Application Filed to Demolish 3 Ridgecrest East in “Scarsdale Heights”
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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
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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
That’s A Red Flag!
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Warning signs or “red flags” of an unhealthy relationship exist and teaching teens how to identify them early is an important skill. Scarsdale eighth grade students participated in an interactive presentation titled “That’s A Red Flag” facilitated by Ashley Bendiksen, a youth motivational speaker and healthy relationship advocate. The presentation was held on January 15th and was jointly sponsored by the Scarsdale Middle School Health Department, Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service and the Scarsdale SAFE Coalition.
Through personal stories and interactive discussion, Bendiksen educated students how to distinguish healthy relationships from harmful ones; recognize early warning signs of relationship violence and understand how respecting boundaries support mental health and personal growth. Students learned practical strategies for seeking help when needed and supporting friends who may be involved in an unhealthy friendship, all while learning to value the positive behaviors that foster strong, respectful relationships.
“Teaching older teens to have healthy romantic relationships begins with teaching them about healthy friendships” said Milagros “Millie” Chatelain, LMHC, Youth Outreach Worker on the Middle School level and the Safe Coalition Coordinator. “A fair number of students who seek services from Youth Outreach are dealing with anxiety and other mental health issues stemming from unhealthy friendships.”
Bendiksen highlighted several practical “red flags” for students that may indicate a friendship is unhealthy. Examples included feeling as though you are “walking on eggshells” around the other person: being asked to share locker combinations, passwords or their location; feeling as if you cannot say “no”, to the person; or feeling a sense of dread or exhaustion after spending time with them. Bendiksen concluded her program by emphasizing a key takeaway for students that a healthy relationship should make an individual feel both safe and supported. “Our students were attentive and engaged throughout the presentation, and they asked great questions,” said Chatelain.
Parents are encouraged to continue conversations about healthy friendships at home, and in their parent support groups, reinforcing a culture of safety, respect, and healthy relationships in school and in the community.
The Scarsdale SAFE Coalition is a violence prevention coalition dedicated to promoting safe, and healthy relationships and preventing all forms of school, community and interpersonal violence through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service serves as the coalition’s lead agency. Funding for Ms. Bendiksen’s presentation was provided by the Scarsdale Safe Coalition.
For more information about the SAFE Coalition, or to become involved, please contact Millie Chatelain, LMHC at mchatelain@sfcsinc.org.
DPW Commended for Clearing More than a Foot of Snow, and More from Village Hall
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The Pool Project is moving forward. At the 1/27/26 meeting of the Scarsdale Board of Trustees, the board passed a resolution to declare themselves lead agency for a SQRA review of the municipal pool development project.
In opening comments, Mayor Justin Arest thanked the Department of Public Works for their “professionalism and dedication” as they cleared more than a foot of snow throughout the weekend, beginning on Sunday morning January 25, and doing several rounds of plowing.
The Mayor noted Holocaust Remembrance Day, saying, “We must never forget,” and offered comments on the killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis that you can read here.
Arest paid tribute to former Scarsdale Mayor Ed Morgan who passed away, saying he served the community for five decades as Mayor, Village Trustee and on many committees. He noted his military career and respected legal career and said Morgan was “deeply committed to Scarsdale.” Read Morgan’s obituary here. The Board observed a moment of silence in Morgan’s memory.
Arest then announced a Flag Design Contest to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 325th anniversary of Scarsdale. He invited artists to submit their designs by March 20, 2026. See the full details here.
Village Manager Alex Marshall said that the Department of Public Works was out on the roads since Sunday morning clearing a foot of snow. She asked residents to refrain from pushing snow from their properties into the streets and advised them to clear snow off of their cars before driving.
Public Comments
Marian Green thanked the Mayor for addressing the state of affairs in which we live. She commended the DPW, saying, “it was amazing how quickly the roads were cleared. Thank you!” She asked about the material that was used to melt the snow and questioned if the brine could affect pets and asked for more information on what kind of chloride is used.
