Drowning Flood Sisters - Inside Chappaqua

February 2011 

THE MAGAZINE FOR NEW CASTLE AND BEYOND 

WWW.INSIDECHAPPAQUA .COM 

Maggie Mae 

Explains 

Doggie Love 

Why Rick Reynolds 

isn’t on Facebook 

Karaoke DJ 

Justine Faith 

Comes to Town! 

THIRD 

Annual 

Merchant 

Profiles 

Some 50 Area 

Businesses 

Spotlighted! 

Drowning 

in 

Love 

with the 

Flood 

Sisters 

$3.95 

February 2011 Inside Chappaqua 1

February 2011 

insidechappaqua.com 

THE MAGAZINE FOR NEW CASTLE AND BEYOND 

“Love to Shop Local” Sponsors and Profiles 

ON THE COVER 

(L-R): Jennifer, Cynthia and 

Heather Flood in front of 

the Audi 2011 A8L 

Special thanks to Audi of 

Eastchester. Audi was a 

proud sponsor of a 

Flood Sisters Fundraiser 

this past December. 

Inside Chappaqua also thanks 

the following merchants for 

their kind loans: 

Desires by Mikolay: on Jennifer: 

Smokey Topaz and 18 karat yellow 

gold vermeil feather drop Kendra 

Scott earrings and wood and 

crystal cuff with 18 karat yellow 

gold vermeil designed by Rodrigo 

Otazu; on Cynthia: Ruby teardrop 

Coralia Leets earrings in a 24 karat 

vermeil on Heather: green onyx 

and Swarovski crystal hand woven 

chandelier Miguel Ases earrings 

March Boutique: On Heather: 

Bailey 44 Black ponte knit 

jacket with belt and Caribbean 

Queen Tank On Cynthia: Eva 

Franco Dress Vintage inspired 

Astrid dress 

Family Britches: On Heather: a 

Magaschoni tissue weight 

cashmere scarf in leaf green. 

On Jennifer: M.Missoni 3/4 

cape w/cowl neck in brown with 

orange beige multi stripes on 

upper portion of cape and matching 

3/4 length wool knit gloves in 

orange beige and cream wool 

Special Thanks to 

Cathy’s Hair and 

Day Spa of Chappaqua 

for the Flood Sisters’ 

Hair and Makeup 

Cover Stylist: Sandy Hapoienu, 

stylingsession.com 

Photo by Alex Federov, 

federovfoto.com 

Academic Tutoring....................43 

Andante Music...........................47 

A&S Fine Foods of 

Millwood…................................33 

Daniel Baitch 

Photography..............................49 

Beecher Funeral Home, Inc.......45 

Breathe Pilates and Yoga...........31 

Breezemont Day Camp..............40 

Maria Briones, M.D...................34 

Camp Connection......................49 

Chappaqua Friends 

Nursery School..........................44 

Crabtree’s Kittle House.............41 

Club Fit......................................49 

COUTUREDossier......................24 

Desires by Mikolay................16-17 

Elegance II.................................28 

Douglas Elliman....................14-15 

Emmary Day Spa........................32 

Empire Audio 

Video Concepts.....................18-19 

Eye Designs of Armonk..............39 

Eye Gallery............................12-13 

Family Britches............................5 

Alex Fedorov..............................40 

Future Stars Summer Camps.....26 

Gail Patrick’s Café......................40 

36 A Flood of Love 

After helping their own father avoid 

dialysis or worse by finding an unrelated 

“altruistic” kidney donor, sisters 

Jennifer, Cynthia and Heather are 

raising awareness and helping others 

find living donors, before it’s too late, 

through their The Flood Sisters Kidney 

Foundation of America. By Jeff Cohen 

Also in this Issue: 

8 Just Between Us 

Plus: “Sandy’s Touch”…a few questions 

for one savvy and stunning stylist. 

20 Happenings 

The Reitz’s at a JDRC Gala; Robert Redford’s 

visit at the Burns; an upcoming 

fundraiser for the Pleasantville Community 

Synagogue; and a warm refuge at 

the New York Botanical Garden. 

Granite Real Estate 

Tax Consultants.........................22 

Healthy Choice Pharmacy.........48 

Hilltop Wines and Spirits..........44 

Houlihan Lawrence...............10-11 

Jodi’s Gym…................................3 

Le Jardin du roi..........................38 

March Boutique.........................27 

Isa Marrs, MA, CCC-SLP............21 

Millwood Market.......................23 

New Castle Physical Therapy.....25 

Nicolaysen Agency, Inc..............38 

Oasis Day Spa….........................29 

The Perennial Chef....................35 

Play Care Nursery 

& Preschool................................47 

Pleasantville 

Community Synagogue.............20 

353 Restaurant and Lounge......26 

Jo Rosenfeld Major Occasions...28 

Rosenthal JCC............................32 

Squires Family 

Clothing and Footwear..............34 

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

Whispering Pines......................30 

World Cup Gymnastics..............48 

World Cup Nursery School 

and Kindergarten......................24 

42 Maggie Mae Pup Reporter 

Maggie Mae investigates love, Doggie 

Love, that is... By Maggie Mae 

with Ronni Diamondstein 

46 Gotta Have Arts 

For an evening of karaoke fun, you 

can count on DJ Justine Faith. 

By Michael Kohn 

50 Rick’s Last Lick’s 

When Mom, OMG, “Friends” You 

By Rick Reynolds 

Cover Sponsors: 

Samalin 

Investment Counsel ............3-4 

William Raveis.....................6-7 

Lydia Evans, M.D. ..................9 

2 Inside Chappaqua February 2011 February 2011 Inside Chappaqua 3

Wall Street Meets King Street 

Have you ever glanced at your investment account 

statements, scratched your head, and wondered: “Is 

this what I should be doing?” Chances are pretty good 

that you have done just that—particularly during 

these three long challenging years for the market. But 

perhaps you also can’t shake a nagging feeling that 

your current advisor may not be prepared to help you 

define your goals and work diligently towards them. 

Fortunately, there are professionals who can inspire 

greater confidence and even propel your wealth management 

to a new level. One such professional is 

Andrew Samalin of Samalin Investment Counsel, now 

available in Chappaqua. A veteran Certified Financial 

Planner with over 18 years of experience, Samalin 

might well be that private and local wealth management 

solution you are looking for. 

Samalin, 42, has been in the business of wealth management 

for his entire career, holding SVP-Investment 

positions for Morgan Stanley, Prudential and Wachovia 

in White Plains. Sensing a change in the investment 

landscape, in April 2007, he left Wachovia to 

found an SEC-Registered Investment Advisory firm, 

Samalin Investment Counsel (SICounsel). The move 

has been a wonderful success, though the market has 

offered quite a headwind… 

A “Can Do” Approach 

“We have a choice: let the markets manage us, or 

manage through the markets and seek a positive 

outcome,” states Samalin. “We choose the latter, both 

for ourselves and our clients.” Such take charge thinking 

appears to be working. Since SICounsel’s founding, 

the firm has won multiple local and national awards. 

Financial Advisor Magazine awarded Samalin the “Top 

500 RIAs for 2009,” and Wealth Manager Web awarded 

“2010 Top Wealth Managers.” He was named one 

of Westchester’s “Forty under Forty” by the Westchester 

County Business Council in 2007, and won “Best 

in Customer Service” from Westchester Magazine in 

2009 and 2010. 

Sharing that expertise to the community at large is 

important. Samalin’s pro-bono work includes serving 

on the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors 

and as Treasurer of Bethel Nursing Homes. He is also 

on the Board of Directors of the Association of Divorce 

Financial Planners. 

By Sarah Ellen Berman 

Samalin Investment Counsel team. Not pictured: Louise Albert, CFP 

large, impersonal institution. This is particularly important 

when structuring real estate investments with 

a limited number of accredited investors, who are also 

SICounsel clients. “Since these investments are local 

in nature, we have the opportunity to kick the tires 

before moving ahead. This due diligence is a critical 

piece for success. 

“Wealth management involves an ongoing dialogue 

and rapport between advisor and client,” Samalin 

notes. “We’re told it’s actually a very unique combination; 

the scale, breadth and safety of Fidelity Investments 

(with over $3.3 trillion under administration 

as of 10.31.10), fused with the commitment and 

intimacy that a local investment advisor can provide. 

When you consider what’s at stake, is the generic “Big 

Box Investment Retailer” a fait accomplit? Besides, our 

clients have earned it.” 

SICounsel manages over $100 million dollars in assets 

custodied at Fidelity Investments. For additional 

safety, accounts are held in each individual account 

holder’s name, available for viewing 24/7 at Fidelity. 

com. These measures ensure complete transparency. 

“We live in a very risk-laden world,” Samalin said, “It’s 

our job to try to provide a positive investment experience 

for our clients. Fidelity helps towards that end a 

great deal. Since so many of our clients already have 

their workplace retirement plans with Fidelity, they 

love the fact that we can assist with their retirement 

plans without having to move the asset itself.” 

tributes of a great financial 

advisor. “Thinking back to 

the post-Lehman collapse, 

I remember sending breakof-dawn 

emails and calls to 

clients, noting that the premarket 

indications were to 

open down 700 points. Emails 

sent that morning was simple: 

“Here’s my home number. 

Here’s my staff’s home numbers. 

Let’s make sure we’re 

talking, and acting. This is going 

to be a difficult day.” 

That kind of openness, while a 

rarity in the industry, is something 

investors should insist 

upon. “If you didn’t hear from 

your advisor then, you should 

question the relationship. If 

you did, my hat’s off to you 

and your advisor,“ says Samalin. He also points out 

that investors value advisors who educate their clients 

in a layperson’s language. Attending NYU for both his 

undergraduate and graduate degrees, with teaching 

experience in both investment management and real 

estate analytics, Samalin is used to explaining complex 

financial issues in English--not Wall Street-speak. “My 

clients are extremely bright and educated. They want 

Samalin Investment Counsel client reception, NYSE trading 

floor, May 30, 2007 

to know what’s happening, 

without the industry jargon.” 

SICounsel may be found at its 

recently acquired headquarters 

at 297 King Street. Their offices 

are located in the Crown 

House, the former home 

of Crown House Antiques. 

Originally built in 1865, the 

Crown House has been faithfully 

restored, retaining the 

look and feel of its predecessor. 

The columns stand proudly 

in front and the facade has 

been spruced up with a historically 

accurate color scheme. 

Samalin’s commitment to the 

Chappaqua community is demonstrated, 

in part, by the pride 

he takes in the professional, 

welcoming ambience he has 

created in his building. 

Most importantly, however, he is planning on sponsoring 

ice cream and face painting for the munchkins 

of Chappaqua just prior to the Memorial Day Parade. 

This is a mandate from his children Matthew (4 ¾) and 

Talia (2 ½). “Dow 6700 will look like a walk in the 

park if there isn’t enough ice cream for the kids on 

Memorial Day,” says his wife Gina, with a smile. 

Fine Men ’ s & Women ’ s Wear 

Services: Visit Family 

Britches for the finest in 

men's, women's and boys 

clothing. "We don't just 

sell clothing-we create 

coordinated outfits so you 

Family Britches 

PROPRIETORS: 

Barry Mishkin & Rick Buggee 

IN BUSINESS SINCE: 1970 

www.familybritches.com 

look your best," notes co-owner Barry Mishkin. Men can 

find suits and sport coats by Corneliani, Hickey Freeman, 

Samuelsohn, Canali and Zegna. Women's collections include 

Magaschoni, Max Mara, Rene Lezard, and others. 

Greatest Strengths: Personal assistance. 

Staff can arrange appointments 

at their stores, in your home 

or office. Expert tailors ensure 

every garment fits you properly. Alterations 

are at no extra charge. For 

over 40 years, Family Britches has 

been proud to be part of the fabric 

of the Chappaqua community. 

Special Plans: This month, save on 

The Local Advantage 

An Open Door 

custom suits, sport coats and shirts. In March, visit trunk 

Dealing with a local investment advisor is fundamentally 

advantageous to investors. Clients have the have been affected by this extraordinary downturn. 

Clearly the Chappaqua community and others like it 

shows for men's collections, including Corneliani, Hickey 

Freeman and Samuelsohn. Other spring plans include a 

opportunity to develop a rapport with Samalin as While the tide has clearly turned for the better, approachability 

and accessibility remain critical at- 

diverse collection of women's sportswear and a trunk 

opposed to being viewed as another number within a 

show for Magaschoni. 


Home Sweet Home 


(L-R): Company owners: Ryan Raveis, Bill Raveis and Chris Raveis 

The proposition of parting with 

or acquiring a new home can be 

one of the most important or 

exciting times. For residents and 

prospective buyers in the town 

of Chappaqua, this task is greatly 

facilitated thanks to the arrival of 

the venerable firm, William Raveis 

Real Estate, Mortgage and Insurance. 

The building, located at 75 

North Greeley Avenue, is currently 

under construction and will be the 

location for Raveis’ new Chappaqua 

headquarters. 

While Raveis (pronounced Ravis) is 

a relative newcomer to Chappaqua, 

the company is firmly entrenched 

in the surrounding area and northeast. 

Yet, this powerhouse rose 

from humble beginnings. In 1974, 

CEO and Chairman, Bill Raveis, 

founded the company in a room 

atop a grocery store in Fairfield, 

CT. Since then, he has built a 

strong reputation for the firm, 

particularly in the high-end marketplace, 

including the renowned 

Fairfield County. 

As the company grew, Bill’s sons 

joined the business. In 2003, Chris 

Raveis, now Managing Partner of 

William Raveis NY and MA, led the 

company’s rapid expansion outside 

of Connecticut, opening over 30 

offices throughout the northeast in 

just seven years. Within the past 

18 months, Chris and his team 

opened five new Raveis locations in 

Westchester County–Rye, Harrison, 

Katonah, Chappaqua and most 

recently, a new affiliate in Sleepy 

Hollow. Due to the hard work of 

management, agents and staff, 

the firm has achieved the honor of 

being the largest family-owned real 

estate company in the northeast 

and was named the eleventh largest 

real estate company in the country 

in 2010. 

True to its reputation of catering 

to all home buyer and seller needs, 

William Raveis also touts awardwinning 

Mortgage and Insurance 

Divisions. Ryan Raveis, Senior Vice 

President of Sales and Marketing 

for William Raveis Mortgage has 

helped the division achieve a top 

1% ranking amongst all FHA lenders 

in the country. The insurance 

division offers separate coverage 

for homes, possessions, automobiles, 

life, and health as well as 

umbrella policies. 

