Forum Committee Issues Report on Health, Safety, Environmental Impacts and Exposure Risks of Synthetic Turf
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 139
The Scarsdale Forum's Municipal Services, Sustainability and Parks and Recreation committees have issued updates to their initial Report on the use of artificial turf (AT) in Scarsdale Village recreation fields and courts, dated January 15, 2025. The Forum's March 29, 2025 Report update included additional research findings about the inherent health and environmental harms and risks associated with AT. The subsequent March 2, 2026 Report update was circulated to the Scarsdale Village Board and Manager, the Scarsdale Board of Education, and the Scarsdale School District's Superintendent, among others, and is reprinted below:
Scarsdale Forum Inc. Update to the January 15, 2025 Forum Report on the "Health, Safety, Environmental Impacts and Exposure Risks of Synthetic Turf Recreation Fields and Courts
Dear Mayor Arest, Village Trustees, Superintendent Dr. Drew Patrick, Manager Marshall, and Members of the Scarsdale Board of Education, et al.:
Scarsdale Forum Inc. is the 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to community education through discussion and analysis of issues relevant to Scarsdale residents. Since 1904, the Forum has contributed meaningfully to village affairs through written reports, prominent public speaker programs, social gatherings, and other public events. Membership is available to all Scarsdale residents, regardless of citizenship status.
The undersigned members of the Forum’s Board of Directors are hereby following up on recommendations made in the January 15, 2025 Forum Report on the "Health, Safety, Environmental Impacts and Exposure Risks of Synthetic Turf Recreation Fields and Courts.
As recommended in that Report, we continue to request that the Village Board, the Scarsdale School District, and the Board of Education implement an immediate moratorium on artificial turf (“AT”) installation in Scarsdale, considering that the clear health and environmental harms associated with AT has translated into New York taking aggressive legislative action.
New York’s recent legislation bans the sale of any carpet, including artificial turf, containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” effective December 31, 2026. The Village, School District and Board of Education should not approve the installation on Scarsdale’s fields of material that has been recognized by New York State as harmful to the health of children and the environment.
The State has undertaken comprehensive efforts geared toward phasing out "forever chemicals" from various other consumer products, as these chemicals are definitively linked to serious health issues. The state’s “carpet” law also requires manufacturers to set up collection and recycling programs to address the 515 million pounds of carpet waste generated annually, of which less than 1% was previously recycled. It aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 165,000 tons yearly, in addition to eliminating PFAS chemicals in new carpets. Yet there are additional hazards associated with AT that need to be addressed.
The Forum's recommendations made last year were supported by extensive medical, scientific, and environmental research and evidence, urging the Village and School District to (1) place a moratorium on the installation of new artificial turf athletic and recreation fields and courts, (2) consider eventual replacement of existing artificial turf with natural grass turf in view of the health, safety, environmental impacts and exposure risks of artificial turf, (3) investigate, assess and report to the community on the health, safety, environmental impacts and exposure risks associated with the use of synthetic turf athletic and recreation fields and courts in the Village, and (4) evaluate the relative durability and cost of installation, maintenance, replacement and disposal of artificial turf fields and courts compared with natural grass fields and courts. The Forum’s prior update to its Report, with additional support for the imposition of a moratorium of AT, may be forwarded separately.
Having cited in its January 2025 Report Mount Sinai’s Children’s Environmental Health Center research on this subject, the Forum would like to share with the Village, School District and Board of Education Mount Sinai’s more recent recommendations based on the hazards posed by artificial turf:
“The Children’s Environmental Health Center of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai strongly discourages the installation of artificial turf playing surfaces and fields due to the uncertainties surrounding the safety of these products and the potential for dangerous heat and chemical exposures. In addition, recent studies demonstrating the presence of PFAS and microplastics in these products raise significant concerns for both human health and environmental contamination.” See The Children’s Environmental Health Center Recommendations, "Position Statement on the Use of Artificial Turf Surfaces" (May 29, 2025), See also Toxics Use Reduction Institute (TURI) Fact Sheet, "Athletic Playing Fields and Artificial Turf: Considerations for Municipalities and Institutions,"
Moreover, substantial cost savings are associated with natural fields over installation of AT. We therefore recommend designating only a fraction of the currently proposed/budgeted Village and School District funds for improved natural turf management, rather than for the purchase, maintenance, and replacement of exorbitantly costly artificial turf."
