Kudos to Scouts at Village Hall
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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Adelia Bandsma, Charlotte Blotner and Kyra MontgomeryThough scouts missed their opportunity to march in the Memorial Day Parade this year due to stormy weather, they had their night in the limelight at Village Hall on Tuesday May 28, 2024. Two boy scouts who received their Eagle Awards and three girl scouts who received Gold Awards were recognized by the Village Board for achieving the highest scout awards.
Scarsdale Edgemont Girl Scout Volunteer Service Unit Manager Donna Caro announced the three girl scout awards explaining, “The Gold Award is the highest national leadership award a high school Girl Scout can earn. She must identify an issue that matters to her and then develop and execute an innovative and sustainable solution with measurable impact. She must log at least 80 hours with a minimum of 16 hours directly leading others. Only 5.4% of eligible Girl Scouts nationwide earn this prestigious award.”
30 banners honoring hometown heroes have been posted around the Village.Charlotte Blotner and Kyra Montgomery have both completed their projects. Adelia Bandsma still needs to submit her paperwork and have an interview.
Charlotte Blotner’s project, "Accessible Art" aimed to address the negative effects of continued cuts to programming in the arts in schools. She taught children about art and art history, donated art supplies and created a printable journal to help children and adults find their own creative outlets.
Kyra Montgomery’s 'project, "Your Vote is Your Voice" aimed to increase civic engagement and voting among young people. She created a voter registration club at her school which runs regular voter registration drives throughout the school year and also ran voting workshops for younger girl scout troops to educate them about the women's suffrage movement and the election process in the U.S.
Adelia Bandsma has worked with numerous officials in the Scarsdale Village Government to bring the Hometown Heros flag project to Scarsdale Village. There are now 30 military tribute banners honoring veterans with a connection to Scarsdale hanging in the Village due to Adelia's work. Discussing her project, Bandsma said, "I was inspired by the Hometown Hero banners in Eastchester. They are such a heartwarming sight to drive by and I thought Scarsdale needed that too. I decided to do it as my Girl Scout Gold award project so I met with Mayor Arest and he said it was a nice thing to do. We decided to put the banners up in the village along the Memorial Day parade route. The Scarsdale Historical Society sponsored three banners for Scarsdale Historical veterans. Colonel Alexander Baxter Crane, Major William Popham and Captain Caleb Tompkins. Colonel Crane is on Crane road and Major Popham is on Popham road. I hope this project makes Scarsdalians who serve our country feel valued and cherished."
Eagle Scout Awards for Zachary Finkel and Noah Millard
Zachary Finkel and Noah Millard
Zachary Finkel, along with members of Troop 4 Scarsdale constructed twelve Mobile Boot Brush Stations. The Boot Brush Stations will help prevent the transfer of invasive plant and insect species. The stations are transportable and will be rotated around different locations seasonally and for special events. Finkel learned basic woodworking and workshop safety skills in a professional studio in Manhattan. He designed and custom built twelve sturdy wooden bases, including measuring, cutting, drilling, sanding and sealing the platforms. Finkel, who serves as a Patrol Leader with his Troop, is a Senior at Eastchester High School. He is on the High Honor Roll and will be graduating in June. He is interested in studying Political Science or Medicine.
Noah Millard's project involved the painting of the side of a flight simulator at the White Plains Youth Bureau and the construction of a wind tunnel. The side of the flight simulator was painted white then had decals added to resemble a plane. The wind tunnel is about the size of a folding table and is made up of a box fan, a funnel, an air straightener made with PVC pipe, and a test chamber that has a wood frame and clear acrylic. Inside of the wind tunnel is an air foil that is used to demonstrate lift. The wind tunnel can show the properties of lift and will help the Aviation Academy at the White Plains Youth Bureau.
A Beautiful Day for A Carnival
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- Written by Alex Bengera
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Three elementary schools held their carnivals on Saturday May 11 – one of the most beautiful days of the spring. Here are some photo galleries from Fox Meadow, Greenacres and Edgewood Elementary Schools.
Fox Meadow Elementary School
Melissa Saffer was one of the chairs of the Fox Meadow Carnival and she said, “I helped chair the fair last year as well and with a little trial and error, I think we finally found the perfect recipe for a successful and fun event!”
This year’s fifth graders' set up Caine's Arcade in the gym with games that they created on their own, using cardboard, other recycled materials and a whole bunch of creativity. The other FM students really enjoyed playing those games during the Fair. In addition, the music, photo booth, airbrush tattoos and a bubble show were a hit!
Also chairing the event were Melissa Saffer and Katy Goldman who said, “Our Fair this past Saturday was wonderful! The weather was picture perfect! The games, activities, community service opportunities, and food trucks were all great but the best part was our community showing up and enjoying time with their families and friends.”
