{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Hudson Valley Storycatcher with Jen Lee","title":"Bridging the Divide with Frank Pepe","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":1857,"description":"In this episode of Hudson Valley Storycatcher, host Jen Lee sits down with Frank Pepe, a retired school superintendent and community leader from Stanford, New York. Frank shares his lifelong journey of finding where he fits in and his commitment to fostering a caring community amidst modern political and social turmoil. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:The Heroic Legacy of Charlie JohnsonFrank discusses his commitment to share the story of Charles Johnson, an Arlington High School graduate (Class of 1951). Breaking Barriers: Johnson was the only African-American male in his school but was so beloved he was elected class Vice President within weeks. Battlefield Heroism: During the Korean War at \"Outpost Harry,\" Johnson saved nine of his fellow soldiers—including a friend from his high school—before being killed in action. A Living Lesson: Frank uses this story to illustrate some of the great values found in all religions: compassion, selflessness, and the breaking of social barriers. Stanford: a Caring CommunityBorn out of the unrest following the murder of George Floyd, this organization seeks to provide “ a view of community and unity for all people.\" Mission: Standing in solidarity with those whose identities—racial, religious, or LGBTQ—have been attacked by hatred or violence. Building Bridges: Since Stanford is a small town with limited diversity, the group partners with more diverse organizations across Dutchess County to foster dialogue. The Art of ConnectionFrank shares his \"nitty-gritty\" tools for strengthening community bonds:Active Listening: Learning to listen without ego or the need to have an immediate answer. Humanity First: Finding common ground with neighbors despite oppositional political views.Presence: Creating safe spaces for others to speak of their pain or life experiences. About Our Guest: Frank PepeProfessional Background: Retired Superintendent of Schools with a lifetime vocation in education. Public Service: Former member of the Stanford Town...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/KMzavUo0hBrGKwYbbh-jl_LVncihot2xENK2mdVzIcA/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS84ODZi/MzA2ZWVlM2QwNTI4/YjZjODJiOTkzZDY1/NTNjZi5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}