Radio Chatskill

The natural beauty of the Catskills has inspired artists, writers and even architects. It has also inspired scientists. Robert and Johanna Titus are retired professors of geology and biology who have written many books and articles about the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley. The Tituses most recent book The Hudson River Schools of Art and their Ice Age Origins explains how an enormous ice sheet created not just the stunning landscape of the Catskill mountains but how it ultimately created inspiration for classic 19th century novels, popular city parks, and magnificent oil paintings. Robert and Johanna Titus will be giving the presentation Ice Age Origins of the Hudson River Schools of Art at the Time and the Valleys Museum in Grahamsville on Sunday April 27th at 2 PM. Radio Catskill contributor Tracy Gates spoke with them about how they arrived at such an interesting subject, as well as some of their favorite places to imagine the Catskills as it was 20,000 years ago.

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the original site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, is constantly working to preserve the magic of that muddy August weekend full of peace, love & music.Earlier this month, that work was highlighted on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Bethel Woods Museum Director, Dr. Neal Hitch, joined Kelly Clarkson on Tuesday, April 8, to talk all things Message Tree, the Museum's Oral History Initiative, and the new Special Exhibit. Fresh from the spotlight, Dr. Neal appeared on Radio Chatskill to discuss that appearance and upcoming local oral history pop-ups this summer in The Catskills.

In the quiet woods of the Lacawac Sanctuary in Lake Ariel Pennsylvania, a powerful initiative is giving veterans and their families a place to breathe, reflect, and heal. The At Ease Veterans Program is transforming the way the military community accesses mental health support—through nature, creativity, and connection.

For some families, putting healthy food on the table has never felt more challenging. Earlier this month, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said the Trump administration’s decision to cut $1 billion in federal funding allocated for food banks to purchase food for schools and child care centers will hurt struggling New Yorkers.Demand for emergency food is also up by 30%, according to local food pantry providers in Sullivan County. But what’s behind this jump?Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar spoke with Audrey Garro, Executive Director of A Single Bit, a nonprofit providing free, nutritious meals in the Catskills region. Garro broke down what’s driving the sharp increase in demand.

Tops Friendly Markets is expanding its footprint in the Hudson Valley with the opening of a brand-new location in Ellenville, NY. The supermarket chain will invest $2 million in extensive renovations at the site of a former ShopRite, transforming the 46,750 square-foot space into a modern and customer-focused shopping destination.Set to open in mid-June 2025, the new store will include a completely redesigned storefront, fresh interior and exterior paint, new landscaping, and energy-efficient upgrades like LED lighting and state-of-the-art equipment.“We are thrilled to be adding the Ellenville location to the Tops family of stores,” said Ron Ferri, president of Tops Friendly Markets. “At Tops, we constantly evaluate the best ways to serve our customers and reinvest into our communities. This latest store opening and its forthcoming enhancements will help make life a little easier for shoppers by focusing on a strong combination of convenience, selection, quality, and low prices every day.”The remodeled store will also highlight Tops’ commitment to fresh, local produce by partnering with over 500 regional farmers, including several in Ulster County.

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger has signed a law granting tax incentives for residents who build an accessory dwelling unit on their property, but not without reservations. She wants to amend the law.Metzger, a Democrat, says the law grants county residents a real property tax exemption on the portion of their increased property value resulting from an ADU. It’s tied to a state tax law aimed at encouraging ADU construction and increasing local housing stock. The exemption is capped at $200,000, lasts for five years, and gradually decreases every year after that.But Metzger already wants to amend the law, because she says the county legislature removed language preventing the tax-exempted ADUs from being used as short-term rentals.“This tax incentive is not meant as an incentive to add short-term rentals. We don’t need an incentive for that," she tells WAMC. "This is an incentive to encourage permanent housing solutions for our residents.”Ulster County, like much of the region and state, is struggling with a housing crisis. Housing advocates say the short-term rental market is exacerbating the shortage by snatching up would-be homes and apartments and turning them into vacation rentals and Airbnbs. In 2024, the median cost of a home was more than $300,000 in every county in the Hudson Valley, according to the nonprofit Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress.Groups like Pattern for Progress stress that New York will need to build all types of housing in order to best address the shortage and bring prices down, but Metzger says ADUs are among the fasted and cheapest types to build. Communities like Kingston and Rosendale have amended their zoning codes in recent years to clear hurdles for property owners. ADUs can range from small, separate “in-law cottages” in your backyard to apartment units above a garage. Metzger estimates they cost anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000, and the county is preparing to launch a third round of grants for aspiring ADU owners this summer.“In exchange for receiving funding — I think this past round it was around $112,000 — in return for receiving that money, the homeowner agrees to keep the rent affordable for at least 10 years," she explains.Republican Legislator Thomas Corcoran Jr. says he’s on board with Metzger’s amendment to the tax incentive law. He’s a fan of ADUs, and he’s currently working to update the zoning code in Marlborough, where he is a building inspector and zoning officer, to allow them. He likes short-term rentals, too, but he agrees Ulster County doesn’t need incentives for more of them.“Short-term rentals have their place, but I also have to be conscious of our hotel/motel situation, and our resorts," says Corcoran. "That’s their living. They’re making their living renting rooms.”Corcoran, who is a member of the Housing and Transportation Committee, says he doesn’t know how the short-term rental restriction got removed from the tax incentive law in the first place. In his committee meetings, he says it was always clear short-term rental ADUs weren’t meant to qualify.Metzger says an amendment came up on the floor of the legislature to remove the section of the law restricting short-term rentals. She says that section resembled language in the broader state tax law, but she wants it to be even more clear.“I’m going to propose that this language be put back in, and add further language clarifying that it should not be used for a short-term rental specifically," she says. "This is the intent of the state statute, but I think the language in the state statute is a little more vague. It references the ADU being used primarily for ‘residential purposes,’ but we want to be very clear.”Metzger plans to submit her amendment at the legislature’s next meeting in May. Democratic Legislator Abe Uchitelle says he would be happy to sponsor and support it, but he notes there was a reason the language was cut: he says it’s possible the clear restriction Metzger wants could conflict with the state tax law.“I suspect that the legislation will receive a warm reception from my colleagues and a critical lens from our attorneys," he says. "If that’s something we can legislate, then we’ll do that, and that’s what the legislative process will reveal.”The tax exemption only applies to the county portion of a resident’s property tax. Metzger stresses she’d like to see municipalities adopt their own versions in the future.Story by Jesse King/New York Public News NetworkJesse King is the host of WAMC's national program on women's issues, "51%," and the station's bureau chief in the Hudson Valley. She has also produced episodes of the WAMC podcast "A New York Minute In History."