Greenacres Elementary School
At Greenacres, the community enjoyed playing field games, Gaga, and a variety of carnival games. Arts and crafts, food trucks, and a talent show added to the overall fun atmosphere. Kids enjoyed performing on the outdoor stage, where they displayed their talents doing magic tricks, singing, dancing and delivering comedy routines.
Edgewood Elementary School
On May 11th, Edgewood school's courtyard transformed into a vibrant fair ground, as the PTA orchestrated an extraordinary fair that captivated attendees. With its student-chosen theme centered around the boundless wonders of space, the event soared to new heights under the banner of "Out of This World."
The fair, a culmination of months of meticulous planning by the dedicated members of the PTA, offered a plethora of activities and attractions to suit every age and interest. Among the highlights was a large alien ball game, a whimsical creation by the art teacher Mr. Fitz, that drew children like magnets, eager to experience the cosmic challenge it presented.
Children, eyes wide with anticipation, formed lines that wound around the red carnival booths and games adorned with cosmic motifs. What made these booths and games truly special was that each one was handcrafted by volunteers from the Edgewood community. From the intricate designs of the moon rock toss to the meticulously painted red booths, every detail reflected the craftsmanship and dedication of those who had poured their hearts into making the fair a memorable experience.
As children eagerly awaited their turn at a game, their laughter blended harmoniously with the melodies of the parent-led band known as the “The Chompers.” Their spirited performance drew cheers and applause, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Excitement soared as participants eagerly purchased raffle tickets, hoping to win stellar prizes generously donated by local businesses and residents. The anticipation reached its peak as winners were announced, adding an extra layer of joy to the festivities.
The carnival atmosphere was electric, fueled by the enthusiasm of both young and old alike. With each successful toss and every victorious game, cheers erupted, echoing across the fairgrounds like shooting stars streaking across the night sky. It was a sight to behold—a tapestry of joy woven by the hands of the Edgewood community.
Amidst the whirlwind of excitement, the local volunteer fire Company 1 made a grand entrance, as three vehicles rolled up to the fair. Children's faces lit up with awe and admiration as firefighters showcased their equipment and shared valuable safety tips.
No fair is complete without a feast for the senses, and the Edgewood Fair delivered on this front with flying colors. From cosmic cotton candy to meteorite-inspired popcorn, the culinary offerings were as diverse as the galaxies themselves. Families gathered around picnic tables, sharing stories and laughter over cuisines from Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
What truly set the Edgewood Fair apart was the unwavering support of volunteers from the community. From manning the game booths to serving refreshments, every aspect of the event was made possible by the selfless dedication of parents, teachers, and local residents.
As the day drew to a close, the fair reached its pinnacle with the highly anticipated 5th-grade pie eating contest. With eager determination, the students plunged into their pies, amidst a chorus of laughter and encouragement from the crowd. After the final pie was eaten, attendees reluctantly bid farewell to another enchanting chapter in the Edgewood Fair’s history.
The line from the Edgewood School song, "And the Fair in May by the PTA! Is the highlight of the year," resonated through the minds of those departing, a testament to the enduring tradition and cherished memories that the Edgewood Fair brings to the Edgewood community.
Photos by Matthew Hill. Hill is a Senior at SHS. He has studied photography for several years. He was a four-year varsity wrestler and captain for the last two years. Next year he will be attending The College of Arts and Sciences at NYU and be part of their NCAA wrestling team.
American Basswood Tree Planted in Colonial Acres Park for Arbor Day
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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Scarsdale is known as “A Village in a Park,” largely due to the wide array of varieties of tress that populate our tree canopy. This year, for the 41st year in a row, Scarsdale was named a “Tree City” by the National Arbor Day Foundation. To celebrate the designation, the Village planted an American Basswood tree in Colonial Acres Park to replace another tree that was engulfed by invasive vines and had to be removed.
On Friday after April 26, officials from the state, county and village along with resident volunteers gathered in this lovely park for the official planting of the tree. There was representation from the Village Manager’s office, the Recreation Department and the Department of Public Works in recognition of their roles in maintaining Scarsdale’s tree canopy.
Alexandra Marshall and Brian Gray
On hand was the Mayor, Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, Senator Shelley Mayer and County Executive George Latimer along with Trustee Karen Brews and volunteers from the Friends of Scarsdale Parks and Vinecutters who have been battling the aggressive vines that are smothering village trees.
Mayer Arest thanked the volunteers for their efforts to preserve the environment including the county’s first food scrapping program that has become a model for other communities across the state.
Madelaine Eppenstein from the Friends of Scarsdale Parks noted the importance of preserving the village’s tree canopy.
Acting Village Manager Alexander Marshall thanked the Vinecutters for their efforts to stem the growth of the vines that are strangling many Village trees.
Standing in the bucolic park State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin said, “how lucky we all are to live in this community.”
County Executive George Latimer complimented Scarsdale for its leadership in conservation and environmental initiatives.
