Hail to the Chiefs
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 522
Chief DelBene is sworn in by Chief Matturro, while DelBene's family looks on.Scarsdale’s finest, along with members of the fire department, school board, the village board, former Mayors, government officials, retired officers and captains and officers from across the county, convened at Scarsdale Library on Thursday January 30th, 2025 for the transfer of power from Police Chief Andrew A. Matturro to Chief Steven DelBene. The parking lot overflowed and the Scott Room was standing room only as the community convened to honor the departing chief and to congratulate Chief DelBene on his promotion to lead the department. Matturro has served in Scarsdale for the past 25 years, the last ten years as Chief of Police. He assumed the top job in a similar ceremony in 2015 when Chief Brogan retired.
The ceremony was officiated by Lieutenant Eric LoGiudice who gave a lengthy opening, individually acknowledging many in the room.
After an invocation by Reverend Kelly Rogers, Chief Matturro gave his farewell remarks, again thanking many in the room along with the mentors who helped him along the way. He noted that he started his career in 1984, which is the same year that Steve DelBene was born, and as January 30 was the day, he wished DelBene a happy birthday. Matturro said that he had worked for four village managers and five mayors and only taken one sick day in 40 years. As both he and DelBene played football in high school, he left with a quote from Vince Lombardi who said, “I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle - victorious.”Chiefs DelBene and Matturro
Scarsdale Mayor Justin Arest said it was a “bittersweet moment in the history of the Police Department today, as we formally bid farewell to Chief Andrew Matturro as he completes an extraordinary career of service, and we welcome Lieutenant Stephen DelBene as he steps into his new role as Chief of Police.”
He said that he and Matturro had “developed a relationship built on candor, mutual respect and a shared commitment to this community.” He praised Matturro for prioritizing “the safety and well-being of the people of Scarsdale and the selfless men and women who protect it.” He continued, “Your leadership has been defined by professionalism, compassion and an unwavering dedication to ensuring that our Police Department is one of the finest, not only in the region but the country. Under your leadership, both the village board and I have always felt absolute confidence that our community was safe, well protected and in the best hands. Beyond that, I have learned a great deal from you, your deep institutional knowledge, your steady handed moments of challenge, your warmth and compassion and yes, your occasional dry humor, have all been part of what has made working with you such an honor and a privilege. You are one of a kind, and you will certainly be missed on behalf of this village, the many village boards and mayors you have faithfully served under as police chief, and of course, on a personal note, I extend my deepest gratitude thank you for your unwavering service, your steadfast guidance and your valued friendship.”The Scarsdale Color GuardTo DelBene he said, “This is a day of well-earned recognition for you and also your family. your support system, your years of service, leadership and forward-thinking approach to law enforcement have brought you to this moment. From Police Officer to Sergeant to Lieutenant, you have taken on each new challenge with skill, professionalism and a deep commitment to both your fellow officers and the community you serve. Your steady leadership, the deep respect you command within the department, your open-minded approach and steadfast professionalism are just a few of the many reasons the village board was proud to entrust you with the role of Police Chief.”
He concluded, “As we mark this important transition, I want to acknowledge the mix of emotions that comes with the change in leadership. We bid farewell to a chief who has set an exceptional standard, and we embrace a new chief who is more than prepared to the rise to rise to the challenges ahead. Chief Matturro, we are deeply grateful for your service and legacy and Chief DelBene, yes, it's time to get used to that title. Congratulations. We look forward to this chapter and the journey ahead with you at the helm.”
(Photo credit for photo gallery: Marc Jessamy)
Village Manager Alex Marshall came next. She said, “I’m not just saying this because he brings fresh cookies to Village Hall. Chief Matturro has put an amazing 36 years into the Scarsdale Police Department, and Scarsdale is a better place because of him, although he will be deeply missed.”Mayor Justin Arest and Village Manager Alex Marshall
About Chief DelBene she said, “The first time I met Steven DelBene was at a ceremony recognizing his promotion to Lieutenant. I could tell from his excitement and the way he spoke about the department that this is someone who is passionate about policing and cares deeply about the Scarsdale community…. Over these past two years, I've had the pleasure of working with him on everything from traffic safety issues to emergency communications to community event planning. He's handled large scale projects, rolling out critical technology improvements for our Police Department, and continues to explore new tools to make the department even better. He doesn't shy away from any problem, even small ones, like fixing a parking meter, which is actually very hard to do if you've seen one of our old meters.”
Following the march of the Color Guard and his oath of office, DelBene took the mic. After thanking the Village for entrusting him with the job, he turned to his family. Choking back tears he thanked his wife for giving up her career in order to accommodate his. He said, “My success is your success.” Turning to his two young children he said, “Being a dad is the greatest job I will ever hold. You two are my heart.” He thanked Chief Matturro for taking a chance on a 21 year-old kid when he hired him.Former Scarsdale Mayors Marc Samwick and Jonathan MarkHe called the Police Officers “the backbone of our Village,” and noted that though none of them live here or have any personal connection to Scarsdale they are committed to making it safer every day. He thanked them for their service, pride and dedication. He said, “Scarsdale’s extraordinary values are what makes it so special, and said, “I am honored and excited to serve as your Chief.”
