Scarsdale Bowl Winner Andrew Sereysky Champions Community
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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Thirty-year Scarsdale resident Andrew Sereysky has been tapped as the 2025 recipient of the Scarsdale Bowl. He will be honored at a celebration of volunteerism at the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club on Thursday April 23, 2025 at 6:30 pm and you’re invited. Click here to purchase your tickets:
Here’s what Andrew has to say about how he became one of Scarsdale’s most active volunteers:
How did you get the volunteer spirit? From family or other mentors?
We moved from the Upper West Side of Manhattan in June 1994. Like many other Scarsdale residents, commuting on the Metro North quickly became part my daily routine. We commuted from the Hartsdale train station. One morning after only a couple of months in Scarsdale I began talking to a fellow commuter, Bob Steves and the topic of volunteerism came up. At that time Bob was the president of the Greenacres Neighborhood Association. To quote a famous movie line, “he had me at hello.” I’ve never looked back since that chance meeting and the beginning of my volunteerism.
What were some of your earliest volunteer experiences in Scarsdale?
With a son in fifth grade and daughter in first grade, both athletically inclined our lives were quickly consumed by rec sports for the fall winter and spring seasons. Soon I was coaching! This was a terrific opportunity to meet fellow Greenacres residents and as the children got older to meet other neighborhood parents. A terrific chance to make life-long friends in the community.
Tell us about your tenure as President of the Greenacres Neighborhood Association. What were some of the traditions that you began?
When I was first elected President of the GNA back in 2007 I was very fortunate to inherit a vibrant and successful organization. We had and continue to have a terrific and fun board of around 20 people with everyone looking forward to our board meetings as social gatherings. Since the early days and throughout my second extended term (2013-2023) we developed and implement a number of new and exciting programs for Greenacres residents including the addition of the firetruck spray during our July 4th celebration, a fall pancake breakfast, a spring town hall meeting with the key Scarsdale leaders on a panel discussing upcoming events and answering our neighbors’ questions and complaints and of course our outdoor movie night. I’m thrilled to report that all these innovative programs continue today.
What were some of the toughest times for the association and some of the best times?
The toughest time was during to GA elementary debate as to whether the school was to be renovated of rebuilt. Both factions were coming at the GNA for our support and as an organization we pledged not to take a side but merely act as a conduit of information for our residents.
The best times were time spent with my fellow board members and especially passing the presidency to Kristen Cipriano whose capable leadership will insure the GNA continues to thrive and grow over the years.
How were you able to get the next generation of residents involved in the neighborhood association?
The key to getting the next generation of resident involved in the GNA fall squarely on our younger board members and volunteers. While a few times each year we have outbound resident acquisition effort our younger board members have direct contact with new residents and fellow elementary parents and are able to bring them into the board.
Tell us about the Cable Television Commission and your efforts on that board.
Most Scarsdale residents are probably not even aware that we have a Cable Television Commission. It was through the efforts of the Commission around 10 years ago that we were able to introduce Verizon Fios to the community and thus give residents an alternative cable service to Cablevision (now Optimum). As part of that agreement, we secured significant funds for the village that we channeled to the new library. The commission is currently gearing up to begin franchise renewal re-negotiations with both Verizon and Optimum.
Does Scarsdale need a Dog Park? Tell us what you think.
Every dog has its day - except in Scarsdale!
For over 8 years I’ve been petitioning for a dog park in Scarsdale. We’ve met with various village departments, village groups and individual dog owners. Just looking out of our windows and driving around Scarsdale one can tell our dog population has grown significantly. A dog park would provide not only an exercise area for our pets but more importantly a key opportunity for residents to gather and socialize. The issue is, where to put the dog park. I know the village is in favor of a dog park and is actively looking into this. My hope is that a solution will be found.
Why do you like Scarsdale and what makes it special to you?
Scarsdale has been my home for 30 years, and what makes it truly special is the deep sense of community that defines it. It’s a place where neighbors support one another, where friendships last a lifetime, and where people genuinely care about making a difference. The commitment to education, volunteerism, and civic engagement is unparalleled.