Sincerely,
Darlene LeFrancois Haber, MD
Chair, Scarsdale Forum Inc. Sustainability Committee
Madelaine Eppenstein
Chair, Scarsdale Forum Inc. Municipal Services Committee
Erin Rudensky
Co-Chair, Scarsdale Forum Parks and Recreation Committees
Regional Climate Advocates Host 11th Annual Climate Conference April 2026
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 301
As many as 200 members of Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) and other climate advocates will attend the Northeast Multistate Conference at Union College in Schenectady, NY , on April 10 & 11, 2026. Scarsdale HIgh School students Aaron Anders and Cameron Hersley are members of CCL.
For the 11th year, volunteers with one of the nation’s most effective, nonpartisan climate lobbying organizations will gather to learn from experts and each other how to enact meaningful climate legislation and educate the public on proposed solutions. This year the conference expands its reach beyond New York and New England to include climate advocates from New Jersey and Pennsylvania. All climate advocates are welcome to attend; membership in CCL is not required.
“Because the sources of climate change and air pollution are one and the same, if we reduce our local dependence on fossil fuel burning we can achieve both a healthier Westchester AND a healthier planet,” said Dr. George Thurston, Professor of Medicine and Population Health at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, and a member of the Westchester chapter.
One of the chapter co-leaders, Elizabeth Brigham, added, “Events like these help get more people involved in hands-on ways we can work with our community
The conference begins with a social gathering Friday evening. On Saturday, the opening session “Bridge Building” will set the tone for the conference. Following that will be twelve information- and strategy-packed lectures, panels, and workshops designed to build climate advocacy and collaboration skills. Attendees will understanding of subjects ranging from carbon pricing to regional energy policy and building political will.
A few topics featured in this year’s conference include:
-Advanced Nuclear: What Does It Actually Mean?
-Building Political Will for a Powerful Carbon Price
-Climate Advocate Training
-Community Engagement for Permitting Renewables
-How to Create a State Policy Working Group
-Organizing for Climate with Higher Education
Legislators on both sides of the aisle appreciate CCL’s non-partisan approach to lobbying—focusing on science and solutions, not blame. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) has said of CCL, “You guys are the best. There is no better environmental group.”
As a keynote speaker at the 2024 CCL National Fall Conference, Senator-elect John Curtis (R-UT) noted, “I can’t think of any group I’d rather speak with today.”
The conference is produced by volunteers of Citizens’ Climate Lobby / Citizens’ Climate Education. Register at https://cclnortheast2026.eventbrite.com. Don’t delay! The early bird rate of $110 ends on March 8. The student rate is $30. A $20 late registration surcharge will begin on April 1. Registration includes light fare both days.
Members of the media are invited to attend. Please contact David Ruekberg at cclneconf@gmail.com to make arrangements.
CONTACT: David Ruekberg, CCL Northeast MultiState Conference Coordinator, cclneconf@gmail.com 585-789-1865.
JCC Mid-Westchester Celebrates Community, Culture and Connection on Sunday March 8: You're Invited
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 627
On Sunday, March 8, from 4:30 to 7:00 PM, the JCC Mid-Westchester in Scarsdale will celebrate 70 years of community, culture, and connection with a specialevent for all! The Annual Benefit will celebrate JCCMW’s rich history, vibrant present, and inspiringfuture with a special program honoring both their founding families as well as their current teenleaders. The program will be followed by a cocktail-style dinner and live music by The Oren Neiman Trio.
The JCCMW will simultaneously be hosting a Kids-Only party onsite with gymnastics games and obstacles, hands-on crafts, a fun-filled game room, and delicious pizza dinner so families with children can participate and enjoy the celebration!
JCCMW Founding Families will be represented by The Arnow Family, David Raizen, Jill and Robert Serling, and Elaine and Alan Weiler. Eli Friedlander, Kate Glick, Micah Granwetter, and Alexis Levine are the teen leaders being honored for their volunteer work and commitment.
To learn more about the JCCMW’s 70 Year Celebration, visit here. Purchase tickets, sponsorships, and journal ads or simply make a donation to support JCCMW’s vital mission of strengthening community, enriching families, connecting friends, and helping people lead joyful lives.
