This Week in Westchester: The Podcast

Westchester, Explained 14: Exploring Juneteenth with Historian Joyce Cole

As an extension of our weekly "This Week in Westchester - The Podcast" we welcome you to Westchester, Explained. In this special long-form series we take you deeper into the headlines, decisions and policies shaping Westchester County and their impact on your family, your neighborhood and your future. Here we slow it down, dig in and bring in the people doing the work, and we explain not just what the County is doing, but why it matters. Because government should be clear. This is your County.  And this is Westchester, Explained.  In this episode, we explore the history, meaning and continued relevance of Juneteenth with local historian Joyce Cole.  From the delayed enforcement of emancipation in Texas to the stories of freedom and citizenship that followed, we examine why Juneteenth is an American holiday that belongs to all of us. We also connect this national story to Westchester County, highlighting local Civil War history, New York's own abolition legacy and the ways communities across our region continue to commemorate the ongoing pursuit of liberty and equality.  Join us as we reflect on our shared history, what Juneteenth teaches us about the American experience, and why it matters to Westchester residents. --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom [https://www.westchestercountyny.gov/all-press-releases] or follow us on social:  Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/westchester_county_government/]  |  Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/westchestergov/]  |  X (Twitter) [https://twitter.com/westchestergov]  |  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/westchester-county]  |  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC774tkGUZw8xoZtHhuQUsQ]

TWIW 25: June 15, 2026

In this episode: * Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins discussed the New York Knicks bringing a championship back to New York and marked Thursday, June 18, as Wear Your Blue and Orange Day across Westchester County. * Jenkins congratulated Westchester County Commissioner of the Department of Community Mental Health Michael Orth for being named Chair of the New York State Conference of Mental Hygiene Directors. * Westchester County Commissioner of Planning Blanca Lopez discussed the Planning Department’s annual report, the first of its kind, which highlights the work and accomplishments of the Department’s multiple divisions and showcases the programs, partnerships and investments that are helping build stronger and more resilient communities across Westchester County.  * Commissioner Lopez also highlighted the launch of the County’s Housing Flex Fund II Program, a new $25 million affordable housing initiative designed to accelerate the development and creation of affordable homes throughout Westchester. * Update on Westchester County Parks events and activities. --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom [https://www.westchestercountyny.gov/all-press-releases] or follow us on social:  Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/westchester_county_government/]  |  Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/westchestergov/]  |  X (Twitter) [https://twitter.com/westchestergov]  |  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/westchester-county]  |  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC774tkGUZw8xoZtHhuQUsQ]

Westchester, Explained 13: Summer at the Health Department - Ticks, Sunburns, and Safety Tips

As an extension of our weekly "This Week in Westchester - The Podcast" we welcome you to Westchester, Explained. In this special long-form series we take you deeper into the headlines, decisions and policies shaping Westchester County and their impact on your family, your neighborhood and your future. Here we slow it down, dig in and bring in the people doing the work, and we explain not just what the County is doing, but why it matters. Because government should be clear. This is your County.  And this is Westchester, Explained.  In this episode, we sit down with Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler to discuss the most important health and safety issues that residents should keep in mind this summer.  From sun protection, hydration and water safety to tick-borne illnesses, rabies prevention and the importance of vaccines -- we break down practical steps families and all residents can take to stay healthy during the warmer months.  We also explore the critical role the Westchester County Health Department plays in protecting our community every day -- and why it matters to Westchester residents. --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom [https://www.westchestercountyny.gov/all-press-releases] or follow us on social:  Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/westchester_county_government/]  |  Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/westchestergov/]  |  X (Twitter) [https://twitter.com/westchestergov]  |  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/westchester-county]  |  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC774tkGUZw8xoZtHhuQUsQ]

TWIW 24: June 8, 2026

In this episode: * Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins discussed the House’s decision to advance cuts to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). * Jenkins highlighted the first home game of the NBA Finals for the New York Knicks.  * Deputy County Executive Joan McDonald, senior member of the New York/New Jersey FIFA World Cup Host Committee Advisory Board, and Director of Tourism and Film Natasha Caputo, spoke about the tremendous tourism opportunities the tournament presents for Westchester County, including the wide range of accommodations, restaurants, attractions and gathering places where visitors and residents alike can enjoy the excitement of the games.  * Westchester County Public Safety Commissioner Terrance Raynor discussed proactive security measures being taken by law enforcement to increase safety measures during the tournament.  * LifeWay Network Executive Director Alison Boak, Co-Founder of the Westchester County Anti-Trafficking Task Force, discussed concerns surrounding human trafficking related to upcoming FIFA events in Westchester County, such as warning signs to look for, how victims can seek help, and what community members should do if they suspect someone may be a victim of trafficking.  * Update on Westchester County Parks events and activities.  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom [https://www.westchestercountyny.gov/all-press-releases] or follow us on social:  Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/westchester_county_government/]  |  Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/westchestergov/]  |  X (Twitter) [https://twitter.com/westchestergov]  |  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/westchester-county]  |  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC774tkGUZw8xoZtHhuQUsQ]

Westchester, Explained 12: Inside the County Clerk's Office and the Records that Shape Westchester

As an extension of our weekly "This Week in Westchester - The Podcast" we welcome you to Westchester, Explained. In this special long-form series we take you deeper into the headlines, decisions and policies shaping Westchester County and their impact on your family, your neighborhood and your future. Here we slow it down, dig in and bring in the people doing the work, and we explain not just what the County is doing, but why it matters. Because government should be clear. This is your County.  And this is Westchester, Explained.  In this episode, we sit down with Westchester County Clerk Tom Roach to explore the many services provided by the County Clerk’s Office – from passports and property records to county IDs and court filings. We discuss efforts to modernize operations, expand mobile services, protect homeowners from deed fraud and make government more accessible and convenient for residents.  We also take a look at the history behind the office and the important role it plays in preserving public records while embracing new technology. Join us as we break down how these services impact everyday life and why it matters to Westchester residents. --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom [https://www.westchestercountyny.gov/all-press-releases] or follow us on social:  Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/westchester_county_government/]  |  Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/westchestergov/]  |  X (Twitter) [https://twitter.com/westchestergov]  |  LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/westchester-county]  |  YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC774tkGUZw8xoZtHhuQUsQ]