A cornerstone of the company’s 

success in all its divisions has been 

to hire the best people. The Chappaqua 

office Sales Manager, Susan 

Myers, fits this description well. 

A veteran broker who has most 

recently worked for Prudential Holmes 

and Kennedy, Myers is ebullient 

about Raveis’ prospects 

in Chappaqua. “We now 

have many of the top producers 

in our Chappaqua office,” 

she said. Raveis recruits only 

the best and the brightest, 

ensuring them success wherever 

they go. Sena Baron, 

Barbara Karlen Blitstein, 

Cindy Glynn, Bonnie Golub, 

Ellen Grollman, Suzette B. 

Kraus, Lucille Liang, Helene 

Miller, Danae Richards, 

Susan Shopkorn, Harmony 

Stern, and Alli Tugendhaft 

are just a few of the area top 

producers that have become 

a part of the Raveis team. 

The new office will cover the following 

territory: Chappaqua, Armonk, 

Briarcliff Manor, Bedford, Mount 

Kisco, and Pleasantville. 

When asked how she will encourage 

her agents in a housing market 

that is stabilizing, Myers stressed a 

collaborative approach. “It will be 

important to look at what clients’ 

value as far as finances, comfort, 

and home amenities.” In her experience, 

the top five areas of a home 

that clients value are: the kitchen, 

bathrooms, a family room adjacent 

to the kitchen, a finished basement 

and landscaping. “We will 

also stress effective communication 

upon the part of the agent, so he 

or she is presenting properties that 

best suit the client’s needs.” 

According to Myers, Chappaqua 

is brimming with premier listings 

at great values. She highlighted 

two properties. The first is located 

at 9 Crystal Spring Road. Priced 

at $1,050,000, Myers sees this 

vintage charmer as “an immediate 

attraction for buyers in this 

price range because of its excellent 

condition and level property with 

views.” The second listing is a Colonial, 

priced at $759,000, located at 

84 Oak Hill. “To get a Colonial in 

the mid $700,000s is a great value,” 

Myers observed. 

Myers is quick to tout the strengths 

of the firm when asked how she 

will approach marketing of these 

and other homes. “The technology 

"We now have many of the 

top producers in our 

Chappaqua office. 

Raveis recruits only the 

best and the brightest, 

ensuring them success 

wherever they go.” 

Susan Myers 

William Raveis provides is unbelievable. 

The website [raveis.com] 

receives over ten million worldwide 

visits annually and is a wonderful 

tool for any agent marketing a 

home.” In addition to providing 

simple access to information on 

over 200,000 listings throughout 

the Northeast, raveis.com is a destination 

for buyers, sellers and real 

estate aficionados alike looking to 

keep a pulse on regional and local 

markets. In addition, the company 

embraces social media, engaging 

Facebook, Twitter and You Tube 

followers with weekly contests such 

as “Name that Celebrity Home,” 

providing useful tips for buyers and 

sellers and posting video created 

by agents and management. The 

firm’s blog, raveis.com, is a hub 

for the latest in real estate, from 

trends in home building to the impact 

of state and federal regulation 

in local markets. 

Through use of technology as well 

as more traditional means of communication, 

Myers looks to maintain 

a close relationship not only 

with clients, but with local communities 

the Chappaqua office will 

serve. “The Chappaqua team looks 

forward to being actively involved 

in community events and causes,” 

said Myers. This is a philosophy 

she shares with Bill Raveis, William 

Raveis agents and staff, as they 

have felt strongly about giving back 

to communities that have helped 

them prosper over the years. 

A cause close to the company’s 

heart has been to aid those fighting 

breast cancer. Over the past 

six years, William Raveis agents, 

management and staff have raised 

$1.5 million in support of the 

American Cancer Society Patient 

Navigator Program, an initiative 

that helps newly diagnosed breast 

cancer patients “navigate” through 

the physical, emotional and financial 

stresses of the disease. Myers 

looks forward to actively participating 

in this cause, as well as in 

agents’ continued involvement in 

local groups and associations, such 

as the PTA, the United Jewish 

Appeal, the Junior League, Neighbors 

Link, churches, and synagogues. 

“The website, 

raveis.com, 

receives over ten 

million world wide 

visits annually and is 

a wonderful tool 

for any agent 

marketing a home.” 

When contemplating the outlook 

for real estate, Myers is optimistic. 

“It’ll be stronger than 2010 as long 

as homes are priced realistically,” 

she said. One thing she need not 

contemplate is the prowess of her 

team, which has a lifetime sales 

volume of $2.9 billion. “Their talent 

further fuels my optimism. 

I’m excited for the year ahead.” 


Just Between Us 

Product & Services: Now in 

its eighth year, Inside Chappaqua: 

The Magazine for New Castle and 

Beyond continues to be mailed free six 

times a year between September and 

June to over 6,000 households. “We 

take pride in having “weathered tough 

times” by continuing to produce a 

relevant and entertaining periodical that readers seem to 

really like and look forward to,” says Grace. “By letting the 

advertisers here know you value the magazine, and have seen 

their ads, and even act on them on occasion, you help us keep 

these issues coming!” 

Greatest Strengths: IC continues to be blessed with 

an immensely talented and loyal stable of contributors. This 

last year, we welcomed in another key contributor, designer 

Dina Spalvieri. “I have enjoyed 

Inside Chappaqua 

PROPRIETOR: 

Grace Bennett 

IN BUSINESS SINCE: 

April 2003 

www.insidechappaqua.com 

Editor’s Note: When I decided 

on the Flood Sisters cover story, I 

turned to Westchester’s most ubiquitous 

fashion stylist, writer and 

instructor Sandy Hapoienu to help 

out. A permanent fixture at Fashion 

Week, her latest venture, 

stylingsession.com, embodies all her 

sought after expertise. Inside Chappaqua 

asked Sandy a few questions 

following the shoot: 

1. What motivated you 

to choose a career as a stylist? 

I started as a shopping editor then 

photo stylist, styling celebrities, 

corporate, television, closet edits, 

wardrobe building and fashion 

shows. This also led me to teach 

as an adjunct Professor at SUNY 

Westchester. 

my regular jaunts to Dina’s 

lovely Kent, Connecticut home, 

to help close each issue.” 

Special Plans: A “Top Ten Anything” 

edition for March/April, 

from Top Ten Ways to Go Green 

to Top Ten Places to Bike Ride. 

Sandy’s Touch 

Photo by Cathy Pinsky, pinskystudio.com 

www.insidechappaqua.com 

February 2011 

Volume 8, Number 3 

Publisher and Editor 

Grace Bennett 

Associate to the Publisher 

Design 

Carine Feist 

Dina Spalvieri 

Contributors 

Daniel Baitch, Lisa Ballou, Sarah Ellen Berman, Ronni Diamondstein 

Alex Federov, Michelle Hecht, Michael Kohn, Mike Lauterborn, 

Cathy Pinsky, Rick Reynolds 

Web Consultant 

Palmer Louise 

General Counsel 

Brian Hand 

Inside Chappaqua is published six 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 © 2011. 

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. 

Become a fan of 

Inside Chappaqua on 

3. What inspires 

you most about styling? 

Most people are married to a look 

and are afraid to take chances on 

their own. The confidence level rises 

significantly. 

4.What is rewarding 

to you about it? 

The thanks I get from my clients and 

the look on their faces. The befores 

and afters are amazing. 

5. Can you describe your experience 

with the Flood Sisters? 

The Flood sisters are three young 

women working hard to bring attention 

to their foundation in the hopes 

of kidney donors. I took the whole 

picture into account: where are they 

now and where they are going in the 

future. First I started with their body 

types and what would be the most 

flattering styles. Then I made suggestions 

for hair and make-up. I aimed 

for a more polished business look. 

Dr. Lydia Evans: Dermatologist Extraordinaire 


Passion. This is what sets Dr. Lydia 

Evans apart from the rest. She is 

a dedicated individual who prides 

herself on delivering high quality, 

individualized care. 

Dr. Evans’ practice is designed to 

cater to her clients. Her visits are 

conducted at a leisurely pace to insure 

that everyone feels comfortable 

and understands that their concerns 

are paramount. 

Talking to her is like talking to a 

dear friend. Any anxiety associated 

with a visit to the doctor fades away. 

When beginning a consultation, Dr. 

Evans listens intently to the patient’s 

concern about their appearance. “It’s 

essential to respect that,” she related. 

Once Dr. Evans understands what 

the client is seeking to achieve, she 

recommends the appropriate procedure 

or product. 

State-of-the-Art 

“Ulthera Therapy” Offered 

There are several technological innovations 

in the field of cosmetic 

services which are particularly 

exciting to Dr. Evans. She has recently 

acquired the tools to administer 

ulthera therapy. This is the 

non-surgical facelift which many 

have been waiting for. Ulthera 

utilizes an ultrasound machine to 

deliver amazing results. Before and 

after photos were featured on recent 

episodes of Dr. Oz and Rachel 

Ray. For those looking to erase fine 

lines, wrinkles, and brown spots, 

Dr. Evans recommends a laser 

treatment called Fraxel. It’s “like a 

present from God,” she said. 

Creating a skincare regime is one of 

Dr. Evans’s specialities. Whether 

it’s a medicinal or moisturizing 

cream, she will find the perfect 

match. In her role as a consulting 

dermatologist for L’Oreal, she has 

acquired extensive knowledge of 

skincare products. 

What does Dr. Evans relish about 

her profession? The gratification 

expressed by her clients. “They’ll 

look in the mirror and say, ‘Wow!’ 

It’s very rewarding to make someone 

feel better about the way they 

look,” she observed. 

Dr. Evans has also seen how a 

change in appearance is reflected 

in her patient’s lives. Sometimes, 

desired weight loss is achieved. Occasionally, 

a more fulfilling career is 

embarked upon. 

“I’m also the first guinea pig,” she 

stated. “I’ve had Botox and Dermasweep 

(a skin resurfacing system)...I 

always communicate what it felt 

like.” Her completely natural looking 

complexion belies the fact that it has 

been enhanced in any way. 

recommends that it be seen by a 

professional. While she noted that 

melanoma is on the rise, she acknowledges 

that, “Early detection 

changes the picture dramatically.” 

The recent news on the benefits of 

vitamin D give her pause. She is 

concerned that people may overindulge 

in sunbathing sans sunscreen 

to reap the benefits of vitamin D. 

Her advice is to limit unprotected 

areas to ten minutes of exposure 

and to always use sunscreen on the 

face. Additionally, she feels that 

vitamin D supplements are equally 

if not more beneficial. 

Look around when you cross the 

threshold to the space where this 

highly skilled dermatologist plies 

her trade. Clues to her expertise 

abound. This connoisseur has chosen 

exquisite works of art including 

a Bonnard like tableau and a playful 

figurine, perched atop a chair. 

“My passion about art history 

informs the aesthetics part 

of the practice. There really is 

an art to it.” 

Dr. Evans prides herself on developing 

enduring relationships with 

her patients. She inquires about 

their families and lives with genuine 

interest. In some cases, she is 

even acquainted with other members 

of the family since they are 

also patients. Her practice includes 

a number of children and great 

grandparents from fourth genera- 

2.Is styling a natural 

by reading fashion magazines and 

Proponent of Follow Up Care 

gift or something learned? watching fashion shows. The science 

Dr. Evans places a strong emphasis 

I believe that there is an art and can be learned by knowing the type 

on vigilance. If a mole has changed 

a science to styling. The art is the of clothing that is the best fit for 

or a pimple has not disappeared 

creative side that can be tapped into your body type. 

in four to six weeks, she strongly 

tion families. 

8 Inside Chappaqua February 2011 February 2011 Inside Chappaqua 9 

Daniel Baitch 

Dr. Evans’ Vital Data 

Along with practicing dermatology in 

Chappaqua since 1993, here are some 

highlights from her background: 

• Graduated Wesleyan University 

and Penn State Medical School. 

• Chief Medical resident at the 

University of Vermont. 

• Fellowship in Oncology at 

Memorial Sloan Kettering 

Cancer Center. 

• Associate Clinical Attending in 

Dermatology at Columbia 

Presbyterian Medical Center. 

• Fellow, American Academy of 

Dermatology. 

• Leadership Society, Dermatology 

Research Foundation. 

• NY State Chairperson, Psoriasis 

Research Foundation. 

• Consulting Dermatologist, 

L'Oreal, since 2000


Great Vision Pays Off 

By Lisa Ballou 

WWW.OLIVERPEOPLES.COM 

RPEOPLES.COM 

OLIVER PEOPLES 

OLIVER PEOPLES 

TRUNK SHOW 

REBECCA SCHWARTZ WEARS WACKS 

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4TH • 11AM-4PM 

TRUNK SHOW 

Chappaqua 

Scarsdale 

22 S. Greeley Chappaqua Avenue 8 Spencer Place 

Chappaqua, 22 S. Greeley NY 10514 Avenue Scarsdale, NY 10583 

914-238-5600 Chappaqua, NY 10514 914-472-2020 

914-238-5600 

REBECCA SCHWARTZ WEARS WACKS 

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4TH • 11AM-4PM 

Chris Gentile and Celine Pittet at Eye Gallery are always ready to help you find your perfect paid of shades. 

Stylish. Sexy. Cool. Mysterious. 

Let’s face it; a fashionable pair of 

glasses may be the greatest accessory 

a person can own. I know many 

people, myself included, who have a 

thing for sunglasses. In fact, there 

are even people who blog about 

their obsession with sunglasses. 

And while fashion trends come and 

go, sunglasses, and glasses for that 

matter, always remain in style. 

Eye Gallery, a modern boutique in 

downtown Chappaqua, is a store 

that stays on the cutting edge of 

eyewear trends. From sporty to 

flashy to simply functional, Eye 

Gallery is home to a large selection 

of eyewear. The well-lit space has 

plenty of windows and mirrors to 

make the decision process an easy 

and enjoyable one. 

Owner/Optometrist Dr. Michael 

Rosen and his Partner Dr. Chris 

Gentile are on hand along with 

Office Manager Celine Lewitt. They 

are committed to helping customers 

take care of their eyes and make 

the right decisions about fit and 

function. As a result, Eye Gallery 

has quickly become the place for 

fabulous eyewear in Northern 

Westchester. When Dr. Rosen was 

ready to expand the Eye Gallery 

name, he found himself drawn to 

Chappaqua for its small-town feel. 

“I have a lot of ties to Chappaqua 

and know a lot of people in the 

town, “ explained Dr. Rosen. 

“When I decided to expand the 

brand to a second location and the 

space became available, it just felt 

like the right fit.” It is a vision that 

has certainly paid off. 

