Real Heroes May Not Wear Capes
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Raquel, Arthur, Luca and Leonardo Soares with Scarsdale Mayor Justin ArestA quick response from a 13 year-old Quaker Ridge boy may have saved the life of a young boy at Splash Down Water Park in Fishkill, NY on July 12, 2024.
Luca Soares, who will be entering eighth grade at Scarsdale Middle School in the fall, was at the water park with the Scarsdale Teen Travel Camp. He explained that he was in the Monster Wave Pool, a large pool where waves are sent over the swimmers. Just after a big wave passed him, a small boy grabbed him. The boy was choking and crying and asked for help. He was too small to swim safely in that pool. Soares picked him up, ran out of the pool and searched the crowd for the boy’s family.
His mother appeared and grabbed the young boy and yelled at him, never acknowledging Luca. But it was clear to the Scarsdale camp counselors that Luca had acted heroically.
They shared the story with the Village of Scarsdale who issued a proclamation in Luca’s honor at the August 13 meeting of the Village Board. Luca was presented with the proclamation and his parents Raquel and Leonardo and his younger brother Arthur proudly posed for photos with the Mayor and Village Trustees.
Mr. Bitterman, the Director of the Teen Travel Camp remarked that Luca was humble and nonchalant about his heroism, but many in Village Hall had tears in their eyes as they watched the proceedings.
Here are the words of the proclamation as read by Scarsdale Mayor Justin Arest:
Whereas, Luca Soares, a 13-year-old rising 8th grader in the Choice Program at Scarsdale Middle School, demonstrated exceptional courage and quick thinking, acting as the right person in the right place at the absolute right time to assist a small child in distress; and
Whereas, on Friday, July 12, 2024, at SplashDown Beach Water Park in Fishkill, New York, while enjoying the Monster Wave Pool as part of the Scarsdale Teen Travel Camp, Luca noticed a young child who had been pulled underwater by a wave and had not resurfaced; and
Whereas, without hesitation, Luca acted swiftly and decisively, pulling the child from the water and ensuring the child's safety; and
Whereas, Luca carried the coughing and crying child out of the pool and sought out the child's mother, all the while downplaying his actions and modestly insisting to his camp counselors that he had not done anything special; and
Whereas, Luca's bravery and quick action not only saved the child from potential harm, but also exemplified the core values of responsibility, vigilance, and empathy, setting a powerful example for his peers and community members; and
Whereas, Luca’s quick response and willingness to help a stranger in need exemplify the values of bravery, compassion, and selflessness that our community cherishes and strives to uphold; and
Now, Therefore, I, Justin Arest, Mayor of the Village of Scarsdale, on behalf of the Board of Trustees and the and the entire Scarsdale community, hereby honor and celebrate Luca Soares for his heroic actions, recognizing him as a shining example of the best in our youth. His actions remind us all that real heroes may not wear capes, but are defined by their readiness to act in the service of others; and be it further
Proclaimed, that August 13, 2024, be recognized as Luca Soares Day in the Village of Scarsdale.
The Search for a Village Manager
With the position of Village Manager vacant since the departure of Rob Cole in September 2023, Scarsdale Mayor Justin Arest gave an update on the search for his replacement. According to the Mayor, the Village conducted a nationwide search which yielded 20 potential candidates. Those 20 were narrowed down to a list of four semi-finalists. Two on the list accepted an invitation to come to Scarsdale and meet with trustees and a group of selected residents. However, following the visits, rather than hiring one of the candidates, the Board decided to suspend the search.
Why? Arest said an explanation would be provided in September.
Pool Renovations
And what about the pool? Is the Village any closer to finalizing plans for the renovation and improvement of the aging complex? At the August 13, 2024 meeting of the Village Board, Mayor Arest said that the Village renegotiated their contract with the construction management firm, Hill International and is working with the pool architects, Lothrop. Arest said, “We have begun program development using the data and input received from the community. We will have a more substantive update at our first September board meeting which will include additional ways for residents to stay involved and provide input.”
Arest confirmed that construction is still scheduled to begin following the 2025 summer pool season.
Village Emails and Website
Acting Village Manager Alexandra Marshall explained that on August 9, 2024 all Village email addresses were changed from Scarsdale.com to Scarsdale.gov. She asked residents to check their spam filters for any emails they may have missed. As of October 1 all Village websites will be transitioned from .com to .gov. This will improve security and ensure that users are accessing a secure government website.
Paving
Marshall also informed the public of the following paving projects which will be done overnight.
The Village of Scarsdale is performing overnight paving operations at various locations throughout the Village Center. In an effort to minimize disruption to residents and local businesses, all work will take place between the approximate hours of 7 PM - 5 AM. Please note the below paving schedule is tentative and may fluctuate depending on weather:
• Tuesday, August 13: Paving on Spencer Place, Boniface Circle, and Harwood Court
• Wednesday, August 14: Milling on Popham Road and Chase Road
• Thursday, August 15: Paving on Popham Road and Chase Road
• Sunday, August 19: Paving in the Freightway Parking Lot
• Tuesday, August 21: Paving at Village Hal
Trustee Ken Mazer announced that Tuesday October 1 will be Senior Law Day at Westchester County Center. There will be 50 experienced attorneys who will be available to conduct one on one consultations on senior issues, elder law, social security and more.
