Shopping

Citrine Jewelry Store on Park Place to Close February 18, 2017

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By Staff

Feb. 8, 2017: After more than eleven years of business, Citrine, the jewelry store on Park Place in the Bronxville business district, is closing its doors on Saturday, February 18. A 50%-off sale is now under way.

Bronxville resident and owner Sarah Reynolds said, "It's time to move on," although she will continue to sell her beautiful collection of jewels at "pop-up" locations, private trunk shows, holiday boutiques, and online.

Sarah became a partner in the jewelry store in October of 2005 with Willis O'Brien, another Bronxville resident. Their objective was to sell unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry. To do this, they have worked with fifteen to twenty jewelry designers who made the pieces themselves.

"Earrings and necklaces have been the biggest sellers," Sarah stated, "although rings have been an important item, too." Citrine has been fortunate to have "consistent sales," said Sarah, and during Christmastime and Mothers' Day, they have been "robust." "The shop has always been in the black; only during the downturn in 2008 did we lower our prices to keep up business. It was a most challenging period."

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Before joining Willis to run the store, Sarah was a stay-at-home mom with three girls. She was involved in the Junior League and the Bronxville Elementary School, among other organizations.

Then one day Willis and she went to Bergdorf's to see what jewelry they had. The store had many specialty pieces. "Once we realized a store with specialty pieces was a viable idea, I decided to join her."

After 7 ½ years, Willis left the store and Sarah decided to keep it going. Since then, she has done all of the buying, the accounting, the finances, the social media, and the marketing. In the process, she says, she has made many wonderful friends and has been involved in many special occasions. "People will run up to me in the street to show me a piece of jewelry bought by a loved one from Citrine," she recalls.

As for her reason to close, Sarah said that she is now coming to a different stage in her life. Her youngest daughter is going to college next fall, and soon she will be an empty nester. Another important reason is that her lease is up March 1. "It can't go on forever," she exclaimed.

But she wants everyone to know that she will be around. She will be selling pieces in other Bronxville stores and will be available for private appointments. She can be reached at 917-337-2062 or by email at CLOAKING .

Pictured here: Sarah Reynolds, owner of Citrine.

Photo by A. Warner

The Chamber Chatter for February 2017

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By Susan Miele, Executive Director, Bronxville Chamber of Commerce

Feb. 8, 2017: The Chamber announces the 2017 Board of Directors:

President: Francine Smith, Hunt Woods Manor Design

Vice President: Michele MacMillan, Paws & Play Pet Resort

Treasurer: John Lugano, Pete's Park Place Tavern

Secretary: Louis Maggiotto, Nobile, Magarian & DiSalvo

Advisor: Stephanie Weston, The Westchester Bank

Counsel: Joan Iacono, Joan Iacono, Esq.

Directors

Wayne Chessler, Park 143 Bistro & Fish

Yiota Koriniotu, Bronxville Diner

Bob Krause, Mrs. Morgan's Flower Shop

Nicole T. Namy, State Farm

Barbara Nichuals, Bayside Travel

Paul Ranieri, D.C. Ranieri Insurance Company

Joern Tittel, Bronxville Wines & Spirits and Topps Bakery

Susan Unger, CloudBar, LLC

Steve Singer of Provisions for Pets and Johnny Lee of Lewiko Imaging Art and Bronxville Stationers are to be thanked for their years of service on the board.

Valentine’s Day

Looking to dazzle your valentine with jewelry? Bronxville offers three fine jewelers to choose from: La Gravinese Jewelers, Bronxville Jewelers, and Citrine.

Sending flowers? Please don't order from a national company. Not only do your local florists outshine all others, but spare yourself the third-party broker to get a better bouquet for your investment. Mrs. Morgan’s Flower Shop (914-337-2237; 145 Parkway Road) and Tryforos and Pernice Florists (914-337-2525; 73 Pondfield Road) both provide unbeatable service.

Book your hair appointment early at Fabio's Hair Studio: 914-337-1482; Continental 109: 914-793-4198; Studio One: 914-337-0088; or Blow & Beyond--which recently added haircuts and makeup applications to its growing list of services--914-779-2100.

Ernie's Wine Bar + EATS is accepting reservations for its special Valentine's Day feast. Seatings are 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm. The prix-fixe menu will feature a glass of pink bubbly, tomato basil soup, choice of baked cod in saffron broth or veal lasagna, cheese plate and salad, chocolate mousse, and wine with each course. $75/person. Call 914-652-7859 for reservations. 7 Pondfield Road.

