Back in Black for the First Day of School
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- Written by: Wendy MacMillan
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Mother Nature blessed Scarsdale with spectacular weather for the first day of the 2025/2026 school year, providing everyone with a beautiful backdrop for those traditional “first day of school” photos. While some parents could be spotted taking quick pics outside of their children’s elementary schools, over at Scarsdale High School senior students gathered in the “Senior Parking Lot” to capture the special moments with their friends.
In what has become a time-honored tradition, seniors celebrating the first day of their last year of high school arrived early on Tuesday morning in their masterfully decorated cars and greeted each other with hugs and excitement. Donned in black clothing and fun-loving backpacks, friends posed for photos capturing what will certainly become milestone-memories.
The smiles remained and the enthusiasm continued, even as the bell rang and students began to file through the doors. Inside, 11th and 12th grade students shuffled into the auditorium where they received a warm welcome from SHS Principal, Kenneth Bonamo. In his speech, Bonamo not only touched on familiar housekeeping topics like the new community lunch, cell phone policies, and expectations around Artificial Intelligence, he also demonstrated the school’s strong commitment to cultivating a safe, inclusive community of teaching and learning. Towards the end of his welcoming remarks, Bonamo shared:
“What makes this high school amazing is the people we bring together—you, our students whom we want to see learn and grow and flourish, and the faculty and staff here to support you in this enterprise. You can see this belief in the themes of belonging and wellness that I just discussed. Together, we exchange ideas, debate controversial issues, think up new solutions, and complement one another’s strengths and areas for growth. Your teachers encourage you and challenge you to new and deeper levels of understanding. The heart of this school is what happens between students and teachers in classrooms and offices every day. So I would like to challenge you to do your best in your academics, in your extracurriculars, in including others, and in keeping technology as a tool that you use without letting it get in the way of learning, living, and leading.”
And as students across the district say goodbye to summer and embark on a new school year, we here at Scarsdale10583.com, wish all families a wonderful year.
Send your photos of the first of school to [email protected] and we will post them here!
Congressman Dan Goldman Urges Democrats to be Active and Engaged
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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Congressman Da Goldman in ScarsdaleOur democracy is under attack and locals are organizing to defend it. The resolve was evident at a gathering of the Scarsdale Democrats at the Scarsdale Woman’s Club on Thursday August 7, 2025.
The event was held just days after a 2024 Scarsdale High School graduate was seized by ICE and flown to a detention center in Louisiana, bringing the national agenda to our doorstep.
Alissa Baum, Co-Chair of the Scarsdale Democrat Town Committee said, “It was only a matter of time before Scarsdale was affected directly. We all need to wake up to our reality. We do live in dangerous times. It is time that we all work together to get our government back.”
About local efforts she said, “In these perilous times, we need to vote and volunteer to make a difference. Our Scarsdale organization has taken the first steps. We are employing protests and elections to keep our country strong.”
Baum called out State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin who led the effort to have Scarsdale’s Yeonsoo Go released and thanked her for her financial support for the evening’s event.
Paulin said, “We have been consumed with the release of Soo. We had organized a rally which was going to be before this event. We would have had 1,000 people. People reached out from all over the state.”
She warned, “They are coming after all of us. No one is safe. We need to rally together to make sure that this trauma is put to an end. One way is to take a majority in Congress. We are lucky here but we won’t be lucky for everyone.”
Democratic Committee Co-Chairs Alissa Baum and Myra Saul with State Senator Shelley Mayer
After thanking many local Democrats in attendance, Baum introduced Congressman Dan Goldman, who was elected in 2022 as Congressman for Congressional District 10 comprising lower Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn. Before running for office, he served as lead counsel in the first impeachment of former President Donald Trump and as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of New York. As an active leader in the house, he is a sponsor of the “No Secret Police Act” which requires officers to identify themselves with a badge and bars them from wearing face masks.
Goldman expressed gratitude for those who worked so hard to get Yeonsoo back and said he
filed a lawsuit against Homeland Security for denying Congressman the right to inspect immigration detention facilities. He said, “Many who are arrested have not done anything wrong. Congressmen have a statutory right to inspect Department of Homeland facilities. Twelve of us filed a lawsuit last week.”
Discussing the ICE arrests, he said, “Trump has jacked up the quotas. The are waiting for people to come out of court and arresting them Over 50% of those who have been detained are not charged with any crime, are not violent and are pursuing a legal pathway to becoming a citizen.
This is just one issue. There are 20 more.”
Discussing messaging from the Democratic Party, Goldman said, “People say we need to stand up – we need to break through. The challenge is there are so many things –we need to figure out what resonates…..Republicans are demoing things … Democrats are trying to build things”
He continued, “One of the big lessons from 2024 is that we were fighting against Project 2025.
