Tuesday, Dec 24th

lynneclark

The Junior League of Central Westchester JLCW announced it has selected Scarsdale resident Lynne Clark to be awarded the inaugural Distinguished Sustainer Award at its 65th Anniversary Gala on March 16, 2012 at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester. Lynne Clark was selected based on her noteworthy contributions to the JLCW and her leadership in the community. The 65th Anniversary Gala will celebrate the JLCW’s growth over 65 years and celebrate the organization’s commitment to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The Gala celebration is open to the public and will be attended by JLCW members and other prominent members of the community. The evening will include cocktails, dinner, dancing and an auction. Tickets are now available at www.jlcentralwestchester.org .

Lynne joined the Junior League in 1956 and enjoyed the combination of volunteer service, training in leadership and service and vibrant friendships among young adult women. She served on many committees and was president of the chapter from 1974 – 1976. In recent years, she has continued to support the League in many ways, including serving as Sustainer Chairman, serving on the Community Advisory Committee, recruiting new members, and attending as many fundraisers as possible. Lynne has made vast contributions to the local community starting with her days at Scarsdale High School when her class had the foresight to name her “Done Most for Scarsdale.” Currently Lynne Clark serves on the Conservation Advisory Committee for the Village of Scarsdale, the Steering Committee of “At Home in Scarsdale Village” (a service of Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service), the Board of Directors of the Greenacres Neighborhood Association (and on the Greenacres Centennial Celebration Committee). An Elder at Hitchcock Presbyterian Church, Lynne is serving as a Deacon, is on the Endowment Committee and, with her husband Merrell, is Co-Chair of a Steering Committee that is planning a Centennial Celebration Year in 2013. She is Vice President of a group buying organization she co-founded, the Greenacres Oil Purchasing Consortium (GOPC), which has grown to 900 members. Lynne’s demonstrated volunteerism and leadership exemplify the mission of the JLCW. Highlights of her many services include Class President of Mount Holyoke College, Chairman of the Human Relations Advisory Council for the Village of Scarsdale, Co-Chair of the Scarsdale Advisory Committee to the Trustees on Downtown Development, Founder and Director of Hitchcock Play Care and Chairman of the Scarsdale Bowl Committee. For Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service, Clark served on the Board of Directors for twenty years, provided her home and family as host family for youth in crisis and was awarded a Silver Box for outstanding volunteer service. Other organizations she has served include United Way of Scarsdale Edgemont, Youth Employment Service and Scarsdale Forum. As Reunion Chairman, she managed the Scarsdale High School Class of 1952 reunions for the 25th and 50th gatherings. Lynne Clark’s real estate career began in 1976 and since then she has completed over 1200 transactions.

She was one of the owners of the original Julia B. Fee firm where she served on the management team for 15 years. Now at Houlihan Lawrence, she enjoys helping people through major life transitions from moving to a bigger house for starting a family or scaling down to a smaller house for retirement. “It is our profound honor to recognize Lynne Clark with our Distinguished Sustainer Award during this monumental year in JLCW history,” stated Lynn Marvin, President of the Junior League of Central Westchester. “As a true pillar of the community, Lynne’s volunteerism, leadership, and distinguished career inspire our membership every day.” Lynne currently resides in Scarsdale with her husband Merrell Clark where she enjoys traveling, reading, cooking, gardening, dancing and trips to New York City for museums, concerts and theater. They have three daughters Lisa Clark Jenks, Aimee Clark Peterson, Catherine Merrell Clark and nine grandchildren. Amy Paulin, New York State Assemblywoman (88th District) and friend of Lynne Clark will be at the Gala to present the Distinguished Sustainer Award.

Those interested in congratulating Lynne Clark on this honor can purchase an advertisement in the Gala Journal by calling (914)723-6130 or emailing [email protected]. Tickets to the Gala are now available at www.jlcentralwestchester.org . For more information on the Gala, becoming a sponsor, advertising in the journal, or donating to the silent auction, please contact the JLCW office at (914) 723-6130, or email [email protected].

