Student to Student Night Brings College Perspectives to SHS
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- Written by: Sharon Higgins
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SHS Juniors: Arjun Sriskanrthan, Raphael Sutiono, Wade Han On Wednesday evening, May 20, 2026, despite the pouring rain, Scarsdale High School juniors gathered in the SHS cafeteria for the annual Student to Student Night. This event brought together current SHS students and recent SHS alumni representing 17 universities across the country. Organized by the SHS PTA Student to Student Night Committee: Zhendi Shi, Tracy Tang, and Sunny Wang, in coordination with the Scarsdale High School College and Career Center, the evening gave juniors the opportunity to speak candidly with recent SHS graduates about college life, academics, campus culture, and the transition from SHS to college.
Unlike traditional college fairs or admissions presentations, Student to Student Night allowed students to ask unrestricted and honest questions to alumni who recently navigated the same rigorous SHS experience. Student to Student Night Co-Chair Tracy Tang noted that approximately 30 to 40 SHS juniors attended the event. While the rainy weather and busy spring schedule for juniors may have impacted attendance, Tang emphasized that the evening remains especially worthwhile because students are able to hear authentic perspectives about college life directly from peers they can relate to. In addition to the conversations with alumni, students also enjoyed dinner and dessert during the event.
Seventeen universities from across the country were represented, ranging from California to nearby New York City. Universities represented included:
Barnard College
Boston College
College Juniors: Ryan Hogan - Occidental College, Eiji Tsukamoto - University of Miami
Boston University
Columbia University
Cornell University
Emory University
Fordham University
Indiana University Bloomington
Occidental College
Stony Brook University
University of California, Berkeley
University of Georgia
University of Miami
University of Notre Dame
University of Southern California
University of Texas at Austin
Wake Forest University
Students asked questions that ranged from academics and workload to dorm life, campus culture, and dining options. Raphael Sutiono asked how the workload in college compared to the rigor at SHS, noting that SHS alumni were uniquely qualified to answer because they had experienced both environments firsthand. He added that a random admissions representative or tour guide would not necessarily understand the demands of SHS coursework in the same way. Wade Han focused on campus culture questions, hoping to get a sense of the “real vibe” of each school. Meanwhile, Isabel Lin asked alumni one of the evening’s most popular questions, “How good is the college food?”
College Sophomore Caitlin Higgins - University of Notre Dame, College Freshman Felicity Bennett- University of Georgia, SHS Juniors Arjun Sriskanthan, Wade HanStudents left the evening not only well-fed from the large dinner spread, but also with valuable firsthand insight into college life. Alumni also enjoyed reconnecting with former classmates, meeting current students, and sharing their experiences. Though attendance was smaller than organizers had hoped, the evening was still considered a meaningful success and remains a valued tradition within the SHS community.
Scarsdale Neighbors Fight to Prevent Development in a Sensitive Drainage Area
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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Proposed Building Site
(Updated May 23, 2026)
A developer has filed applications with the Scarsdale Planning Board and the Board of Architectural Review to build a new home on a small undeveloped .17 acre lot on Spier Road that is next to Rock Creek and is in the wetlands buffer. Neighbors surrounding it object. They claim that the lot was previously classified as a wetlands and the owners paid reduced taxes due to the designation.
The developer claims the lot is not a wetlands and seeking permission to build on the lot.
From the Scarsdale Village wetlands map below, it appears that the building lot falls into the wetlands buffer adjacent to a storm drainage area.Village code permits building in the buffer - from 25 to 100 feet from the wetlands - with approval from the Planning Board.
Here is what Yingying Na of Rock Creek Lane has to say:
A developer is pushing to build a new home on a small lot, (.17 acre) on Spier Road that has been designated as protected wetland since 1968 — and the neighbors surrounding it are fighting back.