For those who are not familiar with the Scarsdale Bowl Dinner, why would you encourage them to attend?
The Scarsdale Bowl Awards Dinner is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of the values that make our community so special. Attending the dinner allows us to come together as neighbors, reconnect with friends, and be inspired by the incredible work being done across our town. It’s also a wonderful way to support and encourage the next generation of volunteers and leaders.
And the Winner is.... the Scarsdale Adult School
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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An 87 year-old program that offers something new each year has been recognized by the Scarsdale Foundation Bowl Committee as the winner of the 2025 Spotlight Award. The Scarsdale Adult School (SAS), established in 1938, will be honored at the Scarsdale Bowl Dinner on Thursday April 24 and you are invited.
To learn more about the Scarsdale Adult School we contacted SAS Executive Director Jill Serling who told us about the inner workings of the organization and the extraordinary breadth of their curriculum.
Here is what she shared:
Tell us about the early years of the Scarsdale Adult School. When and how did it get started and what were the most popular course offerings in the early days? Where did they meet?
SAS was established in 1938 by Scarsdale group of residents. Five classes were offered, each cost $10. Bridge, Exercise, and Finance for Women were some of the offerings. Classes met at SHS.
What are some of the most popular classes you offer today?
SAS strives for the right blend of brand new timely topics with recurring fan favorites in a wide array of disciplines to meet student interest and scheduling preferences. An award-winning source of affordable quality adult enrichment, SAS offers a diverse selection of subject matter taught by high caliber instructors, all while instilling a sense of camaraderie among its students, even in the virtual classrooms.
How many different classes do you usually offer per semester – and what are the subjects?
We offer well over 250 classes each semester – that is over 1000 classes annually! We offer classes in all areas of continuing education. Our assortment of classes, lectures, special events and walking tours has something for everyone. Our categories include: Art and Architecture Appreciation, Arts and Crafts, Computers, Technology and the Internet, Current Events and Politics, Financial and Retirement Planning, Fitness and Dance, Food and Beverage, Games, Health and Wellness, History and Culture, Hobbies and Edutainment, Home and Garden, Languages, Literature, Film and Television, Museum Preview, Music Appreciation, Performing Arts, Walking Tour, and Writing.
Are you aware of any other adult schools that are as robust as Scarsdale’s?
No I am not! Scarsdale Adult School is unique in our breadth and depth of our class offerings. Simply, we are the Best of Westchester and have been awarded by Westchester Magazine with this distinction!
Who are some of the leading teachers and lecturers that offer classes at SAS?
All of SAS instructors are leaders in the field of expertise. I could not single out a leading instructor.
How many people work at the Scarsdale Adult School? Tell us about your organization.
SAS has a staff of 6. We have two registrars who assist students with registrations and inquiries about the classes we offer. We have a business manager, publicity manager, and a community outreach manager. I have been Executive Director since 2009. Our small, but mighty team is dedicated to providing the best continuing education experience for our students. Customer service is our #1 priority.
What happened to the program during the COVID epidemic. How did you pivot?
SAS was one of the first programs in the nation to pivot to online learning via zoom in early April 2020. We realized early on that we could recruit instructors from all over the globe which expanded our curriculum significantly. We gave virtual tours in France and Italy from natives of those countries. We offered classes from regional experts in art deco, mid-century architecture, and art appreciation to name just a few while continuing to utilize our local experts. Our student body expanded as well as we garnered students from all over the country and internationally as well.
What are the demographics of your students … please tell us what you know about their average age, sex, where they live? etc.
Our students range in age from 18-100. After the pandemic we retained many of our online students, though primarily our students hail from the Tri-State region.
What surprises you about the response to your course offerings – both the good and the bad?
I’m never surprised by the response to our offerings as we have something for everyone! Our students look to us for quality programming at affordable prices and we deliver that on a consistent basis. While not a surprise, it is fun to watch the games category to see which games are trending! (Right now, it’s Mah Jongg!)
What would you like our readers to know about the adult school that they may not be aware of?