Resolutions
The Village Board awarded a contract for pedestrian bridge repairs at Freightway Garage to Southern Industries of Tarrytown, NY.
They signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Scarsdale School District and Scarsdale Family Counseling Service to renew the contract for fiscal year 2024-25 for the Youth Services Project.
They amended the schedule of village wide fees and charges to include 2024-25 fees for site plan review per the amended Village code.
Deardre Nedal was appointed to serve on the Advisory Council on Senior Citizens until April 2026.
Treasurer's Report
Scarsdale Village Treasurer Ann Scaglione provided the following tax report:
As of July 31, 2024 99.49% of the county tax levy was collected and 99.57% of the 2023 school tax levy collected.
As of August 1, 2024, 59% of Village tax levy have been collected.
Victim Identified in Fatal Crash at the Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center
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(Update from the New Rochelle Police Department)
Here is an update from the New Rochelle Police on the identity of the victim.
(July 17, 2024) The New Rochelle Police have identified the victim in the fatal car crash at the Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center on July 13, 2024 as 16 year-old Aidan Galeano of New Rochelle, New York.
According to police, "The vehicle he was driving was travelling eastbound on Wilmot Road at a high rate of speed and veered left of center at 1050 Wilmot Road and into the Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center where it collided with a metal light post and concrete footing. He only had a Learner’s Permit according to DMV records," and therefore should not have been driving.
Here's what happened:
On July 13th , 2024, at about 12:02am, New Rochelle Police responded to the Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center at 1062 Wilmot Road on a report of a motor vehicle accident. Officers arrived on scene and found a 2019 Honda Accord completely on fire. New Rochelle Firefighters responded and extinguished the flames. The sole occupant in the vehicle was found in the drivers’ seat deceased. New Rochelle Police Accident Investigators responded to the scene for further investigation.
The family of the deceased was notified, and no further information is being released at this time to allow the family to process this tragic event. The investigation is still ongoing. The New Rochelle Police Department extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
(An unofficial report states that the victim was a rising Junior at Iona Prep)
Scholarship Fund Raises $103,000 to Assist Scarsdale Students
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To the Editor:
Our sincerest thanks from the SHS PTA Scholarship Committee and the Grant Committee to the entire Scarsdale community. All donations, big and small, make a huge difference and allow us to positively impact others in our community who need the assistance. We are pleased to announce that the SHS PTA Scholarship Fund’s College Committee has raised a total of $103,000.00 to help 18 graduating Scarsdale High School seniors. While our community is generally one of means, there are families here affected by hardship, such as illness, divorce, and business collapse. These scholarships will help defray freshman year tuition costs for our students in need of financial assistance.
To donate:
https://www.scarsdaleschools.k12.ny.us/Page/25307, or send a check to SHS PTA Scholarship Fund for College at 1057 Post Rd Scarsdale, NY 10583.
Sincerely,
Beth Cukier, Chair
Tracy McCarthy, Chair Emerita
Scarsdale High School PTA Scholarship Fund for College
Edgewood and Fox Meadow Fifth Graders Spread Their Wings
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On the blistering hot, sunny morning of June 20th 2024, three 5th grade classes of Edgewood Elementary had their moving-up ceremony. The ceremony was held in the outdoor courtyard and was garnished with a beautiful balloon backdrop. The graduating students walked out of the school to the hum of Pomp and Circumstance. The class then recited the pledge of allegiance before taking their seats to sing their alma mater "Edgewood School Song". The fifth graders were welcomed by Principal Karen Eldon. Afterward, the class sang "For Just a Little While" and "Living What I Believe", led by music teacher, Ms. Giustino.
Assistant Principal, Lauren Drapek welcomed the students by class to commence the graduation for the Class of 2024. Each of the fifth-grade teachers (Mr. DelMonaco, Mrs. Pinto, and Mrs. Mraz) then took pictures with their respective classes. Fifth grade Aides (Mrs Rotiker, Mrs Shkreli, and Ms Garvin) were also present in the audience. A breakfast was held after the commencement, with groups gathering for pictures at balloon photo stations. Congratulations to the Edgewood Class of 2024! This is not goodbye; remember your time at Edgewood, and best wishes as you fly onwards and upwards to Scarsdale Middle School!
Photo Credit: Andi Schrieber: @andischreiberpix on Instagram and Andi Schreiber on Facebook. More of Andi’s work can be viewed on her website, andischreiberpix.com.
Fox Meadow Elementary School Moving Up Ceremony
On Thursday, June 20, Fox Meadow celebrated their 5th grade students with a beautiful ceremony in the school gym. The 5th graders sang Fly Away Home by PinkZebra which is a very moving song about exploring the world but staying connected and always knowing one can return home. Our students heard encouraging words from Principal Melissa Feinberg, Assistant Principal Trish Iasiello, and PTA Co-Presidents, Jeannie Adashek and Leena Gyftopoulos.
