Download the December 2010 issue (PDF) - Inside Chappaqua

Winter 2010/2011 

BALance 

How Bal Agrawal 

Achieves it With Style 

Computer Wizards at the 

Chappaqua Library 

Chappaqua Singers 

Bring Holiday Cheer 

Are You Single? 

• Groups that Care 

• Empty Nest Syndrome 

Coping Strategies 

• Deborah Nelson’s Solo Eating Tips 

Great Deals for the Holidays! 

See Valuable 

“Gifts we Treasure” Coupons Inside! 

$3.95 

Winter 2010/2011 Inside Chappaqua 1

Elegance II By Babette 

in Chappaqua 

Celebrating 

12 Years! 

High End Consignment 

The Largest Selection 

of Handbags 

We Carry Chanel , Hermes, 

Vitton, Bottega, Gucci, 

Prada, Etc. 

Elegance II is by all means elegance. 

From Paris to Chappaqua, 

You will travel the world. 

Bring your pearls! 

Owner Babette has almost nothing to learn 

about Haute Couture 

But will bring it to your future. 

The standards have escalated, 

As the New York Times have rated! 

The Boutique is on Fire! 

Say the buyers! 

You admire Coco, 

Let’s go loco! 

The best selection of handbags— 

You will have your must-haves. 

Chanel is at the top, 

Come here to shop. 

The Boutique is offering your wildest dreams, 

And with our team 

Let’s have fun, 

With your hubby’s funds! 

75 S. Greeley Avenue • Chappaqua, NY 

(914) 238-3341 

www.elegance2.com 

Tues-Sat 11am-4pm 


ON THE COVER 

Bal Agrawal at Home 

in Chappaqua 

Photo by 

Marianne Campolongo 

Mariannecampolongophotography.com 

4 Just Between Us 

Gift of Life 

In and Around Town 

8 Computer Coaches 

Greeley students Aaron Gold and Michael 

Martinez share their tech know how in free 

workshops at the Chappaqua Library. 

10 Dance and Be Fit 

Rich Monetti paid a visit to Dance Emotions and 

discovered a great alternative in town for getting 

into shape and having fun. 

12 Tackling Food Allergies 

Five Chappaqua families formed “Chappakids4acure” 

and participated in Westchester’s first annual walk for 

the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. 

By Pamela Brown 

14 Helping your Child 

Find his Inner Athlete 

Kombine trainers outline steps that help transform 

your sports–challenged child into a competitor. 

By Rich Monetti 

16 Tour de Pink! 

A nine year survivor of breast cancer, Dr. Corinne 

Menn decided it was time to give back to the Young 

Survival Coalition, an organization dedicated to the 

needs of women under 40 diagnosed with breast 

cancer. By Michael Kohn Plus: A Holiday Boutique 

sponsored by Houlihan Lawrence. 

32 Bonjour Babette! 

Meet Chappaqua’s bubbly and delightful proprietor 

of (deeply discounted!) high end designer wear and 

accessories. By Sarah Ellen Berman 

34 Catching Up with Leslie Lampert. 

There’s never any stopping this dynamic restaurant 

owner whose latest venture is at the Tavern on the 

Green. By Michall Jeffers 

17 Worth a Thousand Words 

Nature’s Wonders and more on exhibit at Le Jardin 

du Roi. by Joanna Cirasella 


18 Nourishment for Solo Souls... 

or for Anyone! 

Deborah Nelson, a certified holistic health counselor, 

writes how eating the right food is good for you– 

body and soul. Put down that candy bar and try 

Deborah’s Spicy Mexican Tortilla Soup. 

20 Refeathering the Empty Nest 

By Susan Piperato 

29 Sweet Ways to Meet 

Mike Lauterborn takes you on a virtual tour of some 

websites devoted to singles who are looking for 

more than just a dating site. 

36 Gotta Have Arts 

Where the Chappaqua Singers plan to bring 

holiday cheer this year. By Michael Kohn 

40 Special Events/Happenings 

Greeley House Open House, Juvenile Diabetes 

Foundation fundraiser, and HHREC benefit. 

44 Maggie Mae Pup Reporter 

Skip the kennel. Your pet can make a great travel 

companion. For out of town visitors, Maggie Mae 

found the perfect place to unwind. 

By Maggie Mae with Ronni Diamondstein 

46 Rick’s Last Licks 

The Better Half 

by Rick Reynolds 

47 Advertisers at a Glance 

Winter 2010/2011 Inside Chappaqua 2 Winter 2010/2011 Inside Chappaqua 3 

18 

8 

16 

10 

insidechappaqua.com 

FEATURES 

22 Special Holiday We Asked Our Advertisers “Gifts We Treasure!” 

Think local again this year for great value, good deeds and gorgeous gift items. 

Sarah Ellen Berman was definitely the face of IC this issue meeting with over 25 

merchants–gathering terrific gift giving suggestions and ideas. 

And Don’t Forget to Clip: Valuable Coupons on pages 23, 25 and 27 from 

many of the sponsors! 

38 A Good Chap: Bal Agrawal 

Get to know this ubiquitous fellow and business owner around town… and his all 

important formula for getting everything done–while also saving time for you. 

By Jean Sheff 

42 Preventing Eating Disorders 

Signs, risk factors and prevention. A public service message by 

Chappaqua’s Rachel Levy Lombara, Ph.D. 

DEPARTMENTS 

Become a fan of 

Inside Chappaqua on

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Member of the 

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Happy Holidays! Enjoy Surprise Savings 

for the month of December at ICD. 

Holiday Trunk Shows: 

Alex Sepkus: November 26th & 27th 

Penny Preville: December 18th 


Open Sundays

Gosh, this issue has been fun. But before I 

say a thing…get out your scissors! ‘Cause 

this is a first for this magazine. Go right 

to pages 23, 25 and 27 and clip a valuable 

coupon or coupons that appeal to you! 

Even if you decide not to use the coupon, 

remind the merchant that you saw it and 

considered it in Inside Chappaqua! From 

the bottom of my heart, thank you! And 

Happy Holidays! 

Now, a word about Bal Agrawal and “BALance”… 

I figured a story about a highly 

successful and colorful Chappaqua resident 

and businessman who seems to float so effortlessly 

between spiritual and commercial worlds would strike 

a nice balance in this “gifts we treasure” edition. Bal 

speaks eloquently in Jean Sheff’s interview about the 

importance of incorporating peace and tranquility in 

our busy lives and seems to have genuinely mastered 

the art of doing so! Hats off to you, Bal, for being such 

a great sport in striking that nifty yoga pose–and to his 

staff too for indulging IC’s quest for a decidedly different 

kind of Holiday cover. Thank you, Marianne Campolongo, 

for a great shoot. 

To further “balance” this issue, I included Michael 

Kohn’s Gotta Have Arts story about the sweet and 

talented Chappaqua Singers, Michall Jeffers’ tale about 

two Greeley kids who coach folks on computer and 

internet literacy in free workshops at the Chappaqua 

Library, and serene, nature images by Joanna Cirasella 

in Worth a Thousand Words. Included too: An Are You 

Credits 

Many thanks to the following sponsors for their 

gracious support of the new picture on this page. 

Here’s the skinny: 

• Magaschoni Cashmere Sweater from Family Britches 

• Marco Bicego Designs from ICD Contemporary Jewelry 

• Hair by Station Place and Nails (Pleasantville) 

• Makeup by Cosmetic Boutique 

And Photo by Alex Fedorov, www.fedorovfoto.com 

Letter to the Editor 

I really enjoyed (& related to) Kris Ruby’s article in September 

on how social media is helping to jump-start new businesses. 

I started my business last year introducing Arbonne to the 

community at large and one of the first things I did was set 

up a Twitter account. I’ve also found Facebook to be a great 

resource for personal branding by helping to build buzz about 

my products as well as the business opportunity associated 

with them for people looking to create an additional residual 

stream of income. 

Jill Kay, Chappaqua 

J U S T B E T W E E N U S 

Gift of Life 

Single? package! Michael Lauterborn reports 

on popular groups for singles; Deborah 

Nelson offers tips for healthy cooking 

and a soothing Winter soup recipe; and 

Susan Piperato writes about “empty nest 

syndrome” from the perspective of a single 

mom. As many of you may remember, 

I launched Single&smart magazine in the 

summer so those were articles slated for a 

second print edition. I’m proud to publish 

them in IC for now. 

A final note: Don’t miss the stories and 

spotlights about fundraisers around town 

on behalf of hugely important causes such as battling 

breast cancer, food allergies and juvenile diabetes. 

There’s also an article and public service message all 

about eating disorders by Chappaqua’s Dr. Rachel Levy 

Lombara that I’m proud to co-sponsor. 

The gift of life is the ultimate one, of course. Very 

recently, I met a wonderful woman in town, who is 

from out of town. She has a great sense of humor, a 

shimmering light, but she has been, sadly, struggling 

with cancer and receiving treatments nearby. I am very 

grateful for her presence in my life–and not just for 

proper perspective. Making an unexpected new friend 

at my age is a precious gift too. 

P.S.: I’m convinced no one appreciates life more than 

my Dad. He recently published a book called MIRF, 

and is one of this issue’s many wonderful sponsors. 

Thank you, Dad. 

www.insidechappaqua.com 


Volume 8, Number 2 

Publisher and Editor 

Grace Bennett 

Associate to the Publisher 

Design 

Carine Feist 

Dina Spalvieri 

Contributors 

Daniel Baitch, Sarah Ellen Berman, Pamela Brown, 

Marianne Campolongo, Joanna Cirasella, Ronni Diamondstein 

Michall Jeffers, Michael Kohn, Mike Lauterborn 

Rich Monetti, Deborah Nelson, Susan Piperato 

Rick Reynolds, Jean Sheff 

Web Consultant General Counsel 

Palmer Louise Brian Hand 

Inside Chappaqua is published 6 times a year, and is owned 

and operated by The Inside Press, Inc. 

Mailing address: PO Box 643, Millwood, NY 10546. 

Phone Number: 914-238-2600. Copyright © 2010. 

All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. Reproduction of any 

portion is prohibited without permission from the publisher. 

Inside Chappaqua may not necessarily agree with any one editorial viewpoint or necessarily 

endorse a particular product or service advertised. Editorial submissions should be mailed to 

the above address (please enclose an SASE) or sent to editor@insidechappaqua.com. 

For more information, rates and advertising calendar, go to www.insidechappaqua.com. 

Party! 

By Monique 

Event and Party Planning 

From the Heart 

Making Each and Every Moment of Your 

Celebration a Truly Special Experience 

Monique Ross Banks 

914-714-2527 

moniquesparty@gmail.com 

Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Cocktail & Dinner Parties 

Birthdays • Weddings • Corporate Events 

Winter 2010/2011 Inside Chappaqua 6 Winter 2010/2011 Inside Chappaqua 7

HoulihanLawrence.com 

Computer Wizards! 

By Michall Jeffers 

Both Michael Martinez and Aaron 

Gold have lived in Chappaqua 

nearly their whole lives. They’ve 

taken advantage of our wonderful 

school system, and benefitted 

from our excellent library. Now, 

both of these extraordinary young 

men have chosen to give back to 

the community. 

They’re the tutors this year for the 

library’s free Individual Internet 

and Computer Help program, and 

boy, are they terrific. 

I’m a smart person who’s feeble 

minded when it comes to computers. 

Working with Michael, a 17 

year old Senior at Greeley, has 

ACADEMIC 

TUTORING 

helped me to learn how to 

operate a laptop, and to 

navigate Windows 7. I’d 

heard, before we had our 

first session, that he was 

an extremely intelligent 

individual; but ever since, 

I’ve been knocked out by 

his patience and his intuitive 

knowledge of what I 

need to understand. 