The Mayor told Green that the brine includes molasses and beet juice and that the formula is adjusted based on the temperature and reduces the need for the chloride/salt.
Resolutions
-The Board of Trustees accepted a gift of a storage shed from Scarsdale Travel Softball to be placed at Supply Field, valued at $4,000.00.
-They accepted the schedule of recreation fees and charges for this year. You can see the schedule here.
-They approved the annual 4 mile and 15K run, a 55-year tradition, to be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
-They scheduled a public hearing on February 10, 2026 to amend the code concerning swimming pool fence spacing. Zoning Board Chair Jeff Watiker explained that Scarsdale’s current law requires two inch spacing between vertical members of a pool fence and this would change it to four inch spacing, which conforms with state law.
-They scheduled a public hearing on February 10 to consider a tax levy in excess of the NYS Tax Cap, should it be necessary.
-They approved a notice of intent for the Village Board to be the lead agency for a SEQRA review of the Scarsdale Pool Complex project.
The next meeting of the Village Board will be held on Tuesday February 10, 2026.
Do We Need More Elementary School Classrooms or Better Use of Existing Space?
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(This is the opinion of Scarsdale10583 site founder Joanne Wallenstein.)
As taxpayers you will soon face a vote on a proposed $98.5mm school bond that has unanimous support from the seven members of the school board. The plan includes funds for air conditioning, infrastructure upgrades, and field improvements, but the lion’s share of the spending is for major additions to two elementary schools.
After watching the board discussions, reviewing their presentations and analyzing related reports, I think the decision to add six classrooms and five support rooms in a $21mm expansion of Edgewood School deserves further scrutiny.
Here’s why:
Though I am sure that the Edgewood Elementary School requires updating and perhaps more flexible learning spaces, I think there are valid questions about the plan to build a $21 mm addition, primarily to support a very small special education program.
There are currently just 21 Scarsdale students in the program, in three self-contained classrooms. Since each class has a teacher and two aids, the district has stated a goal of supporting the program by inviting out of district students to pay tuition to join these classes.
Special Ed Enrollment by Program and Grade
However, as taxpayers in Scarsdale, do we want to underwrite a $21mm expansion so that we can accommodate out of district students? Is it wise to incur a 20-year tax increase to build an addition for a small school population that varies in size year over year? It's a bridge too far.
Is there room to house the program in another school?
During bond discussions, the district proposed moving three sections of Fox Meadow students to Greenacres (redistricting) as Greenacres appears to have a lot of extra space. See the chart below of square footage per student by elementary school. Greenacres has 85,000 square feet of space with an enrollment of just 351 students. That’s 244 square feet per student, with more space per student than any other elementary school. The redistricting idea was shelved after pushback from the community.
Square footage per student in Scarsdale Schools
So why not move the SPED program to Greenacres? The district has not offered a convincing argument about why Special Education cannot be moved to Greenacres. They say they expect an enrollment increase at Greenacres, but the data is not convincing, given low home sales, lack of available land for subdivisions, declining birthrates etc. They say they don’t want to have to move the program year to year - but it appears that the program could move to and remain at Greenacres.
What is the alternative?
Greenacres EnrollmentRather than adding on so much square footage to our footprint, bond funds could be used to reconfigure some of the smaller classrooms at Greenacres to accommodate the SPED program. These rooms are in the original wing of the school that was not reconfigured during the renovation. This would allow three classrooms to be freed up at Edgewood where funds could be used to renovate and modify Edgewood to meet their current needs.
Given the strain on district reserves and health insurance costs, building more space at this time does not seem prudent. The $21mm spent to expand now will ultimately require hiring additional staff, health insurance and retirement costs, increasing custodial services and spending more on facilities upkeep for decades to come.
The long-term financial picture for district finances is concerning. Let’s not expand when we already have ample space.