The Upper Delaware Council’s annual "Litter Sweeps" are underway as volunteers are spring cleaning the Upper Delaware River Valley all month long. The Town of Highland and the Town of Delaware Litter Sweeps are scheduled for April 19 with community members sporting their brightly colored “Don’t Be Trashy” t-shirts. Radio Catskill is a media sponsor of this year's Litter Sweep. Farm and Country’s Rosie Starr was on the scene last Sunday at the Damascus Township Litter Sweep where 13 volunteers were cleaning up.

A federal judge has cleared the path for the demolition of the Skinners Falls Bridge, rejecting a legal effort by Damascus Citizens for Sustainability (DCS) who sought to spare the 122-year-old structure from destruction.In a ruling issued Tuesday, Judge Karoline Mehalchick of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania sided with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), citing the bridge’s deteriorating condition as a significant public safety threat.The historic Baltimore truss bridge, opened in 1902, spans the Delaware River, linking the rural communities of Milanville, PA, and Skinners Falls, NY. It has long served as both a functional crossing and a beloved local landmark — described by Barbara Arrindell, director of DCS, as “poetry in steel.”PennDOT has concluded that the bridge, closed to vehicular traffic since 2019, is beyond repair. Citing structural instability and a risk to boaters and others navigating beneath it, the agency plans to demolish the bridge using explosives. DCS argued in court that the government had failed in its duty to maintain the bridge and that it had neglected viable alternatives for rehabilitation. Their lawsuit claimed that federal and state agencies ignored environmental and cultural protections, and that demolition would not only erase a piece of history but also damage the river ecosystem and tourism industry.Judge Mehalchick initially granted a temporary restraining order on April 9 to halt the demolition, allowing time for a full hearing held on April 11. But in her written decision this week, she concluded that the risks of keeping the bridge in place outweighed the plaintiffs’ concerns.“Expert testimony supports that the bridge’s seemingly inevitable collapse would endanger life, property, and the environment,” Mehalchick wrote. “Delaying the bridge’s demolition exacerbates these issues, especially considering the busy summer season which will soon bring many visitors to the Delaware River area.”The judge also noted that PennDOT and its federal partners had invested considerable resources into evaluating the structure and planning the safest course of action.The timeline for demolition has not been formally announced, though PennDOT officials say preparations are already underway.

The detention of three children and their mother shocked the town. It also highlighted just how much the region’s key industries depend on immigrant workers.

Spring is here – it’s officially time to dust off those roller skates! This past weekend, the Mid-Hudson Misfits kicked off the season with a charity roller derby event benefiting the Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Center in Kingston.Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar sends us this report from Skate Time in Accord on April 13, where skaters and fans gathered for a fun night of blocking, slamming, and jamming on the rink.

If you’ve ever been swept away by the magic of a musical, moved by a monologue, or caught yourself humming “Defying Gravity” for the hundredth time, this story is for you. We’re debuting a new podcast all about theatre. Tom Candela is the voice behind Curtain Call—a new local podcast that celebrates the artists, directors, and storytellers shaping both our hometown theatre scene and the big Broadway stage. Each week, he brings listeners into the heart of the theatre world, blending insightful interviews with show-stopping Broadway tunes.In a preview of his episode dropping April 18 at wjffradio.org, Tom speaks to Melissa Bell and Laurie Guzda, the creative forces behind TIME'S UP!, a comedy show that highlights the best and the weirdest of rural living.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian are part of the growing number of hospitals in Pennsylvania and New York that have stopped providing gender-affirming care to patients under 19 years old. The interruptions to care follow President Donald Trump’s executive orders to cancel federal funding for hospitals that provide gender affirming care for trans youth and mandating that the federal government will only recognize two genders, male and female.These actions haven’t stopped the work of the Eastern PA Trans Equity Project, a nonprofit empowering transgender people in Pennsylvania through a legal name change clinic, financial assistance, peer-led support groups, and several other mentorship and advocacy programs.Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar spoke to Corinne Goodwin, board member of the Eastern PA Trans Equity Project, about what these executive orders mean for trans people in eastern Pennsylvania.