Lydia Maria Petrosino of Lydia Maria Real Estate has a side gig as an astronomer! She'll co-present a view of the night sky at the Hayden Planetarium's "Romance Under the Stars" event on Tuesday, February 14, in honor of Valentine's Day. For further info and tickets: 914-212-769-5200.

Attend Bronxville Wellness Sanctuary’s Guided Meditation on Self-Love on Tuesday, February 14, 6:45 pm to 8:00 pm, at 14 Studio Arcade. RSVP: 914-337-9356. $25 cash or check, please. Bronxville Wellness Sanctuary is also offering gift certificates--a great gift for that special valentine of yours!

Is your sweetheart treating you properly? One Love Foundation can help you distinguish a supportive, loving relationship from an inappropriate or abusive one.

Weathering the Winter

It's been a mild winter so far, but it ain't over yet! Here are some resources to keep in mind:

Besson Oil is ready to serve all your oil heating needs--as they've been doing since 1835! 914-779-0008

Need to be shoveled out? Snow-removal services are offered by Michael Serio Tree Care (914-771-8733) and Edward Lange (914-337-2628). Leave the heave-ho to them!

Pipes burst? Tony Giannoni can restore your service!

If icy roads result in a collision, several Chamber members offer 24-hour towing: Merit Auto Body, Bronxville Auto Collision, and Ultimate AutoBody. They also can help with repairs and insurance claims--so keep their number handy!

Leave your care at home and enjoy the added convenience of door-to-door service! Call Bronxville Depot Taxi or Eastchester Trip Service.

FitWalk has winterized its fitness classes by relocating from outdoors to in for the season! Classes meet at Studio B Dance Center in Eastchester.

The winter is a great time for bargains! Toney Toni and the Gang, for one, announced that all sale merchandise is now 50% off! 70 Pondfield Rd.

Comings, Goings, and Redesigns

Underhills Crossing has a new look! Check out the restaurant's makeover. Stop in to see for yourself at 74.5 Pondfield Rd. 914-337-1200.

The Chamber is sad to announce that Citrine will be closing its store on February 25. Meanwhile, take advantage of a 50%-off jewelry sale at 22 Park Place--but be sure to act quickly before it's gone!

In other news: Boo Gemes has moved out of its shared location with The Silk Road, but fear not: Merchandise is still available--and still local! View Boo's website and note that the contact information is 914-364-8340; 4 Sunny Brae Place.

Bronxville Fish Market on Cedar Street has closed, but Park Place Bagels II is now open on Palmer Avenue!

Staying put: Congratulations to Lydia Maria Real Estate on 22 years in Bronxville and the start of its 23rd year! Don't forget that the office is now located at 65 Pondfield.

21^st-Century Updates

J.Pocker Custom Framing and Prints since 1926 asks what is your inspiration for spring? Bring them your Instagram inspirations or any photos or fabric samples when selecting frame designs for your next project. Do you wish to create a gallery wall of travel mementos? Design a fabulous mirror for over a sofa to reflect a painting hanging on an opposing wall over a mantle? Let them inspire you! Open Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 am-5:30 pm. 65 Pondfield Rd. 914-337-7100.

Savanna at Home has replaced consignment offerings with an all-new stock of quality new furniture! Owners Frank and Patty Canale continue to offer window treatments and upholstering services as well. The shop has been in Bronxville for 15 years and is grateful to the community for its support. Stop in at 116 Pondfield Road; 914-337-9400.

Events

Buy tickets online today for the Junior League of Bronxville's Vino & Vendors Friendraiser event, which will be held on February 10 at the Bronxville Field Club from 7:30 to 10:30 pm ($40/solo; $75/pair). There will be unique vendors, as well as a live and silent wine auction featuring over 30 lots from Bronxville Wines & Spirits.

Station Plaza Wine & Spirits will host a Spanish Red Wine Tasting Series all weekend, February 11-12! Stop in at 102 Kraft Ave to imbibe!

Your Feedback

Do you have feedback about this newsletter? Please email CLOAKING . We'd love to hear from you!

Follow us on Twitter (@BXVChamber) and Like us on Facebook. Mail addresses are never given out or sold.

Be Loyal--Buy Bronxville!

Susan Miele

The Chamber Chatter for January 2017

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By Susan Miele, Executive Director, Bronxville Chamber of Commerce

Jan. 18, 2017: Resolutions—Keep Them!

Resolution #1: Boost Bronxville’s Economy—which benefits all of us directly—by committing to more spending in town. Perhaps a 10% increase is a reasonable resolution to make—but of course even more would be even better! A strong local economy keeps property values high and taxes down. Encourage your neighbors to do the same.

