds, “We are veering away from pieces that are solely for special occasions.”

Seeing jewelry as an expression of art, the shop also functions as a gallery. Tochner uses the same discerning eye to select contemporary art-ists that are in synchrony with ROCKS aesthetic to grace the walls. “The high ceilings of the space simply lent themselves to functioning as a gallery. Jewelry is a form of wearable art and fol-lows similar sensibilities. Curating the gallery is a natural extension of our product offerings and appeal to our customers’ creative expressions.” It is this holistic approach to servicing the community that also extends to Tochner’s commitment to making the shop accessible for philanthropic endeavors. ROCKS regularly hosts events benefitting local organizations close to her clients’ hearts such as Kids Kloset, a Westchester Jewish Community Services program and the Pleasantville Cottage School, a residential treat-ment center for young people.

And that community is expanding. Tochner clarifies, “Armonk has become a destination

town, boasting many new shops and restaurants. We are enjoying traffic from our neighbors in Bedford, Katonah, Greenwich and Chappaqua.” With the advantages of its setting, also come the challenges of operating a business in a subur-ban environment. “Business in the suburbs is cyclical,” Tochner says. “Summers, when many children are away in camp, can be slow. Simi-larly, snow days are quiet. These are issues that NYC retailers don’t experience.”

To combat the challenges inherent in any retail business, Tochner is continuously evolving the shop’s business model. The website, for example, was recently revamped to optimize clients’ vir-tual shopping experience on those slow summer and snow days. In response to demand, Tochner also now provides liaison services to coordinate the sale of customers’ estate jewelry and is pro-viding jewelry rental for special occasions. These services join ROCKS’ existing menu of offerings including wish lists, heirloom jewelry redesign, repairs for both costume and fine jewelry and personal shopping.

Visit ROCKS by Jolie B. Ray to enjoy an unparalleled shopping experience. For the latest product offerings and jewelry trends, follow them on Instagram, Facebook or visit www.rocksbyjoliebray.com.

Shauna Levy is a writer, communications professional and stay-at-home mom. She is currently raising her three boys, ages 8, 6 and 4 alongside her husband in Chappaqua.

Tanya TochnerPHOTO BY CHELSEA COOK


BY JANIE ROSMAN

Experience gleaned as a teenager working in his father’s liquor store proved beneficial to when 25-year-old Dodd Farber opened Dodd’s

Wine Shop in the Millwood Shopping Center in the early 1970s.

Farber, a no-nonsense man who operates the busi-ness without a computer, grew up in Long Island and earned an MBA, then left Wall Street for the Westchester suburbs.

In the 1970s, he initially thought about opening a card store and contacted numerous shopping centers. However, he said, surrounded by ledgers and stacks of papers, “My father was in the liquor business, and as a teenager, I worked there and became familiar with it.”

Farber also knew how to develop and keep relationships with customers, who remain loyal to him. “Our business philosophy is to put personal-ization back into shopping,” he said. “We want to make this into a wine and liquor experience.”

His staff averages more than 25 years of em-ployment with him and knows customers’ likes and dislikes and guide them around the store of more than 1,500 kinds of wines from around the world. “We pride ourselves on great service, personal attention and a selection of more than 2,000, items all at great prices.”

Its diverse clientele ranges from people who enjoy a daily glass of wine to collectors who seek the rarest vintages. “We are here to advise our cus-tomers regardless of their preference,” he said.

Joe Cutaia has been working at Dodd’s more than 20 years. “It’s not about the bottles,” he explained. “It’s about our relationship with the customer. People come in and shake your hand, and you know them personally. We don’t want people to be anonymous.”

“Customers like to see faces that they know,” Farber said. “They become comfortable working with our staff and their recommendations. It’s a friendly business, and everybody knows every-body’s name, like in “Cheers.”

During our visit to the store, a man walked to-ward the back of the store and asked for employee Bobby Chipman. “Yes, I have it ready for you,” Chipman said, walking to greet him.

“We have a personal contact with our customers,” Cutaia emphasized. “We don’t just look at this as a retail store because we’re entrenched in the com-munity. People who used to live here and who pass through the area come by to say hello.”

Janie Rosman is a freelance writer and editor whose work appears in local and regional pub-lications. She chronicles the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project at Kaleidoscope Eyes.

Personal Attention, Knowledgeable Staff & Customer Loyalty atDodd’s Wine Shop

To Enhance your Celebration...With Passover beginning at sundown March 30 and Easter arriving April 1, Farber offered these wine suggestions to pair with any meal and delight your company. (Prices here are per bottle.)