The JCC Mid-Westchester is a nonprofit organization that supports the community by offering outstanding recreational, cultural, educational, and human services programming to all people regardless of age, background, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Programs are grounded in Jewish values and are open to all! Learn more at jccmw.org.
Application Filed to Demolish 3 Ridgecrest East in “Scarsdale Heights”
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1539
An application has been filed to demolish the home of well known children’s book author and illustrator Bernard Most at 3 Ridgecrest East. Built in 1924 in a development called Scarsdale Heights the Tudor style home is integral to a well preserved neighborhood called Scarsdale Heights.
According to the 2012 Cultural Resource Survey by Li/Salzman and Architectural Historian Andrew Dolkart, Scarsdale Heights, the neighborhood at northwest corner of the Post Road and Fenimore Road was intended to supply soundly constructed homes at moderate cost. Dolkart’s report says, “Scarsdale Heights was planned to fulfill the need for less expensive suburban houses than those available in the Grange, to the east, or Greenacres, to the west. As one real estate broker in Westchester commented, relating to the Scarsdale Heights development, “Westchester County in general, and Scarsdale in particular, is still greatly in need of small houses in restricted sections. Westchester County appeals particularly to the man with an income of from $5,000 to $10,000 per year, and this man usually wants a small but well-constructed house in a select neighborhood."
Unlike many homes in Scarsdale built in the twenties, the name of the architect of 3 Ridgecrest East is known. The home was designed by Randal Henderson who later moved to California and helped design Palm Desert and published Desert Magazine.
Dolkart comments on the diversity of design showcased in the neighborhood. He wrote, “Within the modest scale of the development, Henderson used materials and massing in creative ways. Houses are faced with textured bricks, several with the wide flat sides of the brick exposed. In one house, 13 Ridgecrest West, texture was provided by mortar that oozes out between the bricks (Figures 7-2-4). Stone trim, half timbering, tall chimney s, varied rooflines, projecting entrance pavilions, quaint shutters, and other motifs create a lively group of houses. All houses were not designed by Henderson and built by Mears. Some lots were sold to individuals who hired their own architects, most of whom worked in an aesthetic similar to that of Henderson, creating a unified development.
Comprised of Ridgecrest East, Ridgecrest North, Ridgecrest West and a portion of Dobbs Terrace, the community of 1920’s and 1930’s homes remains largely intact today.
Sadly, the same developer who subdivided lots on Lincoln and Carthage Roads in 2025, has set his sights on taking down 3 Ridgecrest East, which sits high on a hill at the gateway to the development, at the point where Ridgecrest East meets Ridgecrest West. His application will be considered by the Committee for Historic Preservation at their meeting on February 24, 2026.Some fear that if the application is approved, developers will begin a campaign to raze many of these historic homes, as witnessed in the Heathcote Crest area.
In his report, Dolkart recommends ”Potential Study Areas” to be designated for preservation and this is one of them. He wrote, “The Scarsdale Heights development was immediately successful and it remains a fine enclave of modest, traditionally-designed homes, evidence of the fact that Scarsdale's real estate projects in the 1920s encompassed homes of varying scales that attracted families of both great and modest income.”
In addition to the historic nature of the home and its place in the suburbanization of Scarsdale, the committee can also consider the identity of former homeowners.
In this case, they would have to recognize Bernard Most, a prolific author-illustrator famous for children's books, particularly those featuring dinosaurs and wordplay. His most popular and acclaimed works include If the Dinosaurs Came Back, Whatever Happened to the Dinosaurs?, and The Cow That Went OINK.
The Committee for Historic Preservation will consider this application along with applications to demolish:
1) 21 Cambridge Rd– Demo house built in 1924
2) 33 Garden Rd – Demo house built in 1963
3) 69 Penn Blvd – Demo house built in 1948o
on Tuesday February 24 at 7 pm at Scarsdale Village Hall and the public is invited to participate.
Valentine’s Day Gifts with Love from Scarsdale
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 788
You don’t need to go far to find the perfect way to say “I Love You” on Valentines Day, Saturday February 14, 2026. Jewels, apparel, accessories, spa treatments and beautiful bouquets are all available right here in town. Take a look at what Scarsdale has to offer this Valentine’s Day.