• MATHEMATICS • CHEMISTRY • PHYSICS 

Grades 6 to 12 

SAT/PSAT/ACT Prep 

Multi Subject Sessions 

Extensive Glowing References 

“Everyone has a different 

learning process,” 

Martinez explains. “This 

is very interactive. I like 

having the chance to help people. 

It’s rare that students our age get 

a chance to teach; it’s great to be 

able to pass on 

to others what 

we know. 

The people 

taking the 

lessons know 

so much more 

about most 

things than we 

do! Aaron and 

I have been 

exposed to 

computers since 

first grade, so 

we’ve had years 

of experience. 

The skills come 

with time,” he 

assures me. 

Photo by Paul Keck 

Aaron Gold and Michael Martinez tutor at the library. 

Gold,16, and Visit or call the Chappaqua Library, 

a Junior, is 238-4779, ext.2, 

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rything will be computerized. I’m 

not great in math, so I can relate 

to people who are struggling to 

learn. I really enjoy getting to see 

people open up as they 

begin to comprehend. They 

teach us, too.” 

Both young men agree that it’s 

good for their students to bring 

in specific questions to their 45 

minute sessions. Both understand 

the value of good communication. 

They are serious, sensitive to the 

needs of others, and very hard 

working. And they’re enthusiastic 

about what they teach. 

“Try something new,” proclaims 

Gold. “Computers are cool!” 

Martinez nods in agreement, then 

smilingly greets his next student, 

ready for the work to begin. 

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We welcome designer 

Alex Sepkus to ICD! 

No doubt, 

many of you 

will once again 

resolve this 

January 1st to 

become more 

active and get 

into shape. 

Dance and Be Fit! 

As a fun alternative, 

consider 

taking some 

classes with 

Carol Mamara 

of Dance Emotions 

in Chappaqua. Not only will 

you elevate your heart rate, but according 

to Mamara, a dance class 

is an entertaining option which 

can hold your interest and keep 

you focused on a fitness regimen 

“whether you think you can dance 

or not.” 

Offering adult dance classes at 

75 South Greeley Avenue, Dance 

Emotions transforms the quest for 

physical fitness into an enjoyable 

activity which will bring you back 

for more. With “Jazz up the Bar”, 

“Fun with Tap” or Ballroom Dancing, 

Mamara maintains that you 

will develop an interest in making 

progress because you are doing 

something that is beautiful. 

Letting loose on the dance floor 

with Zumba not only burns the 

fun into your feet but burns calories 

as well. That sensation definitely 

doesn’t have to stop at Mamara’s 

front door. Now, when you 

go out to dance, your improved 

moves and greater self-confidence 

will make you into a better dance 

partner, she says. You will show off 

a new found poise when you enter 

a room. It may even translate into 

increased popularity! 


Dance Emotions in Chappaqua is not just for children. 

They also cater to adults who dance for exercise, fun and 

the pure joy of it. It’s part of a large trend of women turning 

to dance for health benefits. Everyone can benefit from 

dance–regardless of age, weight, or fitness level. 

not become a dance superstar, 

making progress and acquiring 

poise is great for you–body and 

soul. If you are a self-conscious 

beginner and even have anxiety 

about learning in a studio setting, 

find a strategy which makes you 

feel the most relaxed. Come in 

individually, with a partner or a 

small group of friends, she says, 

make yourself comfortable and let 

your feet loose. 

Whether you choose to come in by 

yourself or with others, seasoned 

professionals will focus on each 

pair of feet and help you dismiss 

your remaining inhibitions. “You’ll 

just feel comfortable,” Mamara 

says. Now, there’s no longer an 

excuse to only sit and “dance with 

the stars.” 

Whatever your motive, the Dance 

Emotions Studio provides classes 

for the recreational dancer and even 

those interested in pursuing dance 

professionally. 

Everyone receives individual attention 

to make them feel like part of the 

family. The goal is always to make the 

experience happy and rewarding. 

Rich Monetti lives in Somers and is 

known to dance if the circumstances 

call for it. You can find more of his 

work at www.richmonetti.com 

Even if you think you were born 

with two left feet, “you can learn,” 

Mamara says. Although you may 


First Annual Walk Sheds Light on Food Allergy 

Approximately 12 million Americans 

suffer from food allergy, a 

potentially life-threatening medical 

condition, and five Chappaqua 

families have embarked on a 

mission to educate and enlighten 

the public. “People might not realize 

having a food allergy means 

someone can die if they eat one of 

the allergens and aren’t treated in 

time,” said Stacey Saiontz, whose 

son, Jared, 3, suffers from food 

allergies to dairy, egg, wheat, and 

several other foods. “Fortunately, 

few people ever witness the severity 

of a food allergic reaction and 

often we don’t know how any 

given person will react to foods 

they’re allergic to. The result is 

few people understand how much 

is at stake for the kids who are 

Ivana Denniston Aesthetics 

400 King Street 

Suite 4 

Chappaqua, NY 10514 

By Pamela Brown 

A Chappaqua family attending the 

FANN Walk in October 

food allergic. My hope is one day 

Jared won’t have to worry about 

what he puts 

in his mouth 

and can eat and 

touch anything 

he wants,” said 

Saiontz. 

raise awareness. It was amazing! 

200 friends and family members 

from Chappaqua came out to support 

Jared, Ryder Stein, Spencer 

Brown, Zach Paley, and Jordana 

and Kayla Singer. It was such a 

special team because it was all our 

food allergic children’s friends 

who support them on a day-today 

basis,” said Saiontz. Chappakids4acure 

had the largest team, 

raising $24,000 for FAAN, a nonprofit 

organization that raises 

public awareness through education, 

advocacy, and research. “It 

was a great opportunity for us to 

join together for a special day for 

our kids and raise much-needed 

funds to find a cure for these 

life-threatening allergies.” 

As a result, three Chappaqua 

elementary schools and parents 

of food allergic children have 

formed a food allergy support 

group. “From the principal and 

working it’s way down, everyone 

is aware of our son Ryder and his 

needs and is beyond committed 

to assuring his safety while at 

school,” said Julie Stein. “Children 

are our future and their sense of 

togetherness, tolerance for difference, 

protecting each other–that’s 

something we all should learn 

from.” 

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Finding Your Kid’s Inner Athlete 

On every playground, soccer field 

or baseball diamond, we see children 

who lag well behind in the 

key physical skills required to become 

a good athlete. Derek Jeter 

was probably never one of those 

kids, but the distinct skills which 

separate him from his peers, are 

part of several building blocks 

that a proper sports trainer can 

utilize to assist children compete 

on the playground. 

In alluding to the all-star shortstop’s 

sport’s IQ, Nick Serio of 

Kombine Sports in Mt. Kisco says, 

“Derek Jeter is in the right place at 

the right time–all the time." 

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the right spot for a game-saving 

backup, confidence rises and the 

rest of her game progresses. 

According to Serio, whereas ongoing 

conversations about game situations 

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Encompassed within all these 

x-factors, a trainer should also be 

attentive to improving coordination, 

which to some may seem like 

an impediment which cannot be 

overcome. “There’s no such thing 

as a kid who cannot be an athlete,” 

Serio says. 

Proprioception, which gives 

a sense of relative position of 

neighboring body parts, is a key 

component to coordination and 

can be improved through balance 

and stability work. In turn, as the 

physical hurdles fall, a trainer can 

bring hand-eye coordination and 

other factors to align into one 

working system. 

Still, finding a sport that best 

suits the abilities of a particular 

child can take time–especially if it 

is one not within the confines of 

“traditional” games. “Allow them 

to explore other sports,” he says, 

“and once they become comfortable 

with something,” he adds, 

“encourage them through and 

through.” 

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Inside 

Todayʼs 

Date 

Phone 914.238.2600 Fax 914.238-2611 

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Tour de Pink: 

Riding to fight Breast Cancer 

By Michael Kohn 

W O R T H A T H O U S A N D W O R D S 

Through Joanna’s Lens 

When I was first approached 

to write a story about the 

Young Survival Coalition’s 

(YSC) Tour de Pink, a bike 

ride organized to raise money 

for breast cancer research 

and awareness, I wondered 

why the publisher would ask 

a man to cover a women’s issue. 

Soon after receiving the 

assignment, I learned that 

a former colleague and dear 

friend, who had moved 

away, lost her own battle 

with breast cancer. The news 

brought home the harsh 

reality that breast cancer is not 

just a women’s issue, but one 

which affects everyone. 

YSC was founded in 1998 by three 

young breast cancer survivors 

who made it their mission to raise 

awareness and provide support, 

education and advocacy services 

for women diagnosed with breast 

cancer under the age of 40. All 

three were discouraged by the 

lack of information and resources 

available to young women for a 

disease which was traditionally 

thought to strike older women. 

YSC, now an international organization 

and based in New York 

City with 27 affiliates throughout 

the United States, has filled that 

gap. The unique issues for young 

women include the side effects of 

chemo such as hair loss, fertility 

loss, body image after mastectomy, 

early menopause, career 

issues and dating issues. 

Corinne Menn, M.D., of Chappaqua, 

was in the second year of 

her obstetrics and gynecology 

residency when she was diagnosed 

Catherine Good (left) and Corrine Menn at the Tour de Pink this fall. 

with Stage 2 breast cancer at the 

age of 29. Devastated, newly married 

and hoping to start a family, 

Corinne felt fortunate to quickly 

find YSC, which was dedicated 

to addressing the needs of the 

younger breast cancer patient. 

According to Corinne, “YSC 

provided the lifeline I needed,” by 

providing her with support from 

other young women who were in 

treatment or had survived breast 

cancer and were able to move on 

with their lives. 

After multiple surgeries and 

chemotherapy, she is now a 

nine year survivor and has 

a family and an OB/GYN 

practice. This year, she felt it 

was time to give back to YSC. 

Along with her friend and fellow 

Chappaqua mom, Catherine 

Good, she decided to 

participate in the YSC Tour de 

Pink, a four day, 230 mile bike 

ride to raise money for YSC. 

The ride, with nearly 200 

riders, started in Hershey, 

Pennsylvania, and ended on 

October 4th with a celebratory 

ride in Manhattan ending at 

Fox News “Fox and Friends,” 

which featured them on their 

broadcast. As part of her 

Pink Panther Team, Corinne 

and Catherine raised close 

to $10,000.00. Corinne dedicated 

her ride to her friend, 

Nicole Lemieux, whom she 

met at YSC but who lost 

her own battle with breast 

cancer just shy of her 36th 

birthday. 

As for the Tour de Pink, 

Corinne said, “We loved 

every minute of the ride 

and will definitely be back next 

year. It was a life affirming experience 

for me.” For more information 

about YSC, visit: www. 

youngsurvival.org. 

By the way, my friend’s name was 

Lynn. She was 45. She left behind 

a husband and two children. 

Michael Kohn is a contributing editor 

and writer to Inside Chappaqua. 

Houlihan Lawrence Hosts 

“Our Boutique for a Cause” 

Houlihan Lawrence raised over $5,500 thanks 

to the efforts of the Chappaqua Brokerage, our 

local businesses who donated gift certificates and 

prizes for raffles, and community members who 

came out to support this fabulous event. In town 

that day, there were pink balloons everywhere 

you looked! 

Joanna Cirasella’s photographs are on display at Le Jardin du Roi on 

King Street through the winter. States Joanna, who is also a nurse 

and massage therapist at the Chappaqua Wellness Center: “Just as my 

hands are my instrument of touch in my daily work, my camera–and 

deep passion for photography–is an extension of that touch, opening me 

up to the wonders of the world.” 