 

 

kolamilogoCongregation Kol Ami of White Plains, NY, a leading synagogue since 1923, today announced that it has kicked-off the official public launch of its Capital Campaign, “L’Dor Va’Dor” or “Generation to Generation.” The announcement was made by Kol Ami Board of Directors co-presidents Mark Seiden and Ronnie Cohn Farley.

The capital campaign will renovate the sanctuary and improve the campus property. The project will create a newly remodeled and expanded space for prayer, study, social action, celebration and friendship. The sanctuary renovation is scheduled to start this spring and is expected to be completed by the high holidays in September.

“It is vital that we support the campaign because Kol Ami is a place that connects us to the traditions and wisdom of our Jewish heritage. It is a place where we nurture life-long friendships and reconnect to eternal values.” said Mark Seiden, co-president of the synagogue.

The Capital Campaign Committee, chaired by Andrea Seiden, provides the campaign’s driving force, guidance and leadership.

“We are so proud that Kol Ami has been a center of Jewish worship and learning in Westchester for generations.” said Andrea Seiden, the campaign chair. “We cannot be more excited, dedicated and committed to raising the remaining funds to complete our campaign and bring the important renovations necessary to continuing our legacy.”

The completion of the project will propel Kol Ami into the future with a completely renovated, bright, modern, and inviting space for Jewish worship that reflects its warm, caring congregation. It will bring more flexibility for greater accommodation of contemporary worship practices and congregant life-cycle events for its over 800 families– seasons of joy, times of loss, social action and special events. It will also better accommodate for members and guests with special needs. Also planned is state-of-the- art music and audio capability. The campaign will also address the needs of landscaping the grounds and parking area so that there is better lighting, drainage and traffic flow.

The firm of Levin/Brown & Associates, Inc. of Owings Mills, Maryland has been retained as architects for the project. Maura Smolover of Arts in Architecture, has been commissioned to design the Torah Ark and the Ner Tamid, the most sacred aspect of the sanctuary space.

As Ronnie Cohn Farley expressed, “We need to revitalize our facility by transforming it into a lively campus – not just because we are one of the largest, most vibrant reform congregations in the area, but also because Kol Ami has been and remains a major resource in sustaining the Jewish people of Westchester County.”

“We feel a strong connection to a life of purpose with Jewish wisdom and values as our guide.” said Kol Ami Rabbi Shira Milgrom. “Kol Ami is the spiritual home we all share; and the successful completion of L’Dor Va’Dor will ensure that our home will shine for generations to come.

For more information about supporting the L’Dor Va’Dor capital campaign, contact Janet Hershey, Director of Membership and Development at Congregation Kol Ami at 914.949-4717 ext 115 or [email protected]. Tax deductible contributions are welcome and may be sent to Congregation Kol Ami, 252 Soundview Avenue, White Plains, NY, 10606. Contributions are tax-deductible. www.nykolami.org

 

 

JrLeagueGala_copyThe Junior League of Central Westchester has selected Family Services of Westchester (“FSW”) to be awarded the inaugural Community Partner Award at its 65th Anniversary Gala on March 16, 2012 at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester. FSW was selected based on its demonstrated excellence in partnering with the JLCW to provide opportunities for members to engage in and learn from the community.

The 65th Anniversary Gala will celebrate the JLCW’s growth over 65 years and celebrate the organization’s commitment to promoting volunteerism; developing the potential of women; and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The Gala celebration is open to the public and will be attended by JLCW members and other prominent members of the community. The evening will include cocktails, dinner, dancing and an auction. Tickets are now available at www.jlcentralwestchester.org .

The recipient of the JLCW’s Community Partner Award, Family Services of Westchester, has been a private, not-for-profit, non-sectarian agency located in Westchester County, New York since 1954. With a staff of more than 450 professionals and paraprofessionals, FSW offers a broad range of innovative programs custom-designed to meet particular needs of children, teens, adults, and the elderly through six Family Centers.

