Spread the Light: Westchester Reform Temple’s Fifth Annual Menorah Project
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In a season when light is most needed, Westchester Reform Temple (WRT) proudly launches its fifth annual Menorah Project, a heartfelt initiative that brings the radiance and hope of Hanukkah to businesses throughout Scarsdale. Volunteers from across the WRT community deliver menorahs to local storefronts, extending a message of welcome, resilience, and shared community spirit.
Inspired by the Jewish teaching that “a little light drives away much darkness,” the Menorah Project embodies the values that every act of kindness, every gesture of solidarity, adds light to the world. Over five years, this project has grown into a beloved tradition—one that reflects Scarsdale’s warmth, diversity, and commitment to standing together.
“Each menorah we place in a shop window is more than a decoration,” said Rabbi Jonathan Blake of Westchester Reform Temple. “It is a beacon of hope, a reminder that when we bring our lights together, we illuminate not only our village, but one another’s hearts. This project reflects the very best of who we strive to be as a community.”
Led by longtime WRT member Gayle Lob, the Menorah Project engages volunteers of all ages who deliver menorahs throughout the village—sharing joy, strengthening relationships, and bringing Hanukkah’s light to every corner of the Dale.
Local businesses that would like to receive a menorah or participate in this year’s initiative are warmly invited to contact Gayle Lob at [email protected]
Hoff-Barthelson Music School Announces Auditions for Prestigious Youth Orchestras—Spring 2026
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Hoff-Barthelson Music School is pleased to announce that auditions are now open for the School’s renowned Youth Orchestras for the Spring 2026 semester. The program invites dedicated young musicians in grades 6–12 to audition for a place in either the Chamber Orchestra or the Festival Orchestra—two ensembles renowned for their exceptional training, challenging repertoire, and vibrant, supportive musical community.
The Chamber Orchestra, designed for students in grades 6–10, offers an outstanding foundation in ensemble playing, musicianship, and technical development. Students rehearse and perform in an encouraging environment that builds confidence while strengthening skills essential for advanced orchestral participation.
The Festival Orchestra represents the highest tier of Hoff-Barthelson’s orchestral program. Comprised of advanced high school musicians, this ensemble showcases exceptional technical ability, artistic maturity, and a strong commitment to musical excellence. Placement in the Festival Orchestra is a significant achievement that reflects a student’s dedication and skill.
“Each year, our orchestras bring together remarkable young musicians who are eager to challenge themselves and grow,” said Leandro Gazineo, Director of Orchestra Programs. “We are committed to creating an environment where students can deepen their artistry, explore great repertoire, and develop the discipline and teamwork that define truly successful ensemble playing. I look forward to hearing this year’s auditions and welcoming new talent into our orchestral community.”
How to Audition
Students interested in auditioning should complete the online audition form found on the School’s website – www.hbms.org – and submit a video audition by December 15, 2025, to [email protected].
Video auditions must include:
1. Two pieces that best demonstrate the student’s technical and musical abilities.
2. Technical skills requirement:
-Violin: One 3-octave scale
-Viola, Bass: One 2-octave scale
-Winds, Brass: One 1-octave scale
-Percussion: Rolls demonstrating crescendo and diminuendo
Open Positions for Spring 2026
Hoff-Barthelson seeks motivated young musicians to fill the following positions: Violin (4), Viola (4), Double Bass (4), Oboe (2), Bassoon (2), French Horn (2), Trumpet (4), Trombone (3), Tuba (2), Percussion (3).
For additional information, email [email protected].
About Hoff-Barthelson Music School
Founded in 1944, Hoff-Barthelson Music School is one of the nation’s premier community music schools and a leader in music education for students of all ages, levels, and backgrounds. Located in Scarsdale, NY, the School is renowned for its exceptional faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and nurturing environment that fosters both artistic and personal growth. Guided by its mission to inspire excellence and welcome all, Hoff-Barthelson offers individualized instruction, ensemble experiences, and performance opportunities that cultivate a lifelong love and understanding of music.
Photo: HBMS Director of Orchestra Programs conducts the School’s Festival Orchestra. Photo by Mickey Riad.
See It First: New Documentary Explores the Remarkable Evolution of the Scarsdale Public Schools
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The Scarsdale Historical Society will premiere its newest documentary, From the First Schoolhouse: A Scarsdale Story, in partnership with the Scarsdale Public Library on Wednesday, December 3rd at 7 PM at the Scarsdale High School auditorium. The film traces how the Scarsdale public school district grew from a one-room schoolhouse to a national model of learning and innovation.
