The Barn Blog

Walter LeStrange is a healthcare executive and consultant who will share the remarkable history of Bellevue Hospital, America’s first public hospital and a cornerstone of modern medicine. He will explore Bellevue’s medical firsts and its role serving the city’s most vulnerable while shaping emergency care and public health nationwide. The talk will be brought to life with firsthand stories from Bellevue’s Emergency Department during the turbulent late 1970s through the 1990s.

Adam Winski is a musician and bluegrass aficionado. He took us on a journey through the history of bluegrass, its different styles, and why it’s still thriving today, with stories, listening examples, and live performances woven in. Adam’s presentation resonated deeply with bluegrass lovers while his enthusiasm piqued the interest of those who weren’t knowledgeable about the genre.

Chris “Coach” Rodriguez is the assistant program director and morning show host at WXPK 107.1FM – The Peak. He’s also been named Best Local Broadcaster in Westchester Magazine’s Best of Westchester feature. Coach shared stories from behind the mic and discussed why terrestrial radio still matters, including the advantages it brings in today’s world.

Judah Holstein, Westchester County Legislator for District 10, is heading up a fight against Con Edison’s repeated and aggressive electric and gas rate increases. He walked us through how ConEd has pushed for multiple hikes, what the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) is weighing now, and how you can make your voice heard in their decision.

Kevin McGahren, president and general manager of Greyston Bakery in Yonkers, shared his journey in the food and beverage industry and the remarkable story of a company known for its decadent brownies and its pioneering Open Hiring® model, which creates jobs while transforming lives.

Santhana Raman, originally from Chennai in southern India, has spent 33 years in the restaurant world. He’s now the new operator of Spice Village in Tuckahoe. Santhana shared stories of his background, his passion for Indian cuisine, and the hard-won lessons behind running a successful restaurant.

Chris Scheld has spent a 20 year career working at the intersection of technology and advertising, supporting businesses ranging from IBM and the Radio City Rockettes, to a lumber company in rural Alabama. Ever wonder exactly how those ads on the internet work? Could even a billboard be speaking just to you?  Chris broke down how businesses use technology today to reach more people with increasing specificity, and what the future may hold.

Stan Chin served up the fast-growing phenomenon of pickleball. Addressing seasoned players and those curious what all the hype is about, Stan broke down the basics, shared tips, and dove into why this paddle sport is winning over players of all ages. Expect a lively, informative evening from a true pickleball enthusiast.