With more than 50 programs throughout the county, FSW will be recognized for providing a diverse and flexible range of volunteer opportunities that allow JLCW members to experience a variety of venues and cultivate different skills. Whether it’s through renovating a teenage group home or hosting a nutrition event for preschoolers and their families, JLCW members have found that the scope of FSW’s programs provide them with opportunities to assist a broad range of country residents. In addition, FSW’s large focus on youth programs particularly suits the interests of JLCW members.

The JLCW will also recognize the efficiency of FSW’s very active and effective volunteer program that opens the door to the non-profit‘s rich programs and services. FSW’s staff members provide clear and timely communication to JLCW, resulting in successful volunteer projects that are ideally suited to meet JLCW’s interests and goals.

“It is with great pleasure that we announce FSW as our honoree for the Community Partner Award. As one of the oldest, largest and most respected not-for-profit organizations headquartered in Westchester County, FSW inspires our membership each day with its dedication to strengthening and supporting local families and individuals,” stated Lynn Marvin, President of Junior League of Central Westchester. “With the organization’s longstanding commitment to working with the JLCW and providing rich and meaningful volunteer opportunities, FSW stands out as an exceptional community partner.”

“We are honored to be recognized as part of this historic event for the JLCW,” stated Susan B. Wayne, President and CEO of Family Services of Westchester. “We are highly committed to partner organizations like the Junior League of Central Westchester who support us as we make a difference in the lives of 30,000 individuals and families every year.”

Sponsorship packages, including tickets, tables and a range of additional recognition opportunities are available, as are advertisements in the Gala journal.

For more information on the Gala, becoming a sponsor, advertising in the journal, or donating to the silent auction, please contact the JLCW office at (914)723-6130, or email [email protected]. Tickets to the Gala are now available at www.jlcentralwestchester.org.

 

gradhatsStudents who graduated from Scarsdale High School and/or live in Scarsdale and who have completed their first, second, or third years of college are invited to apply to the Scarsdale Foundation for tuition assistance. For the 2011-2012 academic year, $85,000 was awarded to 24 students attending private and state-supported colleges in their second, third, and fourth years.

Applications should be submitted online on the Scarsdale Foundation’s website, scarsdalefoundation.org (click on the College Scholarships link). Completed applications must be submitted by Friday, June 1, 2012. Late applications will not be accepted. Inquiries regarding scholarship applications should be directed to Susie Rush, [email protected] or 472-7797.

The Scarsdale Foundation is the presenter of the Scarsdale Bowl Award, given annually to a citizen(s) who has contributed outstanding voluntary service. Florie Wachtenheim will receive this year’s award at a dinner to be held at the Lake Isle Country Club on Wednesday, April 18. All members of the community are invited to attend.

The Foundation welcomes contributions from the community to augment the funds available for distribution each year. Contributions may also be donated to a specially earmarked scholarship fund of the Scarsdale Foundation, with monies to be used for 2012-2013 recipients, enabling the Foundation to carry on the Scarsdale tradition of helping our students in need to pursue a college education. Donations may be made online by visiting the Foundation’s website, scarsdalefoundation.org , or mailed to the Foundation at P.O. Box 542, Scarsdale, NY 10583.

The Scarsdale Foundation was established in 1923 to raise funds for the family of a slain Scarsdale police officer. Since that time it has grown and expanded activities as a nonprofit community trust. In addition to the granting of college scholarships, the Foundation provides aid to Scarsdale families who may need assistance in sending their children to the Scarsdale Rec Camp.