Eye Gallery offers full eye exams 

six days a week and have an Optometrist 

on staff every day except 

Sunday. The focus of the business is 

twofold. There is a large emphasis 

on the medical function of eyewear, 

and at the same time, the doctors 

equally understand the importance 

of glasses as a fashion accessory. 

When it comes to finding the perfect 

pair of glasses it’s important to 

give yourself plenty of time for the 

selection process. 

“Remember, the first thing people 

see when they look at you is your 

eyewear, so even if glasses seem expensive, 

good quality and good style 

are worth it,” said Dr. Rosen. “Also, 

just because the sun isn’t blazing hot 

doesn’t mean you don’t need to wear 

sunglasses. The sun’s rays are just as 

harmful on your eyes in the winter as 

in the summer.” 

Dr. Rosen and his staff are committed 

to providing the best customer 

service. “People trust us. They 

know we have their best interest 

in mind and that we care how they 

look. They can come in to pick out 

a new pair of glasses with our help 

and without bringing 10 friends 

with them.” 


Michelle Hecht


Scott and Tara Mikolay Fulfill Your Desires 

...for Beautiful Jewelry 

Desires by Mikolay is a full service 

jewelry store that carries a wide 

array of fine & fashion jewelry at 

all price points. Recently launched 

designer line “Scott Mikolay” truly 

represents luxury and quality. 

A leader in jewelry repair and custom 

design, Desires never sacrifices 

quality craftsmanship. All repairs 

are done on premises by its master 

jewelers. Estimates are complimentary, 

and there is no job too big or 

too small. 

Store Services include: 

•Jewelry, Fine & Fashion 

•Custom Made Jewelry 

•Jewelry Repair & Redesign 

•Loose Diamond Sales & Appraisals 

•Diamond Setting 

•On Site Master Jeweler 

•Gift Range Jewelry 

•Personal Shoppers 

•Online Store 

Background: When Scott decided 

to open a store he quickly realized 

the enormity of the task. His wife 

Tara, a social worker, left her career 

temporarily to help out but unexpectedly 

fell in love with jewelry, 

marketing and general daily tasks 

of doing business. Six years later, 

they have together designed and 

launched Scott Mikolay Jewelry 

Design, and show no signs of slowing 

down. Committed to philanthropy, 

they host at least four charity 

events at the store each year 

and financially support many local 

and international organizations. 

Greatest Strengths: “I think we 

have a real understanding about 

the current world and marketplace 

that we live in,” says Tara. Aware 

that their customers can easily 

shop online or in big stores, they 

value their patrons and “go the 

extra distance.” With that in mind, 

Desires offers all price points, recognizing 

that even a luxury store 

needs to offer a good selection in 

the $25-$35 range. 

The shop also offers complimentary 

jewelry cleanings, and checks over 

customers’ items for loose stones 

and overall safety in the process. 

Customers enjoy complimentary 

freshly baked organic cookies and 

hot espresso while they wait or 

browse. And Desires by Mikolay 

customer service is second to none; 

male customers are amazed with 

how well the staff knows their 

wives’ tastes, ensuring that they 

choose the perfect gift! 

Desires also has the strongest repair 

shop and custom design center 

in the area, transforming customers’ 

outdated jewelry into something 

new and special. Patrons love 

working with Scott, Simon, Diana 

and Sarah as they really take the 

time to listen to their wants and 

get the job done right. 

Proudest Moment: Every day, 

Scott and Tara are proud when a 

customer comes tells them that 

they really value having the store in 

town and hope it remains for many 

years to come. “We hear often that 

this is a place a husband can come 

in and pick out anything in the 

store and his wife would be happy,” 

says Tara. “That makes us proud as 

it speaks to the work we put into 

the store, making sure what we 

carry is current, in demand, and 

priced right.” 

Of added pride is the Scott Mikolay 

line being picked up by the ultimate 

in luxury, Neiman Marcus! 

Customer Service Stories: 

Jewelry and working on jewelry is 

all about trust. Desires proudly offers 

to work on clients rings or precious 

jewels while they wait, ensuring 

that they always know where 

their piece is. Want further reassurance? 

Customers can even sit 

in the back to watch as one of the 

store’s master jewelers works on 

their piece so they can see the high 

level of quality and skill used. Many 

new customers love this service, as 

it can be daunting trusting someone 

you just met with your most 

precious family heirlooms. 

A male customer came in to purchase 

a gift for his wife for Valentine’s 

Day, which was also their 

anniversary. He was pressed for 

time, so the Desires staff offered to 

handle the gift based on his specifications. 

The staff ran around town 

gathering candles, a card and other 

items and assembled the perfect 

gift basket. Floored by the Desires 

by Mikolay customer service and 

that they took the time to do this 

for him, he has remained a loyal 

customer to us for the last 

five years… 

Hopes and Dreams: 

Growth, continuing to fine-tune 

and improve their business, and 

to make a positive impact in this 

world. And of course making Scott 

Mikolay a household name. 


Alex Mele 

Desires by Mikolay 

PROPRIETORS: 

Scott & Tara Mikolay 


www.desiresbymikolay.com

State-of-the-Art Entertainment Systems 

A Westchester Based Company 

Empire Audio/Video Concepts, Inc. 

PRESIDENT: 

Charles Schunk 


www.empireaudiovideo.com 

Special Offer to Inside Chappaqua Readers! 

Please Call For Details 

Call 914-980-0386 Today 

When he is not installing entertainment 

systems, you may see Charlie on a stage near 

you working as a professional musician. 

Products & Services: E.A.V.C. is 

a custom electronics design/integration 

& installation company. 

CEDIA Certified and Authorized 

Dealers of all major brands we specialize 

in; Media Rooms, Dedicated 

Home Theaters, Surround Sound 

Systems, Indoor/ Outdoor Speakers, 

Whole House Audio/ Video 

And Home Automation Systems, 

Listening Rooms, Home Recording 

Studios, Lighting Control, CCTV 

Cameras, Corporate Board Rooms, 

Phone Systems, Computer Networking, 

Sound Isolation, DJ Systems, 

Live Sound Reinforcement 

and more. We service Residential 

Homes, Businesses, Retail Stores/ 

Outlets, Sports Bars, Restaurants, 

Night Clubs, Houses Of Worship, 

Schools, Towns /Villages, and 

more. From a simple Plasma/ LCD/ 

LED installation to a fully automated 

“Smart Home” controllable from 

your I-phone/ I-Pad anywhere in 

the world, Empire can design and 

install a system to fit your budget. 

Background: 

A Westchester native 

and professional musician, 

Charlie has been 

around Audio/ Video 

ever since he can remember. 

“From setting 

up the stereo system at 

high school parties, to 

owning “The Band P.A. 

System” and then onto 

performing on stages 

around the world 

equipped with state of 

the art Audio/ Video Systems,” he 

says, “I just figured starting an A/V 

company was the most logical path 

for me to take.” 

Greatest Strengths: “Creativity, 

honesty, and integrity.” 

Proudest Moment: Signing a 

major record label deal and getting 

to work with some of the biggest 

names in the music industry! 

Customer Service Stories: “I was 

once called into fix an issue created 

by another company for a senior 

partner of Home Theater 

Magazine. She is still my client 

today! -:) Another time I 

was called in to troubleshoot 

an issue involving a large TV 

wall at an area gym. I was 

told that they had three or 

four companies try to solve 

the issue before giving me 

the ball. After a few phone 

calls to industry experts and 

bit of research on my own, I 

found a solution that worked 

resulting in another Happy 

Customer!” 

Special Plans: After February 1 

and through the spring, Empire 

Audio will be running specials for 

Inside Chappaqua readers. Please 

give us a call or go to my website 

for more information,” says Charlie. 

“And, oh yeah, don’t forget to 

mention the magazine.” 

Hopes for the Future: 

“To keep up with the ever changing 

electronic technology industry 

and eventually automate 

EVERYTHING! Perhaps a micro 

chip implanted at birth?” 


H A P P E N I N G S 

JDRF Honors 

Chappaqua Family 

JBFC’s 10th 

Anniversary Celebration 

One of the founding families and honorees of the 25th Anniversary Gala to benefit Juvenille 

Diabetes Research Foudation, Robert & Bobbi Reitzes of Chappaqua, pictured here 

with one of their children with type 1 diabetes, Robin Kern of Katonah, NY. This year’s 

gala will take place at the Trump National Golf Course on April 9. To purchase tickets or 

to donate an auction item, contact Stephen Gnojewski, 914-686-7700 or send an email 

to sgnojewski@jdrf.org. 

Save the Date! 

OPEN HOUSE 

WEEKEND 

at 

Pleasantville 

Community Synagogue 

March 11-13, 2011 

Jacob Burns Film Center Executive Director Steve 

Apkon, legendary actor/filmmaker and Sundance 

Film Festival founder Robert Redford, and Academy 

Award-winning director Jonathan Demme. 

The Jacob Burns Film Center (JBFC) is a 

nonprofit cultural arts organization with 

a dual mission in film and education, located 

on a 47,500 sq. foot, three-building 

campus in the center of Pleasantville. 

Since the opening in 2001, over a million 

people have seen over 4,500 films from 

more than 40 countries. The campus 

includes the 27,000 sq. feet Media Arts 

Lab, the JBFC’s state-of-the-art education 

center. To learn more about the 

JBFC, visit www.burnsfilmcenter.org. 

A Trip to the Tropics 

Without Leaving NY 

Through February 27: 

Admission is Half Price 

Visitors to The New York 

Botanical Garden this winter 

can find a refuge from 

the frigid weather outside 

For more information call with a retreat to the warmth 

of Caribbean Garden, a look 

914-769-2672 

at the tropical trees, flowers, 

and foliage in the Enid 

visit our Web site at 

A. Haupt Conservatory’s 

permanent collection, including orange-yellow crotons, 

wwwshalompcs.com or fuschia bromeliads, and rosy red hibiscus. Through 

e-mail 

self-guided strolls, use of free audio tours, or participation 

in docent-led tours of the Conservatory, visitors 

info@shalompcs.com. can encounter many surprises in the largest Victorianstyle 

glasshouse in the country, open once again to the 

Come Discover what 

public after last summer’s horticultural and structural 

Joyful Judaism is all about! 

refurbishments. Check nybg.org for exact times and 

locations. 


Granite Real Estate Tax Consultants 

Posts Record Lows in 2010 

Homeowners Lower Their Assessments/Real Estate Taxes by 9%-25% 

David Ruzow, 

Managing 

Director of 

Granite Real 

Estate Tax 

Consultants, 

is delighted 

with his company’s 

yearend 

results 

David Ruzow 

– down, the 

way he and his clients like it. That’s 

because Granite’s business is helping 

homeowners lower their assessments 

and save on property taxes. Ruzow 

is uniquely qualified to represent clients 

because of his dual expertise as 

both a certified real estate appraiser 

and a licensed real estate broker. His 

knowledge and judgment, gained in 

over 30 years of valuing real estate, 

GRIEVE NOW... 

Or Overpay Your 

Taxes Another Year! 

make all the difference in mounting 

a successful property assessment 

challenge. 

“The fact is, we offer our property 

tax reduction services only to homeowners 

who we believe are overassessed,” 

commented Mr. Ruzow. 

Granite will prepare an appeal and 

follow all of the steps necessary to 

get the reduction the client deserves. 

The fee, 50% of the first year’s tax 

savings, is owed only if and when the 

assessment gets reduced. 

Trust the experts 

the assessors respect 

The burden of proof is on your consultant 

to present a credible case of 

over-assessment. Having an expert 

represent you – who knows values in 

the area, understands what comparables 

to use as proof of value, and 

who speaks the same language as the 

assessors, is critical. David Ruzow 

can handily counter an argument put 

forth by an assessor because he is an 

expert at the valuation, and negotiation 

of real estate. 


Tax Consultants serves 

Westchester, Putnam and 

Rockland counties. For a complete 

list of services, visit 

www.granitetaxreduction.com. 


Tax Consultants, LLC 

351 Manville Road, 

Pleasantville, NY 10570 

914-747-8999 

Municipalities accept grievance applications only once a year. In the towns 

of New Castle and Mount Pleasant, the deadline is June 21st, but in the 

villages of Westchester, it is as early as February 15th. 

Call Granite for a chance to save money, like your neighbors below: 

REDUCTION OF 

APPROXIMATE 

ASSESSED VALUE 

TAX SAVINGS 

TOWN 

STREET 

MOUNT PLEASANT Deborah Lane 25% $6,050 

Hardscrabble Hill 16% $3,110 

Hardscrabble Lake Drive 10% $4,622 

Hardscrabble Road 16% $3,742 

Heritage Drive 9% $3,080 

Heritage Drive 14% $3,924 

NEW CASTLE 

Bessel Lane 9% $6,122 

Cross Ridge 15% $3,560 

Danny Lane 14% $3,827 

This is an example 

of our successful 

New Castle and 

Mount Pleasant 

2010 Grievance Cases 

Hilltop Drive 22% $10,513 

Joan Drive 16% $4,817 

Lawrence Farms Crossway 11% $6,137 

Mc Kesson Hill 23% $11,133 

Mountain Peak 22% $6,548 

Old Road Lane 25% $9,318 

Quaker Road 11% $7,248 

Turner Drive 25% $11,290 

Valley View 14% $3,293 

GRANITE REAL ESTATE TAX CONSULTANTS, LLC 

351 Manville Rd., Suite 105 • Pleasantville, NY 10570 • 914-747-8999 

www.granitetaxreduction.com 

If at first you did not succeed 


Try again – but with professional help! 

John and Tracy DeMeo have 

finally realized a long held dream. 

Back in 2001, John DeMeo was 

sure that the gas station site he 

owned in this bucolic hamlet could 

be transformed into something 

grander, serving the entire New 

Castle community and all those 

folks coming and going from the 

Taconic. “John saw the potential 

for a vibrant location to meet the 

needs of everyone on the go,” 

says Tracy. 

If your tax reduction application was denied, or you were dissatisfied with the size of the reduction, all is not lost. Our 

Just GRAND! 

Spacious and Stocked Shop for After you Fill Up 

And it turns out, he was right. 

Since its grand opening last month, the new Millwood 

Market and Shell Station has had everyone oohing and 

ahhing! The 4,000 

Millwood Market 

PROPRIETORS: 

John & Tracy DeMeo 


January 2011 

www.millwoodmarket.com 

John and Tracy DeMeo 

square foot convenience 

shop, housed in 

a handsome, sparkling 

new Colonial building, 

offers a full array 

of grocery items that 

John explains is “an 

evolving inventory” 

as he continues to diligently ask customers 

what they’d most appreciate 

from a convenience and quality point 

of view. 

