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The Home Issue

March / April 2025

Read our latest issue below, or keep scrolling for behind the scenes pictures, videos and information.

Welcome to Our House

Welcome to our home (issue). This one is definitely full (of articles and information), thanks to our ever growing family (of writers, artists, marketing/sales people) who have helped us grow (our media company) and surpass even our own (business) expectations.

While some may think we built our home (issue) quickly, it took decades of (professional) work to get here. We spent years learning (in school and on the job) how to build it from the ground up in a way we (and our community) would truly enjoy.

Here’s the thing about building a home–we could have done it by ourselves (like Dyan Rosenberg did, pg. 70), but it’s undoubtedly better when we work together (similar to Michael and Stamatía Pappas, pg. 12). We rolled up our sleeves and picked up that (metaphorical) hammer and nail to do the hard work (as Simi Polozani does, pg. 36), so we could build a home that reflects our creative vision (shout out to Russel & Mary Wright, pg. 76). But we’re not afraid to seek expert advice along the way (pg. 18, 28 and 44-66).

We’ve welcomed a lot of friends (, writers and artists) over the past few years, and the more people we meet, the more stories we have to tell (much like Trip Gabriel has done throughout his career, pg. 82). Our home is full of life, and the more we live here and grow our community (of business partners), the more grateful we are to have such incredible neighbors (throughout northern Westchester).

We happily welcome (readers of) all ages to come inside.

Yours truly,

Gia & Justin

P.S. And if you ask us how we do it all (the magazine, the video production, moderating panels, giving talks, local events, etc.), the answer is simple: sleep deprivation. Kids, don’t try this at home.

Connect to Trip Gabriel

Hear our discussion with Trip Gabriel in our recent podcast. Play it now on Spotify.

Drowning in Plastic

Writing by Kayla Schmidt Artwork by Molly McGarvey Reports of suspicious activity amongst the county have surfaced; citizens claim the water is “unsafe.” But who is the perpetrator? Well, it’s not really a question of who, but what. And that “what” are forever chemicals known by the name of PFAS. PFAS 101 Let’s start with the basics. What are PFAS? ...

Westchester’s Mission to KEEP Kenyan Girls In School

Writing by Isabella Aranda Garcia Photography by Justin Negard It all began with a book. In a small, seven-member book club meeting, the book on the table was “Half the Sky,” a nonfiction work by New York Times journalists Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. The book, which delves into the many hardships faced by women worldwide—such as sex trafficking, child ...

Level Up Your Money

From one teen to another: Why you should start Writing by Max Chwatko Photography by Avery Gameiro Whether you’re taking on your first job this summer, you’ve worked before, or you just want to use up all that birthday money, there are options. Sure, you could spend it all on new sneakers or concert tickets. But if you’re looking for ...

Missing You Already

Why Your Dog Hates Goodbyes Writing by Dr. Sarah J. Cutler Artwork by Molly McGarvey When you leave your dog home alone, what happens? Do they look out the windows or stand at the door anxiously awaiting your return? Do they ignore their food or chew items that smell like you, such as remote controls, doorknobs or pillows? Are they ...

Dear Luz #16

Writing By Luz Michelle Artwork by Aeneas Eaton Disclaimer: It’s okay to laugh – this is a humor column! We welcome your Dear Luz questions, but we’re legally obligated to say this is not a substitute for real advice by professionals. Dear Luz, I’m about to turn 25, and I feel like I’m already in the depths of a quarter-life ...

Natural Isn’t Always Better

Writing by Susan Trumpdour Artwork by Justin Negard We’ve all met “natural” enthusiasts who proudly slather their faces with mysterious plant concoctions, strictly follow the latest clean-food fads or promote the benefits of consuming raw milk as a life elixir. Many believe anything labeled “natural” guarantees better health, happiness and a thriving gut microbiome. But the truth is, just because ...

Surrounded by Inspiration

Writing By Vivian Manning-Schaffel Artwork by Justin Negard Some visual artists spend a lifetime cultivating an instantly identifiable style, investing years or decades building a body of work that expounds upon a designated thesis. Others revel in the liberation they feel when their tools are in hand, experimenting with whatever inspires them at that particular point in their evolution. Counting ...

What You May Not Know About Croton Falls

Writing by Nicole Patten Photography by Tomoko Rahenkamp and Justin Negard Mention Croton Falls to someone, and you’ll likely hear one word: charming. It may be due to the quaint storefronts, the romantic sounds of the train, or the Victorian homes lining the surrounding streets. Whatever the reason, Croton Falls is indeed charming, but there is much more to this ...

Costa Brava

By Dr. Elixir Photography by Justin Negard This cocktail is a tribute to José Andrés, a brilliant chef and humanitarian. Several months ago, I heard an interview where Andrés shared the story behind his seafoam margarita. While at the beach, Andrés noticed the light and airy quality of the ocean’s foam. He cupped some water with his hands, tasted it, ...

What are the most effective ways to boost longevity?

Start thinking about your health longevity sooner and implement healthy habits now. For example, become more physically active, maintain a healthy diet & body weight, limit or remove alcohol intake, develop good sleeping habits, don’t smoke and limit pharmaceutical drugs. We also recommend you focus on developing positive social relationships as well as learning how to manage stress and anxiety ...

Golden Numbers, Dragon Fruit Pizza, and a “Boss Baby” Sister

Writing by Elisa Jacobs Artwork by Aeneas Eaton Meet Piper Skinner, a kindergartner at Rippowam Cisqua. She loves Hello Kitty, collects Calico Critters and Squishmallows (she has over 100), and adores her new baby sister Vivian. Can you tell me about your jewelry? Oh, I love jewelry! Do you wear the same rings every day, or do you switch it ...

Science or Spin? How to Know If a Health Claim Is False

Writing by Alina Mata Artwork by Aeneas Eaton Remember learning that eating carrots would improve your eyesight? Or that, according to the Kardashians, SugarBearHair gummies could give you stronger and shinier hair? What about when Prevagen claimed it could improve your memory? These claims, along with hundreds of others (Cheerios, Skechers, vitaminwater, etc.), were false. But don’t feel embarrassed if ...