Newer residents to our town aren’t as familiar with our program as I’d like them to be. I’d like for them to be aware that we are Westchester County’s lifelong learning hub. We host award-winning authors, offer discussion groups that tackle hot topics, literature, and more, provide creative outlets for novice and experienced artists, offer beginning to advanced language opportunities, provide outstanding fitness classes for all ages, and offer many classes in the performing arts. Students join us for our outstanding walking tours which we offer in Westchester, Connecticut and NYC.
Can you share a memorable story about something humorous or unexpected that happened at an SAS class?
One of my most memorable moments working at SAS demonstrates the dedication and hard work of the SAS staff. When a pipe burst at SHS, we were forced to cancel our evening classes within 2 hours of the start time of evening classes. With ‘all hands on deck’, we as a team called over 100 students before they left their homes or headed to SHS. Customer satisfaction is critical to our mission, and the SAS staff works tirelessly to meet this goal.
Looking into the future, how do you think the program will evolve in the next ten or twenty years?
That’s a great question! Our mission statement provides the best roadmap for the future. Scarsdale Adult School (SAS) is a pre-eminent, independent, not-for-profit adult education organization, offering a wide range of intellectually stimulating, best-in-class courses, lectures, and cultural activities along with skill-enhancing and recreational classes. By serving the needs of adults locally, regionally, and internationally, SAS continually strives to innovate, create a high-quality curriculum, and grow our community of lifelong learners.
Purchase your tickets to celebrate the Scarsdale Adult School and Scarsdale Bowl winner Andrew Sereysky at the Bowl Dinner on Thursday, April 24th at Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club at 6:30 pm. Learn more here.
Cynthia Samwick said, "As co-chair of this year's Scarsdale Bowl Dinner, I couldn’t be more excited to celebrate the Scarsdale Adult School as one of our honorees. Throughout the planning process, I’ve learned so much about the incredible impact this organization has on our community. Not only do they offer an impressive array of classes, but they also foster lifelong learning and connection.
I speak from personal experience as a student of the Scarsdale Adult School—I truly appreciate all they offer, and the walking tours are my absolute favorite! I look forward to honoring SAS on April 24th and celebrating their continued contribution to our vibrant community."
Black History Month Highlights Past Victories and Hope for the Future
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- Written by Joanne Wallenstein
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(The following was submitted by NY State Assemblymember Amy Paulin) Since 1976, February has been celebrated as National Black History Month. We use this time to honor the brave activists who fought against racial discrimination and oppression, as well as the artists, leaders and innovators who’ve left an indelible mark on our nation. As we reflect on these pioneers, we must keep in mind that the battles fought by these trailblazers of history are still being fought today.
While the struggle for equal rights and fair treatment cannot be pinned down to any one location, New York State is home to several key landmarks and milestones in Black history. During the Dutch and Indian War in 1644, the farms of 11 Black freedmen spanned most of central Manhattan, eventually earning them enough money to buy the freedom of their still-enslaved children. Later, historic Weeksville, Brooklyn, became the largest pre-Civil War community of free Black Americans in the United States. Many of the stops on the Underground Railroad were also located in New York, including abolitionist and freedman Frederick Douglass’ house in Rochester, the last stop on the Railroad before Canada. Harriet Tubman, one of the most prominent and effective conductors, helped hundreds of enslaved people escape their captors and settled in Auburn, N.Y., later in her life.
From poet, playwright and novelist Langston Hughes, to anthropologist and writer Zora Neale Hurston and prolific composer Duke Ellington, New York was also the birthplace of the Harlem Renaissance, which is widely credited with revitalizing Black culture through art, music and writing. The far-reaching effects of this cultural explosion would later influence future activists such as James Baldwin, a Harlem-born novelist and essayist who tackled both Black liberation and the struggles of the LGBTQ community in his writings.
More recently, New York served as the home of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress. In addition to representing New York’s 12th Congressional District for seven years, Ms. Chisholm became the first Black candidate to run for President of the United States, as well as the first woman to run for her party’s presidential nomination. We also saw history made with the election of Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black woman to hold the position in the United States.