The lot, tax parcel 19.01.375, sits at the corner of Spier Road and Rock Creek Lane. The developer, who coined the address "0 Spier Road" in their January 2026 application to the Village's Planning Board, is proposing a single-family home on a constrained, 7,538-square-foot parcel that borders an active stream on one side and an open storm water drain on the other. The proposed house would stand 37.3 feet tall — nearly 12 feet above the neighborhood average — and require the removal of 13 mature trees from a slope that drops 20 feet toward the stream below.
Rendering of proposed house.
The developer purchased the full 111 Spier Road property in April 2022 for $887,250, a package that included three tax lots. That same year, they attempted to expand the main house by building extensions over the watercourse and adding a three-car detached garage with living quarters — a proposal withdrawn after two Planning Board hearings under fierce neighborhood opposition. In 2025, they successfully challenged the Village's tax assessment, reducing the wetland lot's assessed value from $110,500 to $75,000. Then, in January 2026, they filed plans to build on the wetland lot while listing the other two lots on Zillow for what would become $1,800,000 — more than double what they paid for the entire property.
Yingying Na owns the adjacent property at 230 Rock Creek Lane and initiated the neighborhood's petition, says the moment demanded action. "I live next door to this lot. I've watched that stream run and those trees grow for years. When the developer filed to build on wetland protected since 1968 — land they were paying discounted taxes on — I couldn't stay silent. This isn't just my backyard. It's a living ecosystem, and a test of whether Scarsdale's environmental protections mean anything. I started this petition because the community deserves a voice in what happens here."
Neighbors have appeared before the Village of Scarsdale Planning Board twice and the Board of Architectural Review once to oppose the project. When the group launched a campaign website and public petition on May 11, the response was swift: more than 240 people signed in under a week, with new signatures arriving every day.
What is at stake, opponents say, goes beyond one lot. If a wetland protected by the Village for 58 years can be reclassified the moment a developer finds it profitable, no protected parcel in Scarsdale is truly safe.
Learn more on their website.
The application is on the agenda for the Scarsdale Village Planning Board meeting on Wednesday May 27, 2026 at 7 pm at Scarsdale Village Hall.
Scarsdale School Board Candidates Virtual Forum Online Now: Watch it Here
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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Are you considering who to vote for in the upcoming election for the Scarsdale Board of Trustees?
This year there is a contested race among three candidates for two seats on the Board of Education – and there’s been lots of discussion in the Village and on Scarsdale10583 about which candidates are right for Scarsdale at this time.
In order to give voters the opportunity to meet the candidates and hear their views, the League of Women Voters of Scarsdale conducted a virtual public forum on Thursday May 7, posing questions to the three candidates, Erica German, Omer Wiczyk and Kevin Ziegler.
During the forum the three were each given time to introduce themselves to voters and to explain why they decided to step up to run now.
They were also asked to answer a series of questions on financing a Scarsdale education, state policies and laws, the curriculum, free expression in the schools, the role of AI and technology in education and the district policy on accepting gifts or grants from outside funding sources.
It was an enlightening conversation and all voters should watch it before voting for the annual school budget, the proposed bond and the school board candidates on Tuesday May 19 from 7 am to 9 pm at Scarsdale Middle School.
Watch the virtual forum here:
Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2026
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Spa treatments, jewelry, home goods, scents, canasta accessories, sunglasses and spring clothing are all in store in Scarsdale for Mother’s Day on Sunday May 10, 2026. We’re fortunate to have so many wonderful options at our doorstep.
Shop local this year and you won’t need to worry about late shipments and out of stock items. It’s all here for you and all the special moms, grandmothers, aunts and sisters in Scarsdale!
Here are some tempting suggestions for gifts all available in a quick drive from home.
Holsten Jewelers
Holsten Jewelers invites you to experience over 100 years of family tradition and craftsmanship. We specialize in engagement rings, custom designs, jewelry repair, watch restoration and more.
What do you give the woman who made you who you are? Something just as personal. Adina Reyter charm necklaces turn meaningful moments into something she will wear every day. They’re thoughtful, personal, and beautifully made.