Easter Wines:Reserve des Rochers Pouilly Fuisse 2015: Its delicious tart pear and honey essence flavors blend well with the round, broad style French Chardonnay, amazing price for White Burgundy. Rated 90 points by Wine Spectator. $14.99 Bastide Miraflors Rouge 2015: The Bastide Miraflors is a combination of Syrah and Grenache grapes. Its flavors of blackberry and black raspberries deliver a fruity wine with a rich and silky texture. Rated 94 points by The Wine Advocate. $12.99

Passover Wines:Golan Heights Winery Gilgal Cabernet Sauvignon 2012: This wine is grown in the cool climate region of the upper Galilee in Israel. With the combination of rocky soils and aging in French oak barrels, this cab-ernet shows its grace along with blackberry and dried fruit flavors tied together with the soft toast from the barrel. $17.99

Golan Heights Winery Gilgal Chardonnay 2015: This bright and crisp chardonnay flashes its delicious pear and apple spice fla-vors with just enough oak nuance to add a touch of body. It’s also grown in the Upper Galilee region of Israel. $17.99


Ready to help you: The Staff at Dodd’s PHOTO BY JANIE ROSMAN


BY ILANA SCHWARTZ

Walk down King Street in Chappaqua, NY and you’ll spot tons of local businesses. Be it a clothing store, nail salon or a jew-

elry store–they’re all over. Many of these busi-nesses have been around for decades and have well served the residents of the area. However, these businesses are not just good for selling products to locals, but many also grant signifi-cant support to various charities. Desires by Mi-kolay, one of the jewelers in town, is well known for its support of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals, or better known to many as the SPCA located in Briarcliff Manor.

Scott and Tara Mikolay, the powerhouse hus-band and wife team that owns Desires, became involved with the SPCA in 2008 because of their joint passion for animals. The couple has had six of their own rescue dogs over the years, ranging from an Australian Cattle Dog to an American Bulldog, so the idea of supporting a charity to raise awareness and support for rescue animals was a “natural fit,” according to Tara.

Tara and Scott care so deeply for the SPCA that they wanted to expand their contributions be-yond the personal level by getting their business involved. Since 2008, they have hosted Shop for a Cause, a charity shopping event where they donate 10% of the night’s proceeds to the SPCA. This year, Desires had record success, raising over $4,000 over the course of the eve-ning. The night was so successful because of the staff ’s dedication to the cause, as well as the love and support brought in by each client.

In total, Desires has raised more than $45,000 for the organization through the annual holiday event as well as by offering “Gifts with Impact” throughout each year. Tara explained that it is incredibly useful to have “a platform in one of the most generous towns in the country.”

Local JewelerSupportsthe SPCA ofWestchester


Although shopping for jewelry is one great way to help the SPCA, there are many other ways to get involved. The SPCA is always in need of committed volunteers and they have an Ama-zon wish list with products they need for the shelters. Even something as simple as liking the SPCA on Facebook can make a difference and according to Tara, “your impact, however big or small, is so meaningful.”

Tara explained that the SPCA is more than just a rescue organization. Their programs range from taking tireless care of each dog they take in to working to change animal abuse laws and education.

Tara and Scott’s connection to the SPCA runs deep. “Rescuing dogs for us is the only option. There are so many dogs in need and we have been blessed with the love of all of our dogs,” Tara said. The couple is even on the lookout for a companion for their current dog, Gus, and they will certainly be looking to rescue. With more than 1,300 orphaned animals rescued at the SPCA last year alone chances are Gus may just find a “furry friend” there.

Ilana Schwartz graduated from Hamilton College in May 2017 and is pursuing her dream of becoming a journalist. Besides writ-ing for The Inside Press, Ilana works at ABC News, enjoys reading mystery novels and loves spending time with friends and family.

Mini, a beloved pug rescued by the Miko-lays. She passed away this year at 16 years.

Scott and his American Bulldog rescue

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MIKOLAYS


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21 Years Serving the Community

Parking in rear407 Main St. Armonk, NY

914-273-2766

La MerGourmet Seafood

Passover in Armonk!

407 Main Street, Armonk, NY

914-273-1766

Everything Homemade!! Among our well recognized dishes are our Chicken Matzo Ball Soup, Light & Sweet Gefilte Fish, Kugels, Kasha Varnishka,and the Best Hand Grated Latkes!

La Mer has been providing traditional homemade holiday specialties with29 years of expert personal service.

Full menu available on our website

lamerseafood.netLow sodium and Gluten free options

Parking in rear. Credit cards accepted. Open seven days a week.


STACEY SPORNLicensed Associate Real Estate Broker 914.772.2331 | [email protected] Main Street, Armonk, NY 10504

Born and raised in Armonk

-- uniquely poised to market and sel l

your home and our town to the

discerning buyer.

~Stacey Sporn

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS

LOCAL ROOTS. GLOBAL REACH.