Despite all the progress made by these influential activists, artists and politicians, racism and discrimination still permeate American society. As New York State Assembly Health Committee Chair, I also see this disparity in health care. In particular I have been focused on improving New York’s maternal morbidity and mortality rates, which disproportionately affect women of color. The New York City Commission on Human Rights has also released a report featuring testimonials from Black New Yorkers explaining that racism was “inescapable and emotionally taxing” in their day-to-day lives.
Black History Month serves as a time to not only honor and remember the victories of the past, but to motivate us to continue on the path toward true equality. Together, we can continue the work started by our pioneering activists and finally bring their goals – and our country’s founding ideals – to fruition.
As always, my door is open. If you have any questions about this or any other community issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact my office at paulina@nyassembly.gov or at 914.723.1115.
Also commenting on Black History Month, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, ""Black History Month is a time to reflect on the resilience, achievements and cultural impact of Black Americans throughout our Nation’s history. Westchester County is home to generations of Black leaders, artists, educators and activists who have helped shape our communities. From the stories of freedom seekers who traveled through our region on the Underground Railroad to the influential voices advocating for civil rights today, Westchester’s Black history is deeply rooted.
"As we celebrate this month, Let’s also recognize the ongoing work toward equity and inclusion that must continue. I encourage everyone to participate in the many events across the County, visit historic landmarks and engage in discussions that help us continue the progress we've made."
Scarsdale 5, Greeley-Jay 4 at E J Murray Skating Center
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Junior Santiago Trelles (21) takes a shot on goal.The Scarsdale Boys Ice Hockey team celebrated their Senior day with a hard-fought win over a strong combined team from Horace Greeley and John Jay. The game was a home game at the E J Murray Memorial Skating Center in Yonkers NY on Friday Feb. 7.
The contest was close throughout. In the last minute, the Raiders received a penalty and Greeley-Jay pulled their goalie but Scarsdale was able to hold on to their one goal lead despite the two man disadvantage. Final score: Scarsdale 5 Greeley-Jay 4. The Raiders next game is at home against Carmel on Feb. 12.
Photos by Dave Taber of Shots of the Game
To see more game photos and/or download photos, please visit https://www.shotsofthegame.com/
Senior captain Harry Wolf (23) tries to get around his defender.
Harry Wolf (23) fires in a slapshot.
Junior captain Daniel Zhu (5) gets ready to take a shot.
Junior Manuel Trelles (9) skated down the ice.
Manuel Trelles (9) takes a shot on goal.
Senior Ryan Braff (11) celebrates a goal with Scarsdale students.
Junior Buddy Meiselman (31) makes a save.
Ryan Braff (11) fires in a hard slapshot.
Scarsdale players celebrate their win against Greeley-Jay.
Goalie Buddy Meiselman (31) celebrates the win with Scarsdale students.
Westhab CEO Discusses Housing Options at Hitchcock Church
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Rich Nightingale, the affable President and CEO of Yonkers-based Westhab, Inc., since 2014, on Wednesday, January 15th, inspired and engaged an extremely interested and highly educated audience in Hitchcock Presbyterian Church’s Clark Room on Greenacres Avenue in Scarsdale about the sometimes-misunderstood subjects of affordable and other housing.
As the give-and-take discussion ensued right on the dot of 6 p.m., comments began to flow easily about how affordable housing is one of the most important issues facing our nation these days. And, it didn’t take long before the conversation switched to a definition-comparison of two sometimes misunderstood real-estate terms, the previously mentioned affordable housing and public housing.
In addition, without waiting to be asked, the group willingly moved into a discussion about how those subjects may or may not affect the residents and leadership in the various towns and villages in Westchester and Rockland counties, and even a few areas in nearby New York City where Westhab has also made itself a needed humanitarian part of the community with its offerings that sometimes include youth and employment services and moving homeless households into permanent housing.
