You Can Recycle More Than Just Food
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- Written by: Conservation Advisory Council
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Recycling Tip of the Week: More than just food goes in the food scraps recycling bin!
Wooden and bamboo chopsticks, wooden toothpicks, and wooden popsicle sticks can be placed in food scrap recycling. Wax and parchment paper also can be placed in food scrap recycling. Anything that comes from nature can be placed in food scrap recycling including seafood shells, meat and poultry bones, eggshells, nut shells, coffee grounds, tea bags (no staples), leaves from household plants and flowers. Even not so natural items like candy and processed foods can be put in the food scraps bin. If you can eat it, it can be composted! In addition, paper towels, paper napkins and tissues that are not contaminated with cleaning products or other chemicals can also be recycled in food scraps. Participation in Scarsdale's Food Scrap Program diverts millions of pounds of unwanted organic matter from landfill and turns it into compost. To join Scarsdale's Food Scrap Program email [email protected].
Recycling Tip of the Week: Don't Bag Your Commingled Recycling
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Recycling Tip of the Week: Commingled Recycling should be LOOSE in a Bin and NOT in a Bag
All recyclables should be placed loose in a container and not bagged. Plastic bags get tangled in recycling machinery and damage it. If you want to recycle your plastic bags, please bring them to the Scarsdale Recycling Center (110 Secor Road) and place them in our designated plastic bag collection bins.
They will be recycled into outdoor decking and furniture!
Recycling Tip of the Week: Your Recycling is Getting Recycled!
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Sold bales of plastic waiting for pickup. Most items we use every day can be recycled, and the Village of Scarsdale has a comprehensive recycling program that provides a way for its residents to do just that. In addition to paper/cardboard and commingled recycling, under Scarsdale's program residents can recycle food scraps, batteries, books, plastic bags, soft plastic, paint, textiles, scrap metal, tennis balls, cooking oil, cork, eye glasses, textiles, electronics, small household items and furniture.
Residents should also know that what we put out for recycling collection does get recycled! In fact, Westchester County makes millions of dollars each year by selling the recyclables it receives from its municipalities.
Photo Credit: Nick Fewings
Spread the Light: Westchester Reform Temple’s Fifth Annual Menorah Project
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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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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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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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.