Bronxville Fitness Club is making resolution maintenance hard to refuse. Brand new members get 50% off their first month of monthly membership from now until January 31—and there’s never an initiation fee! 72 Palmer Ave. 914-771-9771;

Need help sticking to your fitness resolutions? Jill Guericio-Niebling of A Trim and Healthy Life does this for a living! Enlist Jill as your health coach to help you stay on track. Through one-on-one mentorship and support, you can learn to stay motivated and committed.

Stick to your dietary New Year’s resolutions at Stillmeadow Gourmet with their daily selection of healthy soups, salads, quinoa bowls and more!

Here’s a resolution that might not be on your radar: Get your hearing checked! Research shows that unaddressed hearing loss can affect mood, socialization, and health—even diminished cognitive function, and an increased risk of falling. Schedule an appointment with Noel Thayer at Bronxville Hearing Center!

Regardless of age or health status, everyone should have a New York State Health Care Proxy. The unexpected happens – unexpectedly. It is important that you select someone to represent you and act as your health care agent, someone who knows your wishes and understands the care you would want. Make this the year you take care of this, and lean on Westchester End-of-Life Coalition for help and advice.

Changes at the Top

Bagelville on Parkway Road has closed, but good news: This is slated to become Park Place Bagels II! Stay tuned for grand-opening details.

Edwina Sulimirski Physical Therapy is pleased to announce a name change to Bronxville Sports Physical Therapy. This private physical therapy practice provides expert one-on-one care to the Bronxville community and the surrounding area. With 27 years of experience and extensive postgraduate specialization training, owner Edwina Sulimirski applies her knowledge, skill, and clinical competencies to provide physical therapy treatment of exceptional quality, with extended one-on-one treatment times. For more information call 914-274-0585.

The Chamber is sad to announce the closing of North, the clothing boutique on Pondfield Road.

Real Estate

Bronxville Real Estate invites you to search for homes directly from their Facebook.

Julia B. Fee Sotheby's International Realty announces the hiring of their newest seasoned real estate agents: Holly Mellstrom, Kristin Bischof, Alison Schair-Trigona and Elizabeth Ritchie. Help welcome them to Bronxville!

Events

CatcCCatch Tony-nominee Laura Osnes, on January 21, 6:30 pm,

Performing at a special benefit evening supporting the Concordia Conservatory community programs. Additionally, world-renowned violist Lawrence Dutton will perform chamber music favorites with the duo, trio and quartet repertoire with violinist Elizabeth Lim-Dutton, cellist Alison Rowe and pianist Jon Klibonoff. The concert will be held at the Sommer Center, and a Dinner Dance will follow at Bronxville Field Club.

The New York University Silver School of Social Work has a campus at Sarah Lawrence College! Join them on Tuesday, January 31, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm, or Saturday, April 29, from 10:00 to 11:30 am, for an Information Session to learn about the Master of Social Work program at NYU's Westchester campus. They’ll discuss the MSW curriculum, admissions process, and opportunities for scholarships.

Gramatan Village will host an Open House on Wednesday, February 1, at 85 Pondfield Rd. Learn about how members have access to their network of volunteers and professional providers and can call the Gramatan Village office for assistance with a small chore or a life-changing event. They’re here to make life easier. Light refreshments will be served. Looking to volunteer? Help shovel a member's walkway this winter. Call 914-337-1338 to sign up.

In Memoriam

The Chamber is sad to learn of the passing of former Chamber member Joan Manning, whose gift shop was a mainstay on Pondfield Road for many years. Our condolences go out to her family.

Your Feedback

Do you have feedback about this newsletter? Please email CLOAKING . We'd love to hear from you!

Follow us on Twitter (@BXVChamber) and “like” us on Facebook. Mail addresses are never given out or sold.

Be Loyal--Buy Bronxville!

Susan Miele

Bronxville Historical Conservancy Holds Annual Meeting and Holiday Party to Celebrate Successful Year

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By Ellen de Saint Phalle, Member, Board of Directors, The Bronxville Historical Conservancy

Jan. 4, 2017: The Bronxville Historical Conservancy (BHC) co-chairs, Erin Saluti and Jack Bierwirth, welcomed close to 100 members to its annual meeting and holiday party on December 14 at Siwanoy Country Club.

Highlights of the evening included a video presentation by Stafford Meyer of the year's programs and events, the introduction of three new board members, and the presentation of the 2016 Preservation Award to Houlihan Lawrence for the exterior restoration of the Prescott Farm Gate Lodge, Historic Headquarters of Lawrence Enterprises, currently the 4 Valley Road office of Houlihan Lawrence.