You and Improved! 

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It’s the perfect time of year to give yourself and your 

skin a treat. Your best look starts with great skin. 

Fraxel® new dual laser treatment addresses summer’s 

toll on skin – brown spots, uneven skin tone and fine 

lines – all at the same time. 

When life changes your skin, Fraxel can help. Call us today! 

Now available exclusively in the Chappaqua area 

dual treatment is now exclusively available in the Chappaqua area: 

Lydia Evans, M.D. & Alyson Levine, M.D. 

Board Certified Dermatologists 

129 King Street, Chappaqua 

By appointment only: 914-238-1500 

Insurance does not cover aesthetic procedures. 

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*Insurance does not cover aesthetic procedures and products. 

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Yes, Food Impacts Your Mood! 

So often we 

succumb to our 

cravings. We 

have a bad day, 

feel lonely, sad or 

mad, or a combination 

of all. 

One common solution is to “treat” 

ourselves to “comfort” food, such 

as cookies, ice cream or fast food. 

Most of the time, however, that 

comfort is short-lived, but we 

have succeeded in putting junk 

into our bodies. Then, we feel even 

worse, beating ourselves up with 

guilt for not sticking to a more 

healthy diet. It is an awful cycle– 

does it sound familiar? 

Food can be a real tool to help 

manage how we feel. Proper nutrients 

are absolutely needed to fuel 

our bodies, but healthy foods can 

actually pick you up and make you 

New Winter Menu 


Featuring Grilled Pizza, 

Spaghetti with Meatballs & More 

Serving our Bistro menu all day 

Sunday - Thursday 

Thin-Crust Pizzas, Panninis and Burgers 

Now Offering 

LUNEDI E PER LE DONNE 

Any Martini $5 for Ladies 

No Corkage Fee Sun, Mon, Tues 

Lunch: Monday – Saturday 11:30 to 2:30 

Dinner: Monday – Thursday 5:00 to 10:00 

Friday & Saturday 5:00 to 11:00 

Sunday 12:30 - 9:00 

76 King Street • Chappaqua, NY 10514 

914-238-5950 

grappololocanda.com 

By Deborah Nelson 

feel better. Once you recognize 

this additional benefit, it becomes 

easier to not allow an upsetting 

event ruin your entire day and/or 

night. Knowing that the highs and 

lows of junk food can make you 

feel worse is the first step in limiting 

their role in your diet. 

Being single is definitely one 

factor which tests us nutritionally. 

Often, it feels like it is hardly 

worth “cooking for one.” However, 

it is extremely important to fuel 

your body properly, especially as 

a single person who wants to feel 

and look their best! 

Remember, what you eat goes 

into your body and then is carried 

around your system to feed every 

single cell in you. And food feeds 

your emotions too. Did you know 

that? It also impacts your sex 

drive! 

Sugar and fast 

food cause 

havoc inside us 

and can make 

you miserable 

as your blood 

sugar rises and 

falls. Worse, 

your bodies are 

trained over 

time to expect 

more “easy to 

metabolize” 

junk calories, 

and when you 

do not get 

them, the cravings 

for them 

can be maddening. 

I could go on 

and on about 

this topic, but 

for today, let’s 

start you on a 

healthy path 

with an easy 

and wonderful 

soup recipe 

that can be 

made as spicy or mild as you like 

and which adds a powerful nutritional 

punch. Enjoy! 

Spicy Mexican Tortilla Soup 

(serves 4-6) 

Ingredients: 

1 onion, sliced 

3 cloves garlic, sliced 

32 oz veggie broth 

1 can chopped tomatoes or salsa 

(I use medium heat salsa) 

1 can black beans 

8 oz frozen corn 

juice of 3 limes 

1/2 avocado 

1/2 small bunch of cilantro 

1 tablespoon of chipotle sauce 

(not required if you use salsa) 

1/4 cup of shredded 

Mexican cheese 

handful of tortilla chips 

Directions: 

Sauté onion and garlic until 

lightly brown. 

Add broth, tomatoes, black beans 

and cook until warmed through 

about 8 minutes. 

Add frozen corn, lime juice and 

chipotle and cook for a few 

more minutes. 

Add cilantro and avocado and 

cook until the avocado is warm. 

Spoon into bowls and add a few 

tortilla chips into the bowl 

before serving. 

Deborah Nelson, who lived in 

Chappaqua for several years, is the 

author of the “From Rainy Days to 

Sexy Nights Cookbook.” A certified 

Holistic Health Counselor, Deborah 

has counseled thousands of women 

and men on how to make significant 

changes in their lives. Visit 

www.saucywellness.com and get 

your free report, “From Sugar to 

Sex–10 simple, saucy secrets that 

will transform your life now!” 

Holiday Wine Tastings 

Saturdays: Dec. 4, Dec. 11 

and Dec. 18, 2-6pm 

Featuring Great Gifts and Wines 

for all Your Celebrations! 


I’ve been a full-time single parent 

for 13 years, so I’ve never take 

time away from my two beloved 

sons for granted. When I dropped 

off my younger son, 17, at Newark 

Airport to visit his older brother 

in Chicago last summer, I drove 

home happy to have two weeks 

alone. But when I got back, something 

seemed amiss. Maybe it was 

the lone sneaker standing in the 

entryway, or the Frisbee on the 

antique chest in the living room. 

Whatever the reason, I suddenly 

felt as empty as my house. 

Instead of watching a movie as 

planned, I spent the evening sitting 

on the couch, pondering how 

my life will change next year when 

my younger son leaves for college. 

I’d been secretly dreading this 

since his older brother, now 20, 

left two years ago; now I realized 

there was only one year left until 

my nest fully emptied–and when 

it did, unless I made changes, my 

life could remain as stagnant as it 

suddenly looked from the couch. 

So I did what I do in any crisis: 

lots of research. 


Refeathering the Empty Nest 

By Susan Piperato 

thought if we just got together 

for an hour or so, I wouldn’t get 

in her way. What was I thinking?” 

Kids leaving home can be as 

mind-blowing as their arrival, 

says Tina B. Tessina, Southern 

California psychotherapist and 

blogger “Dr. Romance”–“the 

reverse of ‘baby shock’–the reaction 

that happens when a baby 

changes your life overnight.” 

Recognizing that when your kids 

are gone, you’re on your own is 

sound thinking, says Ed Moran, 

licensed clinical social worker 

at Family Centers in Fairfield 

County, Connecticut. “I don’t 

think single parents are more 

susceptible to experiencing it, but 

I think perhaps the way it can be 

experienced is different for single 

parents,” he says. “Although fathers 

can go through it, it’s traditionally 

the mother we associate with the 

empty nest–and a woman who’s 

been a mother and a wife has 

somebody right there to lean on 

and help them through it. But for 

single parents, it can be extremely 

devastating. “ 

A full nest during one holiday season...the author 

and her two sons. 

The empty nest is “part of the 

While some experts advise embarking 

on extreme makeovers 

natural progression of growth 

and development in children and Mt. Kisco family therapist Sharon immediately upon a child’s departure–including 

redecorating, 

families,” says Healthy Workplaces, 

LLC founder Mallary Tytel, ents “fall at two ends of a normal meeting new people, dating, vol- 

Giles O’Neill believes single par- 

but can be especially trying for bell curve/continuum.” Some have unteering, and changing careers– 

single parents. This was certainly developed such close relationships Giles O’Neill cautions against 

give 

borne out by two single moms I with their kids that they consider taking on too much too fast. “Give 

know, whose nests emptied the them best friends and confidantes, 

she says, while others, you might suddenly have time for 

thought to what hobbies, etc., 

year my older son left home. Beth, 

a lawyer and widow, went on such “due to job/career needs, did not and possibly enter into, maybe 

REGISTER NOW 

a shopping spree when her son spend a lot of one-on-one time one, in a small way to have a little 

FOR FALL CLASSES & PARTIES! 

moved down South that she has with their child–in these kinds of experience before you’re alone,” 

Non-Competitive Gymnastics for kids 3-12 yrs, Teeny Tumblers (9 mos-walkers), the gift of a 

put their house up for sale to cover 

her debts. And Pamela, a dance relief from guilt, but less attach- 

empties, parents need to practice 

cases, the parent may feel more she says. After all, when the nest 

Mighty Muscle Movers (gym 12-35 mos), Rockin' Rollers (gym+music 12-35 mos), 

gift card 

Tumbling Tots (gym 3-5 yrs), Fun-Tastic Gymnastics (K-7 th gr), 

instructor who divorced while her ment emotions.” 

spreading wings before they fly– 

Totally Tumbling (1-4 th gr), Playgroups, Super Soccer Stars, Open Play Time, 

daughter was in her teens, visited 

just like their children. 

Jodi's To Go, Summer Camps, Holiday Camps, Broadway Babies, 

her daughter’s college in Manhattan 

so often, offering lunch, pedi- 

Start preparing a year ahead, says Susan Piperato is a freelance writer 

Great New Perks For Members and the 

So, what’s a single parent to do? 

Motion Evolution. . . our new comprehensive fitness program, 

cures, or gallery trips, that finally Tytel. Teach your child to live and editor based in the Mid-Hudson 

www.clubfit.com 

her daughter tearfully refused her. independently–including how to do Valley. She is currently working on a 

Best Birthday Parties Ever! 

Briarcliff . North State Rd . (914) 250-2772 

“The poor kid,” Pamela told me, “I laundry, cook, and balance a check- 

children's book. 

25 Hubbels Dr. MT. KISCO • 914.244.8811 • www.jodisgym.com 


book. Senior year is a time of “tug of 

war between independence and interdependence,” 

she warns, and for 

“looking forward and being open to 

the unknown” and “open communication.” 

Talking about everything 

from “fears, feelings of being alone,” 

to “what the parent will do with the 

extra time and space” will help the 

transition. 

Sunday and Monday 9am to 5pm • Tuesday thru Saturday 9am to 8pm 

Come in and try our newest treatment 

“The Non-Surgical Facelift” 

Microcurrent and LED light therapy. 

Firm and tone the muscles of your face and neck, 

while reducing fine lines and wrinkles 

Gift Certificates Available 

fitness classes . swim lessons . massage . tennis . membership . personal training . cafe . racquetball . yoga . sports programs 

share 

great 

fitness 

personal training . cafe . racquetball . yoga . sports programs . fitness classes . swim lessons . massage . tennis . membership

THE MAGAZINE FOR NEW CASTLE AND BEYOND 

THE MAGAZINE FOR NEW CASTLE AND BEYOND 

Give the 

Gift of 

Dance 

We Asked Our Advertisers• Special Holiday Feature! 

Gifts we Treasure 

By Sarah Ellen Berman 

Editor’s Note: Sarah tells IC 

she “thoroughly enjoyed” meeting 

so many members of the diverse 

group of advertisers featured in 

this Winter edition. Her mission 

was clear cut: to find out what gifts 

might fall into “the kind you can 

really treasure” category, whether 

it’s something that brings joy and 

meaning to your own life or to that 

of any loved one. We hope there are 

any number of ideas in these next 

few pages that will encourage you 

to shop local and engage with our 

great area merchants! And from this 

publisher: Thank you time and again 

for support for the pages of Inside 

Chappaqua, a publication delivered 

each time free and chock full of articles 

for the reading pleasure of over 

6,000 area households. –Grace 

At Bet Torah Nursery School in 

Mount Kisco, Mindy Citera suggests 

gift certificates to “give the 

gift of fun.” Grandparents may 

wish to give a mommy and me 

or mom’s day out class. Contributing 

toward tuition is another 

gratifying option. 