Mayor Arest read a portion of the proclamation below – and everyone lifted a shovel to plant the new tree.
Arbor Day Proclamation
Mayor Justin Arest and County Executive George Latimer-Whereas, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees and the practice has evolved into Arbor Day, which was first observed with the planting of more than one million trees in Nebraska, and is now observed throughout the nation and world; and
-Whereas, trees are a prized and cherished resource that reduce the erosion of precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, purify the air, produce oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife; and
-Whereas, trees are a renewable resource providing us paper for our many uses, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless other products that improve our quality of life; and
-Whereas, trees in our Village add to property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, beautify our community, and wherever planted, are a source of elation and renewal; and
-Whereas, the Village of Scarsdale has been recognized as a Tree City USA community by the National Arbor Day Foundation for 41 consecutive years, for its conscientious, well-managed forestry program, which the Village is committed to maintaining; and
-Now, Therefore, I, Justin Arest, Mayor of the Village of Scarsdale, do hereby proclaim Friday, April 26, 2024, as Arbor Day in the Village of Scarsdale, and urge all residents to celebrate and support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands; and be it further
Proclaimed, that all residents are urged to plant and care for trees to enhance their quality of life and promote the well-being of ours and future generations.
24 Teachers Granted Tenure
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- Written by Wendy MacMillan
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What better way to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week than by granting tenure to our district’s eligible faculty members? At a special Tenure Meeting held by the Board of Education on Monday May 6th, the BOE recognized the hard work and dedication of twenty-four teachers when they approved the Superintendent’s recommendation to confer tenure for these individuals.
Superintendent Dr. Drew Patrick began the special celebratory meeting by expressing his heartfelt appreciation for all of Scarsdale’s teachers saying that, “It is our teachers that make our schools such special places to learn and grow,” and recognized that they, “work day in and day out to reach our full mission with the whole child in mind.” He went on to celebrate the twenty-four candidates for tenure by acknowledging their hard work during the rigorous tenure process.
Meghan Troy, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, echoed Dr. Patrick’s appreciation of the teacher’s efforts and went on to describe the rigors of the tenure process saying:
“Our appraisal system during the probationary period relies on a wide variety of inputs to inform a decision to recommend tenure, including:
At least four formal classroom observations (school visits for administrators) annually, which include a discussion, reflection, written report, and rating, conducted by supervisors (i.e., department chair) and administrators (i.e., principal, assistant principal).
An observation by an Assistant Superintendent and/or Director, annually.
Numerous informal drop-in observations by supervisors and administrators.
Formal and informal mentoring.
A portfolio of materials documenting professional practice, with written commentary.
A year-end conference, written appraisal, assessment of progress, and rating, annually.
A parent survey, as well as ongoing feedback from members of the community.
An administrative review panel attended by District administrators, building administrators, supervisors, and Board of Education members, annually.
It is our expectation that the rigors of the tenure process are commensurate with the importance of the achievement.”
Troy then enthusiastically recommended the candidates for tenure in their designated areas and invited principals from each school to introduce and honor each of the following candidates:
The joyful event came to a close after the Board of Education unanimously approved the recommendation of the Superintendent and the packed room (filled with supporters, teachers, and their families) erupted into gleeful cheers and a standing ovation.
A Joyous Celebration for Jane Veron and Maroon and White
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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The Scarsdale Bowl, celebrating volunteerism for over 80 years, shone like new at a smart, lively and contemporary celebration at Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club on Thursday night April 11, 2024.
The evening had a fun and celebratory vibe. Guests were greeted by waiters serving two specially curated Scarsdale cocktails, “Manhattans” called “Scarsdale Meets Manhattan,” and a non-alcoholic drink called, “The Raider Rooter.” They sipped drinks, mingled and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while celebrants posed for photos in front of the maroon and white Scarsdale Bowl banner.
The evening’s honoree, former Mayor and volunteer extraordinaire Jane Veron is the perfect exemplar of a Bowl winner. She has done it all and continues to work for the betterment of the community, from service in Village government and the downtown retail environment to small businesses around the country. She has touched the lives of so many in town that she was the natural choice for this year’s nominee.
Selected to receive the Spotlight Award, booster organization Maroon and White was honored for their work to create school spirit and to enhance the experience of student athletes in Scarsdale.
The Scarsdale Bowl Committee, led by Chairman Erika Rublin did an excellent job of programming an evening that was upbeat and entertaining while giving proper due to the honorees. Rublin noted that the event was a celebration of everyone who works to make Scarsdale better, saying, “As much as the Bowl dinner is about honoring a particular volunteer, it is also about celebrating and honoring all the community volunteers who work so hard to make Scarsdale the special place it is. The Bowl dinner is the one time in the year that ALL of Scarsdale comes together.” She recognized local officials, former Bowl winners, members of the Scarsdale Foundation and the Bowl committee all in the room to toast a Scarsdale tradition.