The three new board members are Jim Hudson, Marc Garbarini, and Suzanne Pratt Davis.

Jim Hudson, a lifelong resident of the Bronxville community, has served in leadership roles in many organizations locally, regionally, and nationally. His most recent local contribution has been his seven years of service on the Bronxville Board of Education, including two years as its president.

Marc Garbarini brings 25 years of advertising experience to the BHC. A creative director/art director, he has volunteered his branding talents within the community developing designs for The Bronxville School Foundation, Westab Day Spring Community Center, and BHC's Ghosts of Bronxville event.

Suzanne Pratt Davis is an award-winning financial journalist who has shared her expertise with the Bronxville School PTA as co-chair of development and communications. She has chaired the school's Memorial Day fundraiser and the PTA's most recent auction, which helped raise $600,000 for the school's library renovation.

Welcoming all three to the board, Erin Saluti said, "These three individuals bring a wealth of talent to our board as well as a deep appreciation for our village and commitment to the Conservancy's mission." Saluti also acknowledged outgoing board member Bill Dowling and thanked him for his thoughtful service to the BHC.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2016 Preservation Award. Presenting the award, Saluti confided, "Several major and important projects were considered, and it was clear from the start the committee had a difficult choice to make. Although each of the projects submitted [was] deserving of an award, the exterior of the Gate Lodge at Houlihan Lawrence Real Estate stood out as a demonstration of excellence in terms of fidelity, sensitivity, and compatibility with the original structure."

Accepting the award, Houlihan Lawrence president and CEO Stephen Meyers thanked "the talented team responsible for the project: Annette Carpino, the project manager; Nancy Seaman, chairman and designer; Dean Davis, architect; Peter Kieltyka, general contractor; and Maureen Hackett, landscape designer." He then asked the team to stand and be recognized before accepting the award on their behalf. The award is a bronze plaque designed by architect and BHC board member Anderson Kenny.

The official meeting concluded with the presentation of the Preservation Award. Board member Judy Foley received grateful applause for organizing the annual celebration as members continued to linger, enjoying cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and conversation.

Pictured here: E. J. Kelly presenting the 2016 BHC Preservation Award to Houlihan Lawrence.

Photo courtesy Judy Unis

The Chamber Chatter: Eight Good Reasons to Buy Bronxville this Holiday Season

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By Susan Miele, Executive Director, Bronxville Chamber of Commerce

Dec. 14, 2016: Why should you buy Bronxville this holiday season? Let me count the reasons:

#1: Economic Ripple Effect – Supporting Bronxville businesses helps keep municipal services strong and property taxes down. Bronxville shoppers feed Bronxville meters; Bronxville businesses pay Bronxville taxes; Bronxville employees buy food, goods, and services in Bronxville; Bronxville businesses employ local services (e.g., accountants, insurance brokers, computer consultants, attorneys, graphic designers, window designers, and more); a vibrant business district results in higher property values.

#2: Village Character – The unique landscape of the Bronxville business community is a beloved asset that is well worth preserving. Bronxville is differentiated from surrounding communities by having a high concentration of locally owned, independent businesses, the owners of which take as much pride in Bronxville as our residents do. Many of our merchants have been in Bronxville for 20, 30, 40 years or more and are true stalwarts of the community.

#3: Our Businesses Give Back – Bronxville businesses support your fundraisers, donate goods and gift certificates, and can be relied upon time and time again.

#4: Customer Service – Nowhere can you get the same personal attention than you do here in town. Store owners take great pride in helping you identify the perfect item, special-order what you want, grant discounts because you’re a valued customer, adjust their hours to accommodate your schedule, have your gifts wrapped and ready for pickup, deliver locally, and more. In this 1-square-mile village, our merchants go the extra mile.

#5: Distinct Merchandise – Visit the business district of almost any neighboring community and notice how alike they are. You can escape the retail sameness by supporting independently owned merchants. They make different buying decisions than the giant chains.

#6: People – When you support local, independent businesses, you support local, independent people. Get to know your local merchant and you’ll get to know a neighbor—often a single proprietor or a family-owned business. Support a local business and you’ll help a Westchester-based family send their kids to college, pay off their mortgage, and spend their own money locally.

#7: Feel It…See It…Smell It…. There's no substitute for the five senses when choosing items for purchase. How many times did you mail-order an item only to find: It doesn’t fit; isn’t flattering; the dimensions aren’t what they seemed; doesn’t match; or the material is flimsy. When you shop right here in Bronxville, you get to handle the item in question and know exactly what you’re getting, reducing the need for returns. But if you do need to return something, there’s no need for bubble wrap and waiting on line at the post office—just pop into town and go straight to the source.