The film transports audiences to a version of the district that is almost unrecognizable - with oil lamps, privies, and bare-bones budgets. As the small farming community grows into a modern suburban village, residents prioritize educating children and building new schools. The schools did not progress by chance, but through civic vision, community commitment, and a lasting respect for public education—principles that remain woven into Scarsdale’s character.
Produced by the Scarsdale Historical Society with documentary filmmaker Lesley Topping, this film features local historians Jordan Copeland, Leslie Chang, and Daniel Glauber, journalist Lori Rothman, former District educators Ruth Friendly and Tony Arenella, and SHS alumnus William Klayer, who share their insights and experiences.
The event will feature an introduction by Drew Patrick, Superintendent of Scarsdale Public Schools. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers, local historians, and longtime educators who witnessed the district’s transformation firsthand.
“Not every school district warrants its own documentary, but the Scarsdale School District is anything but ordinary,” said Randy Guggenheimer, President of the Scarsdale Historical Society. “The district’s meteoric rise tells a story of vision, determination, and community commitment.”
“We are pleased to co-sponsor this screening, especially in the high school auditorium” stated Elizabeth Bermel, Director of Scarsdale Public Library. “It’s especially moving to show the documentary in the very school that earlier generations worked so hard to build.”
Event Details
Film Premiere: From the First Schoolhouse
Date: December 3, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Scarsdale High School Auditorium
Admission: Free and open to the public
RSVP here:
The premiere marks the first public screening of the film, which will later be made available for schools, civic groups, and streaming through the Historical Society’s digital archive.
About the Scarsdale Historical Society
The Scarsdale Historical Society exists to discover, preserve and disseminate historical information, as well as inspire others to learn about and contribute to the history of Scarsdale and the Central Mid-Westchester Region. The Scarsdale Historical Society accepts grant applications for projects that meet its mission, particularly those that will inspire others to learn about the history of Scarsdale and the surrounding communities. Learn more at www.scarsdalehistoricalsociety.org.
Students Learn Healthy Habits at Red Ribbon Halloweekend Prevention Table
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The STAY Club (Students Taking Action for Youth) hosted a Red Ribbon Halloweekend Prevention Table during lunchtime at Scarsdale High School on Halloween. Many students stopped by to grab candy, learn about Red Ribbon Week, and participate in a “Healthy Habits” activity.
They gave out candy, wristbands, and red ribbons with prevention messages to raise awareness about the dangers of binge drinking and risky behaviors during Halloweekend.
About 80 students participated in an interactive activity where they shared one thing they would do to take care of themselves, promoting self-care and healthy decision-making.
Top responses included:
-Spending time with friends or family (32)
-Getting outside (20)
-Resting (13)
-Working out (10)
-Watching movies (5).
The table was led by Jasleen Virk, Zoe Kofman, Nell Rompala, and Jacob Barr, who did a fantastic job engaging students. It was a fun and meaningful way to initiate conversations about wellness and substance-free choices before Halloweekend.
Scarsdale Mourns Shea Cassidy-Teti
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Scarsdale community members are mourning the loss of former Fox Meadow student Shea Cassidy-Teti who passed away at the age of 17 in a tragic car accident on October 11, 2025.
The Cassidy-Teti family, including parents Aidan Cassidy and Charles Teti lived in Fox Meadow where their twin boys Shea and Nash attended Alcott Montessori School and Fox Meadow Elementary School. Aidan was the President of the Fox Meadow PTA and the family was a prominent part of the community before moving to Connecticut.
Shea Cassidy-Teti, beloved by his friends and neighbors, was a focused and driven athlete who participated in several sports teams. When not playing music or doing art, in his downtime, Shea loved to play video games and still regularly played with his Fox Meadow friends.
News of his passing reverberated through the community last week with many asking how they can help. (See below)
Both Aidan and Charles are home and physically getting stronger every day. The family is healing together and wants to have a celebration of life and focus on all the wonderful things Shea brought to the world.
Twin brother Nash is trying to move forward and has the love and support of not only his family but the entire Kent School community. He has already returned to school and to rowing where he has a supportive community.
Here is the obituary:
Shea Cassidy-Teti
Salisbury, CT: Shea Cassidy-Teti, passed away on October 11th, 2025 in a tragic automobile accident.
He is the beloved son and brother of parents Aidan Cassidy and Charles Teti and his twin Nash Cassidy-Teti.
Shea was born on June 29th, 2008 in Farmington, CT.
He attended the Fox Meadow Elementary School in Scarsdale, NY, Weston Middle School in Weston, CT and Indian Mountain School in Lakeville, CT. He was currently continuing his studies as a senior at The Kent School in Kent, CT.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at St. Joseph's Chapel, The Kent School, 1 Macedonia Road, Kent, CT on Sunday, November 9th at 11:00AM.
All other services are private.