In the meantime, you can fill up at 

the sparkling new pumps, and then 

dash in for a great cup of Mountain 

Blend coffee, fresh brewed iced tea, 

or Ghirardelli’s hot chocolate (John is 

ultra conscious of offering up tasty, 

quality products that are a notch 

above). Or try a cup of delicious Kettle 

Cuisine Soup or Chili, or maybe 

grab a cold meat sandwich, breakfast 

egg sandwich on a bagel or roll, or enjoy a Nathan’s 

hot dog! 

Then roam the spacious aisles to stock up on items 

for your fridge or cupboards…whether its milk , eggs, 

cheeses, the Arthur Avenue breads or school and cleaning 

supplies and vital winter items such as squeegees, 

salt and firewood. And if nature calls, the Millwood 

Market could be a godsend. The DeMeos graciously 

note the two clean, rest rooms open to the public. 

On Your Way, Everyday 

At your Service: The DeMeos, Herman, John Jr. and Frank 

Millwood 

Market 

201 Saw Mill River Rd • Millwood, NY 10546 • 944-4599 

Open 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week

A World Class Nursery School 

and Kindergarten 

World Cup Nursery School 

and Kindergarten 

PROPRIETOR: 

John Sabalja 

director: 

Roxanne Kaplan 


www.worldcupnurseryschool.com 

SERVICES: World Cup Nursery School and Kindergarten 

offers early-childhood education classes for children ages 

two through four plus a full-day Kindergarten. Wonderful 

summer camp programs are also offered. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Highly-qualified teachers and a 

developmental program with a “hands-on” academic approach. 

“We individualize the program, always putting an 

emphasis on the children’s interests and strengths in an 

age-appropriate environment. A theme-based curriculum 

is designed for all the different ages which allows children 

to explore, discover and problem solve. Our bright, spacious 

and well-equipped facilities provide the room and 

tools for children to explore and grow.” 

SPECIAL PLANS: World Cup offers programs to benefit 

the entire community. Watch for announcements or 

special classes or shows on their website. 

Sell it. Spot it. Swap it. 

COUTUREDossier 

PROPRIETORS: 

Yulia and Andrey Omelich 

IN BUSINESS SINCE: Sept 2010 

www.COUTUREDossier.com 

Services: Yulia has brought the Wall 

Street model of buying and selling to 

fashion! Customers “manage” their fashion portfolio. 

Bring in an item and Spot it–sell it same day for cash. 

Or Swap it–exchange it for anything else in the store. Or 

Sell it–leave it and receive 60% of the proceeds. Here you 

can find bags and clothes by Chanel. Prada or Hermes, 

or try one of Yulia's creations including cashmere coats 

with genuine mink, a signature “Cashmere Tuxedo,” 

cashmere gloves and business blouses. 

Background:. As a former diplomat and Wall Street professional 

with experience working at Barclays Capital, 

UNFCU, Morgan Stanley and an expert of investing capital 

in companies and real estate assets, Yulia is confident 

that an investment approach can be applied in fashion. 

Greatest strengths: Chanel specialty boutique. 

Innovation. Economy and community friendly. Yulia is 

at the store every day helping her clients understand the 

“fashion investment” concept. She has already generated 

buzz, with celebrities stopping in and customers coming 

up from Manhattan to Stop and Swap. 

COUTUREDossier 

The Ultimate Trading Platform of Luxury 

“Business of the Week” twice in October, 2010 

Bringing Care and Healing into Your Workout 

SERVICES: New Castle Physical 

Therapy and Personal Training 

provides orthopedic and sports 

rehabilitation, pre or post-orthopedic 

surgical care, manual therapy 

and neck/back pain therapy. In 

addition, look to them for comprehensive 

fitness assessments, sport specific training and 

osteoporosis and injury prevention programs. Therapy 

and training sessions are all one-on-one and they last 

a full hour. 

BACKGROUND: Licensed Physical Therapists Adam Pliskow 

and Matthew Marucci founded New Castle Physical 

Therapy and Personal Training in 2007 with the mission 

to deliver the highest quality rehabilitation and fitness 

conditioning to their clients. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: “We are network providers for the 

Hospital for Special Surgery Rehabilitation Network since 

2008. As a physical therapist owned facility, our personal 

approach allows us to cater to our clients’ needs,” says 

Adam Pliskow. “To ensure superior service and optimal 

results we only schedule one client per hour.” The spacious 

clinic has a warm and therapeutic atmosphere that 

accommodates all levels of injury. It includes a full gym 

with strength training and cardiovascular equipment 

where NCPT Ad both 2.10 experienced rd1_Layout1 2/25/10 athletes 5:51 and AM those Page 1new to fitness 

and rehabilitation will feel comfortable. They also offer 

New Castle Physical Therapy 

and Personal Training is dedicated 

to providing quality healthcare in a 

professional and compassionate 

manner. We schedule one client 

per hour to ensure superior service 

and optimal results. The clinic has 

a welcoming atmosphere with state 

of the art equipment. Our experienced 

and knowledgeable staff is committed 

to helping you achieve your 

rehabilitation and fitness goals. 

www.newcastlept.net 

private treatment rooms 

and are fully handicapped 

accessible. 

CUSTOMER SERVICE: 

As one recent client said, 

“I have never come across 

a place as professional and 

compassionate as New Castle 

Physical Therapy and 

Personal Training. From 

the moment you walk in 

New Castle 

Physical Therapy and 

Personal Training 

PROPRIETOR: 

Adam Pliskow PT, MSPT and 

Mathew Marucci, PT, MSPT, 

OCS, CSCS 


July 2007 

www.newcastlept.net 

the door, you know you are in a place of caring and 

healing.” 

SPECIAL PLANS: New Castle Physical Therapy & Personal 

Training will once again sponsor the New Castle 10K Road 

Race, a non-profit event that benefits the community. In addition, 

New Castle Physical Therapy and Personal Training 

will partner with the Town of New Castle Parks and 

Recreation Department and host two 6 week boot camps. 

The boot camps will be held in May and June 2011 at 

Gedney Park. Participants will focus on strength training, 

core stabilization, agility and aerobic endurance with the option 

to receive pre and post-assessments on lean body mass, 

body weight and flexibility. Through March 15th, 

New Castle Physical Therapy and Personal Training is offering 

a free 30 minute orthopedic consultation. When you 

call for an appointment, please mention this promotion. 

Adam Pliskow, MSPT 

Matthew Marucci 

MSPT, OCS, CSCS 

M. Carmela de Luna 

DPT, ATC 

16 Schuman Road 

Millwood, NY 10546 

914.488.5440 

Member of the 

67 N. Bedford Road, Chappaqua NY • 914 777-2838 

Hospital for Special Surgery 

www.COUTUREDossier.com or 

Rehabilitation Network 

follow us on twitter @ couturedossier 


Maximize Skills & Have Fun! 

SERVICES: Operating since 1980, 

16 Weekly Day Camps, ages 4-16, June- 

August. Specialty Camps for single 

week(s) or entire summer: Tennis, Soccer, 

Basketball, Baseball, Lacrosse, Football, 

Multi-Sports, Field Hockey, Cheerleading, Jordan Snider 

Volleyball, Circus Arts, Magic, Softball, 

Diving, Academic, Little Stars: ages 3½–5, two-week sessions, 

partial day/extended hrs. Supervised swimming. 

Lunch option, local central point transportation from 

Westchester, door-to-door transportation 

from Manhattan. 

Future Stars 

Summer Camps, 

SUNY Purchase 

PROPRIETORS: 

Bill Griffin 

& Charlie VanDercook 

www.fscamps.com 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: A highly 

trained team of professionals. 

Limited enrollment ensures knowing 

each camper’s needs. For over 

30 years Future Stars have provided 

families in Westchester/Manhattan/ 

Fairfield/Long Island with the most 

outstanding specialty camp programs in the NY Metro Area. 

The camps, indoor tennis and sport facilities provide thousands 

of children every year with a fun, safe, and productive 

environment. Kids benefit from concentrated drilling and 

personalized instruction designed to inspire individuals to 

pursue excellence while having fun. 

Italian/American Comfort Food! 

353 Restaurant 

& Lounge 

PROPRIETORS: 

Paul & Mario Sandolo 


www.353restaurant.com 

Services: 353 specializes 

in Italian/American comfort 

food. A lovely garden 

patio with plantings and festive décor serves as a wonderful 

addition to any event. This restaurant close to home 

can accommodate large or smaller parties, weddings, bar/ 

bat mitzvahs, birthday parties and corporate functions. 

A smaller private party room is available too. A romantic 

50-seat lounge, with plush velvet couches and chairs is also 

the perfect “just arriving” gathering place to relax or listen 

to music before or after dining. 353 also offers reasonably 

priced take out dinners, perfect for busy families, and is 

open days for lunch and dinner. 

Greatest Strengths: “We have excellent food and great 

service!” say the Sandolos. 

Special Plans: “Each year, we are very excited about the 

opening of our very popular garden patio. We spruce it up 

with fresh plantings and visitors love its inviting, intimate 

atmosphere,” state the Sandolos. “The patio alone is often 

in demand for dining and private functions.” 

Come and Taste 

The Difference 

Come in for Lunch, 

Dinner, Drinks, Music or 

a Special Occasion, and 

enjoy the spectacular food 

from award-winning chef 

Messina. From our private 

room and garden patio, 

to our spacious bar, 

Restaurant 353 is perfect 

for any private party, 

romantic dinner, or 

wine-pairing dinner. 

Open 7 Days For Lunch, 

Dinner and Take-Out 

Call for Reservations 

or to Book a Party 

914-241-2447 

353 RESTAURANT • 353 N. BEDFORD RD. 

MT. KISCO, NY 10549 • www.353restaurant.com 

Services: MARCH 

Boutique offers a 

well-edited collection 

of clothing and 

accessories generally 

not found outside of 

major cities like NY 

and LA. Lynn brings 

together the most 

interesting pieces 

from over 60 designers 

including indus- 

Lynn Purow 

try leaders Milly, 

Trina Turk, Tory Burch as well as a myriad of trendsetting 

emerging designers. The store’s tag-line is aptly 

titled: “a bit of SOHO in Westchester.” 

Background: The MARCH concept is the result of years 

of fashion exploration, constant trend analysis and daily 

experiences both in-store and online. Lynn’s advertising 

background at a major cosmetics company successfully 

enticed “downtown” designers into Westchester and their 

continual desire to be featured make MARCH the go-to 

destination in Westchester. MARCH has received several 

Best of Westchester awards including two “Best Boutique” 

awards from the editors of Westchester Magazine. 

“A Bit of SoHo” Indeed 

Greatest Strengths: MARCH is known for incredible 

fashion taste, friendly staff, and the unique ability to 

make everyone who walks in the shop look absolutely 

stunning. The personalized shopping experience is an 

education on style. “While our racks are fully stocked 

with new and exciting merchandise,” states Puro,“ we 

purposely limit the number of each item from each designer’s 

collection so our customers can be confident 

of their distinctive look.” 

Customer Service Story: “More than once, we have 

been visited by frantic women minutes before an event 

or party looking for something to wear. This is truly our 

specialty, dressing a customer from head to toe, so they 

look fabulous for their special night out!” 

Special Plans: The website, which receives savvy visitors 

with an eye for great fashion from around the world, features 

individual designer looks and coordinated outfits 

that mix and match designers and price points. 

“We showcase new collections 

each week and 

provide styling ideas to 

pull together complete 

looks on the site and in 

our email blasts and blog.” 

March Boutique 

PROPRIETOR: 

Lynn Puro 


www.marchboutique.com 


Services: Joro is a full 

service referral resource 

for anything and everything 

celebratory. Events 

of all sizes, both private 

and corporate. A client is 

offered an introduction 

to Tri-state specialists in: 

venues, catering, decor, florals, photography, video, 

entertainment, invitations, custom print, hotel/spa 

accommodations, beauty and more. Top tier talents are 

shared , turning events into lifetime memories. 

Jo Rosenfeld 

Celebrate in Peace 

Jo Rosenfeld 

Major Occasions 

PROPRIETOR: 

Jo Rosenfeld ( Joro) 


www.jorosenfeld.com 

Greatest Strengths: Joro's only 

allegiance is to her client. She represents 

industry professionals who 

keep her own reputation in good 

standing. She is the "voice behind 

the email" in order to fulfill a client's 

wish list. Referrals are made to eliminate 

a learning curve and undue 

stress. Her client becomes a "guest" 

over a "host." Life can be so serious 

so it is so important to celebrate! 

Special Plans: Perhaps a destination vacation? Leave it 

to Joro. She loves to bring back how the "rest of the 

world" celebrates and share! 

Magnifique! 

Elegance II 

PROPRIETOR: 

Babette Faotto 


www.elegance2.com 

Babette Faotto 

PRODUCTS/SERVICES: 

“Babette,” as all her customers 

know this bubbly, gracious French shopkeeper, beams 

with pride when she describes her high end quality 

consignment shop with its completely friendly atmosphere. 

Elegance II features couture, designer clothing, 

largest selection of Chanel Handbags, shoes and accessories, 

including the Deborah Pangle Collection, stunning, 

artistic 18K gold jewelry pieces. 

An Invitation 

for Breaking 

All of the Rules: 

6 Hayrake Lane 

Chappaqua, NY 10514 

(914) 419-2368 

jo@jorosenfeld.com 

www.jorosenfeld.com 

• Color 

outside of 

the lines! 

• Think outside 

of the box! 

• Celebrate 

life and 

leave your 

fi ngerprints 

all over the 

party! 

R.S.V.P. YES!! 

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Present 

Products & Services: The very best in massage 

therapy, advanced skin care including peels, waxing, 

seaweed and clay wraps, salt scrubs, and superior nail 

care. Skin care lines include GM Collin, Dermalogica, 

Cosmedix and Dr. Renaud. 

Background: Marti and Bruce Schoenberg opened the 

first Oasis Day Spa in Union Square NYC in 1998 and 

it become an overnight sensation. Marti, a massage 

therapist, and Bruce, a trade show producer, recognized 

the need for a more customer service oriented, 

reasonably priced NYC spa experience for Westchester 

when they moved here in 2004. 

Greatest Strengths: 

Customer service in a luxurious 

and reasonably priced 

environment. Oasis requires 

staff to go through the most 

rigorous training in the industry 

and requires continuing 

education--something 

no other spa does. No spa in 

New York State requires the 

level of training and licensure 

as Oasis Day Spa. 