In past years, the Foundation has granted project assistance and seed money for other community organizations, including the Scarsdale Volunteer Ambulance Corp., the Scarsdale-Edgemont Family Counseling Service, Scarsdale Citizens for Senior Housing, the Scarsdale Public Library, the Task Force on Drugs and Alcohol, Partners in Youth, Scarsdale Student Transfer Education Plan (STEP), the Scarsdale Historical Society, Friends of Music and the Arts, the League of Women Voters, the Tercentenary Celebration Committee, and Hoff-Barthelson Music School. The Foundation also helped to fund the WESTHAB "Make a House a Home" project that refurbished the former Village Hall Annex building on Post Road for continued occupancy as a residence for a homeless family.

The Foundation administers several funds, including the Luella B. Slaner Scholarship Fund, the Scarsdale School Personnel and Family Assistance Fund, the Kathy Froelich Memorial Scholarship Fund, the Stefan E. Corbin Fund, the Robert Delany Memorial Scholarship Fund, the Frank J. and Ruth P. Galvin Fund and the Billy Safian Humanitarian Fund.

For more information regarding the work of the Foundation, please contact Foundation President Jacqueline Irwin at 472-2311 or visit the website, scarsdalefoundation.org.

 

 

volunteerThe Personnel Committee of the Village Board is asking residents interested in volunteering to serve on Village Boards, Councils and Committees to submit their names for consideration. New terms will begin April 2, 2012. This year, there are openings on most Boards and Councils. The Committee strongly encourages residents to apply for these positions.

Trustee Robert Harrison, Chair of the Personnel Committee, said interested residents are encouraged to submit their own names, together with a brief listing of community service and relevant professional background. It is also helpful for Scarsdale residents to provide written suggestions of individuals who should be considered for appointment. Please submit contact information including email addresses. The information may be submitted in one of two ways:

• Via the Village Website – At www.scarsdale.com , click “read more” under Volunteers Needed for Boards and Councils (located under Village News on the home page). On the next screen, complete the on-line application form under “Boards and Councils Nominations” and follow the on-screen instructions.

• Via Village Hall – Alternatively, the information may be forwarded to Robert Harrison at Village Hall, 1001 Post Road, Scarsdale NY 10583

All materials should be received at the Village website or Village Hall by February 24, 2012. Residents should feel free to contact the Personnel Committee Chair, Robert Harrison by telephone at 914-725-0962 or e-mail at [email protected]. You may also contact the Village Clerk, Donna Conkling at 914-722-1175 or via e-mail, [email protected] for further information.

Pursuant to the general policy adopted by the Village Board, guidelines for membership on Scarsdale's appointed Boards, Councils and Committees cover four areas:

1. Residency

Boards, Committees and Advisory Councils are comprised of residents of the Village. While comments from outside the community can be sought as needed, actions recommended or taken by Boards, Committees and Advisory Councils should ultimately reflect the views of Village residents.

2. Professional or Business Affiliation

Various professional skills and training are required by Village law or deemed desirable by the Village Board of Trustees for the successful fulfillment of some Board, Council or Committee charters.

3. Civic Interest and Involvement

The majority of the members of Village Boards and Councils are appointed by reason of demonstrated interest in Village affairs, through volunteer involvement. Scarsdale is the beneficiary of a long history of voluntary civic endeavors. Since the overriding purpose of Boards, Committees and Councils is to assure the continuation of high community standards, it is appropriate that members on Boards, Committees and Councils be those residents who have demonstrated willingness and initiative to work in support of this objective.

4. Specialized Knowledge

Certain Boards, Committees and Councils benefit by having one or more members with specialized knowledge. For example, the Cable Television Commission benefits by having people with knowledge of the communications industry; the Advisory Council on People With Disabilities would benefit from the experience of residents with disabilities; the Advisory Council on Youth would benefit from people who have worked with young people; the Advisory Council on Parks and Recreation would benefit from having a parent active in the Recreation Department's Elementary School Sports Program.