For the mom who does it all, give her something that does the same. Diamond Tennis Necklaces are timeless for a reason! They’re clean, chic, and endlessly versatile. From everyday wear to special occasions, it’s a piece she’ll never take off.
Holsten Jewelers, 5 Harwood, Court, Scarsdale (914) 472-4554.
I Am More Scarsdale
Mother’s Day is easy at I Am More Scarsdale. We’ve curated the perfect gifts—from statement pieces to everyday essentials, plus accessories and jewelry she’ll wear on repeat. And if you’re looking for something more flexible, I Am More gift cards never disappoint.
Let I Am More help you find a gift she’ll truly love—because moms deserve more—and when you shop with I Am More, you’re also shopping with purpose, supporting a women-led, philanthropic business dedicated to empowering women and giving back to the community.
Enjoy spring savings with up to 25% off select regular-priced clothing and accessories. Shop online (http://www.iammorescarsdale.com) or in-store at 6 Spencer Place, Scarsdale, Monday-Saturday 11am-5pm, Sundays 11am-4pm, and by appointment. (Instagram @iammore.scarsdale).
Chick Magnets
Chick Magnets’ patented canasta traveler keeps cards secure—even on windy days—so you can play anywhere from the beach to the pool. A fun and thoughtful Mother’s Day gift from two Scarsdale women entrepreneurs. Order at chickmagnets.co - free same day local delivery to 10583.
Rocks Jewelry Gift Home
Effortless jewelry pieces Mom is sure to treasure every day.
For a unique shopping experience, visit ROCKS Jewelry • Gifts • Home • Design in the Golden Horseshoe. We are a full-service Fine and Fashion jewelry store, including repairs and custom work. You’ll also find more than fifty Home Accessory brands — from Made Goods, Arteriors, Globals Views, and Jonathan Adler. Need help accessorizing? We offer full service Interior Design services, including furniture, wallpaper, and lighting. Yes, we do it all! ROCKS is the best place to shop for Hostess 
Luxurious scent and soft florals to make her feel celebrated and serene makes the perfect gift for Mom.Gifts, with a huge selection of gift items starting as low as $25. Enjoy our ROCKS Concierge services. Call, email, or go online... and get it delivered right to your door.
Rocks Jewelry, Gifts, Home, Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center, Wilmot Road Scarsdale , 914-219-5808
Eye Gallery of Scarsdale
The Eye Gallery of Scarsdale invites you to visit their beautiful Boniface Circle boutique and explore the latest in sunglasses and eyewear for Spring 2026. Featuring coveted styles from Celine, Chanel, Chrome Hearts, Jacques Marie Mage, and Barton Perreira, there’s no shortage of standout options. Perfect for gifting or refreshing your own collection.
While you’re there, be sure to book your annual eye exam and experience their signature concierge-level care.
The Loewe Anagram LW40160i 66A sunglasses, priced at $440, strike the perfect balance between bold and refined. Featuring an oversized silhouette and the iconic Loewe Anagram detail, they bring a sculptural, fashion-forward edge to everyday wear. The warm-toned lenses and polished frame make them an effortlessly chic choice for spring styling.
For a more understated, elevated look, the Oliver Peoples Jill Sander Edition 3 sunglasses, priced at $740, deliver quiet luxury at its finest. Designed with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, this collaboration embodies timeless sophistication. Lightweight yet impactful, they’re the perfect finishing touch for a polished, modern wardrobe.
Eye Gallery of Scarsdale, 15 Boniface Circle, Scarsdale, (914) 472-2020.
Tranquility Spa
For over 30 years now, Tranquility Spa in Scarsdale has been Westchester’s destination location for an extraordinary, life-enhancing experience: a short-term getaway vacation to focus your mind, relax your body and free your soul. Give the moms in your life the gift they deserve. Allow them time away to recharge. There is no better Mother's Day gift than a day at Tranquility Spa. Visit their website to see current specials for the special person in your life. Choose a de-stressing massage, consider a HydraFacial with dermaplaning to turn back the hands of time, or purchase a package with multiple services and allow them to have a longer experience.