School Superintendent Andrew Patrick, School Board President Suzie Hahn and School Board Member Ron Schulhof
A Narrow Defeat for the Raiders
- Details
- Written by Dave Taber
- Hits: 658
Senior guard Logan Mancusi (11) drives the baseline.The Scarsdale boys basketball team battled Mamaroneck at home on Wednesday Jan.15. It was the first of 2 regular season showdowns between two of the top teams in Section 1. Mamaroneck made a run in the second quarter to take the lead but Scarsdale fought back in the second half and had a chance to win at the end but Jake Sussberg’s contested 35-footer at the buzzer came up about 1 foot short. Final score: Tigers 58 Raiders 56.
Senior forward Lev Stahl (24) rolls one in off his finger tips.
Scarsdale will get another chance against the Tigers when they play at Mamaroneck on Friday, Jan. 31.
SOTG 011425 HSBoysBasketball Mamaroneck v Scarsdale 0Senior forward Finn Miller (2) takes a contest shot from in the lane.
Photos by Dave Taber of Shots of the Game
To see more game photos and/or download photos, please visit https://www.shotsofthegame.com/
Sophomore guard Ethan Grossberg (0) dribbles through traffic.
Lev Stahl (24) sets up for a 3-pointer.
Senior Guard Brandon Gibbons (5) drives to hoop with a fingerroll.
Junior center Andrew Roseman (30) and Lev Stahl (24) defend a dive to the hoop.
The Scarsdale bench and the student section celebrate a made 3-pointer.
Senior guard Jake Sussberg (1) is fired up after making a bucket.
Ethan Grossberg (0) battles for a loose ball.
Jake Sussberg (1) drives to the hoop.
Jake Sussberg (1) fires a long range shot at the end of the game.
Holiday Cheer in Scarsdale
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1070
Scarsdale got into the holiday spirit with shopping and feasting around town. Her are photos of a few holiday boutiques and the Scarsdale Seniors luncheon in Scarsdale:
Scarsdale Small Business residents and SHS Alumni celebrate the holiday season with a boutique at Micheline, hosted by restaurant owner Jonathan Aubrey and Ashley Badger of Julia B Fee Sotheby’s on Monday December 9, 2024.
Pictured above are Lauren Zinzi, Meredith Wing, MooMooi, Rachel Schmerin, Whigstock Studio, Jonathan Aubrey, Micheline, Lauren Goldman, byGoldGirl, Cinthia Boni Cordioli, Campo Collection, Ashley Badger, Julia B Fee Sothebys, Haley Jordan, Monarch Market, Nicole Vallario, Falena, Isabelle Alix, OffTrack, Lindsay Roth: Photo by Mark Jessamy
On Thursday December 19, Scarsdale Seniors gathered at the Girl Scout House for a international pot luck lunch. There was sumptious contributions of many holiday specialties. State Assemblymember Amy Paulin was on hand along with an interpreter.
The Women of Reform Judaism drew a crowd for their holiday boutique on Tuesday December 10 at Westchester Reform Temple. Holiday vendors brought stationary, sweaters, jewelry, hats, gloves, housewares, Judaica, baby clothes, cheeseboards, mah jongg and canasta accessories and lots more.
A wonderful prelude to Hanukkah and Christmas.
Scarsdale Scores a Solid Victory Over Spring Valley
- Details
- Written by Dave Taber
- Hits: 588
Senior Guard Brand Gibbons (5) takes the ball upcourt.The Scarsdale boys basketball team took on a strong Spring Valley team on Wednesday Jan. 7 at Scarsdale High. The game was very tight for most of the first half but the Raiders made a big run in the third quarter and held on for a solid 61-52 win. Senior guard Jake Sussberg led the Raiders with 35 points.
Senior forward Finn Miller (2) throws a crosscourt pass.
The Raiders improved their record to 8-1 overall. Their next game is a road game against Clarkstown South on Thursday January 9, 2025.
Jake Sussberg (1) celebrates after hitting a jumper.
Photos by Dave Taber of Shots of the Game
To see more game photos and/or download photos, please visit https://www.shotsofthegame.com/
Brand Gibbons (5) sets up for a midrange shot.
Jake Sussberg (1) drives the baseline.
Jake Sussberg (1) goes for the reverse layup.
Junior center Andrew Roseman (30) fights for a loose ball.
Finn Miller (2) takes an outside shot.
Andrew Roseman (30) and senior forward Lev Stahl (24) get ready to fight for a rebound.
Lev Stahl (24) hits an open man in the corner.
Ethan Grossberg smothers the ball resulting a shot clock violation.
Ethan Grossberg smothers the ball resulting a shot clock violation.
The student section celebrates a big third quarter run.
Who Was Catherine Romer, Formerly Catherine Heller of Scarsdale?