For the quintessential New Year’s 

resolution. Maria Briones, M.D., 

has the answer. Her patients can 

attest to the efficacy of her weight 

loss program. Briones offers the 

support and guidance which are 

vital to success. Through a carefully 

planned 

diet and exercise 

program, 

she insures 

that the 

weight loss is 

permanent. 

Ellen Koelsch 

of Club Fit 

recommends 

a gift card. 

She noted 

that the card 

contains, “The 

nice message 

that you care 

about their 

health.” Cards 

may be used 

toward anything 

at the 

club including 

massage, 

clothing, personal 

training, 

or a meal at 

the cafe. 

A gift card or customized basket 

from Emmary Day Spa affords 

your friend the gift of indulgence. 

Hydrafacials are their most popular 

treatment. Emmary is the 

only spa in Westchester to offer 

this type of facial which is designed 

for sensitive skin. 

Massage, soy candles, teas, 

cleansers, and moisturizers are 

also available. 

At Eye Designs, optician Jamie 

Herman noted that prescription 

sunglasses by Oliver Peoples and 

Tom Ford are popular gifts for the 

holidays. He also recommends 

digital progressive lenses. The advantage 

of these multifocal lenses 

is that they are easy to adapt to. 

Eye Designs also features optical 

fashion accessories. They carry 

eye-bobs (ready made readers) in 

funky shapes and patterns and la 

loop; eye catching eye glass holders 

seen on Heidi Klum. 

At the dermatological practice of 

Lydia Evans, M.D., treats for a 

friend or loved one are copious. 

Dr. Evans suggests a gift certificate 

for a microdermabrasion or 

glycolic acid peel, facial, personalized 

skin 

care routine 

or the 

surprise 

of a prearranged 

procedure 

that one 

has longed 

for. Dr. 

Evans loves 

what she 

does and it 

continued on page 27 

FREE TRIAL MOMMY & ME CLASS 

Call 666-7595 Ext. 110 to reserve your space. • Expires 1/31/2011 

A Not-for-Profit Corporation 

REGISTER NOW 

25 Hubbels Dr. • Mt. Kisco • 914-244-8811 • www.jodisgym.com 

REGISTER NOW 



Non-Competitive Gymnastics for kids 3-12 yrs, Teeny Tumblers (9 mos-walkers), 

Non-Competitive Gymnastics for kids 3-12 yrs, Teeny Tumblers (9 mos-walkers), 



Tumbling Tots (gym 3-5 yrs), Fun-Tastic Gymnastics (K-7 


th gr), 

Tumbling Tots (gym 3-5 yrs), Fun-Tastic Gymnastics (K-7 th gr), 



• Small class size 

• Secular and Jewish curriculum 

• Mom’s Day Out Classes for toddlers 18 mos. 

• Mommy & Me Classes 

• Extended Day Enrichment Program 

60 Smith Avenue, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 914/666-7595 


CHAPPAQUA 

A D P R O O F 

Phone 914.238.2600 Fax 914.238.0097 

UPON RECEIPT: AFTERTHE OFFICIAL CLOSE DATE FORTHIS ISSUE, PLEASE RESPOND 

PROMPTLY WITHIN 48 HOURS WITH APPROVAL AND/OR ANY CHANGESTOTHIS AD. IF WE DO 

NOT HEAR FROMYOU,THIS AD WILL CONTINUETO MOVE AS SHOWN INTO PRODUCTION AND 

CHANGES CAN NO LONGER BE GUARANTEED.THANKYOU. 

Please review carefully checking all copy for errors including addresses and phone numbers. 

Inside Chappaqua is not responsible for typographical errors. 

■ Proof Approved _________________________ (please sign) 

■ Please make indicated changes 

Squires 

Bet Torah Nursery School • 60 Smith Avenue, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 • 914-666-7595 

Today’s 

Date_______________________ 

O2 Living • Holistic Wellness Center 


ONE-DAY DESTINATION 

& Footwear 

Mens-Boys 

Offer valid now through January 31, 2011. 

Girls-Women 

$ 

5 OFF 

Any Purchase of $50 or More 

Expires 1/31/2011 

Gail Patrick’s Cafe • 31 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua • 238-0690 

20% OFF FACIAL TREATMENT 

Expires 1/31/2011 

Ivana Denniston Aesthetics 

400 King Street • Suite 4 • Chappaqua, NY 10514 • 914-330-2993 

www.vagaro.com/IvanaDennistonAesthetics 

10% OFF ONE-DAY 

DESTINATION 

Expires 1/31/2011 

FREE BRUSH KIT 

Which includes a chemically treated spot lift eraser with purchase of 

Ugg Classic Short/Tall Boots (Min. $115.00) Not to be combined with any other offer. 

Coupon must be presented at the time of purchase. Expires 1/31/2011 

41 South Greeley Ave., Chappaqua • 238-4511 • 193 Katonah Ave., Katonah • 232-0212 








CHAPPAQUA 

A D P R O O F 

Phone 914.238.2600 Fax 914.238.0097 

UPON RECEIPT: AFTERTHE OFFICIAL CLOSE DATE FORTHIS ISSUE, PLEASE RESPOND 

PROMPTLY WITHIN 48 HOURS WITH APPROVAL AND/OR ANY CHANGESTOTHIS AD. IF WE DO 

NOT HEAR FROMYOU,THIS AD WILL CONTINUETO MOVE AS SHOWN INTO PRODUCTION AN 

CHANGES CAN NO LONGER BE GUARANTEED.THANKYOU. 

Please review carefully checking all copy for errors including addresses and phone numbers. 

Inside Chappaqua is not responsible for typographical errors. 

■ Proof Approved _________________________ (please sign) 

■ Please make indicated changes 

Squires 



& Footwear 

Mens-Boys 


Girls-Women 

Today’s 

Date____________________ 

02 Living * Holistic Wellness Center • 6 Yellow Monkey Village (792 Route 25) • Cross River , NY 10518 • 914.763.6320 

Live Food Cafe • One Day Destination • Juice Cleansing • Yoga • Spa 


Customize a day with friends or simply treat yourself! 

10% OFF 

H I L L T O P 

W I N E S A N D S P I R I T S 

This Relaxing Day of Wellness Includes: 

75-minute Yoga Practice • 60-minute Massage • 60-Minute Facial 

O2 Spa Lunch • Signature Greens Drink 

Personalized Consultation with Whole & Living Foods Chef & Educator 

Accommodations Available • Chauffeur Service 

6 Yellow Monkey Village (792 Route 35) I Cross River, NY 10518 

914.763.6320 I www.o2living.com 





25 Hubbels Dr. MT. KISCO • 914.244.8811 • www.jodisgym.com 

15% DISCOUNT 

on Any 6 Mixed Bottles of Wine 

Expires 1/31/2011 

423 King Street •Chappaqua, NY 10514 • 914-238-8422 

H I L L T O P 

W I N E S A N D S P I R I T S 

10% OFF ALL HOLIDAY DECORATIONS 

Christmas Trees • Poinsettias • Wreaths • Etc. 

Expires 1/31/2011 

Millwood Garden Center • 83 Millwood Rd. • Millwood, NY• 914-762-5552 

20% OFF ALL GYMWEAR 

Offer Expires 12/31/10 



10% OFF 












25 Hubbels Dr. MT. KISCO • 914.244.8811 • www.jodisgym.com

~Happy Holidays~ 

(1) 30 Min. FREE PERSONAL 

TRAINING SESSION 

New Clients Only • Expires 1/31/2011 

Kombine Sports • 27 Radio Circle • Mt. Kisco, NY • 914-244-0956 






share 

great 

fitness 

give 

the gift of a 

gift card 



personal training . cafe . racquetball . yoga . sports programs . fitness classes . swim lessons . massage . tennis . membership 

EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF DANCE 

FREE TRIAL CLASS OF YOUR CHOICE 

Expires 1/31/2011 

Steffi Dance • A Non For Profit Corporation • (914) 238-1900 • For information: www.steffinossen.org 

20% OFF 

On All Gift Certificates and 

FREE GLASS OF HOUSE WINE if You are visiting us for Dinner 

Expires 1/31/11 

76 King Street, NY 10514 • 238-5950 • grappololoconda.com 

MASSAGE GIFT SPECIAL 

Valid November 22 - December 31. 3 Pack Traditional Massage, $190 member rate, $250 non member rate. 

Free Gift while supplies last. Beautifully packaged and ready to go! Call Denise Harrington at 914-762-3444 x 2246 

Club Fit • 584 N. State Rd, Briarcliff Manor • 600 Bank Rd., Jefferson Valley 

20% DISCOUNT 

On One Weeks Price of Prepared Food 

For New Patients or for Those Resuming the Program • Offer Expires 12/31/10 

Maria Briones, M.D. • 344 Main St. Suite #103• Mount Kisco, NY 10549 • 914-241-6249 


share 

great 

fitness 

give 

the gift of a 

gift card 



personal training . cafe . racquetball . yoga . sports programs . fitness classes . swim lessons . massage . tennis . membership 





Fraxel 

wrinkles. and lines fine damage, sun skin: on toll summer’s Address 

$ 

75 OFF YOUR FIRST 

FRAXEL TREATMENT 

Expires 1/31/2011 

Lydia Evans, M.D. • Board Certified Dermatologist •229 King Street •Chappaqua • 914-238-1500 

FREE TRIAL CLASS 

Romperee for Mom and Me • Preschool Classes • Girls Recreational Classes 

Boys Recreational Classes • Expires 1/31/2011 

170 Hunts Lane • Chappaqua, NY 10514 • 914 - 238 - 4967 • www.worldcupschools.com 

Address summer’s toll on skin: sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles. Fr 









Alyson Levine, M.D. 

& M.D. Evans, Lydia 



Street, King 129 


15% OFF 

Any Gift Card or Product Purchase at our Spa using this Coupon. 

Offer Expires 12/31/10 

50 Livingston Ave., 10522, Saw Mill River Pkwy Exit 16 • Above NYSC & Starbucks • 914-409-1900


25% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE 

Excludes Food and Grooming 

Expires 1/31/2011 

392 King Street • Chappaqua, NY 10514 • 914-238-0244 


eye designs 


$ 

100 off 

on PRESCRIPTION EYEGLASSES 

Expires 1/31/2011 

575 Main Street • Armonk, NY 10504 •273-7337 

eye designs 








Le Jardin du Roi 

French Bistro 



Tel: 914-238-1368 

Fax: 914-238-4864 

Hours: 8am to Midnight 

COMPLIMENTARY DESSERT 

with Dinner 

For a party of 2 or more •Expires 1/31/2011 

Le Jardin du Roi French Bistro • 95 King Street • Chappaqua, NY 10514 •914 - 238 - 1368 


NEW! 

Prix Fixe 3 Course Menu 4-6 p.m. 

Mon-Thursday $19.95 

and BBQ to go! 

Great for Home Dinners 

or Parties! 

continued from page 22 

shows. For those who are interested 

in cosmetic services, she 

eschews doling out recommendations, 

verbatim. When a client 

comes in to inquire, she listens 

intently to discern, “What it is 

they’re looking for,” and plans 

“what’s best for them.” 

This year, put a gift certificate 

from Eye Gallery on your list. 

They showcase, “The most important 

accessory you can own,” 

according to co-owner Michael 

Rosen. When greeting someone, 

“Sunglasses are the first thing 

people see,” he noted. A fashionable 

look is not complete until the 

latest in eyewear is added. Eye 

Gallery carries Robert Marc worn 

10% OFF ANY SERVICE 

With this Coupon • Expires 1/31/2011 

Emmary Day Spa • 24 South Greeley Avenue • Chappaqua, New York 10514 • 914-238-8830 

20% OFF 

All Purchases 

Expires 12/24/2010 

75 So. Greeley Ave. • Chappaqua, NY • 914-238-3646 • ICDjewelry.com 

by Nicole Kidman and Barton Perreira 

sported by Brad Pitt. Styles 

by Chanel and Oliver Peoples are 

also on hand. While looking good, 

your loved one will be protecting 

the health of their eyes year 

round from omnipresent ultra 

violet rays. 