This Valentine’s Day, find the perfect gifts for the women you love (yourself included!) at I Am More Scarsdale. From sparkling jewelry and chic accessories to cozy layers and getaway-ready looks, our curated selection makes it easy to treat her to something special.
Gift with love and shop with purpose—at I Am More, every purchase is more than just a present. I Am More operates as a philanthropic business, proudly donating profits to local and women’s organizations, making each gift/purchase even more meaningful.
I Am More Scarsdale, 6 Spencer Place, Scarsdale.
Love is in the air with scented Valentine's gift perfection from Scentfluence in Scarsdale Village. Notable, luxury, hotel candles, elegant home diffusers, scent diffuser oils, and gift certificates for any style, mood, or anyone you love. Gift wrapping. Shop online at scentfluence.com.
Scentfluence, 22 Harwood Court, Scarsdale, NY 10583.
This Valentine’s Day, Holsten Jewelers invites you to celebrate love with over 100 years of family tradition and craftsmanship. Whether you're searching for the perfect engagement ring, a custom-designed piece, or a sparkling gift, we’re here to help you find something unforgettable. From jewelry repair to watch restoration and creating timeless keepsakes, we specialize in pieces that tell your story. Let us make this Valentine’s Day extraordinary with jewelry that captures your heart and theirs. Mention this ad in store for 14% OFF in stock pieces before Valentine’s Day (exclusions apply). 
When in doubt, choose diamond hoops. Facet Barcelona’s timeless silhouettes seamlessly transition from day to night, adding effortless polish to any look. With so many beautiful styles to choose from in store, we promise to help you find the perfect pair!
Jewelry feels more special when it’s personal. Adina Reyter charm necklaces are designed to be customizable, layered, and loved. The pieces we offer are an elevated take on a timeless style that is meant to grow with you! What could possibly be a more perfect gift?
Holsten Jewelers 5 Harwood, Cour, Scarsdale (914) 472-4554
Tranquility Spa in Scarsdale has been Westchester’s destination for an extraordinary, life-enhancing experience: a short-term, mini-vacation to focus the mind, relax the body and free the soul. It’s the ideal getaway to enjoy spa facials, massage therapy, body polishes, etc. More popular than ever is CBD massage, the ideal way to experience the soothing benefits of CBD through 
the skin. Give your loved ones some self-care and relaxation.
Gift Certificates with print-at-home convenience are available online to delight loved ones, family, friends – and yourself! The perfect holiday gift for those that won't normally treat themselves.
Tranquility Spa, 917 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, 914-713-0066, om
This Valentine’s Day send a stunning bouquet from Scarsdale Flower Boutique.
Choose from roses in red, pink, lavender, white and peach or send a custom Valentine’s Day arrangement with premium flowers like orchids, ranunculus, hydrangeas and anemones.
Click here to see our signature Valentine’s Day arrangements including, “Roses are Red, Violets are Blue,” “Pretty Orchids,” “Pretty Petals, “You Are My Everything” and “I Love You Forever.”
Bouquets start at $50.00 with same day delivery. Order soon for Valentine’s Day.
Call them at 914-723-0852, order online here or stop by the shop at 7 Harwood Court in the heart of Scarsdale Village. Open Daily 9 – 6 pm.
Eye Gallery of Scarsdale invites you to say 'I Love You' with the gift of exceptional style this Valentine’s Day. Stop by to shop our exclusive collection of designer eyewear and discover two featured 
Jacques Marie Mage Dealan Sunglasses – $960sunglasses that make unforgettable gifts.
This season, we are highlighting the Blake Kuwahara Spaulding Sunglasses ($695) and the iconic Jacques Marie Mage Dealan Sunglasses ($960). Each pair reflects luxury craftsmanship and distinctive design, perfect for someone special or as a gift to yourself.
While you are here, book your annual eye exam and experience our personalized service and curated selection of premium eyewear.
Visit our elegant location on Boniface Circle in Scarsdale and explore a refined collection of designer frames created to elevate both your vision and your style.
Blake Kuwahara Spaulding Sunglasses – $695
Eye Gallery of Scarsdale, 15 Boniface Circle, Scarsdale, (914) 472-2020