NOMINATIONS

Nominations should be made in writing and should include information on the candidates’ civic involvement, work experience or other qualifications in sufficient detail to help the Village Board evaluate the prospective candidate. Nominations should be submitted via the Village website or sent to Trustee Robert Harrison at Village Hall, 1001 Post Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583 by February 25, 2011.

The following are the terms of office, and responsibilities for members appointed to the Boards, Councils and Committees:

BOARD OF APPEALS - (5 years - one term). Rules on appeals from zoning requirements, including setbacks; on permits for construction of swimming pools and tennis courts, and on non-conforming uses.

BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW - (3 years - two terms). Its basic purpose is to preserve the character and appearance of the Village. Review of all applications involving construction of buildings, or additions to, or reconstruction of existing buildings affecting the exterior appearance.

PLANNING BOARD - (5 years - one term). Advises Village Board on master planning; rules on applications for sub-division of lots, street designations, construction in wetland areas and non-residential buildings.

BOARD OF ETHICS - (5 years - one term). Possible conflicts of interest or other issues of ethics affecting Village personnel are referred to this Board by the Board of Trustees.

CABLE TELEVISION COMMISSION - (5 years - open-ended terms). Administers and monitors the Cable Franchise Agreements with the Village and encourages use of the cable access channels.

CONSERVATION ADVISORY COUNCIL - (2 years - open-ended terms). Advises the Village Board on such matters as programs, areas, facilities, public relations and other matters pertaining to conservation of the environment.

COMMITTEE FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION - (3 years - two terms). Determines if a structure located in the Village for which a permit for demolition has been requested is a structure of historical importance.

LIBRARY BOARD - (5 years - one term). Responsible for the administrative and operating policies of the Scarsdale Public Library. Operates independently of the Village Board and selects its own President.

ADVISORY COUNCIL ON PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES - (2 years - open-ended terms). Advises and assists the Village Board in matters of concern to residents with disabilities. Assists with programs and activities, increases public awareness of the needs of the disabled, acts as liaison with other Advisory Councils, and promotes participation in community affairs by disabled persons.

ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HUMAN RELATIONS - (2 years - open-ended terms). Considers and recommends actions at the request of the Village Board to foster mutual respect and understanding among all members of the community.

ADVISORY COUNCIL ON PARKS AND RECREATION - (2 years - open-ended terms). Promotes the recreation program in the Village and advises the Village Board on the use of Village parks for recreation and passive uses, recommends the use or non-use of all open space, and acts as a liaison between the Village Board and the community on all matters relating to recreation and parks.

ADVISORY COUNCIL ON SCARSDALE SENIOR CITIZENS - (2 years - open-ended terms). Advises and assists the Board of Trustees in all matters concerning the senior citizens of the Village of Scarsdale.

TOWN BOARD OF ASSESSMENT REVIEW - (5 years – open-ended terms). This Board reviews property tax grievances filed with respect to property tax assessments.

ADVISORY COUNCIL ON TECHNOLOGY - (2 years - open-ended terms). This Council has a broad mandate in advising the Village Board and staff on technological matters. It provides advice, explores strategic options, and develops recommendations on how the Village Board can best utilize technology, including the Internet to improve efficiencies.

ADVISORY COUNCIL ON YOUTH - (2 years - open-ended terms). Advises and assists the Board of Trustees in responding to the needs of Scarsdale's young people and works to generate a favorable climate for growth and development of youth in the community.

JUDICIAL QUALIFICATIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE - (5 years - two terms). The Committee’s function is to assist the Citizens’ Nominating Committee and the Mayor, respectively with the selection of individuals who are qualified for the offices of Village Justice and Acting Village Justice.

REPRESENTATIVE TO SCARSDALE ARTS COUNCIL - (2 years - open-ended terms). At-large representative (total of 4 appointed by the Village Board) to the Scarsdale Arts Council Board. The Council’s mission is to encourage the arts to flourish in Scarsdale by, among other methods, improving communication among arts programs and by attracting grant support and to raise public awareness and participation in the arts.