Episode 3 of ScarsTales is Here!

In this episode of ScarsTales, hosts Laurie Rothman, Leslie Chang, and Jordan Copeland explore two deeply interconnected narratives: the founding and evolution of the Scarsdale Historical Society and the historical experience of Jewish residents in Scarsdale, New York.

The discussion traces how historic preservation efforts emerged in response to the demolition of a landmark home in the mid-20th century, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Scarsdale Historical Society in 1973. The episode also examines shifting community dynamics, including early Jewish settlement, social barriers, and key turning points that fostered greater inclusion.

Blending archival research, personal anecdotes, and cultural analysis, the episode highlights how local history reflects broader societal trends—and why preserving it remains essential today.

We hope you’ll subscribe, rate, and review to help these stories reach more listeners.

TUNE IN

Recap: The Scarsdale Bowl & Our Spotlight Award

What a night at the Scarsdale Bowl Dinner. We’re still taking it all in—and so grateful to the Scarsdale Foundation for recognizing our volunteer work in such a meaningful way.

Scarsdale Historical Trustees in attendance for the evening. Credit: Andi Schreiber

From the moment the evening began, there was a real sense of community in the room—neighbors, friends, and supporters all coming together to celebrate service and impact.

Scarsdale Historical Society Trustees with Special guests. Front l to r: Lori Rothman, Jordan Copeland, Dan Glauber (Local History Librarian, Scarsdale Public Library), Deborah Skolnik, Lesley Topping (Filmmaker). Back l to r: Christine Weston, Leslie Chang, Randy Guggenhimer, May Cowan, Shivi Bansal, Marc Cheshire (Communications) and Peter Blier. Credit: Andi Schreiber

Receiving the Spotlight Award was truly an honor, and one we share with our entire board. We especially missed those who couldn’t be there with us in person—they were very much part of this moment. We were delighted to be joined by three key collaborators who contribute meaningfully to our work: Dan Glauber (Local History Librarian from Scarsdale Public Library), filmmaker Lesley Topping, and Marc Cheshire (Communications).

We were also honored to be recognized alongside the night’s top honoree, the incredible Terri Simon, whose contributions continue to inspire so many in our community.

Bowl winner Terri Simon with Scarsdale Bowl Committee Chair, Pam Fuehrer. Credit: Andi Schreiber

And beyond the recognition, what made the evening even more meaningful was its purpose: supporting scholarships for those in need. It’s a reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with generosity and intention.

Credit: Andi Schreiber

Thank you again to the Scarsdale Foundation for a memorable evening—and to everyone who makes this work possible. We’re proud to be part of a community that shows up for one another.

Our President Randy Guggenheimer when he accepted the Spotlight Award from Pam Feuhrer. Credit: Andi Schreiber

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

WATCH NOW: A History of Jewish People in Scarsdale

A History of Jewish People in Scarsdale traces the community's Jewish history from a marginal presence with limited civic participation to full integration within Scarsdale's social and civic life. Drawing on original research and incorporating broader historical context, Village Historian and Scarsdale Historical Society Vice President Jordan Copeland examines why Scarsdale attracted a significant Jewish population, how Scarsdale's Jewish settlement differed from neighboring communities, and the obstacles Jewish residents faced along the way, offering a nuanced account of both progress and challenge.

Recorded on Monday, April 6 | 7:00 PM. The event was co-sponsored by the Scarsdale Public Library.

Episode 2 of ScarsTales is Here!

One-room schoolhouses, overcrowded classrooms, forward-thinking educational models, and a hunt for old school records - this episode offers additional historical context and stories connected to the Scarsdale Schools and our documentary, From the First Schoolhouse: A Scarsdale Story, directed and edited by Lesley Topping and produced by the Scarsdale Historical Society.

We hope you’ll subscribe, rate, and review to help these stories reach more listeners.

TUNE IN

Watch Now: Scarsdale's Revolutionary Transition

Scarsdale’s Revolutionary Transition: From Colonial Manor to American Town

Scarsdale Village Historian and Scarsdale Historical Society Vice President, Jordan Copeland examines Scarsdale’s transformation from a colonial manor to an American town in the aftermath of the Revolution. It explains what it meant to live under the manor system, how Scarsdale was governed before independence, and what changed when that structure gave way to town government. Drawing on surviving records from the 1700s, the talk explores what we know about daily life in Scarsdale, including what mattered most to its residents, how authority was exercised, and how early residents contributed to the creation of a community.

This program was presented live at the Scarsdale Library on March 16, 2026.

Extended Interview with a Founding Teacher of A-School, Tony Arenella

The Full Interview Conducted by Film Director Lesley Topping for Our Film, From the First Schoolhouse: A Scarsdale Story

Tony Arenella is one of the original founding teachers of the Scarsdale Alternative School (A- School, or SAS), a unique community-based alternative school within Scarsdale High School. In this extended interview, Tony discusses the groundbreaking ideas that shaped the school in the seventies and continue to contribute to its success today.

About the A-School

Tony on the steps of the Scarsdale A-School, 1977 Scarsdale High School Yearbook

Founded in 1972, the A-School is known for its progressive, student-centered approach to education. With small classes and an emphasis on collaboration, discussion, and critical thinking, the school fosters curiosity, independence, and a strong sense of community.

About Tony Arenella

Tony Arenella was one of the founders of the Scarsdale Alternative School. He received a bachelor’s from Columbia College and a Master’s in Education from Harvard University, and started at Scarsdale Schools teaching English in 1969. In 1985, he succeeded Judy Codding as the director of the A-School, serving in that role until he retired in 2003.

Beginning with only sixty-two students, three full-time teachers, and several part-time teachers, the early team developed the groundbreaking philosophies and structures that still shape the A-School today. Tony’s dedication kept the school grounded in Lawrence Kohlberg’s principles of the “Just Community,” and also helped sustain the school during challenging financial times.

Interview with Tony Arenella

Extended bonus content with Tony from: From the First Schoolhouse: A Scarsdale Story, a documentary on the history of the Scarsdale schools.