The Delaware Highlands Conservancy has been protecting the forests, farmland, clean waters, and wildlife habitat of the Upper Delaware River region for over 25 years thanks to the tireless efforts of founder Barbara Yeaman. The Conservancy is marking the recent passing of Barbara Yeaman, who dedicated her life to environmental stewardship and community connection. She died at the age of 100 on April 6.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced a temporary closure of the Delaware River to all river traffic in Wayne County due to the upcoming demolition of the historic Skinner’s Falls Bridge and the installation of a causeway. The specific date for the demolition will be announced in the coming weeks.In preparation for this work, signage and exclusion buoys will be installed at the Cochecton-Damascus Bridge to alert river users of the closure. An official signed portage will reroute watercraft to the Narrowsburg Boat Launch. Due to active construction, no portage will be allowed in the immediate vicinity of the bridge.This phase of the Aids to Navigation (ATON) plan is expected to remain in place for approximately two months.PennDOT encourages all river users to plan accordingly and exercise caution in the area. Additional updates, including the confirmed start date for the demolition, will be provided as they become available.For more information and future announcements, visit [www.penndot.pa.gov](http://www.penndot.pa.gov).

Honesdale’s own Owen Walsh returns to his hometown for a special one-night-only performance at The Cooperage Project on April 12. The show marks a reunion with his former hometown band, O&Co, and a homecoming that’s as much about the music as it is about community, memory, and resilience.Walsh, now based in Asheville, NC, has often credited The Cooperage as the place where his musical journey truly began. Fans may remember that The Cooperage also hosted the release show for Walsh’s 2022 debut album, On My Way, a moment the singer-songwriter says still resonates deeply. Though he’s spent the past few years cultivating his sound in Asheville’s vibrant music scene, Walsh says Honesdale has remained a foundational influence. That sense of connection was tested this past year when Hurricane Helene swept through Asheville, upending the local arts community and damaging many venues.

What does it mean to be Jewish—right now? This question is at the heart of a new collaborative work-in-progress by renowned choreographer David Dorfman and visionary director/creator Leora Morris. Blending movement, memory, sound, and story, the duo embarks on a deeply personal exploration of Jewish identity, intergenerational inheritance, and the legacies that live within our bodies.On April 12 at NACL in Highland Lake, NY, Dorfman and Morris will share their work on the first night of Passover. Far from a traditional Seder, this evening will offer an experimental “ordering” of performance excerpts, reflections, readings, and, yes, matzo ball soup.

On April 3, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs said it will end a mortgage-rescue program that helped veterans falling behind on their mortgage payments keep their homes. The move comes amidst the department’s plans to cut 80,000 employees and a federal hiring freeze that is slowing health care staffing at VA facilities. Radio Catskill's Kimberly Izar reports on what this means for local veteran agencies in Sullivan County.

Three students and their mother who were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are set to return home to Jefferson County, New York, according to local officials.On March 27, three students, including a third grader, and their mother were detained by ICE agents in Jefferson County following an investigation at a farm in Sackets Harbor, New York, about 10 miles from Watertown near Lake Ontario.As ICE raids target rural communities in New York, immigration advocates say that rural immigrants face growing isolation and fear to access essential services. Radio Catskill's Kimberly Izar spoke with Juana Cortes de Torres, Director of the Immigrant Legal Rights Project at the Rural and Migrant Ministry, about what residents should know when interacting with immigration agents.

In this episode of Kaatscast, host Brett Barry interviews John Michelotti, mushroom maven and founder of Catskill Fungi. John draws listeners into the enchanting and complex world of fungi, sharing his journey from an outdoor guide to becoming an enthusiastic mycology educator. Recorded at Catskill Fungi's commercial kitchen in Pine Hill, NY, the episode delves into the life cycle of mushrooms, their ecological roles, cultivation methods, and the mysteries of mycelium. John discusses the various types of mushrooms found in the Catskills, including edible, poisonous, and even mind-altering varieties. The episode also highlights the health benefits of mushroom extracts from varieties like Reishi, Lion's Mane, and Chaga. John is one one of the Catskill Center's "50 Stewards of the Catskills." Oh, and he's a super "fun-guy."

On April 5, more than 200 people gathered at the Sullivan County Courthouse in Monticello as part of the national Hands Off! protests against President Donald Trump and his administration.Protests also took place in Middletown, Newburgh, Milford, Honesdale, and many other towns and cities across New York and Pennsylvania. Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar spoke to protestors in Monticello and has this report.