Customer Service 

Story: Oasis in 2010 

was named ‘Favorite 

Day Spa in the Country’ 

by the reader’s 

poll of Spa Magazine, 

as well as ‘Spa of the 

Decade’ by Westchester 

Magazine. “Our 

staff continually goes 

above and beyond for 

our guests, coming in 

early or staying late to 

Oasis Day Spa 

PROPRIETORS: 

Marti & Bruce Schoenberg 


1998 

IN WESTCHESTER SINCE: 

2008 

www.oasiswestchester.com 

accommodate their busy schedules, “ says Bruce, who 

sits on the board of the ‘Swedish Institute’ and is also 

a contributor to the industry on educational 

issues at trade shows. 

Special Plans: Oasis will be having 

several specials for Valentine’s Day, 

including a spa/dining package with 

Red Hat on the River. Oasis will also 

be having a skin care event, author 

reading and rooftop social event in the 

spring as they get ready to re-open the 

roof top garden. 

Side-by-Side Massage 

Treat your Valentine to an ultra-relaxing massage in a 

candle-lit room for two 

Cupid’s Touch Organic Facial 

She’ll love the gift of radiant skin with our organic 

seaweed facial! 

Rivertowns Romance Package 

including Side-by-Side Massage and a Gift Card for 

dinner at Red Hat on the River in Irvington-On-Hudson 

For more Valentine’s Day gift ideas, visit our website 

or give us a call at 914.409.1900 

STRENGTHS: The sheer variety. At any given time, a 

customer can find designer pieces by Chanel, Hermes, 

Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Bottega Venetta, Go Yord, 

Gucci, YSL, Fendi, Dolce Gobana, Jimmy Choo, Chloe 

and more! Her shop, says Babette, is also teeming “with 

an exquisite selection of designer handbags, featured in 

the New York Times.” 

BEST OF THE 

DECADE 

- Westchester 

Magazine 

Professional’s 

Choice: Favorite 

Day Spa 2010 

- American Spa Magazine 

Bringing the Manhattan Spa Experience to Westchester 

Saw Mill River Parkway Exit 16 above NYSC & Starbucks 

Chauncey Square 4th Floor. 50 Livingstone Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 

914.409.1900 oasiswestchester.com 

SPECIAL PLANS: Babette offers personalized closet consultations 

by appointment. “We always welcome new 

consigners!” she says. So come check out Elegance, oui? 


Kid Fitness, Jodi Style 

SERVICES: For almost 30 years, 

Jodi’s Gym has provided hundreds 

of thousands of children with an 

early foundation in movement 

education through nurturing and 

fun classes, parties, and camps for 

children 9 months to 12 years of 

age. Through age appropriate and 

a developmentally sound curriculum, 

children develop strength, 

balance, coordination, flexibility, 

focus, and discipline. 

Jodi’s Gym 

OWNER/DIRECTOR 

Jodi Rosenwasser Levine 


1982 

www.jodisgym.com 

Jodi Levine & a 

Happy Jodi’s Gym Kid 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: 

Jodi’s Gym hires and trains 

“the absolute best people, 

far surpassing industry 

standards,”states Jodi, who 

holds a Masters degree in psychology. 

She began her gymnastics 

training in the sixth grade 

and went on to compete at the 

collegiate and national level. 

“We deliver the love, the patience, the enthusiasm, the passion, 

the knowledge and expertise needed to maintain and 

deliver the ultimate in children’s programming.” 

SPECIAL PLANS: Coming soon is Motion Evolution, a 

comprehensive health and fitness program for kids in the 

first grade and up."Jodi's to Go" also brings fitness and 

gymnastics into day cares, schools, camps, and to 

underserved populations. 

Fab Florist and So Much More 

Services: “Our shop is a compact 

mixture between a florist, boutique 

and an outdoor garden center,” 

states Beth. “Fresh flowers and 

plants are the largest sectors of our 

business but it’s a great place to 

come for unusual gifts too.” Florally, 

Whispering Pines can accommodate 

any type of corporate or private 

event as well as offer holiday designs 

and everyday decorations for home and garden enhancement. 

Beth Hundgen 

Services: State of the Art Pilates 

and Yoga; a variety of private 

sessions and classes are offered 

at a conveniently located downtown 

studio. 

Empowered by Pilates 

Breathe Pilates and Yoga 

PROPRIETOR: 

Adina Olan 


www.breathepilatesandyoga.com 

Background: An interest in 

health and fitness goes way back for Adina, who started 

out as a former gymnast throughout her school 

years. While she didn’t initially embark on a fitness 

career, the idea took hold over time as she rapidly became 

an advanced Pilates student. One look at Adina 

and her lean muscular physique and the word “fit” really 

does come to mind! For a long time, Adina owned 

her own packaging company on Long Island. After relocating 

with her husband and kids to Chappaqua, she 

embarked on a career transition intended to embrace 

what she loves–Pilates–and help her work closer to 

home as well. The previous owner of the North Greeley 

studio had relocated which presented Adina with this 

great business opportunity. 

Greatest Strengths: “My staff,” states Adina, unequivocally. 

She notes that each staff member has 

been carefully hired. “Their credentials are strong and 

their references are stellar.” The proximity to home 

is another attractive aspect of working out at Breathe 

Pilates and 

Yoga. Busy 

parents or 

working 

professionals 

can save 

time working 

out in town rather 

than setting aside the 

couple hours it takes to 

go to a full service fitness 

center. 

Photo by Randy Matusow Seligman 

Adina Olan 

Customer Service: “It has 

been extremely gratifying 

watching my clients evolve from beginner to advanced 

Pilates students,” says Adina. She extols Pilates as a 

way to build a solid core, alleviating back pain, increasing 

overall strength and improving a sense of overall 

body awareness. “There are only positive benefits to 

be had. You look better, feel better and are also able to 

maintain a healthy weight.” 

Special Plans: A grand opening party this winter, new 

workshops and the introduction of hot yoga classes 

are all in the works at Breathe Pilates and Yoga. 

Greatest Strengths: “Creativity would probably be the 

first answer for any florist, and there are a lot of really 

creative designers out there. But using that creativity 

effectively to meet the needs of every customer is a little 

harder to come by; and that’s what we strive for.” 

Special Plans: When spring 

comes around, the store will be 

very busy with outdoor planting 

for businesses and private 

homes. Beth also plans to utilize 

the shop’s ample outdoor space 

to display a beautiful array of 

annuals and perennials. 

Whispering 

Pines of 

Chappaqua 

PROPRIETOR: 

Beth Hundgen 

in business since: 

2003 


Experience a “Best of” Hydrafacial 

Emmary Day Spa 

PROPRIETORS: 

Susan Beirne and 

Nancy Kilrane 


April 2008 

emmarydayspa.com 

Susan and Nancy 

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES: The spa’s Hydrafacial was voted 

"Best Facial" in Westchester Magazine’s 2009 Best Of 

Westchester issue. In addition to customized facials, 

massages and body treatment, Emmary offers full body 

waxing, using an all natural soy hair remover. The spa 

also offers the extremely effective and gentle Dermalogica 

line and their newest line Naturopathica, which 

is all natural and organic. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: “Our friendly and relaxing 

atmosphere, and highly experienced technicians and 

therapists. We are the only spa in Westchester to offer 

the Hydrafacial.” 

SPECIAL PLANS: Get ready for spring and summer with a 

deep pore cleansing Hydrafacial or our skin firming 

Microcurrent at 15% off for your first visit. Call to 

schedule an appointment. 

Inspiring Community Spirit 

Rosenthal JCC of 

Northern Westchester 

914 741 0333 

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: 

Ellie Aronowitz 


www.rosenthaljcc.org 

SERVICES: The Rosenthal JCC provides pre-school and 

early childhood programs; after-school programs and 

classes; summer camps; Jewish learning and cultural 

programs; sport leagues; adult learning; and family 

support with special needs. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Flexible and diverse programs in 

response to community needs. A place of belonging that 

inspires vibrant Jewish and community spirit, nurtures 

individual potential, respects diversity and celebrates life. 

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 

Fresh and Fine Fare 

and a Thumbs Up from the Donald! 

Products & Services: “We offer fresh 

meats, produce, Southern Italian and 

international prepared foods, fresh 

breads, pastas, store-made cold cuts, 

cured salami, great cheeses--fresh 

mozzarella is made by me every day!” 

states Michael Competiello proudly. 

Stop in for tasty sandwiches, hot or 

cold, or to pick up dry goods from 

Italy. A&S’s chefs also cater private 

and corporate parties from corporate 

luncheons to weddings and bar 

mitzvahs. 

A&S Fine Foods 

of Millwood 

PROPRIETOR: 

Michael Competiello 

www.asmillwood.com 

BacKground: Michael began 

working in his family’s A&S 

store in Yonkers in 1983 

at age 14. After graduating 

from Manhattan College in 

’91, with a degree in Finance 

and Marketing, Michael 

stayed in the family business. 

He worked in the Thornwood A&S until 1999. In 

October of ’99, he opened the A&S doors in Millwood. 

Michael Competiello 

Greatest Strengths: “Cleanliness, proper 

preparation and handling of food, and a 

sincere appreciation for our customers.” 

Customer Service: A regular customer’s 

political fundraiser that had Donald 

Trump as the guest speaker and other VIP 

attendees is a night Michael won’t soon 

forget. “They used their in-house staff 

and friends to handle serving, I brought 

the food, helped set it up and was preparing 

to leave when they asked me to stay 

to make sure things would go smoothly.” 

Not long into the function, Mr. Trump walks up to the 

food station, and asks Michael, “Chef, what do you 

recommend?” I replied, “Mr. Trump, I made the Swedish 

Meatball dish. I think you’ll find them savory.” He 

replied, “Swedish Meatballs, it is.” Later in the eve, during 

his speech, after praising important contributors, 

Mr. Trump also “out of the blue” told attendees not to 

leave before trying the “best damn Swedish Meatballs 

he ever tasted.” “It’s a great feeling when people enjoy a 

meal you have made–even better when they are overwhelmed, 

busy and distracted, but can’t get Swedish 

Meatballs off their mind!” 

The Ultimate Catering Experience 

For all your special occasions, including weddings, birthdays, 

holiays, anniversaries, office parties, luncheons, graduations 

and other family gatherings. 

SPECIAL PLANS: Great fun and adventure at the JCC Camp 

Discovery (for K – 9th grades – FREE door-to-door 

transportation); Summer fun for pre-schoolers at JCC 

Camp Bear Ridge (includes outdoor sports, nature and 

waterslides, as well as music, art and indoor games); 

Purim Percussion Palooza on Mar. 16; Topsy Turvy Bus 

of Millwood 

Tour--Passover Pitstop on April 10; Teen participation in 

the JCC Maccabi Games® and JCC Maccabi ArtsFest® in 

238 Saw Mill River Road • Millwood NY 10546 

August; TweenLINK Saturday Movie Nights on the first 

Saturdays of the month; Youth Philanthropy 101 on Feb. 

914-923-8485 • Fax: 914-923-8487 

10; Pesach “How To” Workshop for parents on Apr. 6; and 

Tues-Fri 9-6:30 • Sat 9-6 • Sun 9-2 • Sorry, We Are Closed on Mondays 

a Spring Carnival on May 15. 


Maria Briones 

Maria Briones M.D. PC. 

PROPRIETOR: 

Maria Briones 


www.brionesweightloss.com 

A Multidisciplinary 

Approach to Promote 

Weight Loss 

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES: 

Commercial weight loss programs 

don’t provide the level of attention, 

flexibility and treatment options available 

through a medical 

weight loss facility. 

Dr.Maria Briones 

offers a multidisciplinary 

approach to 

weight loss incorporating 

a Medical 

Doctor and a Nutritionist 

into the weight 

loss regimen. In addition to the weight loss program, 

Dr. Briones offers a meal replacement formula along 

with delicious snacks. 

GREATEST STRENGTH: “Our greatest strength,” says 

Dr.Briones, “is our high percentage of patient satisfaction 

and success with weight management.” 

SPECIAL PLANS: Dr. Briones has enhanced services by 

providing support to adolescents for weight loss with a 

program which includes medical, nutritional evaluation, 

behavioral modification and family group sessions. Addition 

of anti aging products to the practice, and firming 

cream for all the ones who lost a lot of weight. 

From Skiwear to Cruisewear 

for the Whole Family 

Squires Family 

Clothing and Footwear 

PROPRIETORS: 

Michael and Lloyd Kushner 


www.squiresny.com 

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES: Squires Michael Kushner 

Family Clothing and Footwear 

is a friendly, neighborhood business offering brandname 

sportswear, outerwear, footwear and accessories 

for the whole family. Top brands from Northface, 

UGG,Merrell and Quicksilver to Tommy Bahama and 

Vineyard Vines line the racks. And that’s just to name 

a few. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: “Our ability to carry a diverse 

range of interesting, quality merchandise that is 

available all year round is what makes us special,” says 

Michael Kushner. “We also provide the experienced, 

qualified sales staff to help our customers make the 

right choice and find what they need.” 

SPECIAL PLANS: Squires is stocked up for ski season 

and vacation time with a complete selection of ski 

wear from Spyder, Northface and Arcteryx. They also 

have a wide selection of cruise-wear to accommodate 

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 

FULLY STOCKED 

FOR WINTER 

Squires 

Family Clothing 

& Footwear 

Mens-Boys 

Girls-Women 

Vineyard Vines • Northface 

Quiksilver • Timberland 

Adidas •Nike •Merrell 

Jansport • Volcom • Saucony 

Rainbow • K-Swiss •Teva 

Birkenstock • Reef • Puma 

New Balance • 

Tommy Bahama • Arcteryx 

Ugg 

Classic 

Tall 

Largest 

UGG AND 

HUNTER 

Dealer 

in the area! 

Christopher Blue Stretch Jeans for WOMEN! 

2 Locations 

Vibram 

“five fingers” 

Spyder • Crocs • 66 0 North 

Minnetonka •Frye 

Ugg Boots • Keen • Arc’Teryx 

Prana• Hunter 

Ugg •XCVI •Jambu 

Nat Nast • Dansko •Asics 

Vibram “five fingers” 

Fit Flop •Havianas • Smartwool 

New Shipment of Ugg Boots/Shoes/Slippers Just Arrived 

Check out our Website www.squiresny.com 

Delicious Decadence 

with your Health in Mind 

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES: 

The Perennial Chef offers a wide range of fine prepared 

foods as well as full service catering. At the cozy Café and 

Patisserie in Bedford Hills, NY and Ridgefield, CT, you’ll find 

organic and Fair Trade coffees and teas, French pastries, 

fantastic lunch and dinner selections and decadent desserts; 

all house made. 