According to PublicHousing.Com, the affordable housing network, there are a variety of low-income housing options available, including: Public Housing: Public housing is owned and operated by your area Housing Authority. The internet item also noted, “Public housing units are rented to low-income households at below-market rates. Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers: Section 8 is a federal program that provides rental assistance to low-income households. Vouchers can be used to rent apartments, town houses, or single-family homes from private landlords.”
Fueling His Passion for Social Justice
During his somewhat informal presentation, Nightingale, who joined the Westhab organization in 2001, proudly credited his early years on the frontlines at Westhab for fueling his passion for social justice and his deep commitment to Westhab’s overall mission. At the Hitchcock event, he also provided brief updates on some of Westhab’s newer housing projects that indeed have helped the underserved and other people in Westchester and Rockland counties and a few areas of New York City.
Those in the audience had come-in from the extremely cold weather outside into Hitchcock’s warm Clark Room in order to listen to Nightingale’s stories, joining those bundled-up at home in front of their computers.
It all seemed like a fireside chat, reminiscent of the late 32nd U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s reports to the nation during the 1930s and 1940s, well before the advent of television when 90 percent of American households owned a radio and could listen to FDR. Interestingly enough, if you checked your history books, FDR was not actually sitting beside a fireplace when he delivered those series of radio addresses between 1933 and 1944.
Nonetheless, the Hitchcock event wasn’t a conversation about the 1930s or the 1940s. It was 2025 and the church’s first Kairos event of the new year.
Differences in Housing Options
With his notes in hand that he never used, Nightingale led a discussion about the differences between affordable housing and public housing and what effects those differences may have on the various Westchester and Rockland towns and villages. Some of the attendees joined in with their individual knowledge about those two subjects, and a few even gave their version on how those two housing ideas might affect the various villages and its residents today and in the future. Someone in the audience even offered, “A lot of people living in Westchester today now couldn’t afford to purchase the house they bought 30 years ago.”
According to Olympia Management on the Internet, “The terms ‘affordable housing’ and ‘public housing’ are frequently used interchangeably, causing a lot of confusion in the process. They are actually two very different types of housing with different qualifying criteria. The problem is that by confusing the terms, many people who are struggling to afford rent don’t realize they may actually qualify for help under possible dozens of different programs. Many people also mistakenly think government help is only available to the most impoverished.”
Nightingale cited that “the Westchester County Housing Needs Assessment of 2019 reported that a whopping 41 percent or 141,570 of the 345,885 households in Westchester, are housing-cost burdened and pay more than 30 percent of their income in housing costs. Furthermore, there is no municipality in the County where the market-rate trend for a two-bedroom unit, averaging at that time $2,495 per month, is affordable to households earning the local hourly renter-wage.” Nightingale went on to share that rents have only gone up in the five years since the study, and the gap between housing costs and what workers in our economy can afford is only growing.
Proud of Dayspring Commons in Yonkers
As the long-time leader of the mission-driven nonprofit developer and service provider, he is justifiably proud of all his Westhab projects and said so. Nightingale highlighted in his slide program for the evening, among others, Dayspring Commons, located on Nodine Hill in Yonkers, that launched in the past few years, and eventually created 63 apartments and a newly rehabilitated Community Center that once was a 140-year-old church. “Our vision for the Dayspring Campus—the Community Center together with the Commons—had long been to become a real anchor for this community as well as a real catalyst,” he said. That particular Westhab project was financed by early seed money from the JP Morgan Chase Foundation and financial support from the City of Yonkers and Westchester County.
In an essay by Nightingale in a marketing brochure that was provided to the attendees, it said Westhab “has continued to grow its impact to meet needs in our community, while staying true to our values and ensuring quality services for everyone who passes through our doors.” Time and again the organization has created “a more equitable community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
By his warm smile throughout his Hitchcock 60-minute talk and Q and A, you could readily see and hear that Nightingale is heavily engaged in his role as president and CEO of Westhab, “Building Communities. Changing Lives,” the organization that has been providing a bushelful of offerings for 40-plus years. The slogan is the organization’s “on the money” marketing message to the general public, governments, and its mountain of supporters.