Two solo exhibitions are opening April 5 at The Delaware Valley Arts Alliance (DVAA) celebrate art and nature: "Open Spaces" by Jenny Carpenter and "When We Are Among the Trees" by Kelly O’Brien. Working with the natural grain of birch panels, Carpenter’s paintings evolve in a dance between control and chance. Her process begins with the unique surface of each birch panel, whose grain guides her mark-making and shapes the final imageInspired by the poetry of Mary Oliver, O’Brien's work is rooted in her ongoing exploration of care, repair, and our relationship to the natural world, inviting viewers to reflect on their place within a fragile ecosystem.

Greetings from Here showcases postcard-scale prints and other artworks that capture the essence of the Catskills through the eyes of local artists. The small-format pieces, reminiscent of classic postcards, serve as artifacts of travel, each offering a personal perspective on the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance.The collaborative photography and art exhibition opens at Sullivan Public in Eldred, NY, on Saturday, April 5, and will run through the month.The exhibit explores the Catskills as a place of refuge, nostalgia, and natural splendor, with each work offering a unique interpretation of what “here” means. The show reflects the diverse connections people have to the area, from its role as a vacation destination to its ongoing appeal as a place to call home.

Following the announcement of the closure of PepsiCo’s facility in Liberty, New York, town and village officials have been scrambling to address the fallout and find solutions for the hundreds of workers who are set to lose their jobs.The layoffs are expected to have a ripple effect throughout Sullivan County, particularly impacting working-class families and the area’s sizable Latino population, many of whom have built their lives around stable employment at the plant.Radio Catskill’s Miguel Santiago Colón has been following the story closely and has the latest updates on how the community is rallying in the face of economic uncertainty.

Fly fishing season has arrived in Trout Town USA – or Roscoe, New York to most New Yorkers.April 1 marked the opening day for fly fishing season. Since the 1940s, fly fishing enthusiasts and local residents in the Catskills have met at the popular Junction Pool to cast trout and celebrate a ceremonial first cast from Trout Town USA. Judy Van Put, renowned angler, sportswriter, and late wife to celebrated fly fisher Ed Van Put, made the first ceremonial cast on Tuesday morning.Fly fishing is a fishing technique where fishers angle a special fly rod to catch different fish species, like brown trout and rainbow trout. In March, New York State Department of Environmental Conversation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the department would stock the state’s streams and ponds with 1.8 million brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Some streams will receive fish every other week for two months to provide season-long opportunities for anglers.Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar reported live from opening day the morning of April 1st and brings us this full report from Roscoe, New York.

Over 200 teachers, public health professionals, and community partners in Sullivan County are now equipped to deliver the CATCH My Breath program to youth, thanks to recent training efforts by Sullivan 180. The program aims to combat the growing vaping epidemic among young people. In addition to training educators, Sullivan 180 has reached over 550 students with the CATCH My Breath program, in Liberty, Monticello, Eldred, and Roscoe school districts, as well as participants in the SUNY Sullivan Liberty Partnerships Program.Recognizing the importance of parental involvement, Sullivan 180 recently held a CATCH My Breath Parent & Caregiver Workshop at Liberty Middle School. Amanda Langseder, Sullivan 180 Senior Director of Prevention Programming, and Kate Rusin, Liberty Middle School Assistant Principal, appeared on Radio Chatskill to discuss the need for practical information on vaping. The workshop addressed the vaping epidemic's impact, common obstacles to discussing tobacco and vaping with youth, strategies for effective communication, and how families can unite against vaping. One parent in attendance shared her intention to disseminate the information with her children, extended family, and friends. Langseder praised Liberty Middle School's proactive approach, stating, “We are glad Liberty Middle School is taking this issue so seriously and bringing in resources for their students and families right away.” This was the inaugural presentation for caregivers on learning about the vaping epidemic and supporting students. Schools, PTAs/PTOs, and community groups interested in hosting the CATCH My Breath Parent & Caregiver Workshop can contact [email protected]. The next CATCH My Breath Facilitator Training is scheduled for July 16th, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at CCE Sullivan.

Delaware Valley Arts Alliance marks the start of National Poetry Month with a multi-sensory poetry happening, presented by Eric Baylin. Expect readings, musical accompaniments, improvisational multi-media collaborations from Matt Carpenter, Kazzrie Jaxen and Sullivan County’s Poet Laureate, Kevin Scot Graham.

Nationwide protests are planned for Saturday, April 5, against President Donald Trump and his administration.The protests, which have been dubbed “Hands Off! A National Day of Action,” are centered around the White House’s recent policy stances on topics ranging from health care and immigration to education and the environment.Protests are planned locally, including one in Monticello, NY, co-organized by citizen activist Sandy Oxford and Myrna Marcarian of We Are One Sullivan, the local chapter of the national progressive organization, Indivisible.

