September is Library Card Sign-up Month! Public libraries are a major benefit to our communities, providing everything from a wealth of knowledge and fun, to informative programs, and more. In this episode, I speak with the directors of two local libraries: Dana Hysell of the Field Library in Peekskill and Karen LaRocca-Fels of the Ossining Public Library, both part of the greater Westchester Library System. If you don't have your library card yet, keep listening to learn more about themany resources a library card gives you access to. Find your local library this Library Card Sign Up Month at www.westchesterlibraries.org for Westchester residents and discover.midhudsonlibraries.org for Putnam residents.

In this episode I speak with Megan Larmer, Senior Director of Programs at Cold Spring's Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming. Glynwood is a not-for-profit organization serving hundreds of food and farming innovators in New York’s Hudson Valley and beyond. Through their four core strategies - training and supporting the next generation of farmers, increasing food access and equity, cultivating climate resilient solutions, and fostering markets and movements to improve regional resilience - Glynwood aims to promote just and resilient food systems so that farmers, land, and communities prosper. You can learn more about Glynwood and how to get involved at www.glynwood.org.

In this episode of Building Healthy Communities, I speak with Ridvan Idara, founder and executive director of New Era Creative Space (NECS). NECS is a community-driven educational and creative center located in Peekskill, NY. Its mission is to offer inclusive, accessible programs that promote creativity and empowerment for both youth and families. The organization emphasizes developing stronger communities through arts education, leadership development, and a variety of hands-on creative programs. NECS offers a broad range of activities, including theater, dance, music, photography, visual arts, workshops to develop soft skills, and cultural immersion trips. The organization stands out for its multidisciplinary approach, integrating the arts with personal and social growth, and ensuring that participants from all backgrounds and abilities can find a welcoming space to express themselves. Visit https://necspace.org to learn more.