CONSISTENTLY RANKED AS A TOP PRODUCER AT WILLIAM RAVEIS

BY AMY KELLEY

They’re ubiquitous–the chain stores that make a business of selling coffee.

Yet in our area, independent coffee shops are outright thriving–and Chappaqua and Armonk both boast several different places to get the beverage by patronizing home-town businesses.

On a recent weekday afternoon, Tazza Cafe in Millwood was a hub of activity. Tables were full of chatting pairs, groups of young women were ordering food, and several employees were busy behind the counter.

James Monica, owner of Tazza Cafe in Armonk, Millwood, Katonah and Ridgefield, credits much of his shops’ success to employees like these. “Really a big part of it is the people who work here,” Monica said. He’s been able to retain many workers and he says that makes a big difference. Longtime employees are “able to provide the personal touch and connect with the customer a little bit more.”

Julie Dickens, owner of Beascakes Bakery and Breads in the Armonk Town Center, has similarly attentive employees. “We have regulars and we have their coffee ready at the cash register as they get out of their cars,” she said. At Beascakes, they sell Lavazza, an Italian coffee.

At Chappaqua Station, 1 Station Plaza, where coffee’s served starting at 4:30 a.m. during the week, better, faster service help them maintain a devoted and large customer base, even though the business is quite close to two large chain purveyors of coffee, manager Erik Gonzaga said. “We do have two big competitors here in town but our business keeps picking up,”

Local Joe:Many Area Residents Prefer

Independent PurveyorsGonzaga said. The coffee is La Colombe, a premium brand from Philadelphia and hun-dreds of customers are served each day.

During the morning rush, there are usually no less than four employees working hard to ensure quick service: one at the register, one making specialty coffees, one filling and restocking and one handling pastry and other food orders, Gonzaga said, “We have our regular customers and once they come through the door it’s ready waiting on the countertop,” Gonzaga said.

Employees build relationships with custom-ers but that community feel is, of course, accompanied by a serious focus on the coffee itself. “From the beginning we took the coffee very very seriously–from the way we grind it–and the amount we use is prob-ably a bit more than typical,” Monica said. Purveyors like Monica can’t have the econ-omy of scale the nationally-known shops do, yet they inspire loyalty and according to owners and managers, business just keeps on growing.

At Armonk’s Market North, at 387 Main Street, “all of our coffee is from artisanal roasters,” Stephen Mancini, one of the owners, said recently. Mancini and others, such as a chef and manager, regularly taste new coffees in blind taste tests called ‘cuppings’ and currently use beans roasted from Port Chester (Path Coffee Roasters) to Maine. “We try to find small-batch and responsibly-sourced,” Mancini said. Per-haps that’s why at Market North, custom-ers often express praise for the coffee and types of coffee available. “When we change coffees or try different roasters there’s ex-citement about that,” Mancini said.

The appreciation of Mancini’s customer base is no anomaly. According to the Na-tional Coffee Association, an industry trade group, 59% “of coffee cups consumed

daily are classified as gourmet,” and “out-of-home coffee consumption reached a high of 46% in 2017.” That’s a lot of coffee purchased in shops, and more and more, it’s very good coffee.

Tazza’s customers can tell the difference, Monica said. “A lot of them would say they would never go to a chain store because the coffee is so much better here.”

Local coffee spots also focus on the quality of other ingredients. “In order to make a really great latte you have to start with the milk. Seventy percent is the milk,” Mancini said, “All of our milks are Hudson Valley milks.” Cashew and almond milks are made in house. Perhaps that’s why one Armonk-based customer wrote on Yelp that Market North has “the best latte in Westchester.”

At Beascakes, details are also attended to. “We’re known for our iced coffee because we make our own coffee iced cubes so we have a real following,” Dickens said. Customers avail themselves of fresh cake doughnuts, scones or pastries or on Sundays, Boston cream or jelly doughnuts. “You know, you got to have coffee with your doughnut, right?” Dickens said.

And these days, more people prefer to shop locally. “People appreciate having mom-and-pop places to go,” Dickens said. “We know when a baby’s due, we know when a first birthday is, we follow the families.”

“From the very beginning I definitely tried to focus on and put an emphasis on the quality of whatever we serve–sandwiches, baked goods and coffee,” Monica said. “The people have been very responsive, and I never take it for granted.”

Amy Kelley is a freelance writer and editor living in Mount Kisco.

etcetera

STACEY SPORNLicensed Associate Real Estate Broker 914.772.2331 | [email protected] Main Street, Armonk, NY 10504

Born and raised in Armonk

-- uniquely poised to market and sel l

your home and our town to the

discerning buyer.

~Stacey Sporn

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS

LOCAL ROOTS. GLOBAL REACH.

CONSISTENTLY RANKED AS A TOP PRODUCER AT WILLIAM RAVEIS

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