This Week in Westchester: The Podcast

Westchester County Government

Your weekly audio briefing from Westchester County Government. Where each week, County Executive Ken Jenkins breaks down the decisions, investments and initiatives shaping life across Westchester. Clear information. Real progress. One place to stay informed.

  1. Westchester, Explained 08: How to Save a Dragon - Playland and Bringing the Dragon Coaster Back to Life

    2D AGO

    Westchester, Explained 08: How to Save a Dragon - Playland and Bringing the Dragon Coaster Back to Life

    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.  On this episode, we’re taking you inside one of Westchester’s most iconic destinations: Playland Park -- as it gears up for a major comeback season. We sit down with the County’s Department of Parks and Recreation First Deputy Commissioner, Peter Tartaglia -- to talk about what it really took to bring this historic park and its beloved Dragon Coaster -- back to life. From behind-the-scenes restoration work to new rides, lower prices and a renewed focus on safety -- this is the story of how Playland is returning stronger than ever -- and how the wait is finally almost over to again experience the Playland that you remember and love. And with opening day around the corner, we’ll share what visitors can expect and why this summer you won’t want to miss out on the magic. If you’re ready to learn everything you ever wanted to know about the 98 year old amusement park on the Sound -- where Tom Hanks got big, Mariah made herself a star and you had your first taste of cotton candy – just say meet me at the Dragon Coaster and we’ll get this ride moving. So, Let's begin. --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    39 min

  2. 3D AGO

    TWIW 19: May 4, 2026

    In This Episode: County Executive Ken Jenkins discussed recent changes to SNAP requirements. Lewisboro Town Supervisor Tony Gonçalves joined to discuss issues effecting the Town. Department of Community Mental Health Commissioner Michael Orth joined to discuss May as Mental Health Awareness Month in Westchester. This year’s theme is More Good Days, Together, which encourages individuals to reflect on what a “good” day looks like, both for ourselves, and for our communities.Department of Correction Commissioner Joseph Spano joined in observance of National Correctional Professionals Week (May 3 through May 9). The week provides an opportunity to honor the highly trained uniform, civilian and contractual staff at the Department for their commitment to duty, to one another, and the individuals entrusted in their care. Department of Planning Commissioner Blanca Lopez joined to discuss an exciting upcoming initiative for the Planning Department, Resilient Westchester: A Focus on Flooding. County Executive Ken Jenkins discussed the upcoming State of the County Address, scheduled for Wednesday, May 6. Deputy County Executive Joan McDonald discussed upcoming events in Westchester County Parks.  --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    35 min
  3. Westchester, Explained 07: What Westchester Experts Say About Screen Time—and What Parents Can Do

    APR 29

    Westchester, Explained 07: What Westchester Experts Say About Screen Time—and What Parents Can Do

    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’re tackling a topic that touches every family: screen time—and what it’s really doing to our kids. We’re joined by leaders from Westchester County’s Youth Bureau, Department of Community Mental Health and the Disconnect to Reconnect initiative to break down the research, the risks and what "screen time" moderation actually looks like in real life.  From early childhood development to the pressures of social media, we explore how digital habits are shaping behavior, mental health and connection and why that matters to our Westchester residents, parents and teens. And with Screen-Free Week approaching, we’ll share simple, realistic ways families can unplug and reconnect with what matters most. --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    29 min

  4. APR 27

    TWIW 18: April 27, 2026

    In This Episode: North Salem Town Supervisor Warren Lucas joined to discuss issues effecting the Town.Administrator of the Office of Assigned Council Stephanie Perez joined to highlight the Office of Assigned Counsel’s upcoming “Pannual” for the 200 attorneys who handle their cases. Founder of Operation Prom National Network Noel D’Allacco joined to speak about this year’s Prom Wear Giveaway, taking place at the Westchester County Center May 1 through May 3. For more than two decades, Westchester County has partnered with Operation Prom to help make this rite of passage accessible to all students in Westchester. Department of Environmental Facilities upcoming Household Recycling Days. Jenkins announced the upcoming Haitian Heritage Month celebration. Jenkins highlighted the State of the County Address on May 6. --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    29 min
  5. Westchester, Explained 06: Inside the Lives Forward Program - A Story About Second Chances & Accountability