April 1 marks the start of New York state's fiscal year and a state budget agreement is nowhere to be found.State lawmakers are set to approve a short-term budget extender today. It'll run through Thursday and ensure the state payroll goes out on time.Patricio Robayo spoke to

Cancer touches nearly everyone, yet it’s rarely explored in the arts. Chemo Savvy sets out to change that. Veteran performers Verna Gillis and David Gonzalez—both currently undergoing chemotherapy—lead an evening of storytelling and music that blends humor, reflection, and raw truth.In a recent conversation with Radio Catskill’s Tim Bruno, Gillis and Gonzalez shared how the performance aims to open up a fresh, unflinching conversation about life with cancer. The event features storytellers Rebecca Kalin and Bruce & Gail Whistance, along with musicians Joey Eppard, Jay Collins, and Matt Finck.With Gillis’s sharp wit and Gonzalez’s poetic voice, Chemo Savvy turns personal experience into shared understanding. This is not a support group. It’s a performance. And it just might change the conversation.📅 When: Sunday, April 6 at 2:00 PM 📍 Where: Rosendale Theatre 📞 Phone: 845-658-8989 📧 Email: [email protected] 🌐 Website: www.rosendaletheatre.org/movies/chemo-savvy-live

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County is hosting its annual Garden Day on Saturday, April 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at SUNY Ulster in Stone Ridge. This day-long event offers gardeners of all levels the chance to attend four out of 16 expert-led classes covering a wide range of topics, including patio and meadow design, growing heirloom tomatoes, mushroom cultivation, and cover cropping.This year’s keynote speaker is Michael Hagen, curator at the New York Botanical Garden, who will discuss the history and evolution of one of the Garden’s historic spaces and lessons learned in sustainable gardening with native plants.Master Gardener Barbara Bravo will also lead a session titled "The Good, the Bad, and the Buggy," focusing on common plant problems and environmentally friendly solutions.While online registration has closed, walk-ins are welcome. For details and class descriptions, visit ulster.cce.cornell.edu or search “CCE Garden Day.”

New York state lawmakers and labor advocates are hoping to include the work opportunity tax credit in the final state budget. This is a tax credit that would essentially be given to employers if and when they hire people from specific targeted groups - such as veterans, summer youth employees and ex-felons. To understand the impact and logistics of the work opportunity tax credit, Shantel Destra - of the New York Public News Network - sat down with the Assembly Labor Committee Chair Harry Bronson.

Albany, NY – As the clock ticks down to an April 1 deadline, New York state lawmakers are in a race against time to settle a proposed $252 billion budget. Tensions are high, with heated disputes over both financial allocations and a range of policy issues.Jimmy Vielkind and Jeongyoon Han of the New York Public News Network’s Capitol Bureau report that lawmakers are grappling with contentious debates over funding priorities, including education, healthcare, and housing, as well as new policies that could affect everything from criminal justice reform to climate change initiatives.The $252 billion budget represents a significant portion of the state's spending for the upcoming fiscal year, covering a wide array of public services. However, the negotiations have been far from smooth. Key sticking points have included disagreements over how to allocate resources for various state programs, with different factions pushing for greater investments in their respective priorities."We are making progress, but the clock is running out," said one lawmaker, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the negotiations. "At the core of it, it's about ensuring that the budget reflects the needs of New Yorkers while balancing fiscal responsibility."In addition to financial debates, lawmakers are also divided on a series of policy provisions attached to the budget, some of which could have significant long-term impacts on the state. One major point of contention has been proposals related to criminal justice reforms and environmental regulations.As the state legislature works to finalize the budget before the deadline, pressure is mounting from both sides of the political spectrum. Advocates for public programs argue that cuts to essential services would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, while fiscal conservatives push for more stringent budget controls and spending cuts.With April 1 rapidly approaching, all eyes are on Albany as lawmakers continue to negotiate in the final hours. Should the legislature fail to pass the budget on time, the state could face significant disruptions in its operations, including potential delays in funding for critical programs.For now, the fate of New York's budget remains in the balance as lawmakers race against the clock to reach a compromise.

Two months after Crystal Run Healthcare workers voted overwhelmingly to unionize, the National Labor Relations Board dismissed their employer’s objections to the union election without a hearing.In a March 24 decision shared with the Times Union, NLRB regional director John D. Doyle, Jr. wrote that evidence put forward by the employer, Optum, did not raise “substantial and material issues affecting the election, or affecting the outcome of the election.”As a result, 1,120 Crystal Run workers joined 650 other Optum staff in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley in 1199SEIU, the largest health care union in the Hudson Valley, which also represents staff at Vassar Brothers Medical Center, Putnam Hospital and Northern Dutchess Hospital.The regional director’s decision came three weeks after Optum, a United Health Group subsidiary, filed two objections. It had argued that the NLRB could not form a quorum to certify the election after President Donald Trump fired Gwynne Wilcox, a Democrat, in January.Despite the lack of quorum, the NLRB’s regional directors continue to have the authority to conduct elections and certify election results, “regardless of the Board’s composition at any given moment,” Doyle wrote.Optum also claimed its right to hold work meetings with employees during which the employer discussed its views on unionization were restricted, but last year, the NLRB ruled that those types of meetings were unlawful. Doyle’s decision stated that Optum failed to identify witnesses who would testify about attendance at those meetings anyway.“The recent determination by the regional director is one step in a longer process with the National Labor Relations Board regarding this election,” an Optum Health spokesperson said in an emailed statement. “We believe we can best achieve our mission when our leaders and employees work together to help people live healthier lives and to help make the health system work better for everyone. A direct relationship, rooted in a collaborative, inclusive team environment, allows for the strongest, most effective and open communication between employees and leaders.”In his conclusion, Doyle also certified 1199SEIU Health Care as the bargaining representative for all full-time, regular part-time, per diem non-professional employees, and physicians at Crystal Run. That includes employees at Crystal Run locations in Middletown, Monroe, Newburgh, Rock Hill, Goshen, Warwick and West Nyack.The unionized workers said they plan to push for better health insurance, pay raises, more clearly defined job duties and increased workplace protections. Staff have reported overburdened work schedules that have led to burnout.Angela Lane, the union’s regional vice president for the Hudson Valley, called Optum’s objections “baseless” in a statement.“The election results are now certified. Optum and Crystal Run need to stop their games and meet us at the bargaining table,” she said. “Workers across Optum are joining together to win strong contracts that lift wages and benefits to the high standards won by 1199SEIU members across New York.”Story by Maria M. Silva/Times-UnionStaff Writer