The diplomas were handed out by the 5th grade teachers, Sarah Berger, Daniel Brodsky, and Susan Gray. Everyone in attendance enjoyed watching the 5th grade montage which included memories spanning Kindergarten through 5th grade. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the 5th graders walked through the halls and enjoyed a final clap out from the rest of the school.
A beautiful day in the Meadow!
Introducing Cindy Parrott: The First Female Athletic Director for SHS
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Last week we learned that Cindy Parrott, a teacher and coach in the Scarsdale Schools, had been named the first female athletic director for Scarsdale High School. She takes over from Ray Pappalaridi who will focus on Physical Education and Health.
We contacted Parrott to learn more about her and here is what she shared:
-Tell us about yourself, your educational experience and your work history at the Scarsdale Schools.
I have been teaching math at Scarsdale Middle School for the past 21 years, serving as the Teacher-in-Charge of Choice for 17 years and the Math Department Chair concurrently for 11 years. I have also coached Modified Volleyball at SMS for 20 years and that program has been extremely popular with 80 - 120 girls participating each season. Prior to teaching in Scarsdale, I coached Girls Volleyball and Softball at Staples High School in Westport, CT.
-What sports have you coached and what sports do you play?
As mentioned, I coached modified volleyball in Scarsdale and high school volleyball and softball in my previous position in Westport, CT for eight years. I played softball since childhood and continued to play recreationally into my forties. As an adult, I took up running, finishing countless 5 and 10ks (placing in my age group in some!), several half marathons, and the New York City Marathon. Recently, I have been playing and enjoying pickleball.
-How big is the high school’s current program? How many teams and how many athletes are involved? What are your thoughts on managing a program of this size?
Scarsdale has 39 teams with approximately 1500 student-athletes participating! It’s definitely a bigh job to address all of the needs of the robust offerings available to SHS students, but I look forward to that challenge. I really look forward to seeing students shine outside of the classroom!
-What attracted you to this new opportunity — what do you believe you can offer the athletes and parents in the high school community?
I have been teaching middle school math for a total of 29 years, supporting students in their academic pursuits. Sports has meant a great deal to me and my family so it is a natural transition for me to now support students in their athletic pursuits.
In my current roles I have had to be extremely organized, detail-oriented, and communicative. I understand the privilege of having worked here for decades and I hope parents and athletes will see how much I care. I will work with coaches and staff to foster the development of student-athletes, promote positive sportsmanship, and help ensure that the lessons learned from Athletics extend far beyond one’s years on the field.
-Recruiting and managing coaches is one of the responsibilities of the job. What will you look for when hiring coaches?
Hiring staff has been one of the duties of my previous position that I enjoyed the most. Scarsdale is fortunate to attract the best and most talented teachers and I am proud of the group that has been hired during my tenure as math department chair. I look forward to continuing that with the athletics coaching staff. Obviously, you want to see their experience, knowledge of the sport, and communication and leadership skills. However, I also want to see a commitment and passion for the Scarsdale community. Our teachers can be our best resources for coaching positions as they are already invested in our student-athletes. If they are not available and we look to hire from outside our staff, then I would like to know why Scarsdale. Do they have a sense of the community and an understanding of what it means to wear maroon and white?
-What are you looking forward to?
With so many teams and limited space, I am looking forward to the results of the field study and seeing how we can provide Scarsdale athletes with facilities we can be proud of. I would like to see if there are opportunities for efficiencies with communication of schedules, events, and any necessary changes that can occur. I really look forward to supporting coaches and student-athletes to be sure they have everything they need to be successful.
-You will be Scarsdale’s first female athletic director. What might this mean for the students and the program?
Being the first female athletic director in Scarsdale is not lost on me. While there has been progress, women are still underrepresented in sports leadership. Hopefully, I bring a different perspective on things and equity will always be a priority. I believe Scarsdale is well positioned in this area, but there are some areas for improvement. Regardless of gender, I hope I am viewed as someone who does the job well.
Commenting on the change in leadership, Moira Crouch and Amy Frank who lead booster organization Maroon and White said this: "Maroon and White has supported Scarsdale High School athletics since 1968. In the 9 years of working together, Maroon and White and Mr. Pappalardi have successfully collaborated to accomplish a great deal for Scarsdale High School’s athletics, including the lights, speakers, windscreens and portable scorers box at Butler field, the fitness center and equipment, the softball scoreboard and windscreens at Supply field, all new banners in the gym, a new sign and flags celebrating our state champions by the Athletic Circle, and other equipment, projects and events. Maroon and White has had a strong partnership with Raymondo Pappalardi and admire his dedication to Scarsdale athletics. We look forward to working with the new athletic director, Cindy Parrott, to continue our mission in support of Scarsdale’s student athletes."