    APR 22

    Westchester, Explained 06: Inside the Lives Forward Program - A Story About Second Chances & Accountability

    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.  What if you were judged by the worst day of your life for the rest of life?  Today we explore this question as we discuss the County's Lives Forward Program – a certified recovery peer advocate program launched in 2023 at the Westchester County Jail. At the heart -- this is a program about getting inmates to reflect on their own lives and choices -- and then take that knowledge and pass it forward. Joining us today to discuss this program's cross-departmental roots are Department of Community Mental Health Deputy Commissioner Joe  Glazer and Departmenf of Corrections First Deputy Commissioner Noraima Padilla. And as you will also hear from today's third guest, Alfredo Roldan, who was one of the first Lives Forward Program Graduates -- you will see how this is a episode that's really about second chances, accountability and the power of people helping people.  Listen now to find out how the Lives Forward Program is changing lives in Westchester County, creating new opportunities and proving that a person's future does not need to be defined by their past -- and why this matters.   --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    26 min

  6. APR 20

    TWIW 17: April 20, 2026

    In this episode: Commissioner of Probation Rocco Pozzi joined to discuss the County’s observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW).Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Facilities Lou Vetrone and Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability Peter McCartt joined to discuss upcoming Household Recycling Days in Westchester County. Interim Executive Director of Sustainable Westchester Tom Watson and Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability Peter McCartt joined to discuss Earth Day and the upcoming Grid Rewards event. Jenkins discussed the magic of Playland for the 2026 Season. Jenkins highlighted the upcoming 2026 State of the County Address Jenkins highlighted upcoming events in Westchester County Parks. --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    45 min
  7. Westchester, Explained 05: Uncovering Westchester’s History and Why It Matters with Historian Joyce Cole

    APR 15

    Westchester, Explained 05: Uncovering Westchester’s History and Why It Matters 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.  Today, we're focusing on Westchester's history – and how our past isn’t just preserved in our archives. It’s waiting to be discovered in our homes, our attics and even behind our walls. Featuring Joyce Cole, Village of Ossining Historian and Executive Secretary to the Commissioner of Westchester County’s Department of Emergency Services -- this conversation explores how everyday discoveries can uncover powerful stories and reshape our understanding of the past.  Listen now to deepen your appreciation of the history in Westchester that is hiding all around us and waiting to be uncovered and pieced together. Learn why a photo found in a book, a box of letters uncovered in the attic, or a phone book that was lost under the floorboards all have stories to tell. And why for a historian like Joyce -- they might even help fill in a missing piece of our past -- one name, one face and one mystery at a time. --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    33 min

  8. APR 13

    TWIW 16: April 13, 2026

    In this episode: Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins honored the life and legacy of Former Congressman Eliot Engel, who passed away last week.Mount Pleasant Supervisor Carl Fulgenzi discussed key initiatives and updates from the Town of Mount Pleasant.Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins provided information on an upcoming event sponsored by the County Department of Health to provide free rabies vaccines for pets on Sunday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Stamen Animal Hospital, 61 Quaker Ridge Road in New Rochelle. Westchester County Consumer Protection Director James Maisano joined to discuss ways to stay safe from scammers during tax season. In recognition of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12–18), we highlighted the critical role of emergency dispatchers across Westchester, including the teams at WCDES 60 Control, WCDPS and local dispatch centers. Westchester County Department of Emergency Services Commissioner Susan Spear and Westchester County Department of Public Safety Commissioner Terrance Raynor discussed the vital work of telecommunicators and shared important guidance on how residents can safely and effectively call 9-1-1. Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins shared information on the upcoming State of the County Address. Highlights from the Westchester County Parks Department.  --- 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 or follow us on social:  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube

    33 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Your weekly audio briefing from Westchester County Government. Where each week, County Executive Ken Jenkins breaks down the decisions, investments and initiatives shaping life across Westchester. Clear information. Real progress. One place to stay informed.

Information

  • Creator
    Westchester County Government
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 This Week in Westchester: The Podcast
  • Show Website
    This Week in Westchester: The Podcast

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