The Ulster County clerk says he will not file a summary judgement against a New Paltz, New York doctor being sued in Texas for prescribing abortion medication via telehealth.Dr. Margaret Carpenter is facing a civil lawsuit for mailing two abortion pills, mifepristone and misoprostal, to a woman in Texas, which bans nearly all abortions. In the suit, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton claims Carpenter violated the Texas ban and effectively practiced medicine in Texas without a license. Carpenter didn’t show at a Texas court hearing last month, and New York has refused to cooperate in accordance with its shield law protecting abortion providers from out-of-state lawsuits.Acting Ulster County Clerk Taylor Bruck says he received a request from a Texas court to file a summary judgement against Carpenter that included more than $100,000 in penalties and attorney fees. But he says he won’t be moving on it.“In the shield law, it specifically states that no government employee shall cooperate with an out-of-state proceeding, civil or criminal, regarding health care services rendered that are legal in New York state," says Bruck. "Upon on our reading of the law, it’s very clear that we are not to cooperate with this or expend government resources on it. So we decided to reject it and kick it back to Texas.”New York is one of eight states nationwide that has a shield law protecting abortion providers. This case is considered the first test of those laws, and it’s not the only one: Carpenter also faces a criminal indictment for sending abortion medication to a teenager in Louisiana. New York has refused to extradite Carpenter in that case.Mary Ziegler, a law professor at the University of California, Davis, says it’s possible these cases will eventually find their way to the Supreme Court.“It’s definitely something we’ve expected to see, this kind of inter-state conflict around abortion," she explains. "This is a question about states’ rights, right? And when states have to listen to one another.”WAMC has reached out to the Texas Attorney General’s Office for comment.Several Democratic New York State lawmakers praised Bruck for his decision Thursday. Congressman Pat Ryan of the 18th District said on X: “Texas AG Ken Paxton chose the wrong community to mess with.” Governor Kathy Hochul, meanwhile, said in part: “This is New York. We’ll never back down from fighting for these fundamental rights.”State Senator Michelle Hinchey, a Democrat from the 41st District, says she's also pleased with the move."The actions against the doctor, I feel, are deplorable. She has been only acting in good faith to provide healthcare to people who need it," says Hinchey. "The acting clerk did exactly what he should do, and I'm really proud of him for doing it."The way Bruck sees it, he’s preparing for the possibility that Texas might take further legal action against the state of New York, or even Ulster County. He says he’s glad to see the support of other lawmakers.“It is, very frankly, necessary," he adds. "I’m glad that we’re all on the same page, and this is really what the law was passed to do, was to protect our constituents from these acts. I’m just following my duties as county clerk, following the laws as written.”The Abortion Coalition for Telemedicine, which Carpenter co-founded and leads as co-medical director, commended Bruck for rejecting the summons in a statement. It adds in part: “Shield laws are a critical safeguard that protect both providers and patients nationwide. As anti-abortion states escalate attacks beyond their borders, it is more important than ever that New York’s legal system continues to defend access to care.” Carpenter herself has not commented publicly on the cases.Governor Hochul signed legislation earlier this month aimed at strengthening New York’s shield law. Under the law, abortion providers no longer need to include their names or practice on prescription labels.Story by Jesse King/WAMC/New York Public News Network Jesse King is the host of WAMC's national program on women's issues, "51%," and the station's bureau chief in the Hudson Valley. <em>Image: The Ulster County Government Office in Kingston, NY. (Credit: Ulster County Clerk)</em>

The towering silos on Lower Main Street in Callicoon, NY, have long been an emblem of the town’s history, since the 1930s. However, with the passing of time, their age is becoming more evident, and there’s an effort underway to ensure these structures are preserved for future generations.The ENGN Civic Creative Center, located right next door to the silos, has launched a fundraising initiative aimed at safeguarding these iconic landmarks that have become a cornerstone of the community. They’re hosting a Brunch, Raffle, and Silent Auction on Sunday, April 13, at Callicoon Brewery.Farm and Country’s Rosie Starr traveled to Callicoon and spoke to Caroline Prezosi and Isaac Diebboll, members of the ENGN team, about the importance of maintaining the silos as more than just a historical structure, but as a symbol of Callicoon’s identity.