Indulge in their original 

organic hibiscus iced 

tea, browse the imported 

French cheese 

or choose from unique 

gift items like Provence 

ceramics and scents 

and elegant French 

glassware and cutlery. 

Sample from the gourmet 

take-out menu or 

take advantage of full service catering and unbelievable food 

and exceptional staff. Call for their comprehensive holiday 

menus. 

BACKGROUND: Chef Michael Williams, a graduate of Kenyon 

College and the French Culinary Institute in New York 

City, trained for many years in some of Manhattan’s finest 

restaurants. Using his experience Michael branched out on 

his own to better express his creativity and found there was 

a need and opportunity to 

provide fine, prepared food 

in Westchester and now 

Fairfield counties. The Perennial 

Chef,Michael Williams, 

has received the Westchester 

Magazine award for Best 

The Perennial Chef 

PROPRIETORS: 

Leslie Williams, Michael 

Williams, Françoise Jarry 


www.theperennialchef.com 

Prepared Foods as well as designation as one of the Top 

Caterers in the county. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: The Perennial Chef is dedicated to providing 

the best quality food for customers. Following a strong 

belief that natural foods are beneficial to the health of customers 

and provide for the best tasting results, they use antibiotic 

and hormone-free beef and chicken and insist upon in-house 

prepared stocks and sauces made without the use of artificial 

enhancers and bases. 

CUSTOMER SERVICE: The Perennial Chef takes pride in their 

outstanding catering staff which provides seamless and 

professional service for their clients. 

SPECIAL PLANS: The Perennial Chef location in Ridgefield, CT 

is now open! This lovely café is located at 449 Main Street, 

and has both indoor and outdoor seating for when the 

warm weather arrives! Also, expanding on their philosophy 

of providing the best quality food for their customers, The 

Perennial Chef will be offering local homegrown 

vegetables for sale at its stores on a seasonal basis. Please 

call or visit their website for further details. 

Monday-Sunday 

Monday-Saturday 

193 Katonah Ave, 

41 S. Greeley Ave, 

Katonah, NY 

Chappaqua, NY 

914-232-0212 (near Blue Dolphin) 

914-238-4511 

any vacation. 


“We didn’t want to see 

our father wait on a 

death list or have to 

be on dialysis the rest 

of his life.” Jennifer 

Flood and her sisters, 

Cynthia and Heather, 

craved a happier outcome 

for their father, 

Daniel, of Pleasantville, 

New York. 

The Flood sisters’ 

journey began with a 

simple Craigslist ad 

that read “Please help 

me find a kidney for 

my dad.” As Jennifer 

recalls, “the three 

of us were Craigslist 

regulars for everything 

from finding 

child care to selling 

jewelry, so why not 

get creative and go 

for a kidney?” 

Drowning in Love with 

the Flood Sisters 

By Jeff Cohen 

Alex Fedorov, fedorovfoto.com 

Media attention for 

the ad ensued and 

soon over 100 people had offered 

to be tested. While approximately 

50% of responders were genuine, 

the bigger hurdle was finding a 

blood type match for Daniel. His 

O-negative blood type meant the 

chosen donor would need to be O- 

negative or O-positive. Ultimately 

six responders were tested and in 

December 2008 Daniel was the 

lucky recipient of a living kidney 

donation from Dawn Verdick of 

Monterey, California. 

The Altruistic Donor Dawn was 

not the Flood sisters’ aunt, distant 

relative, or even close friend. She 

was a complete stranger compelled 

to help. 

The Flood Sisters, raised in Pleasantville, (L-R): Cynthia, Heather and Jennifer Flood 

memorial service for someone very 

close to me who had made such a 

difference in the lives of others.” At 

the outset, Dawn didn’t know her 

volunteerism desires would lead 

to kidney donation. “After seven 

months of conversations, research 

and testing, the answer to donate 

was obvious,” says Dawn. 

To this day, the primary question 

asked of Dawn is why she would 

want to help a complete stranger. 

She is also frequently asked “What 

if something happens to your good 

kidney” or “What if the kidney 

recipient dies?” Dawn fervently 

believes that “helping others and 

being outward focused is truly the 

only remedy we need to create a 

better world.” 

Inspirational 

words from someone 

whose altruistic 

ways extend 

beyond kidney 

donation. Dawn 

is also the President 

and Founder 

of Dare to Dream 

(www.daretodreamfund.org), 

an organization 

with the vision of 

providing every 

young person with 

the opportunity 

to discover his or 

her potential in 

school, at work, 

and in life through 

goal achievement 

and life preparedness 

programs. 

A Foundation 

is Born 

Thanks to Dawn, 

Daniel Flood has 

a new lease on life. You could 

argue that saving dad is a noble 

enough cause, but it was just the 

beginning for the Flood sisters. 

En route to finding a living donor 

for Daniel, the sisters founded The 

Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation of 

America, www.floodsisters.org. The 

Foundation’s mission is to educate 

people on alternative ways to find 

a donor for kidney transplantation. 

Their focus is centered on the idea 

of the “altruistic donor,” or unrelated 

living donor. 

According to the Organ Procurement 

and Transplantation Network 

(OPTN) more than 93,000 

Americans are currently on the 

national kidney transplant waiting 

list. While up to 16,000 or so 

kidney transplants are performed 

annually, the average wait time 

can surpass seven years. Sadly, 

many waiting list candidates will 

pass away before a kidney donation 

match is made. 

“If we can raise awareness for living 

donation, word will spread, 

and waiting lists will shorten,” 

says Jennifer. With a wait list 

generally within a year, the Flood 

Sisters have facilitated four more 

transplants since their dad’s. Currently, 

53 additional patients are 

registered, with 25 donors on hand 

getting tested for compatibility. 

“Ultimately, we’d like to complete 

one transplant per month and provide 

hope for renal failure patients 

besides the traditional deceased 

donor transplant.” 

Spreading the Word 

Raising awareness is a primary 

mission for the Flood Sisters 

Foundation. Their annual fashion 

show does just that. On December 

2, 2010, The Flood Sisters Kidney 

Foundation of America presented 

the 2nd Annual “Love. Give. Life.” 

Park Avenue Fashion Show at the 

Audi Forum of New York City, 

sponsored by the National Association 

of Profession Women 

(NAPW). Top fashion designers 

joined together to highlight the 

importance of altruistic/unrelated 

living donors. 

As designer Elene Cassis noted, 

“I was extremely touched by the 

Flood sisters’ amazing story of how 

they saved their father’s life.” Elene 

is no stranger to tragedy herself, 

as her own father drowned. “The 

fear they had knowing they could 

lose their father is something I can 

certainly relate to and understand. 

It’s wonderful how they found 

someone to save their father’s life 

and continue helping others who 

are in a difficult situation in finding 

the right donor.” 

Fellow Chappaqua resident Pam 

As Dawn recalls, “when I saw the 

Zonsius, founder of “The Brelli” 

Jeff Cohen recently lost his mentor 

Craigslist ad I had just been to a 

biodegradable umbrellas, supplied Heather: a Westchester social and father-in-law to kidney disease 

Brellis for some of the models to worker currently in training to but lives his dream as a writer and 

hold in their hands down the run- 

become a therapist. 

consultant at Boldroad.com 


way. According to Zonsius, “in the 

name of their father, The Flood Sisters 

Kidney Foundation fundraising 

event was very personal. They 

have been successful in creating a 

model to match people in need of a 

kidney with a donor and Brelli 

is happy to be part of this passionate 

mission.” 

The star-studded affair was co-hosted 

by CNN producer Phil Rosenbaum 

and medical producer Maria 

Dorfner. Household name companies 

participated in a silent auction, 

including Calvin Klein, David 

Yurman Jewelry, Build-a-Bear, the 

Tony Hawk Foundation and Ivanka 

Trump Jewelry. A February fundraiser 

is in the planning stages. 

Touching Lives, Inspiring Hope 

Live speakers touched by donation 

inspired the crowd, including Jamie 

Howard and Lisa Williams. 

Jamie’s daughter Caitlyn was 

born with reflux and needed a 

kidney transplant. 

“I was very worried Caity would be 

on the waiting list for years, so I 

contacted the Flood Sisters.” Just 

before joining she got the call a 

deceased donor had been found. 

Caitlyn quickly went from a very, 

very sick child with dark circles 

and yellow skin to a very healthy 

13-year old. 

The Terrific Trio... 

Jennifer: spent six years in 

psychiatric nursing before working 

in finance, where she began 

building the Flood Sisters Kidney 

Foundation from her cubicle. 

Cynthia: Jennifer’s twin, Fashion 

Institute of Technology graduate 

with a masters degree in art business 

from Sothebys, now working 

in compliance on Wall Street. 

Still, Jamie feels the Flood Sisters’ 

impact to this day. “I am comforted 

knowing that should Caity ever 

need another kidney I have somewhere 

I can go without having to 

feel hopeless and go on that waiting 

list. It really makes a very scary 

situation have some hope.” 

For Lisa, she did some soul searching 

in arriving at the decision to 

give her kidney to a dear friend. 

“I knew he needed it and felt as 

though I was extremely blessed to 

be able to give him an opportunity 

to lead a more normal life.” Lisa 

consulted with her Rabbi, who said, 

“to save a life is to save the world.” 

Today Lisa feels complete when she 

sees how well her friend is doing 

and thriving. She also stares in awe 

at the Flood Sisters. “They have 

such a passion and their journey 

was not completed when their 

father received his new kidney.” 

Lisa is a Flood Sister advocate for 

life and will continue to let people 

know that donating their organs 

to save a life is the most gratifying 

and honorable thing one can do. 

The Journey Has Just Begun 

Altruistic donation really is all 

about love. As the Flood Sisters’ 

website explains, “In the field of organ 

donation, it is love that carries 

the day, whether its for an individual 

recipient or simply for humanity. 

Organ donors are truly heroes. 

Everyday, they give of themselves 

to help others, gaining nothing of 

material value in return.” 

In the end, The Flood Sisters’ 

philosophy sums it all up. “We 

changed our father’s life for the 

better. Now, we want to help others 

fight Kidney Disease. The power of 

one can save so many lives-imagine 

what can be done with all of us.” 

To learn more about The Flood Sisters 

Foundation of America, visit 

www.floodsisters.org or call 646- 

287-2900. Donations can be made 

online or by check payable to The 

Flood Sisters Kidney Foundation 

of America, 100 Park Avenue, 16th 

Floor, New York, NY 10017.

Knowledge & Experience 

are Trademarks at 

Chappaqua Insurance Agency 

SERVICES: Nicolaysen addresses a 

Erik Nicolaysen full range of personal insurance 

needs including homeowners, 

automobile, umbrella liability 

and valuable items as well as life insurance and disability. 

Business coverage includes general liability, property, 

workers' compensation, business, auto & excess liability. 

ADDITIONAL SERVICES: Insurance for in-home businesses, 

employee benefits, coverage for domestic employees, and 

increased limits for umbrella liability. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: As a full service agency, 

Nicolaysen's knowledgeable and experienced staff 

provides an anlaysis of insurance needs and will design 

a responsible coverage plan to complement a client's 

portfolio. 

Bon Appetit! 

Le Jardin du Roi 

PROPRIETORS: 

Joe Quartararo and 

Cristiaan Lorson 


www.lejardinchappaqua.com 

Nicolaysen Agency, Inc. 

PROPRIETORS: 

Erik Nicolasen & Randy Coon 


1929 

www.nicolaysenagency.com 

Le Jardin du Roi 

French Bistro 

Where Quality and 

Fashion See Eye to Eye 

PRODUCTS/SERVICES: 

“Eye Designs is the most 

trusted place for eye 

exams, contact lenses, 

top quality prescription 

lenses, and an extensive 

selection of eyeglasses 

and sunglass frames,” 

says Optician Jill Magro. 

“Our sophisticated styles 

attract customers from 

all over.” Eye Designs 

Eye Designs of 

Armonk 

STORE 

MANAGERS/OPTICIANS 

Jaime Herman & Jill Magro 

OPTICIAN: By Appointment 


August 1999 

www.eyedesignsarmonk.com 

takes special pride in fitting children and easing them 

into wearing glasses. The special 'kids room' has a great 

selection of durable, yet fashionable frames. Eye Designs 

use the latest digital lens technology and top-of-the-line 

products, including Varilux, Hoya and Shamir. Customers 

appreciate the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Says 

Magro, “If you want to see more clearly, and be seen in 

frames that will suit you perfectly, we invite you to come 

see us.” 

BACKGROUND: Eye Designs has been in the optical business 

for over 20 years and saw a great opportunity in 

Armonk nearly eleven years ago. Optician Jaime Herman 

& Jill Magro are dedicated professionals with a highly 

personalized and always low key approach. We have an 

optometrist on staff available by appointment. Our optometrist 

especially enjoys fitting first-time contact lens 

wearers or anyone who hasn’t tried them in years as new 

technology allows almost anyone a chance for success. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Eye Designs offers cutting-edge 

styles, exceptional service and personalized care. The focus 

at Eye Designs is making sure the patient's prescription 

is filled accurately, the glasses fit and you are happy 

with your experience. 

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Customer service is what Eye Designs 

holds dear. Product quality and selection, as well as product 

knowledge are also of the utmost importance. As an 

example of the kind of service Eye Designs likes to offer, 

one patient who couldn’t leave her home due to illness 

was thrilled to receive a personal house call. 

SPECIAL PLANS: With the economy 

being the way it is, Eye 

Designs understands and is 

working hard to maintain the 

core philosophy of a personalized 

relationship with its clientele 

and a sensitivity towards 

economic conditions reflected 

in current promotions. Eye 

Designs will be holding its 

Annual Oliver Peoples Trunk 

Show in the Spring. 

PRODUCTS/SERVICES: This popular 

bistro offers classic French regional fare in a com- 

Joe Quartararo 

fortable and quaint in town setting. Le Jardin du Roi is 

open from 8 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week, for 

an always delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. Whether 

you are dining solo, with a friend, or with a group, it is 

always a memorable experience. 

New Winter Menu! 

Featuring Hearty 

Cassoulet and 

Coq au Vin 

NEW! 

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

Mon-Thursday $19.95 

and BBQ to go! 

Great for Home Dinners 

or Parties! 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: “We work hard to make sure our 

customers feel like they are at home in a warm, friendly 

environment,” says Joe Quartararo. “We offer delicious 

menu items and you can count on consistent high 

quality to both your menu choices and the courteous 

service. We are also always happy to accommodate 

special requests.” 