At Family Britches, altruism 

reigns supreme. Co-owners 

Barry Mishkin and Rick Buggee 

are soliciting donations of suits 

and sport coats. These garments 

will be donated to Twigs Thriftree 

Thrift Shop which benefits 

Northern Westchester Hospital. 

“What shouldn’t get lost in the 

holidays is the spirit of giving,” 

Mishkin noted. This idea may 

provide the impetus for a husband 

or partner to give away clothing 

that is no longer cherished. In 

return, customers will receive a 

discount of $50 off toward the 

purchase of a new suit or sport 

coat. 

Gail Patrick’s Cafe has gift baskets, 

“full of epicurean delights,” 

according to co-owner Gail Filacchione. 

Gift certificates are great 

for teachers and middle schoolers 

(who just can’t get enough 

of those dumplings.) Highlights 

from their extensive Chanukah 

menu are: latkes, matzoh ball 

soup, brisket, and rugelach. The 

Christmas and New Year’s menu 

includes: Italian Wedding soup,



Some Sweet Ways to Meet 

roast rib eye of beef, whipped 

sweet potatoes with brown sugar, 

and cookies galore. 

At Grappolo Locando we love 

the holiday season! We can help 

you plan an exciting and festive 

intimate at-home wine tasting 

dinner with family and friends. 

Chef/Owner Thomas Cuomo will 

personally go to your home with 

his sommelier. (Think Prosecco 

with a wild mushroom bruschetta, 

luscious braised short ribs 

and creamy mascarpone polenta 

with a hearty Moltepulciano and 

biscotti with Vin Santo!) Another 

idea might be to book an at-home 

cooking class for you and your 





friends – a great way to enjoy a 

sumptuous and scrumptious meal 

while learning how it’s done! 

At Hilltop Wines and Spirits, 

describe the type of wine you’re 

looking for and owner Peter Costello 

will find the ideal match or 

assemble a customized gift basket. 

Additionally, Costello recommends 

offering a membership in 

his Wine Club. Members receive 

a case of wines selected by certified 

sommelier Costello, delivered 

to their home each month. On 

Saturdays from 2-6, he hosts wine 

tastings from different 

regions and producers. 

All featured wines are on special 

during the tastings. Costello’s 

top picks for this holiday season 

are the: 2009 Bordeaux, vintage 

ports, single malt scotch, champagne, 

and prosecco. 

For timeless 

gifts, visit ICD 

Jewelry. The 

staff is truly 

passionate 

about jewelry 

and provides 

invaluable 

assistance in 

the selection 

continued on page 30 

What do you do if you are single or 

newly single? Sure, you could join a 

dating site, but then what? Where 

do you go and what do you do on 

your date? Maybe you don’t think a 

site devoted strictly to dating is for 

you. Fortunately, the Internet has 

some great resources including social 

networking groups which offer 

lots of ideas for activities you can 

enjoy in Westchester and the New 

York Metro area. Below is a small 

sampling… 

Meet Up! 

Meetup promotes itself as “the 

world’s largest network of local 

groups.” The online service makes 

it very simple for anyone to organize 

a local group around his or 

her personal interest/s or to join 

one of the thousands of groups 

already meeting. According to the 

site, more than 2,000 groups get 

together in local communities 

each day. It’s a great way for single 

and newly single people to narrow 

their search for a mate to those 

with common interests, while 

widening one’s social circle at the 

same time. The service boasts 

7.2 million members and claims 

250,000 monthly meetups. For 

info, go to: www.meetup.com 

By Mike Lauterborn 

Wine & Dine! 

Local Wine Events is a 

free online service which 

notifies subscribers 

of local food and wine 

events which are great 

opportunities to meet 

friends and potential 

love interests with a 

discerning palate and a 

passion for good taste. It 

was founded and developed 

by Eric V. Orange 

who has distinguished 

himself in the wine 

industry for the past 20 

years. Site users can plug in their 

specific region of interest by name 

or zip code and see a list of wine 

events by date, with event details, 

cost and location included. 

For info, visit 

www.localwineevents.com 

Get Going! 

“Singles On The Go” is a tremendous 

online resource that allows 

singles to find groups and activities 

by state, city or even territory. 

Links are provided to a very broad 

range of “to-do’s” including speed 

dating, mixers, social networking, 

dining groups, wine tasting, 

dance groups, religious groups, 

volunteer teams, 

civic organizations and 

clubs–all dedicated 

to singles. For more information, 

go to: www. 

singlesonthego.com 

Make A Date! 

Single America is billed 

as “the most complete 

and up-to-date 

American singles and 

dating guide” online. 

Featured on its site 

are complete listings of 

singles’ parties, events, 

clubs and speed dating. 

There’s more: reviews of online 

dating sites, dating tips, advice, safe 

dating, gay and lesbian dating, religious 

and ethnic dating and more. 

This resource is essentially a portal 

to meeting new people, 

making friends and finding that 

certain special someone. 

Go to: www.Single-America.com 

Be A Gourmand! 

The Single Gourmet is one of the 

most established singles groups, 

known for its integrity and elegance. 

It was founded 25+ years 

ago and has chapters nationwide. 

It offers sophisticated single men 

and women a relaxed, easy way to 

meet other successful singles. The 

group hosts fine culinary events 

in Westchester, Rockland, Putnam 

and Fairfield Counties, as well as 

NYC and Long Island. To learn 

more and see lists of events, photos 

and travel plans, go to: www. 

singlegourmet-metrony.com 

Now that you know where to go 

online, you’ll know where to go! 

Mike Lauterborn is a freelance 

writer, author, marketing consultant 

and entrepreneur that loves to 

travel, experience new things and 

meet people. 


continued from page 28 

of the perfect piece. Designs by 

Varda feature 22K gold medallions 

with 2nd to 4th century ancient 

coins, geodes, and many other 

gemstones. Matching earrings 

are also available. Marco Bicego’s 

semiprecious 18K gold creations 

are adorned with amethyst, 

peridot, and blue topaz. Penny 

Preville’s line sparkles with diamonds. 

Israeli designer Marika’s 

artisanal works include a delicately 

crafted cuff. For children 

looking to shower their friends 

and relatives with jewelry, there is 

a full array of moderately priced 

items. Gift certificates are also 

available. 

At Ivana Denniston Aesthetics, 

gift certificates and gift boxes 

contain the keys to beauty. Ivana 

is renowned for her skill in brow 

shaping. She focuses on the natural 

shape and insures a “perfect, 

glamourous look.” Ivana also 

offers makeovers, the Decleor skin 

care line, and makeup. 

Holiday camp will be offered at 

Jodi’s Gym during the December 

vacation. Here kids will learn the 

basics of gymnastics on balance 

beams, bars, rings, vault, tumble 

track, and the space bouncer. 

The fun never ends during camp. 

Music, art, story time, games and 

lunch are on the menu! 

Gift certificates at Le Jardin du 

Roi are welcomed by teachers, 

friends, and family. The cozy 

ambiance at this bistro is particularly 

appreciated during the 

wintry, holiday season. The menu 

at Le Jardin du Roi is replete with 

favorites and new additions. Send 

those on your list here for hearty 

soups, cassoulet, coq au vin, 

mixed berry crumble, and tarte 

tatin. 

Rosemary Devlin at the serene 

O2 Living Holistic Wellness 

Center in Cross River suggests a 

gift certificate “for a holistic wellbeing 

and healthier 2011.” Along 

with tantalizing spa treatments 

and award winning yoga classes, 

O2 carries the Dr. Haushka line of 

skin care products, juices and delicious 

smoothies. 

Visit Loungerie for intimate 

wear apparel and for special picks 

perfect for the season, such as the 

b.tempt’d by Wacoal fashion line 

made popular by the beautiful up 

and coming recording star Esmee 

Denters. Also check out the store’s 

special holiday time promotion: 

Purchase any two items of the 

same style, different designers, 

and buy a third item for half 

the price. 

At New Castle Physical Therapy, 

co-owner Adam Pliskow recommends 

the gift of health. He is 

offering an orthopedic or fitness 

assessment for $50 from now 

until the end of March. He sees 

many people who relate that their 

spouses suffer from back or neck 

pain but are not inclined to seek 

treatment. A gift of an assessment 

will facilitate the road to recovery. 

Assessments “can lead to either 

physical therapy or personal training,” 

Pliskow observed. His location 

offers a pristine, relaxing environment. 

Everyone receives individual 

attention and only one person is 

booked per hour. 

Consider a gift card for a Nutritional 

Consultation with one of 

Westchester’s best nutritionists, 

Dina Khader in Mount Kisco. 

The Rosenthal JCC is promoting 

their Chanukah Gift Factory 

Her individualized plans help individuals 

with various weight loss 

& Shalom Sesame Launch Party 

and medical conditions–whether 

on December 5th. This is a family 

it’s eliminating pain or getting 

friendly event where children create 

gifts such as keychains, picture 

cholesterol under control or losing 

75 pounds via state of the art 

frames and menorahs to give to 

testing to streamline nutritional 

family and friends. The program 

requirements. During a visit, you 

“Can Grover find the missing 

can also create an individualized 

menorah” will be screened. Children 

can also make and eat drei- 

gift basket of skin care or food 

items, all organic, including Dina’s 

dels made out of marshmallows, 

signature box of 16 dark chocolate 

truffles, extra virgin olive oil, ning spa recently named favored Latkes will be sizzling for hungry 

Oasis Day Spa is an award win- 

Hershey kisses, and pretzels. 

healthy jams and snacks. 

day spa in the country by Ameri- 

artists and their families. The 


can Spa Magazine.Their array of 

services includes facials, massage, 

manicures, yoga, yoga wear by 

Lululemon, and personal training. 

Co-owner Bruce Schoenberg 

related that anyone who 

comes in for a service will walk 

out “six inches taller.” “What 

you’re giving is not just the gift of 

wellness, we’re bringing out the 

inner you,” he added. This oasis 

of tranquility has special offers 

on the first 25 days of December. 

Each day a different product or 

service is discounted. 

When it’s time to celebrate, call 

the party planner par excellence. 

Monique Ross Banks is now the 

event planner and coordinator 

of Party! By Monique. She 

recommends giving the gift of a 

celebration this holiday season. 

“I’ve always loved gifts that you 

wouldn’t necessarily go out and 

get yourself,” she said. When 

there’s a reason to fete a friend 

or relative, Monique is the go to 

gal. Ever since Monique planned 

bar and bat mitzvahs for her three 

children, she has been receiving 

compliments and requests for advice 

from friends and family. Today 

she plans a myriad of events 

including bar and bat mitzvahs, 

weddings, and corporate events. 

From cocktail and dinner parties 

to lavish affairs, Monique does it 

all, with inimitable flair. When 

planning a bar or bat mitzvah she 

related that her goal is, “to make 

this event the most memorable 

event of a family’s life.” 

Rosenthal JCC also offers gift 

certificates for programs such as 

mommy and me classes, drop-in 

childcare, or nursery school. 

At Squires, one will find a trove 

of Hunter boots in a wide array 

of colors as well as coordinating, 

“welly” socks, for added warmth. 

Owner Michael Kushner is restricting 

sales of this hot item to local 

residents who come into the store. 