The SHS a cappella group For Good Measure set the tone with a harmonious medley of songs.
Replacing long tributes from family members and friends was a well-produced video with kudos for Veron. Former Bowl winner Evelyn Stock said, “Jane deserves three Bowls instead of one …. We should establish a Scarsdale holiday for the day Jane Veron moved to town.”
Suzanne Seiden, who heads the Scarsdale Foundation reminded the room of the mission of the group behind the Scarsdale Bowl. The Foundation, now in its 101st year, raises funds to help Scarsdale college students in need to meet tuition and living expenses. She underlined the importance of the aid saying, “Some are skeptical about the need in Scarsdale – but its real. Sudden illness, death and divorce can upset the best laid plans.” She explained that last year the Scarsdale Foundation gave $200,000 to 40 worthy students who used the funds to get an education and realize their dreams.
Rublin introduced Michale Sokol, a young man who grew up in Scarsdale and benefited from the support of the foundation, earning a B.A. and two Masters’ Degrees. He now works in health care and has three children of his own. He said, “I am deeply indebted to the support of the Scarsdale Foundation.”
Turning to the Spotlight Award for Maroon and White, Erika Rublin said, “In choosing this amazing organization, the Bowl Committee noted how much Maroon and White has contributed to the spirit and community of Scarsdale. From fundraising to supplement our athletes with projects such as lights at Butler Field or a score board at Supply Field, to team dinners and parades, Maroon and White has added so much to the student athlete experience at Scarsdale High School. And Maroon and White drives Raider Pride! It is on the athletic fields, with our entire community cheering on our Raiders, where we all feel connected to one another and our student athletes feel appreciated and valued.”
Photographer Andi Schreiber captured the special moments and generously donated her services as a raffle prize for the event. See more at Andi Schreiber Photography.
Accepting the award for Maroon and White, Amy Frank and Moira Crouch thanked the Bowl Committee, noting that this was the first award in the organization’s history. She said, “We are the school spirit committee, we encourage Raider Pride and work hard to honor our athlete’s accomplishments.”
Standing with Rublin, Jane Veron came to the podium to accept the silver bowl. Holding the bold aloft, the two were thrilled and so was the audience.
In her remarks, Veron said, “None of us achieve in isolation,” and thanked her husband and family for their love and support.”
She remembered her early years in Scarsdale saying, “We moved here for the schools, the parks, and the pool but later learned the real treasure is the community.”
She recounted her earliest volunteer activities when she organized with other parents to advocated for a new playground at Willow Park. They resuscitated the Fox Meadow Neighborhood Association, planted the garden on the triangle on Church Lane and she was off and running.
Along the way she assembled a lengthy resume of volunteer service: President of the League of Women Voters of Scarsdale, Chair of the Scarsdale Neighborhood Association of Presidents, Secretary of the Scarsdale Foundation; Chair, Scarsdale Bowl Committee; Chair, Scarsdale Planning Board, a Village Trustees for four years and was eventually Mayor of Scarsdale.
In her speech she noted some of the highlights including founding the Scarsdale Business Alliance and “bringing back the holiday spirit with the “Light the Dale” event during the holidays. During her term in Village government she worked to renovate and expand the library, designed a new logo for the Village and put in Wi-fi around the high school.
She did all this while serving as the CEO and co-founder of The Acceleration Project (TAP), a nonprofit organization creating a more equitable and inclusive economy providing advisory services to under-resourced small business owners across the country.
Veron said, “My eldest daughter gave me a map of Scarsdale in 1910. When I look at it I think of all the places where this group has left its mark. I imagine a pinpoint of light for all the spots you made a little better…. when I think of this groups impact, Scarsdale is bathed in light.”
It was beautiful imagery of the light Veron shined, shining back on her.
Scarsdale Bowl Committee Members (in attendance)
Leah Dembitzer
Isabel Finegold
Carl Finger
Tim Foley
Ronny Hersch
Sharon Higgins
Lori Rothman Kaplan
Susan Ross
Ryan Spicer
Scarsdale Bowl Committee Fundraising Team
Randi Culang
Angela Manson
Cynthia Samwick
Stephanie Stern
Xue Su
Scarsdale Foundation
Tom Giordano, Treasurer
Marc Greenwald
Seema Jaggi
Elyse Klayman
Jon Leslie
Jennifer Love, Secretary
Anne Lyons, Vice President
BK Munguia
Tracy Tang
Past Bowl Recipients in Attendance
Evelyn Stock
Carol Stix
Jill Spieler
BK Munguia
Jon Mark
Michelle Lichtenberg
Kathy Steves
Carl Pforzheimer
Terry Singer
Janice Starr
Photos by Andi Schreiber: See more at Andi Schreiber Photography.