But ultimately people were worried about rent, healthcare and the electric bill. 60% of America lives month to month…..How do we connect these threats to democracy to peoples’ everyday lives.? How do we take esoteric concerns and bring 
Tom Roach and Amy Paulinthem to peoples everyday lives? We have to present a path forward.”
He explained, “Trump has tapped into the feeling of victimization and to those who don’t feel that democracy works for them…. our economy is not accessible to them….wealth inequalities are exacerbated….They don’t see a path to the American Dream.”
He said, “As Democrats we need to make sure that everyone is getting access. It is not a zero-sum game, rising tides lift all boats – we must work together to improve the lives of our neighbors. That’s what we need to foster. We care about our neighbors. The cruelty and vitriol that is coming out the White House is not who we are.”
“I want to get back to the goodness of Democratic values. To help our neighbors to help ourselves.To help them get access to the new American Dream.”
To those who ask what they can do, Goldman responded, “Just showing up matters. I am telling you as a member of Congress, we hear you. When there’s a rally opposing cuts to Medicare, we hear you. Continue to be active. Continue to engage. Let’s get back to what makes this country unique. Don’t’ fall into the trap of debating Donald Trump in the mud. Present an alternative pathway where everyone can benefit from the incredible opportunities that we have here.”
He then pledged, “We are not only going to just take the House back, we are going to take the country back.”
Baum recognized many elected officials, candidates and former Scarsdale officials in attendance at the meeting including:
State Assemblymember Amy Paulin
Ben Boykin, Jenn Puja and Jonathan Lewis
State Senator Shelley Mayer
Former White Plains Mayor Tom Roach candidate for County Clerk
County Legislator Ben Boykin will be completing his term this year.
Judah Holstein candidate for Westchester County Legislature
Terry Clements from the Westchester County Board of Legislators
Jen Puja candidate for Westchester County Board of Legislators
Justin Brasch candidate for Mayor of White Plains
Jeremiah Frei-Pearson from the White Plains Common Council
Baum called out Family Court judicial candidate Emily Rubin, and Judges Diane Clerkin, John Collins, Desmond Lyons, and Verris Shako who are favored to be nominated at Monday’s Democratic judicial convention to be our State Supreme Court nominees on November’s ballot. Also in attendance were judicial aspirants Sara Beaty, Natasha Ginzburg, Judge Jane Lippman, Francesca Mountain, Troy Smith, and Josephine Trovini.
She thanked the fundraise committee: Tim Foley, Michelle Lichtenberg, BK Munguia, Jon Mark, and Susan Kessler Ross as well as Dean Moretta from Vintology for providing the wine.
Baum recognized former Scarsdale Mayors Jon Mark and Carolyn Stevens, and former Village Trustees Kay Eisenman, Jonathan Lewis and Seth Ross and County Democratic leaders Suzanne Berger, Tim James, Dale Barbaria and Nicole Benjamin from the Womans Political Caucus.
John P. Collins Jr., Diane Clerkin, Verris B. Shako, Desmond CB Lyons and Emily Rubin
Unique Finds and Great Deals at the Summer Sidewalk Sale
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- Written by: Claudia Wang
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Sunshine, shopping, and community spirit, Scarsdale Village was blasting summer vibes during the annual Summer Sidewalk Sale, held Thursday through Saturday, July 24-26th this year.
Hosted by the Scarsdale Business Alliance (SBA), this yearly event turned the heart of the Village into a vibrant open-air marketplace, drawing shoppers, families, and friends out to enjoy everything our wonderful town has to offer.
For three days, Scarsdale's Village Center was buzzing with energy as local businesses and merchants showcased their best deals and set up engaging outdoor displays. From boutique and vintage fashion to hand-picked accessories to artisanal treats and curated home goods, the Village was filled with unique finds. It truly was a shop-local dream come true.
Whether you came for the sales or to soak in the sunshine with friends and family, the Sidewalk Sale offered something for everyone. With Village eateries serving quick bites and refreshing drinks, there was no need to step away from the fun.
Saturday, July 26th, was all about family fun, with the streets transformed into a cheerful summer fair. Kids lined up eagerly for face painting, enjoyed the musical activities, and embraced the summer spirit. It was a day full of laughter and smiles.
The Summer Sidewalk Sale is a staple of the Scarsdale calendar, and this year proved once again why it’s such a popular event. The Sidewalk Sale is a celebration of Scarsdale itself! And with each passing year, it only gets better.
Pamela Montgomery Wins 2025 Silver Bowl
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Pamela Borgeson Montgomery was presented with the 2025 Silver Bowl in Edgemont for her seventeen years of service to the community. The Edgemont Community Council Silver Bowl Award for distinguished community service has been awarded almost every year since 1950. Serving on this year’s Silver Bowl Award Committee were Peter Blier, Jon Lewis, Helene Orce, and Paul Wooten, with Monica Sganga serving as Chair.