The Trump administration Thursday announced a major restructuring of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that will cut 20,000 full-time jobs.HHS is the umbrella agency that includes the CDC, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the FDA, the National Institutes of Health and other smaller divisions.According to an HHS fact sheet, the reorganization will not impact Medicare or Medicaid.But, Republicans, who narrowly control Congress, are pushing proposals that could sharply cut funding to Medicaid as a way to finance President Trump’s agenda for tax cuts and border security, putting enrollees and providers at risk. That includes New Hope Community, the Sullivan County non profit supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. New Hope’s CEO Debbie McGuinness called on elected officials to recognize the critical need for stable and equitable funding for nonprofit providers who support vulnerable populations, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Genetics testing company 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this past Friday.And scammers are targeting seniors with genetic testing scams.What should seniors know about their data? Maria Alvarez, Executive Director of the New York StateWide Senior Action Council explains that scammers are offering Medicare beneficiaries "free" screenings or cheek swabs for genetic testing to obtain their Medicare information for identity theft or fraudulent billing purposes. Fraudsters are targeting beneficiaries through telemarketing calls, booths at public events, health fairs, and door-to-door visits.

A new report on the gender pay gap from New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli shows that women in New York earn 87 cents on the dollar compared to men in 2023.This new data comes amidst ongoing federal cuts affecting women. In January 2025, President Donald Trump signed several executive orders including cutting the federal funding of abortion and eliminating all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in government.Locally, people are stepping into action. One group in Ulster County is using song to share their vision for social change. Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar chatted with Michele Zipp, founder of Resisterhood Community Choir, on how she’s blending music and activism to honor women.

International Transgender Day of Visibility is an annual event occurring every March 31 since 2009 dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as a celebration of their contributions to society.Transgender Plus Support Initiative is hosting a free brunch in Callicoon, New York on Saturday, March 29, to celebrate Trans Day of Visibility locally.Ann from the Transgender Plus Support Initiative appeared on Radio Chatskill to discuss the group’s role in supporting transgender people in Sullivan County, NY, and Wayne County, PA.

After 143 weeks of diving deep into all aspects of health—physical, mental, and emotional—Coach Maggi Fitzpatrick is ending her "Moving Toward Health" column in the Sullivan County Democrat. From June 2022, when the "Moving Towards Health" column began, Maggi has shared insights, strategies, and personal experiences that emphasize how health is not just about the physical body but about maintaining balance and resilience in the face of life's challenges.Coach Maggi shared her reflections throughout the column’s lifespan, and her plans to continue informing listeners on their wellness journey.

Since 1981, HIV has led to the deaths of more than 700,000 people in the US. More than 1.2 million Americans now live with HIV, according to federal statistics. About 13% of people who have HIV don’t know they have it — one driver of the virus’ continuing spread.Ending AIDS in the United States by 2030 was one of President Donald Trump’s stated priorities in his 2019 State of the Union speech, but the second Trump administration has hinted that it will make major cuts to HIV-related projects.The administration is considering a plan to eliminate the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s division focused on HIV prevention and potentially move its responsibilities over to another department within the Department of Health and Human Services, as first reported in The Wall Street Journal. The plan to eliminate the CDC's Division on HIV Prevention is still in the "very, very preliminary stages," a source familiar with the plans told NBC News, and no final call has been made yet.The NIH has eliminated funding for dozens of HIV-related research grants, according to a US Department of Health and Human Services database that was updated last week, halting studies and threatening patient care across the country. Several researchers said the cuts put a stop to hopes of ending HIV in the US and around the world.More than 100 lawmakers in the House of Representatives and the US Senate are calling on the Trump administration to maintain federal HIV/AIDS services, including New York Democratic Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and Republic Congressman Mike Lawler of NY’s 17th District. These reports have also sparked widespread concern among public health experts and advocacy groups. Doug Wirth, CEO of Amida Care, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing health care services to people living with HIV, warns of the severe consequences it could have for both prevention efforts and the communities most at risk.

Now that Spring is officially here, more people are thinking about that first hike of the season in the Catskills. Longtime hiker and founder of the Catskill 4000 Club Paul Misko will be addressing this in his talk, Packed for Adventure: Hiking the Catskills Then and Now at the Time and the Valleys Museum in Grahamsville on March 23. Misko's multimedia talk will explore the evolution of hiking gear, food, and clothing from the 1800s to today, featuring anecdotes from John Burroughs and other Catskill figures. The presentation will end with practical advice on what to carry in a modern-day daypack. Radio Chatskill Contributor Tracy Gates spoke with Misko about his love of hiking in the Catskills and the interesting things people brought with them in the 1800s vs. today.