Tranquility Spa, 917 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, 914.713.0066, Open Monday-Friday 10AM to 7PM, Saturday-Sunday 9AM to 6PM
Scentfluence
Mother’s Day and Scentfluence’s Relocation Sale are timed perfectly this year to help you find the perfect gift. Enjoy 30% off a wide selection of luxury scent oils* and diffusers. Also discover signature, luxury hotel scents and scented products for any style, mood, or mom you love. *Sale excludes hotel scents and products. scentfluence.com.
ScentFluence, 22 Harwood Court, Scarsdale Village, Mon-Fri 12-5 pm.
Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology
Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology: Elevate your look and enter the season feeling like your best self with Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology in Scarsdale.
This Mother’s Day give mom what she really wants, the gift of rejuvenation. Get her glowing with a $500 or more gift card and receive a BONUS $100* Gift Card for her or you!
From Mommy Make-Overs, Daddy Do-Overs and Grandma Glow-Ups, to Cosmetic Injectable Treatments, reserving your private and complimentary consultation now will ensure everyone is ready for the upcoming summer soiree’s. Aesthetic gifting is the new jewelry, Gift Certificates and Curated Packages are now among the most requested luxury gifts. Call (914) 635-4737 or visit GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com to learn more.
Dedicated Dads with Fresh Perspectives!
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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Letter to the Editor;
We are delighted to support Omer Wiczyk and Kevin Ziegler for the board of education, nominated by the SBNC, the non-partisan 30-person committee elected by Scarsdale residents to thoroughly and confidentially vet candidates.
We trust this system and find Omer and Kevin will each bring fresh perspectives to the existing board composition. They are both prepared for board service, dedicated to quality public education, and committed to civil and robust community dialogue.
Over the next month, you will hear about Kevin’s professional talents, and the value they will bring to the board of education. He has significant strategic, financial and communications skills, from leadership in public relations and corporate roles, and a volunteer spirit. He has dived into the Scarsdale civic community, he studies the issues, listens intently, and we are confident he will represent our entire community, especially families with young children. We'll also tell you about his character, on display when no one is watching. Last summer, our college-aged son, Eli, and a few of his friends joined an existing rec league men’s softball team, composed mostly of 40-something dads our family didn’t know, including Kevin. This combination could have been awkward, but Kevin and his teammates welcomed the college ‘ringers’ (and their young knees!) with enthusiasm. Eli described Kevin as “super friendly and a genuine guy.” Their multi-generational team had a great season! It’s a small story with a lot of meaning, because we value board members who show up for other people’s kids. Kevin is that stand-up guy.
Omer Wiczyk
“Stand-up guy” also describes Omer. Omer has volunteered in some of the most important community institutions, like as president of the Scarsdale Forum and as a leader on CNC. We have seen that Omer facilitates consensus with grace and gentle humor. Marc served on the Citizens Nominating Committee with Omer a decade ago during a contentious time in the Village. Omer, always affable, displayed an ability to hear all sides and contribute to an outcome that all were happy with. We have observed that people listen to Omer because he seeks the best outcomes, without an agenda. He is even-tempered and whip smart, which are great qualities for the School Board.
We hope Scarsdale voters will also join us to support the school budget and the bond referendum. Our grown children were well prepared by Scarsdale schools, and we believe investment into kids and their education is the right thing for everyone.
Kevin ZieglerContested elections are a part of the non-partisan system and this community has several times had the opportunity to weigh in on candidates to make their own decisions, hopefully without rancor. We believe in the value of our non-partisan nominating committees, and we know how hard the members of those committees work to identify and nominate candidates. We trust members of the community will take the time to get to know SBNC nominated Kevin and Omer and join us in supporting them. We look forward to everyone working together in service to our community.
Vote Omer and Kevin, and Yes to bond and budget!
Tuesday May 19, 7am – 9pm, SMS Gym.
Diane and Marc Greenwald