SPECIAL PLANS: “Right now, we are simply looking 

forward to the warm weather so we can open up our 

outdoor garden seating–which everybody loves!” 

95 King Street 


Tel: 914-238-1368 

Fax: 914-238-4864 

Hours: 8am to Midnight 

575 Main Street 

Armonk, NY 10504 

273-7337 

eye designs 

O F A R M O N K 


An Experienced and Professional Staff 

Breezemont Day Camp 

For Children 3-13 

PROPRIETOR: 

John R. Tesone, better known as JR 


www.breezemont.com 

SERVICES: Breezemont rests on 18 acres in Armonk, NY, 

complete with a natural spring-fed lake and Adirondackstyle 

camp buildings and cabins, sports fields, pools, 

tennis, platform and basketball courts. Swim instruction, 

sports, arts and crafts, archery, science and nature, 

to boating, canoeing, fishing, and more are offered. The 

Junior Camp, for ages 3 to Pre-kindergarten, offers an 

Abreezeiated program for 3 and 4 year olds. A “Club” in 

the Upper Camp affords Kindergarteners and older kids 

the opportunity to select activities of their choice. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Each individual group is supervised 

by a mature, responsible Group Leader who is with the 

group throughout the day’s activities, as are the other 

group counselors. Rapport and trust are established from 

the beginning. 

SPECIAL PLANS: “Continue doing what we do best–offer 

each camper ‘the experience that lasts a lifetime’ in a safe, 

comfortable environment,” says JR. 

Dine In / Carry Out / Gourmet Catering 

Gail Patrick’s Cafe 

31 S. Greeley Ave, Chappaqua • 238-0690 

Celebrating 30 Years as a Favorite Choice for Dining 

Products & Services: Whether you are opting for fine or 

casual fare, the Kittle House is a gracious 

and welcoming choice for dining out. The 

entire staff takes pride in serving primarily 

locally grown and organically raised 

foods. In addition, over 5,000 wines are 

offered from Crabtree’s world renowned 

wine cellar, along with hand crafted beers 

and specialty liquors. Settle into the main dining room 

and enjoy a choice of pre fixe and a la carte menu items; 

casual dining can also be enjoyed any time in the warm, 

inviting Tap Room and bar. Additionally the Kittle House 

offers overnight accommodations in 13 guest rooms, 

which includes a continental breakfast. Private event 

rooms are available for two to 200 guests, specializing in 

wedding ceremonies and receptions, bar/ bat mitzvahs, 

business meetings and intimate social occasions. Party 

planning and off premise catering are available for parties 

of all sizes. 

Greatest Strengths: “I would consider that our talented, 

dedicated personnel and staff with their inherent 

culture, hospitality, and community involvement are one 

of our greatest strengths,” states John Crabtree. 

Customer Service Story: Over the past 30 years, there 

have been countless stories of Crabtree’s great customer 

service and expertise. This is reflected by the many loyal 

Crabtree’s Kittle House 

PROPRIETOR: 

John Crabtree 

in BUSINESS SINCE: 1981 

www.kittlehouse.com 

Loretta Reilly 

patrons and friends who return to the Kittle House 

with special memories and stories. Customers who have 

had their baby naming parties, sweet sixteen or bar/bat 

mitzvahs, and their weddings have subsequently brought 

their own children to dine at the Kittle House. “Our 30- 

year history at the Kittle House is like a quilt of wonderful 

memories and heart-warming stories shared with our 

friends and guests over the years.” 

Special Plans: “Yes, we are celebrating our 30th anniversary 

this entire year and each month we will have special 

events and celebrations. Please visit our website for more 

information.” 

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 


“Nobody will ever love 

you as much as your 

dog does,” writes Jean 

Craighead George in her 

book, How to Talk to 

Your Dog. I have been 

thinking about that line 

since I interviewed her 

last year. What better 

month than February 

and the love issue of 

Inside Chappaqua to 

explore the way my 

canine friends and I 

express our love. 

I’m always happy when 

my owner comes home. 

I wag my tail, run to her 

and then scurry to see 

what she has brought 

M A G 

Doggie 

G I E M A E P U P 

Love 

R E P O R T E R 

into the house. My friend Bear, a big Akita/Shepherd 

blend, howls to welcome his owners Dan and Sheila 

when they walk through front door. Coco and Jules, 

two mixed breed rescue dogs, jump on their owners 

Dave and Celine giving them lots of licks. “We follow 

them around the house because we want to be near 

them,” says Coco who also loves to cuddle with the 

family cats. 

Another way I show my love to my owner is to curl 

up on her bed. I roll over so she can rub my belly. 

Coco and Jules love to nestle in bed with their owners 

too. “My favorite morning moment is to jump in 

the bed and snuggle,” says Coco. “And Jules loves to 

kiss his daddy's shiny bald head when he does his 

sit ups!” 

By Maggie Mae...with Ronni Diamondstein 

Loyal companions, Jennifer Carpenito and her Chocolate Labrador 

Retriever Belle get cozy and comfortable together. 

photo © Ronni Diamondstein 

Grooming is not my favorite 

activity, but it’s a special 

time for Alfie, an Old English 

Sheepdog. He loves to 

be brushed by his owner Bill. 

“I just melt,” says Alfie. It’s a 

bonding experience for both. 

I never know who I will see 

when I take walks. When 

I see Natalia and Melanie, 

two six year olds who live in 

my neighborhood, I always 

wiggle and wag my tail with 

happiness. I give them my 

kind of hug, nuzzling on their 

feet. One day I saw Riley, a 

year old American Staffordshire 

Terrier. We were sniffing 

each other “hello,” when 

all of a sudden the girls came 

running towards me. I was excited to see them, but 

Riley, who did not know them, barked. I had never 

heard him bark before so I knew he was protecting 

me–giving puppy love a new meaning! 

When I’m feeling affectionate, I push my head under 

my owner’s hand, begging to be petted. She calls me 

a love bug and says, “Maggie, you’re my girl.” I love 

her no matter what she does, even if she annoys 

me–which she does from time to time. I protect 

her, I defend her and I will be a loyal friend, always. 

This talk of love makes me want to jump up on my 

owner’s lap, lean my head on her hands, and finish 

writing this story together. 

Contact Maggie Mae Pup Reporter at 

maggiemae10514@gmail.com 

Weddings, Showers, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, 

Confirmations, 1st Communion, 

And all your Special Occasions 

Beascakes Bakery 

Personalized Learning 

Allan Schneider Tutoring 

PROPRIETOR: 

Allan Schneider 


www.allanschneidertutoring.com 

SERVICES: Academic Tutoring and Test Preparation for 

grades 6 to 12. Subjects: Math, Chemistry, Physics 

and English. Test prep SAT, SAT II, PSAT and ACT. A 

six person team of professional tutors and educators 

with very different backgrounds–education, technical 

management, science and engineering. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Maturity, experience and a oneon-one 

approach–individually focused on your child’s 

needs across a variety of subjects. The team’s Motto: 

“Teaching Students to Teach Themselves” States Allan 

Schneider: “Many students that begin in 8th or 9th 

grade with single subject tutoring are then provided 

multi subject support and test preparation right 

up to (and occasionally) college. We can also share a 

litany of glowing references that are related to your 

specific needs.” 

Sweeter Than Honey 

Beascakes Bakery 

PROPRIETOR: 

Julie Dickens 


www.beascakes.com 

Products & Services: Four years ago, Julie came from 

Ohio to New York to attend The French Culinary 

School. After graduating, she worked for the famous 

chocolatier Jacques Torres. “Next, I browsed ads for my 

own bakery, found Beascakes, and realized I would not 

be returning to Ohio anytime soon!” Last year, Beascakes 

moved to a bigger location that allows Julie to 

take on larger projects and offer new products. 

The bakery prepares custom cakes, cupcakes, and cookies 

for any occasion; morning pastries, coffee cakes, 

fresh doughnuts every morning, daily soups, bagels, 

cookies, espresso, smoothies and frozen yogurt. 

The sofa is another place to show affection. I climb 

575 Main Street 

up with my owner, resting on her chest while she Maggie Mae lives in Chappaqua with 

Armonk, NY 10504 

Greatest Strengths: Fearlessness in the face of challenge! 

“We make many custom one-of-a-kind cakes and 

watches television or reads a book. I can feel her her adoring owner Ronni Diamondstein, 

914-273-3612 

heart beating and I am sure she can feel mine. My who, when she isn’t walking Maggie is a 

friend Belle, a Chocolate Lab, nudges her owner Jen freelance writer, PR consultant, awardwinning 

photographer and a School Li- 

Visit our New Location!! 

www.beascakes.com 

cookies. Nothing pleases us more than to see your ideas 

come to life.” 

when she wants to lie down next to her. And on a 

cold winter night, Bruno, a Boxer, puts his paws up brary Media Specialist and teacher who 

Special Plans: After the move, the same Frozen Yogurt 

Fresh donuts every morning. 

on his owner Carmine, hugging him till Bruno falls has worked in the US and abroad. Photo 

as Bloomies in plain and non-fat Chocolate were added. 

Come Taste the Difference! 

“We also want to add a freezer to be able to offer more 

asleep in his arms. 

of Maggie and her owner by Liza Margulies 

flavors this summer.” 


Specialty Wines 

and Expert Friendly Help 

Products & Services: Unique wines 

from around the world. Specializing 

in wines from France, Italy, Spain and 

the US. “We deliver your wines as 

needed,” says Peter, who has owned 

Hilltop since 1989, “and will help 

with last minute entertaining ideas and requests.” 

Greatest Strengths: Staff gladly assists with choosing 

wines for special occasions, from an intimate dinner for 

two to a in-home wine tasting for hundreds! Hilltop’s 

Certified Sommelier, Anne Lun, trained making wine 

in the Alsace region of France and in New York’s Finger 

Lakes Region. Marianne Taylor of Chappaqua has been 

Hilltop’s manager for over 12 years. 

Special Plans: Weekly wine tastings on Saturdays, 

2-6 p.m. Hilltop will sponsor and provide wines for 

the 6th Annual Chappaqua Rotary Club's Wine Tasting 

Hilltop Wines 

& Spirits 

PROPRIETOR: 

Peter Costello 


Arts, 

Friendship, 

Nature 

Peter Costello 

Event, Thursday April 

7th at Crabtree’s Kittle 

House. Over 80 wines will 

be opened for this special 

tasting. Benefits will be 

given to a local charity. 

Chappaqua Friends 

Nursery School 

director: 

Janet Himel 


www.chappaquafriendsnurseryschool.com 

Keeping Plants and Trees Healthy 

Protects your Investment 

SERVICES: Westchester Tree Life is 

a tree care company providing tree 

maintenance, pruning and tree removals 

to help ensure the beauty, health 

and wellbeing of your valuable trees 

and shrubs. They’ll even provide plant 

healthcare by diagnosing and treating 

plant infestations and disease. 

Westchester Tree 

Life, Inc. 

PROPRIETORs: 

Bill Davies and Rem Arnold 


www.westchestertreelife.com 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: 

Westchester Tree Life 

keeps crews in the know 

by providing ongoing 

training of tree maintenance 

including the 

proper care, health and 

pruning of trees. A fullyinsured 

company, they also maintain a focus on safety 

at work sites and give personal attention to each job. 

SPECIAL PLANS: It’s important to plan ahead and 

Westchester Tree Life will be sending out Plant Healthcare 

proposals in February for inspection and treatments 

throughout the growing season. It’s also time to 

begin thinking about tick spray programs and spring 

pruning. 

Compassion and Comfort 

Beecher Funeral 

Home, Inc. 

PROPRIETOR: 

Bill Flooks 


www.beecherfh.com 

Services: Funeral and 

cremation services and 

preplanning of funerals. 

Bill Flooks 

SERVICES: At Chappaqua Friends Nursery School for 

2 ½ - 5 year olds, each child’s growth–social, emotional, 

physical, and intellectual–is recognized as unique. In its 

developmental, child-centered program, children discover 

the joy of learning and the intersecting worlds of 

friendship, nature, self-expression and listening. 

Background: Bill Flooks, a New York State Licensed 

Funeral Director for over 30 Years, is also a second 

generation funeral director following in his father’s 

footsteps. He attended the American Academy McAllister 

Institute of Funeral Service where he received a 

degree in Mortuary Science, and purchased the Beecher 

Funeral Home in February of 2004. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Daily routines of indoor and 

outdoor free-play, art, and group times for stories, 

Greatest Strengths: “My ability to comfort and guide 

conversations,and music provide a framework within 

people through the funeral process during one of the 

which children can feel safe and secure as they 

most difficult times of their lives,” says Mr. Flooks. 

explore new relationships, new materials, new feelings, 

“Compassion and a true feeling for the people is essential 

during these times,” he states. “We have helped 

and new ideas. “Quaker values of friendship, simplicity, 

peaceful resolution of conflict, and community 

so many people through a very difficult time, and for 

infuse our program for children and families.” 

that, they are very grateful.” 


British superstar 

George Michael 

sings “I gotta have 

faith.” If the crowds 

who gather at her 

gigs are any indication, 

so do the fans 

of Justine Faith, 

owner of NightStar 

DJ and Karaoke. 

What she started 

on a whim has 

blossomed into a 

successful entertainment 

company 

for this resident of 

Pleasantville. 

Justine didn’t set out 

on becoming a queen 

of karaoke. After 

studying Animal Science at Cornell, 

she hoped to become a veterinarian. 

William Congreve said: “music 

hath charms to soothe the savage 

beast…,” but taking care of animals 

was not to be. A love of singing, including 

a three-year stint with the 

All-City Chorus in Manhattan during 

high school, eventually brought 

her to a different career path. 

Fifteen years ago, when just a regular 

karaoke singer, a DJ asked her if 

she wanted to learn the ropes. So, 

she learned how to dj, what to say 

to the crowd and began a business 

of her own, starting with one show 

a week. When another bar asked 

her to do a karaoke show on the 

same night, she trained her own 

DJ, and thus, a karaoke empire was 

born. Today, between Justine and 

her stable of DJ’s, NightStar DJ 

and Karaoke now hosts 21 shows 

each week, not including weddings 

and parties. 

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

Gotta Have Faith 

by Michael Kohn 

Nightstar DJ and Karaoke Owner Justine Faith at the beginning of a show 

at Chappaqua’s Quaker Hill on January 8th. An ever loyal fan base and many 

area residents soon packed the popular local pub where the show, and all the 

enthusiastic singers, were still going strong at 2:30 a.m. 