#8: Instant Gratification – Never mind next-day shipping. Shop in Bronxville and have it in your hands the same day. If you must buy online, choose a Bronxville business that offers online retail.

New Parking Pay Stations in the Garden Avenue Lot

Pay station kiosks that enable patrons to simply use their parking space number to purchase time are now available in the Garden Avenue lot. The three kiosks are conveniently located and accept coins, dollar bills, $5 bills and MasterCard and Visa. Patrons can also continue to use the pay-by-phone app PANGO.

Bronxville Hometown Holiday: It Takes a Village

Numerous Chamber and community members contributed to the success of Bronxville Hometown Holiday--the holiday festivities that the Chamber organized in partnership with the Bronxville School PTA.

Thanks go to our event sponsors: NewYork-Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital, Bronxville Auto Collision, Paws and Play Pet Resort, Admiral Real Estate Services, and Mrs. Morgan's Flower Shop for sponsoring the event; to Admiral Real Estate Services for donating the vacant store for Santa's Workshop; to Bow Tie Cinemas, The Flower Shop of Tryforos and Pernice, Value Drugs, and Mrs. Morgan's Flower Shop for loaning us props; to the various gents who donned the red suit and white beard--Tim McGrath of Fred McGrath Funeral Home, Dan MacDonald of MDIC, Judge George McKinnis, and Joe Donaldson, the local school gym teacher; to Andy MacMillan for reprising his role as Frosty the Snowman; to the Village of Tuckahoe for loaning us use of their trolley; to the Village of Bronxville for the police escorts and supporting all facets of this program; to the Bronxville Diner and Lange's Deli for providing refreshments at Santa's Workshop; to Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, Bronxville Running Company, Bronxville Diner, SilverSpoon, Candy Rox, Soccer and Rugby Imports, Lange's Deli, Pete's Park Place Tavern, and Bronxville Real Estate for participating in the window-decorating contest; to the Bronxville Middle School Choristers, led by instructor Pam Simpson, for performing at the tree-lighting event; and, last but not least, to Michele MacMillan of Paws and Play Pet Resort, Tammi Kane, Bob Krause of Mrs. Morgan's Flower Shop, Barbara Amar of SilverSpoon, and the Bronxville High School Life Skills students and teachers for transforming an empty store into the North Pole.

Holiday Feasting

Stillmeadow Gourmet is available both on their website and in the store. From beef Wellington to cranberry baked brie, savory shortbread to Christmas cookies, your mouth is sure to water just reviewing the options!

Have a "Feast of the 7 Fishes" on Christmas Eve at Underhills Crossing. Their culinary team will prepare an array of seafood entrees, bringing this special Christmas Eve tradition to Underhills, along with live piano music from 6:00 to 10:00 pm. Reservations are also being accepted for their New Year's Eve ball, featuring a champagne toast and noisemakers, and New Year's Day brunch. 74.5 Pondfield Rd.

Order your classic buche de Noel from Chantilly Patisserie, pick up other assorted holiday goodies, and don't forget cookies for Santa! 135 Parkway Rd.

Lange's Deli's holiday catering menu includes homemade soups, main courses such as honey-glazed baked Virginia ham and lasagna. Call 914-337-3354 or stop in. 94 Pondfield Road.

Holiday Gifting

Give your family peace of mind with the gift of life insurance this Christmas! Contact Nikki Namy State Farm Agency.

Stay within budget with footwear under $50 from Bronxville Running Company!

Superhero girls Legos are now in stock at Bronxville Stationer on Pondfield Road.

Savanna at Home is having an ongoing clearance sale: Take an additional 25% off already-reduced items. Why wait for the holidays to be over? Additionally, all in-stock rugs are 50% off, and holiday decorations are buy-two-get-one-free! 116 Pondfield Road.

Bronxville Real Estate posted on Facebook that they were delighted to have had the Bronxville High School Creative Writing Club contribute to their holiday window. "In particular, we LOVE the quote by Freya Stark, 'Christmas is not an external event at all, but a piece of one's home that one carries in one's heart.'"

Gift Cards

Stop by Polpettina Homestyle Pizza Kitchen to earn a visit from the gift card genie! Purchase a $50+ gift card and receive an additional gift card worth 20% of the original value!

At last! Chantilly Patisserie will offer new gift cards--perfect for holiday gifting!

Buy $100 gift card at Blue Moon Mexican Cafe and receive $10 free now through December 24, 2016!

Be Loyal—Buy Bronxville!

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