No orders are being shipped. Other 

attractive gifts include the ever 

popular, cashmere sweaters in 

v-neck and shawl collar cardigan 

models. He also has trendy, Volcom 

sweatshirts which are sure to please 

even the most discerning teenager. 

At Steffi Nossen School of Dance, 

Judy Ross recommends a gift 

certificate for “grandparents, 

aunts, and uncles to support their 

dancing child.” Additionally, she 

advocates coming in for free dance 

week from January 10-15. Dancers 

may try as many classes as 

they would like, sans obligation. 

At The Perennial Chef in Bedford 

Hills, presents abound. The 

gift of having food appear on the 

table effortlessly is sure to please 

during the hustle and bustle of 

the holiday season. Turkey, ham, 

filet mignon, brisket, salmon, 

latkes, chestnut stuffing, and 

cheese platters are on the holiday 

menu. The real creme de la 

creme are the desserts created by 

chef Michael. French macarons 

–not to be confused with coconut 

macaroons–are his delectable pastries 

which begin with a crunch 

and end with cream. Cookies 

are fashioned in the shape of 

Santas and dreidels. Proprietor 

Francoise Jarry has selected herb 

mills, (for grinding herbs) hors 

d’oeuvres sets, truffles, plates, and 

stemware. Her gift certificates 

and baskets will bring holiday 

cheer to the foodie in your life. 

Wags and Whiskers has 

presents for the family dog as well 

as their owners. They are touting 

truly durable toys including balls; 

made of recycled seat belts in the 

shape of a spider and bear and 

rabbit shaped toys (sans stuffing). 

“We have pet beds with the most 

gorgeous fabrics,” owner Christine 

Meyer noted. Marble topped pet 

dishes are designed to compliment 

the kitchen. And of course, 

Fido may be treated to a luxurious 

shampoo and cut. 

At World Cup Gymnastics and 

Nursery School, gift certificates are 

available for giving holiday cheer. 

The kids’ night out program provides 

fun for kids and fun for parents. 

Kids are entertained for four 

hours while parents are free to catch 

a movie and have dinner. Grandparents 

may also be interested in 

purchasing a session of nursery 

school, enrichment, gymnastics, or 

a junior scientist class for the light 

of their life. Jeannine Johansen of 

World Cup is a huge proponent of 

gymnastics. “When you leave gymnastics, 

you always feel like you’ve 

accomplished something,” she said.

Babette, elegance personified, 

reigns at her boutique. When 

crossing the threshold of Elegance 

II, one is instantly surrounded by 

beauty and its infinite possibilities. 

Whether the motivation is a quest 

for a new accessory or the desire for 

a radically different look, the recognition 

that this is the perfect place 

is felt immediately. 

What is it that keeps customers 

coming back in droves season after 

season? Babette’s sense of style 

is certainly an integral part of the 

draw. She honed her fashion sense 

at an early age while accompanying 

her mother–a stylist to the elite 

in France–on buying expeditions. 

Babette returns to the city of light 

twice a year to stay in tune with the 

The Fashionista’s Friend 

ENROLLING NOW FOR 2011 

By Sarah Ellen Berman 

latest in fashion trends. Stop by any 

day and check out what she’s wearing 

for the answer to what is chic. 

Babette’s friendly demeanor and 

effervescent personality contribute 

greatly to the attractiveness of her 

shop. An inquiry about a pair of 

Manolos or a Louis Vuitton purse 

brings a smile to her face and a 

twinkle to her eye. The advice she 

offers and the style she imparts are 

welcomed by all. 

Glance at the window display when 

entering the store. Here are Babette’s 

treasures: Chanel bags. This 

is the showcase for the latest model 

from Paris as well as the classics. 

“If you start wearing Chanel, you’ll 

never wear anything else,” Babette 

affirmed. 

A warm and nurturing 

pre-school environment 

for 2, 3, and 4 year olds. 







Her collection 

of distinctive 

dresses 

contains 

gems from 

the world of 

haute couture. 

From Yves 

Saint Laurent, 

Versace, and 

Chanel to 

Dolce and Gabbana, 

Babette 

has it all. For 

those seeking 

the ultimate 

in luxurious 

coats, she has 

an extensive 

array of mink 

coats. For 

casual dressing, 

try on a 

pair of Theory 

jeans with a 

cardigan by 

Three Dots. 

Photo by Daniel Baitch 

Babette attributes part of her success 

to the rise in popularity of consignment 

venues. In the past, many 

people harbored the misconception 

that the quality of the products 

was not of paramount importance. 

When Hollywood stars including 

Demi Moore were sighted at shops, 

consignment’s reputation soared. 

Whether it’s a gift certificate or an 

outfit, a present from Elegance II is 

destined to delight the fashionista 

in your life. Babette’s exquisite 

taste pervades her collection. For 

those who think that the present of 

an Hermes scarf is too extravagant 

in this parlous economic climate, a 

trip to Elegance II will be pleasantly 

enlightening in every way except on 

the wallet. Recent finds included a 

violet dress by Alexander McQueen 

and a multi-colored coat by Jean 

Paul Gauthier. 

The clientele are unanimous in 

their affinity for Elegance II. Eileen 

Josefs, a very frequent shopper, 

enjoys each and every visit. “It’s 

fun. It’s an adventure,” she said. 

When comparing the prices charged 

on Madison Avenue to those of 

Elegance II, customer Rosemarie 

Bedenson said, “You think you’re 

crazy for paying retail!” 

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Single&smart 


AD PROOF 

Todayʼs 

Date 

Phone 914.238.2600 Fax 914.238-2611 

914.238.0097

Leslie Lampert is a dynamo. It’s 

impossible to spend any time 

with this lovely, soft spoken 

woman, and not be impressed 

by all she accomplishes. Tavern 

on the Green Featuring Ladle 

of Love is her newest achievement. 

Beginning in October, 

four mobile upscale restaurants 

are set up daily at the site of the 

legendary former eatery. 

They operate seven days a week, 

all year round. Lampert , a 

longtime Chappaqua resident 

now living in White Plains, 

worked hard to be selected, and 

took very seriously the proposal 

she had to write and present. She 

managed to put the whole thing 

together in eight weeks, and get a 

Leslie’s Latest Triumph 

By Michall Jeffers 

Leslie Lampert at Café of Love 

Photo by John Warner 

liquor license. She’s excited about 

expanding her restaurant empire, 

even though “dealing with the 

City means mountains of paperwork.” 

When Ladle of Love closes 

for the day in Mount Kisco, cooks 

who’ve been 

specially selected 

by Lampert 

start to work 

on the food for 

Manhattan. 

The products 

are picked up 

at 7 a.m. and 

trucked into 

New York. 

Lampert has 

long been 

ahead of the 

curve when it 

comes to caring 

about the environment. 

explains that she’s actually 

bought an Electric Hybrid 

Mobile Food Truck. 

“I have to plug it in at 

night,” she explains. “It’s 

great, even though it only 

goes 25 miles an hour; it 

leaves half the carbon footprint. 

I’m passionate about 

the environment.” 

Her cognac colored eyes 

sparkle at the idea that “the 

cups, dishes, cutlery, everything 

we’re using is completely 

compostable. It can 

all go back into the soil.” Lampert 

also believe in giving back to the 

community. She donates a portion 

of her profits each month 

to local charities and efforts to 

improve the quality of living. 

With her spectacularly successful 

French-American restaurant 

Café Of Love; the go-to spot for 

luscious soups, Ladle of Love; and 

her innovative new delivery service 

Love on the Run, how does 

Lampert manage to maintain the 

high quality food and service her 

customers expect? 

She’s quick to credit the first 

class team she’s assembled over 

the years. “I do expect the very 

best, and I have that in the people 

around me.” Michael Cutney is 

the Executive Chef at Café Of 

Love, and Mena Popolis is the 

manager; KC Playford is the 

manager at Ladle in Mount Kisco; 

Alexander Kirk manages the New 

York location. They’re all just 

phenomenal.” 



Single&smart 


AD PROOF 

All Ages • All Levels • All Dance 

www.danceemotionsny.com 

She buys and 

uses the freshest 

food possible 

in her 

establishments, 

and is dedicated 

to patronizing Michall Jeffers is a well-respected 

local farmers. cultural journalist, and an unrepentant 

Foodie. She and her hus- 

She calls her 

new venture 

(914) 741-0333 

band, John Warner, are longtime 

“farm to truck” 

www.rosenthaljcc.org 

Chappaqua residents. 

cooking, and 



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mindy@kombinetraining.com 

Todayʼs 

Date 

Phone 914.238.2600 Fax 914.238-2611 

914.238.0097 

Rosenthal JCC 

Going Beyond in Early Childhood Education 

The Pre-School That’s 

Right for You! 

JCC Pre-School for 2s, 3s and 4s 

• Age-appropriate learning 

• Caring, nurturing and experienced staff 

• Separate classes for younger and older twos 

• Spacious classrooms, 3 outdoor playgrounds, indoor gym 

• Flexible scheduling to extend the day to 12:45, 1:30, 

3:30, 5:00 or 6:30 p.m. 

• Jewish cultural activities

For over 30 years, the 

Chappaqua Singers have 

been delighting audiences 

with their upbeat 

repertoires, choreography 

and stage attire. A 

northern Westchester 

County performing arts 

treasure, the group was 

founded by musical 

director Marie Terotta 

Roche, a critically-acclaimed 

singer 

dancer, actor and radio 

personality. 

Accompanied by Broadway 

pianist Sue Anderson, 

the 15 women have 

performed as far away as Romania 

while primarily sharing their 

talents locally. 

Currently, they are in rehearsal 

for their “holiday spectacular” 

which will be performed at various 

venues throughout the area, 

culminating in a performance at 

the Met Life Building, adjacent 

to Grand Central Station in New 

York City on Thursday, December 

16, from 5 to 6 pm. 

G O T T A H A V E A R T S 

By Michael Kohn 

Photo by Susan Dumont-Bengston 

Diana B. Walker 

Native Speaker 

Spanish Teacher, Tutor, & Translator 

Classes for All Ages 

(914) 238-6856 

Chappaqua, NY 

Dwalkerspanish@aol.com 

“Holiday Spectacular” 

and More 

Planned by the Chappaqua Singers 

The Chappaqua Singers in Holiday Attire 

According to Marie Terotta Roche, 

“our holiday program has something 

for everyone–from sacred 

church music to the 

classics, including “Have Yourself 

a Merry Little Christmas,” “Sleigh 

Ride,” a beautiful medley of Hanukah 

songs, all the way to “Santa 

Baby” and “Jingle Bell 

Rock.” The professional-caliber 

entertainers seamlessly mix their 

music and choreography into 

a wonderful 

show which includes 

soloists 

and four-part 

harmonies. 

Member Marvel 

Griepp is especially 

excited 

about the show 

at the Met Life 

building where 

busy commuters 

stop on 

their way to 

some holiday 

cheer. She loves the workday 

rush contributing to a “wonderful 

ebb and flow.” Once, 

Broadway sensation Audra 

McDonald graced the group 

with her presence. 

In addition to their holiday 

shows, the Chappaqua Singers 

have performed each year 

at the city-wide 9/11 observance. 

This past year, they 

performed in the high-traffic 

lobby of an office building 

at 40 Worth Street in New 

York City. 

Said Roche, “the program 

wove a rich musical tapestry that 

paid tribute to those who perished 

in the events of September 11. I 

lost a son-in-law that day, so being 

able to lift the spirits of people 

who work in New York has deep 

significance to me personally and 

to my singers.” 