Locally, you can find Justine and 

SPECIAL PLANS: 

Along with regular gigs in Westchester, 

Connecticut and the Bronx 

Chappaqua, Lucy’s in Pleasantville, 

her other hosts at Quaker Hill in 

Early morning drop-off, additional after 

hours enrichment classes such as art, science and cooking. 

(her one night “off” is Monday), 

Opus in Armonk. For a complete 

Visits by a petting zoo, Ranger Rick, Maritime Aquarium, 

Justine also hosts a regular Thursday 

night show at the world-fa- 

website at www.nightstardj.com 

listing of her shows, visit her 

Fire Department, etc. Call with any questions. Registration 

is now in progress. 

mous Sylvia’s in Harlem. “The sing- 

month hiatus recovering from 


ers [there] will blow your mind,” 

she says. 

When I interviewed Justine over 

the phone, I could hear in her voice 

the pride she took in her work, 

including the fact that she was the 

first African-American woman to 

own a karaoke company. She talked 

about how important the singers 

are to her and criticized DJs who 

steal time from patrons by singing 

too often themselves, in spite 

of the fact that she is blessed with 

an amazing voice of her own. (Her 

mother played piano at Carnegie 

Hall and taught music and piano, 

and Justine was an accomplished 

piano player by age six.) 

She stressed the value of encouraging 

her DJs to talk to everyone at 

the bar, even non-singers, who just 

come to enjoy a good show. “Anyone 

can press buttons; it’s about 

personalities,” she says. As a karaoke 

DJ myself up in Albany, I was 

curious to see Justine in action, 

and fortunately found a chance to 

after visiting my daughter in New 

York City. She was returning to her 

long-running show at Thataway’s 

Café in Greenwich after a three 

surgery, and invited me to 

see her “live.” 

I arrived to find Justine 

ordering a soda amidst a 

sea of her loyal fans. On 

a Sunday night, no less! 

Justine began the show 

and I was delighted I 

made the trip. The atmosphere 

and the singers 

were fantastic and everyone 

was showing karaoke 

love. I even met a few of 

the karaoke hosts who 

work for her. It was clear 

that they all had Justine’s 

love for karaoke and her 

professional philosophy 

of giving the very best to 

the patrons. She wants 

to “make it [the show] memorable 

so they will come back.” I ended up 

staying over two hours. 

Karaoke’s not all fun and games. In 

addition to managing all the shows, 

Justine works hard at booking, 

preparing contracts, and publicity. 

“It’s a tough business and I have to 

work hard to hold onto shows,” she 

adds. After seeing one, it’s obvious 

that the effort is worthwhile. 

The central theme which emerged 

during the interview was how 

important the people are. Justine 

wants to give them the very best 

and has been rewarded over the 

years by meeting many wonderful 

people. Since she began, at 

least eight couples married after 

meeting at karaoke. Justine dj’ed 

at their weddings too, expressing 

how honored she felt that she was 

chosen to entertain. 

Swing by and see our super playground 

equipment - on Chappaqua’s largest 

outdoor nursery school playground! 

Music Lessons 

in Your Home 

Services: In-home music lessons 

for all ages, levels and instruments. 

Instructors are all degreed professionals 

working in the music industry. 

While not the traditional school, 

Andante ensures the school 

experience by holding annual 

contests, recitals, and 

master classes. This year, the 

practice contest winners enjoyed 

a show at Westchester 

Broadway Dinner Theatre. 

Andante Music 

PROPRIETOR: 

Alicia Mott 


www.andantemusicny.com 

Greatests Strengths: Andante Music caters to the 

needs of a busy lifestyle. Instead of having to drive to a 

location, then sit in a waiting room (or try to run errands 

in 30 minutes while your child takes a lesson--impossible!), 

you and your child are both in the comfort of your 

own home, notes Alicia. “We have parents who get dinner 

started or help brother or sister with homework all 

while the lesson is taking place.” 

Special Plans: The Spring Recital is just around the 

corner, March 27th. Andante Music always appears at 

several street fairs throughout the summer, including 

Tarrytown Street Fair, Pleasantville Day, and Shadfest! 

Flexible and 

Trained Staff at Play Care 

Play Care 

DIRECTOR: 

Carol Cleary 


1971 

www.playcarepreschool.com 

SERVICES: Preschool, Baby Care, 

Lunch Care, Extended 

Day, Enrichment Programs 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: Only Preschool in Chappaqua with 

a truly flexible schedule. Choose any combination of days: 

morning or afternoon. Music, Science, and Creative Movement 

classes offered in addition to general academics. 

Large shaded outdoor playground with new equipment. 

Convenient location and easy parking. Licensed by the New 

York State Office of Children and Family Services. All staff 

are CPR trained and an RN is on Staff.

Customized Prescriptions for You 

Services and Strengths: 

The Healthy Choice Compounding 

Pharmacy is a 

traditional pharmacy also 

specializing in customizing 

Bio Identical Hormone 

Replacement (BHRT) and 

pain management therapies. 

Prescriptions can be 

prepared to fit a patient’s specific needs, be it capsule, cream 

or gel form. “We specialize in womens’ health needs–everything 

from PMS and yeast infections to helping women 

transition through different life phases,” says Phil Altman, 

R.Ph. “We customize solutions to fit the patient; we won’t fit 

a square peg in a round hole.” 

The Healthy Choice 

Compounding Pharmacy 

PROPRIETOR: 

Phil Altman, R.Ph. 


www.thehealthychoice.net 

www.SimplyBHRT.com 

Dynamic Classes for Kids 

Designed with Community in Mind. 

World Cup 

Gymnastics 

PROPRIETOR: 

John Sabalja 

director: 

Jason Hebert 


www.worldcupgymnastics.com 

Special Plans: To become 

Westchester's leading Women’s 

Health Care Compounding 

Authority! Phil Altman has 

lectured locally on women’s 

health care concerns, has appeared 

on Channel 12 News, 

Long Island, and has hosted a 

BHRT seminar at Brynwood 

Country Club, featuring Dr. Eldred Taylor, author of Are your 

Hormones Making you Sick? Healthy Choice is also a supporter 

of The Westchester Medical Center’s "Girls Night Out.” 

SERVICES: World Cup Gymnastics 

offers an array of programs from 

“mommy and me” classes to recreation 

and competitive gymnastics. 

World Cup also offers special community 

programs like “Kids Night 

Out” and “Special Days” on school 

holidays. We also offer wonderful 

summer camp programs. 

GREATEST STRENGTHS: The 

award-winning instructors 

who understand the 

importance of children’s 

physical development and 

design fun programs to help 

promote healthy bodies 

and build self-esteem. Also, 

the state-of –the-art gymnastics 

complex provides 

The Healthy Choice 

Compounding Pharmacy 

Visit our website at 

www.thehealthychoice.net 

to take your Free 

Hormone 

Assessment Analysis 

And our blog at 

www.SimplyBHRT.com 

for answers to all of your 

Menopause questions. 

Westchester’s Most 

Complete 

Fitness Complex 

Club Fit is a fun place for the whole family to live a 

healthy lifestyle. We offer group exercise classes, fitness 

center, aquatics center, tennis, racquetball, an 

indoor track, spinning, yoga, child care and sport 

classes,summer camp, massage, and a full size gymnasium. 

Our wide variety of exercise facilities and programs 

combined with our years in the community makes us 

uniquely qualified to offer a comfortable environment 

that keeps up with fitness trends. 

Subscribe Today 

Consider a voluntary subscription or 

a gift for a family member or friend 

March/April 2011 

through June 2012 

Next 9 Issues: $27 

(includes shipping and handling) 

Send this form with your payment to: 

Inside Press, Inc. P.O. Box 643, Millwood, NY 10546 

Recipient Name & Address 

Club Fit 

PROPRIETORS: 

David Swope, Beth Beck, 

Bill Beck, Ellen Koelsch 


1970s 

www.clubfit.com 

the room and equipment needed to help children develop 

basic to complex gymnastics skills or train for more serious 

gymnastics competitions. At World Cup Gymnastics, all 

children are champions! 

From: 

SPECIAL PLANS: Come join us for home gymnastics 

meets. Check out our website for upcoming dates. 


When Mom, OMG, “Friends” You 

By Rick Reynolds 

Look. We all know that, regardless of 

your age, your mother always knew 

more about you than was good for her 

health. But when my mother friended 

me six years after her death, I’m 

thinking, “Thanks a lot, Facebook!” 

Upon awaking from that nightmare, 

I decided to stay off the social networking 

site. It appears that Osama 

bin Laden, Bernie Madoff, and Rick 

Reynolds are the only holdouts left–in 

this world or beyond–who prefer 

their privacy. 

If only there were a "mother" button 

on Facebook, we would place 

her there. If you’re like most people, 

your shameful life dictates that 

you, instead, place Mom in a special 

alternate, clandestine area where one 

neither accepts nor declines; a kind 

of Facebook purgatory where she can 

believe you or her prying eyes. Of 

course, you can always decline the 

request –in polite company we call it, 

“ignore.” It's not that your mom isn't 

your friend. Indeed, she's so special a 

friend, she comes with her own special 

name: “MOTHER.” 

But if your mother made it to the 21st 

century a decade after you did, you’ll 

need a protocol. After all, it’s not just 

mothers. Many fathers, uncles and 

grandfathers are married to moms, 

aunts and grandmothers–if not 

yours. And virtually all have received 

that gift that keeps on giving–social 

networking. 

While composing your Facebook 

status, decide if your profile is appropriate. 

Look into a mirror and 

ask yourself if you have more than 

six pictures of yourself that would 

prevent you from landing a future job 

at FedEx. If you’re holding a glass in 

the picture, Photoshop milk into it. 

If you’re standing next to undesirable 

characters holding up birds without 

feathers, consider deleting them or 

rethink accepting your mother as a 

friend. However, you must always 

remember who’s footing the bill for 

your lavish lifestyle. And where your 

inheritance is coming from. 

I’ve thought of starting a Facebook 

page, but with my paranoia, there 

wouldn’t be anything on it. I’d use an 

alias, post a picture taken 30 years 

ago, and retouch my beard. I’d have 

plenty of friends, but they’d soon get 

bored staring at a vacant page, much 

like they do when they read my magazine 

columns. I read recently about a 

software developer, Dana Hanna, who 

walked down the matrimonial aisle 

with cell phone in hand. After vows 

were exchanged, but before kissing 

the bride, Hanna took his cell 

phone and updated his relationship 

status. Just when I was feeling terrible 

for the bride, I read she grabbed 

the phone from him so she could 

update hers. 

It was then I knew a new mother was 

born; one who will eventually know 

more than is optimal for her health. 

The minister waited patiently for each 

to confirm the other’s new status, before 

declaring them husband and wife. 

Mark Twain once wrote, “I was dead 

for millions of years before I was 

born, and it didn’t inconvenience 

me in the slightest.” Well, Twain did 

ease my unease with mortality, but it 

will take more than Facebook’s Mark 

Zuckerberg (Time magazine’s “Person 

of the Year’) to share my millions of 

sorry moments—despite knowing it 

would not inconvenience (or surprise) 

my mother in the slightest. 

Chappaqua alumnus and 35-year 

resident of Chappaqua, humorist Rick 

Reynolds resides in southern New 

Hampshire with his wife, daughter, 

and two dogs. 

ULTHERAPY: Stand firm in the face of gravity. 

The new, non-invasive way to combat the effects of time. 

BEFORE 

Discover an entirely new cosmetic procedure that lifts, tightens and tones sagging 

skin on the neck and face in one step. WITHOUT SURGERY. Ultherapy takes 

ultrasound to a new level: the first and only* aesthetic procedure cleared by the 

FDA for non-invasive lifting. This in-office treatment naturally and gradually 

creates new collagen fibers – the building blocks of more youthful skin. 

See results right away that improve over time. 

Take action early to maintain skin tone. 

Ultherapy is available exclusively in the Chappaqua area: 

Lydia Evans, M.D. , 

Board Certified Dermatologist 

229 King Street, Chappaqua 

Call to arrange a consultation, by appointment only: 914-238-1500 

We offer a full range of aesthetic dermatology services*: 

AFTER 

AS SEEN ON TV: 

Rachael Ray Show 

The Doctors 

The Dr. Oz Show 

The main thing to remember, when 

Mom decides to friend you, is not to 

panic. Take a deep breath. Draw the 

air deep into your powerhouse. As I 

said, your mother already knows how 

weird you are—if not the details— 

even without Facebook. Now, all she 

wants to know about are your secret 

experiences. (BTW, your father 

hasn’t got a clue, unless your mother 

told him.) 

Ilustration by Rick Reynolds 

• Botox 

• Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane 

• Sculptra 

• Chemical Peels 

• Facials 

• Fraxel dual laser treatment 

– fine lines, uneven skin tone 

**Energy-based aesthetic procedure 

**Insurance does not cover aesthetic procedures and products. 

• Dermasweep (microdermabrasion + chemical peel) 

• V beam laser for blood vessel treatments 

• Sclerotherapy for leg vein treatments 

• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) 

• Extensive line of cosmeceuticals & specialized sunscreens 


Andrew Samalin, CFP 

Principal 

Clare Casey 

Senior Service 

Representative 

Thomas Kowalchuk 

Registered 

Associate 

Louise Albert, CFP 

Senior Financial 

Planning Analyst 

You. Your CPA. Your lawyer. 

Your doctor. 

The Leaders of Your Community. 

You are our Clients. 

Mark Bierman, EA 

Director of Pension 

Actuarial Services 

Samalin Investment Counsel is an award-winning, nationally recognized 

SEC Registered Investment Advisor for well-resourced clients. We work with people 

who are bright, busy and successful. If you are like our other clients, you might be 

fatigued by 'Big Box Investment Retailers' with multiple business lines and agendas. 

By contrast, we are fiduciaries for your financial planning program; we answer only to 

you. Our advice is conflict-free, professional and appropriate for your circumstances. 

Clients hire us because of that unmistaken and unmitigated clarity. 

We are located in the Crown House, and would be glad to meet with you. 

297 King Street, 


(914) 666-6616 Direct 

(914) 666-6602 Fax 

410 Park Avenue, 

15th Floor, New York, NY 10022 

(212) 750-6200 Direct 

(212) 750-6208 Fax 

www.SICounsel.com 

Clearing, custody or other brokerage services may be provided by Fidelity Brokerage Services, LLC or National Financial Services, LLC, 

a Fidelity Investments company. Members NYSE, SIPC. 

52 Inside Chappaqua February 2011

Drowning Flood Sisters - Inside Chappaqua

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