- Details
- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 3044
The former Heathcote Inn on Popham Road. Catherine's former husband, Frank Heller, developed 50 Popham Road and 2 Overhill Road. Photo by Harold Haliday Costain in the Scarsdale Public Library collection.
(Updated December 4, 2024) By now you have all read about the discovery of a 1978 Lincoln Continental submerged in a Georgia Pond that is believed to contain the remains of Charles and Catherine Romer, formerly of Scarsdale. The story goes that the two retirees were driving from Florida to Scarsdale in April 1980 when they mysteriously disappeared after checking into the Brunswick Holiday Inn in Glynn County, Georgia. Catherine was said to be wearing $81,000 in jewelry at the time of her disappearance so foul play was suspected. Still missing in 1985 the couple was declared dead, The case remained unsolved for 44 years and continued to haunt the family. Now investigators surmise that they accidentally drove into a retention pond near the hotel.Frank and Catherine Heller lived at 27Kensington Road.There is lots more online about the couple, but little about their life in Scarsdale. Who were Catherine Heller and Charles Romer?
It turns out that the two widowers had married a few years earlier after the deaths of their respective spouses. Catherine Blanchard Heller was formerly married to Frank Heller and they lived in Fox Meadow at 27 Kensington Road. Frank, a successful businessman played a pivotal role in the development of Scarsdale.A postcard from the Heathcote Inn
A review of historic articles from the Scarsdale Inquirer shows that Frank Heller developed both the apartment building at 50 Popham Road and the office building at 2 Overhill Road. At the time of their death, the Romer’s lived at 50 Popham Road and Catherine was said to be the owner of the building.
Heller initially purchased the Heathcote Inn – pictured here, that stood where 50 Popham Road is now located. He got permission to build an apartment building there along with the office building at 2 Overhill Road in October 1952. At the time, he sold the Village a strip of property in order to accommodate the widening of Popham Road.
Here is what the articles say:
August 1952:
“The Village Board has received from Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Heller of Kensington Rd., owners of the old Heathcote Inn property, a price of $15,000 on the 10-foot strip which the village seeks to acquire for the widening of Popham Rd. at the side of the Heller property.”
And in October 1952:
With the ironing out of the last problems, a building permit was issued this week to Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Heller of Kensington Rd. for the erection of the apartment and office building on Popham and Overhill Rds. Trustee Arthur S. Meyer, together with Village Attorney Richard Tilden and Village Manager Reeves Newsom, met with Mr. Heller and Rene Leveille last Friday night for final negotiation on the price of the 10-foot strip which the village wished to purchase for the widening of Popham Rd. Original asking price was $15,000 and at a special Village Board meeting on Saturday morning the price agreed to was set at ($B5OO) ?. Also agreed upon was the straightening of the line on Overhill Rd. in front of the office building. The owners will pave the widened road, give an easement for sidewalks and install them at their own expense. The village will pay for the widening of Popham Rd., which is expected to be done some time next year.”
We also found this photo of the groundbreaking for the new apartment building, which includes Frank Heller Jr., representing his father.
Caption: At ground-breaking ceremonies for the new Heathcote Inn apartments and office building last week are from left to right: Leo Zamory, project engineer; Joseph Sibley, Jr„ architect; Mrs. Rene T Leveille S J Some Title Co. official; Peter W. Quinn, attorney for the owners, Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Heller Jr;. Mr. Leveille builder Mr. and Mrs. Frank Heller, Jr., and Lawrence Labriola in the bulldozer.
The article explains, "Mr. Quinn, who was the principal speaker, outlined the history of the old Heathcote Inn which was built after the close of the Civil War, and the plans for the new buildings which will rise in its place."
Tragedy Strikes
However, this is not the end of the story. During the construction of the office building at 2 Overhill Road in July 1953, a tragic accident occurred. Three workmen were killed and ten were hospitalized when the building collapsed. According to a report in the Scarsdale Inquirer, workers were pouring concrete on the fourth floor of the building when the timber props holding up the fourth floor collapsed. The concrete fall from the fourth floor brought down sections of the third, second and first floors and buried workers in the rubble. The article calls it, "the worst catastrophe in Scarsdale history."
Last, Heller’s obituary from May 10, 1965 notes his extensive involvement in the Village but does not detail the collapse of 2 Overhill Road. It says:
"Frank J. Heller of 50 Popham) Road died May 10, 1965 at Lawrence Hospital. Bronxville, at the age, of 72. He had been a Scarsdale* resident for 35 years. A former president of Raymond and Heller, importers in New) York, he was the owner of 2 Overhill Road, Scarsdale and had served as board chairman of several real estate firms. Mr. Heller was a member of the Knights of Malta and the [Knights of the Grand Cross of the Holy Sepulchre, lie was a trustee of lona College, St. Vincent's Hospital and Marymount Junior College in Boca Raton. Fla., and a member of the Scarsdale Golf Club. A requiem mass was said this morning. Thursday, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, where he was a parishioner. Surviving are his wife, the former Catherine Blanchfield, a son, Frank B. of Bedford, brother, two sisters and eight grandchildren."