You can catch the Chappaqua 

Singers at the following places and 

times: Saturday, December 4 at 

3:30 p.m. as part of the New Castle 

Community Sing followed by a 

tree lighting; the Robert E. Bell 

School, 50 Senter St., Chappaqua 

on Friday, December 10, 1:30- 

2:30 p.m.; Chappaqua Seniors, 

Community Center, Senter St., 

Chappaqua on Thursday, December 

16, from 5-6 p.m.. For further 

information, email Griepp at 

mgriepp@optonline.com. 

And, they are always interested in 

new members. 

Michael Kohn is a contributing editor 

and writer to Inside Chappaqua. 

Maria Briones 

M.D.P.C. 

Internal Medicine & Weight Loss 

Board Certified in Internal Medicine 

Diplomate in Bariatric Medicine 

344 Main St. Suite #103 

Mount Kisco, NY 10549 

Telephone: (914) 241-6249 

Fax: (914) 241-6253 

www.brionesweightloss.com 

Email: mbriones@brionesweightloss.com 

Office Hours by Appointment 

Breezemont 

Day Camp 

in Armonk NY 

is is currently accepting enrollments 

for the summer of 2010. 2011 

Offering an aBreezeiated day 

for 3 and 4 year olds. 

Please check out our web-site at 

www.Breezemont.com 

Or call us at (914) 273-3162 

to get more information 

PLAY CARE 

N U R S E R Y & P R E S C H O O L 

(Ages 2 months - 5 years) 

We’re the only preschool in Chappaqua 

with a truly flexible schedule. 

Choose any combination of days 

– morning or afternoon. 

Swing by and see our great new playground equipment -- 

--on Chappaqua’s largest outdoor 

nursery school playground! 

Registration Now in Progress for 2011-2012 

Limited Registration Space Available Now in for Progress. 

2010-2011 

Mornings, Afternoon and Enrichment Classes Available. 

Licensed by NYS Office of Children 

and Family Services; all staff CPR certified. 

210 Orchard Ridge Road, Chappaqua, New York 10514 

914-238-6206 • www.playcarepreschool.com 

Le Jardin du Roi 

French Bistro 

New Winter Menu! 

Featuring Hearty 

Cassoulet and 

Coq au Vin 



Tel: 914-238-1368 

Fax: 914-238-4864 

Hours: 8am to Midnight 

62-64 Cox Avenue 

Armonk, NY 10504 

work to soak up 


NEW! 

Prix Fixe 3 Course Menu 4-6 p.m. 

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or Parties!

How Bal Agrawal’s Life “Worx” 

& How He Can Add Peace and Calm to Yours 

Near the intersection of Routes 

117 and 120, just opposite the 

New Castle Firehouse, sits a 

stately brick building. Perched 

above the fray, those inside can 

watch as daily life whizzes by in 

Chappaqua. 

The building is occupied by Life- 

Worx, a firm established six years 

ago by Bal Agrawal, a former 

Fortune 500 executive who has 

come to realize the sanctity of 

“home.” The offices are clean and 

sleek. Only a half wall separates 

employees, who appear to enjoy 

the transparency of the layout. 

The space is a perfect mix of business 

meets life. There’s a wellappointed 

kitchen, a white couch 

and white side-chairs, life-size 

white boards for meetings and 

walls lined with modern portraits 

by Venture Photography. Touches 

of black and brown ground the 

1,000-square-foot space and 

healthy granola bars fill a silver 

serving-dish. The atmosphere is 

calm and organized. 

What Came Before 

Bal, 60, who was born in India, has 

spent more than half his life in the 

States. Meeting him, one is set immediately 

at ease. It would be hard 

to imagine his life as anything but 

streamlined and orderly. Yet this 

erudite gentleman, who has a Ph.D. 

(from M.I.T.) in material science, 

has seen his share of upheaval. 

By Jean Sheff • Photos by Marianne Campolongo 

In many ways, the seeds of Life- 

Worx were planted as Bal tried to 

deal with his shattered life after 

Not everyone can express their his wife’s death. “My son was in 

feelings as poetically and naturally bed depressed, the roof was leaking, 

my household help had just 

Bal says he was “somewhat naïve” as Bal. Even a cynic would find it 

when he fell in love with a young difficult to take him to task. After stolen the silverware and left,” 

woman in India, who presented only a few minutes it becomes he says. He knew he needed help, 

LifeWorx has an extensive interview 

process. Barbara Bogart 

what he calls a “Guess Who’s clear that his expressiveness is a but didn’t know where to turn. 

Coming to Dinner” situation. Bal large part of his being. That’s not Eventually he found a wonderful 

was raised in a traditional Hindu to say he is always serious. He has new household assistant but the 

of Harrison is a LifeWorx eldercare 

expert. She’s worked with 

family and Candida was a Catholic a lively smile and a hearty laugh. thought that there wasn’t a centralized 

organization which could 

the company for four years and 

Portuguese girl. The only way he He enjoys his fun as much as he 

could see the relationship working 

was to come to America. So, a stressful week, I look forward quickly and professionally would 

Bal and his team (he has four experts are screened, go through who would love to have a peaceful, 

enjoys his work. “At the end of disseminate this information 

respects their procedures. “All Jean Sheff is a Chappaqua resident 

he applied to an American col- 

to my Saturday workout, a yoga stay with him. 

employees in the Chappaqua location 

and two in a new location in 

a full background check and a organized home. 


lege and left India when he was 

accepted. They set up home in 

Michigan, which wound up to be a 

poor choice, and crisscrossed the 

country studying, living or working 

before finally settling with 

their young son Neel, in Briarcliff. 

Bal was enjoying his work at 

Praxair, Inc. when his wife took 

ill. She was diagnosed with breast 

cancer and after fighting for two 

years she succumbed to the illness 

at age 42. Bal remembers coming 

home from one of their first medical 

appointments. “It was autumn. 

There was a beautiful moon out 

and I could see the leaves falling 

slowly to the ground just as our 

tears fell like raindrops down our 

face,” he says. 

class, maybe a massage, a good 

lunch, and then I am back to new.” 

Although he doesn’t claim to be 

religious, if pushed, he does admit 

to being somewhat spiritual. 

Those who work with him are 

more forthcoming. Brian Martin, 

director of client relations for 

LifeWorx, readily uses the word 

spiritual to describe his boss. 

Other Challenges 

Losing a beloved spouse is one 

thing. Picking up the pieces is 

quite another, especially when 

a child is involved. Neel was 11 

when his mother was first diagnosed. 

He lived with her illness 

through his tweens and entered 

his teenage years without her. 

Bal makes it clear that Candida 

was a caring woman who not only 

worked as an administrator for 

Ossining’s Open Door, but also established 

a home that was a haven 

to her husband and son. 

Bal clearly appreciates the value 

women bring both to the home 

and to the workforce. He shared 

his passionate views on the subject 

recently when he gave a talk 

at the Women’s Empowerment 

Conference at the Hyatt Regency 

in Greenwich. 

Neel, who is now 30, eventually 

moved west to attend the 

University of Southern California. 

While there, he became 

increasingly ill and required 

several hospitalizations. “It’s 

something I wasn’t comfortable 

talking about before, but now I 

can say that my son suffers from 

mental illness,” says Bal. It was 

at this time that Bal says he hit 

bottom. “It was like a one-two 

punch,” he says. Yet, it was also 

the time when Bal, who doesn’t 

belabor the point, says he felt 

“the presence of God and faith.” 

Rebuilding 

Bal brought Neel home, moved 

to Chappaqua and began the task 

of remodeling his new home and 

rebuilding his life. “It was the first 

time I had done any work like 

this,” says Bal, who became a regular 

Home Depot shopper. It’s clear 

that the work of creating a home 

appealed to him. 

It was also the time to make a 

bold move. “I had a wonderful job, 

but I had always wanted to develop 

my own business,” he says. He 

took about six months to develop 

his thoughts and then committed 

himself to the challenge of building 

LifeWorx. 

He opened the doors in 2004, 

and when a positive article in The 

New York Times ran in January of 

2005, the phone started ringing 

and hasn’t stopped. At first, the 

firm focused primarily on pet care 

together with chef and organizing 

services. In dealing with clients, 

Bal found that once he got to the 

core of their issue, there were 

other services they really needed. 

Streamlining lifestyles by incorporating 

the right assistance in 

the home developed into a focus. 

Bal says he’s pleased that so many 

of his clients say, “You get it! You 

understand my issues and the 

challenges.” 

Westport) have expanded to provide 

nannies, childcare, eldercare, 

personal assistants and housekeeping 

experts. “We see ourselves as 

a solution provider rather than a 

staff provider,” he says. At any given 

time, they have about 100 “experts” 

who can be assigned to a client’s 

need within 24 to 48 hours. Yet, 

Lifeworx does more than assign - 

they make matches. 

Quality 

Martin, who has been in the hospitality 

and service industry since 

his teens, says Bal runs a “top 

notch organization.” There are “reports, 

accountability and weekly 

meetings,” he says. LifeWorx takes 

what’s best from the corporate 

world, adds high-end customer 

service and superior experts to 

solve the daily challenges many 

households face. Martin says that 

while the staff is extremely professional, 

they are also down to 

earth. “We are not robots; we are 

people and encourage clients to 

just talk to us so we can understand 

their needs and help solve 

them,” Martin says. 

detailed personal interview,” she 

says. LifeWorx seeks to know 

everything about an expert’s 

skills. Can they swim? Do they 

know CPR? So, should you want 

a housekeeping expert who can 

clean limestone, decant wine and 

tend an herb garden, they can 

supply you with the right person. 

When Chappaqua resident 

Sherry Blockinger needed childcare 

for her daughter, she turned 

to LifeWorx to help her find just 

the right person. “They made it 

easy for me by taking a lot of the 

background work out of the equation, 

which gave me great peace of 

mind. They understood my needs, 

offered support and provided the 

help when I needed it,” she says. 

LifeWorx sets their standards 

very high. “We never send someone 

out there with our fingers 

crossed,” Martin says. Their due 

diligence is a huge part of their 

success. “Our success rate is huge,” 

says Martin. 

Serenity 

Bal says his home can run on autopilot 

and that gives him a sense 

of ease and calm. It also gives him 

the time and energy to do what he 

needs and wants to do. He cooks 

about four hours a week and works 

to live a balanced lifestyle. “Health 

is such a gift,” he says. He’s been a 

devoted yoga student for the past 

five years. He brings his personal 

quest for a peaceful home to work 

with him everyday. “Life can be 

stressful, helping people create a 

functioning home that can be their 

respite is very rewarding,” he says. 

As for his own respite, Bal hopes to 

walk across America with his son 

and his girlfriend within the next 

five years.

The New Castle Historical Society will 

be hosting a Museum Open House 

on Saturday, December 4, beginning 

at 1 p.m. with tours of the Horace 

Greeley House, the Society’s headquarters 

and museum. Children of 

all ages are invited to come and create 

a Victorian craft as a special gift 

for the holidays. They will also have 

An impromptu party brought together 

at Ciro’s Halloween night, 

just in time to jumpstart November’s 

National Diabetes Awareness 

Month, helped raise much 

needed funds toward the 

Foundation. 

Margaret Walsh, proprietor of 

Station Place Hair and Nails in 

Pleasantville, brought the party 

to IC’s attention. Working with 

S P E C I A L E V E N T S / H A P P E N I N G S 

New Castle Historical Society Museum Open House 

Specialty Coffee • Lattes /Cappuccinos • Chai Tea Lattes • Hot Apple Cider 

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an opportunity to make oldfashioned 

holiday ornaments to 

hang on the tree from 1 p.m.– 4 

p.m. The Holiday Tree Lighting 

celebration starts at 4:30 p.m. 

and marks the beginning of the 

holiday season. 