An Edgemont graduate herself (EHS ’77), Pamela has been a tireless volunteer in the schools and neighborhood for nearly two decades. She served three years on the Board of Education, contributing to key committees and serving as liaison to the Edgemont Community Council, BOCES, and E Club. Her PTA and PTSA involvement spans nearly every role — PTSA Co-President, PTA Treasurer, Grade Parent, and Committee Co-Chair for numerous committees, including the PTSA STEM, Audit, and EHS Faculty Appreciation Luncheon Committees. She also helped organize beloved events such as the Seely Place Used Book Fair, Colonial Fair, and CKCC.
Beyond the schools, Pamela served the ECC as Secretary for two years and First Vice President for three years. She has also served on the ECC Nominating Committee, the School Board Nominating Committee, and the Silver Bowl Committee. Pamela chaired the 2024 ECC Bylaw Review Committee and played an active role in the ECC relaunch of the Edgemont Newcomers Club. She has contributed as an editor of the ECC Annual Newsletter for several years and is known for her sharp eye — always catching a correction in the ECC’s monthly meeting minutes. In addition, she supported the Girl Scouts as Cookie Chair for five years and has served as Democratic District Leader for District #35.
Professionally, Pamela is a retired partner of Shearman & Sterling LLP. She holds degrees from Columbia Law School, NYU Stern School of Business, and Princeton University. She and her husband Malcolm have raised their family in Edgemont, daughters Sasha (11 years in Edgemont schools) and Kyra (13 years in Edgemont schools, graduating from EHS in June 2024), and she continues to give back to the community that helped shape her.
Pamela is the sixth Edgemont alum to be honored with the Silver Bowl Award, joining John Moyle (Edgemont School ’54) honored in 1993, her Edgemont classmate Sarah Stern (EHS ’77) honored in 2008, David Chao (EHS ’80) honored in 2014, David M.C. Stern (EHS ’82) honored in 2019, and Walter Groden (EHS ’68) honored in 2020.
Spectacular Fireworks in Scarsdale
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On the evening of July 2nd, Scarsdale came together for a vibrant and exciting celebration of all things red, white, and blue. The Scarsdale Pool Complex was the backdrop for the Village's famous Annual Fireworks Spectacular, a night of music, fireworks, and community spirit that truly embodied the heart of American summer.
The event kicked off at 7:30 PM with the Westchester Band, led by the passionate Alan Hollander, who celebrated his 24th year conducting this incredible ensemble, which he started playing for when he was twelve years old, stating that music was always “his passion and his love.” The band played many American classics, including America the Beautiful, Stars and Stripes Forever, and New York, New York. The audience was in high spirits as families, friends, and neighbors gathered to enjoy a night full of music, joy, and memories. Before the concert began, the band played a special birthday song for Alan, welcoming his special day.
As the sun set, the fireworks display was breathtaking. Bursts of color filled the sky, sending waves of excitement throughout the crowd. The younger children were particularly amazed, “oooh”ing and “aaah”ing at every spark. It was a moment that truly captured the awe and wonder of such a spectacular summer night.
The atmosphere was bursting with joy. Everyone from toddlers clutching glow sticks to families lounging on the grass in their creative outfits embraced the spirit of the holiday. The pool area was alive with laughter and chatter as children splashed in the water, while lifeguards remained ever-vigilant, ensuring safety amidst the excitement.
Behind the scenes, the hardworking Scarsdale Pool staff and volunteers ensured everything ran smoothly, and the Westchester Band’s talented musicians, ranging in age from teens to senior players, played passionately all night long. Their commitment to celebrating the community and the country, while making Alan’s birthday extra special, added a personal touch to the memorable evening.
Whether it was the heartfelt tunes of the Westchester Band or the dazzling fireworks in the sky, Scarsdale’s Annual Fireworks Spectacular was a celebration to remember.
Commenting on the event, Parks and Recreation Supervisor Brian Gray said, “We had a very successful fireworks spectacular at the pool. As always, the Westchester Band provided music prior to, and during the fireworks.
This is one of our annual events that the Department of PRC puts on that showcases the collaboration of Village Department’s. A special “thank you” goes out to the following departments who contribute to making our events successful and safe for attendees:
Department of Public Works
Scarsdale Fire Department
Scarsdale Police Department and supporting units from Westchester County P.D.
Manager’s Office
SCARVAC
Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation
Westchester County PRC
I would like to give a special acknowledgment to Recreation Supervisor/Pool Manager, Kevin Blanden, and the ENTIRE POOL STAFF who worked throughout the heat and humidity all day providing a safe atmosphere in and around the pool complex.
Though we don’t know the total number of individuals who attended, due to the size of the crowd and the cars in the parking lots we estimate that we had between 3,500-4,500 people viewing from inside the pool complex, Boulder Brook and Crossway Fields.”