Halloween Fun Aids Juvenile Diabetes Foundation 

Your Future is Now! 

Thomas Marron 

Experienced, Certified Teacher 

SAT, SSAT, Regents, AP English Global Studies, 

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914-512-1159 

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other volunteers and with the 

JDRF, Miss Walsh rounded up 

local vendors for auction items 

and a raffle for a fun evening 

of song and dance.To keep up 

with the Foundation’s efforts, 

particularly in the area of 

educating about the artificial 

pancreas, become a friend 

on Facebook or go to 

www.jdrf.org. 

HHREC’s “Be the Difference” Benefit 

At its 2010 Annual Benefit, the 

Holocaust and Human Rights 

Education Center honored 

Froma and Andrew Benerofe 

of Purchase with the Spirit 

of Humanity Award. Kerry 

Kennedy, founder and president 

of the Robert F. Kennedy Center 

for Justice and Human Rights, 

served as keynote speaker. 

Pictured: Chappaqua Residents 

Richard Laster, Chairman of the 

HHREC Board and his wife, Lee. 

Cafe of Love 

Farmhouse French-American 

Feel the love...award-winning, French-American Bistro 

where guests enjoy Provencal-style, farm-to-table 

experience. Raclette, mussels, bouillabaisse, steak & frites, 

dayboat halibut, organic roasted chicken, foie gras, and the 

best burger in Westchester. Enjoy the Trestle Table 

offerings: house-made pickled radishes and fennel, white 

bean dip-on the house! Take a vacation for the night 

and leave your passport at home. 

38 E. Main Street, Mt. Kisco, NY 

914.242.1002 

cafeofloveny.com 

Love on the Run 

Honest food delivered to your door 

914.242.9449 

loveontherun.biz 

Tavern on the Green Featuring Ladle of Love 

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Photo by Robert Curtis 

This article is a public service provided jointly by Inside Chappaqua Magazine and Dr. Levy Lombara 


M A G G I E M A E P U P R E P O R T E R 

Pet-Friendly Lodging, Near and Far 

One day, when I 

was walking with 

my owner, we saw 

our single neighbor 

Stephanie drive in 

from Kennebunkport, 

Maine. In her 

car were her two 

Shih Tzus, Abby 

and Sam. When 

my owner asked 

her why she had 

the dogs with her 

she said, “They are 

great company! 

I travel with my 

dogs a couple of 

times a year.” On 

this trip she had 

stayed at the petfriendly 

Hounds 

Tooth Inn, and the 

experience had 

been wonderful. 

© Ronni Diamondstein 

“What a good 

idea!” I thought 

and I looked up at my owner who 

I hoped was thinking the same 

thing. One of her favorite places 

to visit is The Red Lion Inn in 

Stockbridge, Massachusetts, and 

sure enough, when she checked 

their website she found that it 

was a pet-friendly lodging. So at 

the age of ten months, I spent two 

days in the Berkshires to see how 

both of us would fare. 

My owner had always gotten a 

warm welcome at The Red Lion Inn, 

and I did as well. I was greeted with 

a treat and was happy to find my 

own crate in our room which was 

conveniently located near an exit 

for easy access. When I couldn’t go 

out with my owner, I rested comfortably 

and felt safe in her crate. 

I felt like a celebrity. With my outgoing 

and friendly personality and 

very unusual markings, people 

By Maggie Mae...with Ronni Diamondstein 

Maggie Mae enjoys the ambiance of Amy’s Garden with John Crabtree at The Kittle 

House Restaurant & Inn. 

regularly stopped us to meet me 

and chat with my owner. I had a 

great time and I think she did too. 

Even when I didn’t accompany 

her, I helped her meet people. 

One evening as she dined alone at 

the Inn, people at the next table 

struck up a conversation asking 

where “Mags” was! They had overheard 

her talking to me earlier 

and calling me by one of my many 

nicknames. 

It occurred to me that Westchester 

must have pet-friendly lodgings 

and sure enough it does with a Bed 

and Breakfast right in Chappaqua, 

Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant 

& Inn. I asked my owner if I could 

check it out, just in case we had pet 

guests coming to town who couldn’t 

stay with us. I toured the very 

comfortable guest rooms with John 

Crabtree, the gracious innkeeper 

who said they welcome four-legged 

friends at the Inn. “People know 

their pets,” he said, 

“and we’ve always 

had good experiences 

when they have 

been guests here.” I 

roamed around a 

lovely garden with 

him, thinking that 

perhaps I would go 

there if I ever wanted 

a vacation from my 

owner. I felt right at 

home! We could certainly 

recommend the 

charming, old world 

style inn with modern 

conveniences and 

delicious food to our 

out-of-town guests. 

Stephanie gave 

my owner lots of 

great advice about 

traveling and planning 

a trip with a pet 

from making enough 

pit stops along the 

way to the many websites where 

you can find pet-friendly lodging 

like, www.bringfido.com, www. 

dogfriendly.com. The best advice 

of all: “Choose destinations that 

you all can enjoy,” says Stephanie. 

“Make sure you plan a trip that is 

fun for your pets too!” I wagged 

my tail at that and hoped we could 

go on another trip soon, even one 

right in our own backyard like 

Crabtree’s Kittle House! 

Contact Maggie Mae Pup Reporter at 

maggiemae10514@gmail.com 

Maggie Mae lives in Chappaqua 

with her adoring owner Ronni 

Diamondstein, who, when she isn’t 

walking Maggie is a freelance writer, 

PR consultant, award-winning 

photographer and a School Library 

Media Specialist and teacher who 

has worked in the US and abroad. 



Single&smart 


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238 Saw Mill River Road 

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CHANTELLE • WACOAL • CAROLE HOCHMAN • SPANX

Back when I first started writing for 

Inside Chappaqua, my daughter was 

still drawing with chalk on the cul de 

sac outside our Chappaqua home. All 

grown up now, she’s majoring in art 

and riding for a collegiate equestrian 

team in the central valley of New 

Hampshire. It’s been a long while. 

Anyway, during that time and within 

these pages I’ve written about such 

dark and sordid subjects as puppies, 

parenthood, holidays, sharing, 

gardening, knitting, and cookies, 

to name just a few. And I hope I’ve 

made not merely a few lives a little 

more tolerable in the process. I’m 

here to tell you, all the above are 

survivable! 

It’s not that I’m overly critical. 

I just have little patience for the 

“glass-half-full” people–or their 

“glass-half-empty” counterparts. 

Call me literal, but I just see the half 

glass. (Not literally, of course: not a 

half glass filled to the gunwales, but 

a whole glass half full.) So, in a world 

of “halfs” and “half nots,” I’m a “half,” 

deadlocked precisely midway between 

unvarnished reality and gauzy 

optimism. 

And what’s wrong with a half a glass 

anyway? It whets your whistle, and 

it’s enough to get your pills down. 

Moreover, with our latest market 

meltdown, I’d like to think “half” is 

the new “black.” Half is better than 

none and more sustainable than 

“all.” And promoting “half” avoids 

platitudes. For instance, for those 

who say, “When one door closes, another 

one opens,” I was the one who 

wanted to pick the lock on the closed 

one–seeing the new door as a trap. 

As a Bell School student, I dreamt 

of becoming either a theoretical 

physicist or a bank robber. Having 

little talent for either, I re-imagined 

myself a theoretical bank robber 

with a hankering for art. Thankfully, 

Stanley Tucci, the renown art 

teacher at Greeley (and father of the 

famous actor by the same name), 

The Better Half 

By Rick Reynolds 

Ilustration by Rick Reynolds 

fanned the embers of my artistic 

half, wisely telling me I could always 

become a bank robber later on if I 

really wanted it badly enough. What 

a difference one teacher can make in 

your life! 

With Mr. Tucci’s encouragement, 

I went on to study fine art, minoring 

in communication design as a 

lifeline. This armed me with the skills 

to try and make the unsightly half of 

the world half attractive. After college 

I moved back to Chappaqua and 

ran a marketing communications/ 

corporate events firm for 25 years 

out of NYC and Armonk. 

And then with, yes, a new door opening–one 

I picked–I took a position 

as a marketing director at a thriving 

national timber frame homebuilding 

firm. Bucking the downward trend 

in new home construction, I’ve used 

print advertising to great effect, and 

while many of our competitors have 

hunkered down and gone under, our 

shops are busy turning out beautiful, 

energy efficient, heirloom quality 

homes–knock on wood. The patient 

is still alive! Customers want to buy, 

especially locally, if they can find you. 

But I’m digressing. Where was I? Oh 

yes. Writing for Inside Chappaqua. 

Sure, the good publisher and editor 

had scratched her head at some 

of my submissions, wondering if 

one can make half sense, or half 

nonsense, and still have any validity 

whatsoever–and I credit her with 

hanging in there. I certainly hope 

that, with this “economy of half” in 

which we find ourselves, advertisers 

will see that a small town print 

magazine is worth much more than 

the paper it’s printed on. It’s imprinted 

on our fabric. It’s community. 

When we lose that, we’ve lost half 

the battle–the only half worth writing 

about. 

Chappaqua alumnus and 35-year 

resident of Chappaqua, humorist Rick 

Reynolds resides in southern New 

Hampshire with his wife, daughter, 

and 2 dogs. 

Cover Sponsors 

Eye Gallery 

Elegance II by Babette 

Eye Designs.................................. 4 

Academic Tutoring, 

Alan Schneider............................. 8 

Beecher Funeral Home..............45 

Bet Torah Nursery School.........32 

Breezemont Day Camp..............37 

Maria Briones............................37 

Café of Love................................41 

Camp Connection......................40 

Marianne Campolongo 

Photography...............................34 

Club Fit ......................................21 

Daniel Baitch Photography.......45 

Dance Emotions.........................35 

Ivana Denniston Aesthetics......12 

Dine In / Carry Out / Gourmet Catering 

Gail Patrick’s Cafe 

31 S. Greeley Ave, Chappaqua • 238-0690 

25 years catering experience 

full salad bar / 8 hot soups daily 

gluten free vegetarian and low fat available daily 

frozen yogurt and ice cream all year round 

www.GailPatricksCafe.com 

Emmary Day Spa........................21 

Lydia Evans, M.D.......................17 

Family Britches..........................15 

Federov Foto..............................41 

Grappolo Locanda......................18 

Hilltop Wines & Spirits.............19 

Houlihan Lawrence...................... 9 

ICD Contemporary Jewelry........ 5 

ICD, Alex Sepkus Designs..........10 

Jodi’s Gym..................................21 

Dina Khader, Nutritionist.........33 

The Kombine..............................35 

Le Jardin du roi..........................37 

Loungerie ..................................45 

Howard Meyer Acting Program.41 

Tom Marron, Tutoring..............40 

Millwood Garden Center...........45 

MIRF Book.................................13 

Nicolaysen Agency, Inc..............31 

New Castle Physical Therapy....... 4 


Advertisers at a Glance 

O2 Living....................................33 

Oasis Day Spa.............................15 

Party! By Monique....................... 7 

Gail Patricks Cafe.......................47 

The Perennial Chef.....................19 

PFE Patino Painting...................35 

PlayCare......................................37 

Pony Express..............................31 

Prudential Holmes & Kennedy.11 

Rosenthal JCC............................35 

Squires Family Clothing 

and Footwear.............................14 

Steffi Nossen School of Dance...22 

Tazza Café..................................40 

Total Turf ..................................33 

Diana Walker, Spanish Teacher...36 

Wags & Whiskers.......................45 

Westchester Tree Life................45 

World Cup Nursery School........33 

World Cup Schools.....................41 

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Next 4 Issues: $15 

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Winter 2010/2011 Inside Chappaqua 48

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