In response to increasing threats to library funding, the Wayne County Library Director, Tracy Schwartz, is urging residents to “Show Up for Our Libraries,” an initiative launched by the American Library Association (ALA). The campaign encourages library supporters to advocate for essential services that libraries provide to their communities and to voice their concerns to policymakers at local, state, and national levels.Schwartz, speaking on Radio Chatskill, highlighted the importance of libraries in rural areas, especially the seven libraries in Wayne County—located in Honesdale, Hawley, Hamlin, Newfoundland, Bethany, Lakewood, and Pleasant Mount. As a collective of nonprofit organizations, these libraries offer vital services ranging from literacy programs to workforce development.The Threat of Funding CutsA significant concern for libraries, including those in Wayne County, is the potential loss of funding through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an agency that currently provides indirect federal funding to Pennsylvania libraries. Recent political developments have led to calls for eliminating IMLS, which could ripple down and affect libraries across the country, including local resources like online databases, interlibrary loans, and educational support services.“Without sufficient funding, many of the essential programs we offer, such as summer reading programs, internet access, veterans' telehealth support, and literacy services for individuals with visual impairments, could be at risk,” explained Schwartz. Currently, Wayne County libraries receive approximately 30% of their funding from local community support, 20% from the state, with the rest reliant on donations.Libraries as Community HubsBeyond book lending, Wayne County libraries have evolved into community hubs. Schwartz emphasized that libraries provide much more than access to reading materials—they offer spaces for technology literacy, community events, and even social interaction. The Wayne Library Alliance connects seven libraries in the area, allowing residents to share resources, borrow materials from multiple libraries, and access services like delivery drivers transporting books across counties.“We’ve worked hard to maintain these connections and share resources, which not only benefits the libraries but strengthens the entire community,” said Schwartz. Through partnerships with local organizations, such as the Workforce Alliance, libraries also offer digital literacy courses to improve technological skills in the community.Additionally, libraries in Wayne County are participating in a growing trend of offering non-traditional services. From access to crafting and cooking resources online to providing audiobooks and eBooks via platforms like Libby and Hoopla, these libraries strive to meet the diverse needs of their patrons.Advocating for LibrariesAs National Library Week approaches (April 6-12), Schwartz is calling on residents to show their support for libraries. “Whether you use the library for books, digital resources, or community programs, your voice matters. Tell local and national leaders how libraries have impacted your life and why funding these services is crucial,” she said.The Wayne Library Alliance offers a central website, waynelibraries.org, where community members can learn about the services offered, donate, or sign up for a library card. For those interested in the broader campaign to defend libraries, the ALA’s site (ala.org) provides resources to advocate for library funding and share personal stories.A Reminder of the Joy of LibrariesSchwartz reflected on the personal joy that libraries bring to both children and adults. “There’s something magical about a child walking into a library for the first time and getting their library card,” she said. “It’s the beginning of a journey that can lead anywhere. We need to protect that experience for future generations.”

Farmers say the federal funding freeze is halting growth and derailing their planning and young farmers say they face unique challenges. For young and beginner farmers, federal funding is critical as they shore up their first few years of production. That’s money farmers were planning to use to do things like put up foundational fencing, pay farm workers, or build their first high tunnel – some farmers saying these are projects they’ve already paid into and were waiting for reimbursement.Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar spoke to some young farmers in the region to understand what’s at stake and how they’re struggling to make critical decisions this spring as billions of dollars in promised federal payments remain frozen by the Trump administration.

This Saturday is World Water Day, focused on the importance of fresh water and its essential role in sustaining life. In New York City, the history of supplying water to the metropolis is not only a story of engineering marvels but also of sacrifice, tragedy, and the reshaping of the Catskills region.Diane Galusha’s book Liquid Assets: A History of New York City’s Water System chronicles how thousands of people were displaced, homes were relinquished, and entire communities were destroyed to make way for the reservoirs that now provide New York City with its fresh water.On Saturday, March 22, Galusha will be presenting an illustrated talk “Esopus Dreams: How New York City Reshaped the Catskills” in Pine Hill, New York.

In Pike County, Pennsylvania, The Delaware Valley School District board is reevaluating a 2016 agreement with the federal Office of Civil Rights that mandates policies for the inclusion of transgender students.This comes amid the Trump administration's anti-DEI stance.At a work session March 12, the board was divided on how to proceed. Some members advocated withdrawing from the agreement to align with a Trump executive order and restrict facility access by gender, while others suggested seeking legal counsel due to uncertainties around changing federal policies.Tim Bruno spoke to Taylor James, Executive Director of Triversity about the issue on Radio Chatskill. TriVersity is the Pike County Pride Center committed to serving the LGBTQ+ Community & allies living in or visiting the TriState region of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Jason Sherwin has spent a lifetime composing, playing and studying music. He has also taught music since he was a high schooler. He began teaching classical music to socially disadvantaged children in Chicago in 2000. Since then, he has taught private piano lessons to high-achievement pianists, chamber musicians and worked with singers. As a pianist, he produces digital /analog recordings under the name “Binary and Not”.Culture Reporter Valerie Mansi spoek to Sherwin about his latest recording.

Tuesday, March 18, is National Ag Day, a time to recognize and celebrate the hardworking farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers who keep our country fed.And today, we’re recognizing some of our local egg farmers and the rollercoaster ride they’ve been on as they deal with the threat of avian flu.The spread of avian influenza, commonly called bird flu, has ravaged flocks around the country and around the world, disrupting supply and fuelling higher food prices.Here in our region, Avian flu was detected on an Ulster County farm in January, resulting in the deaths of all but two birds, then on a Delaware County farm in a flock of 150 chickens, geese, and ducks in February But— there’s possibly good news for egg farmers and egg consumers – the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture data shows a sharp decline in egg prices.The drop in wholesale prices is thanks to the absence of major bird flu outbreaks so far in March, which has allowed the nation's egg supply to start recovering.Radio Catskill reporter Kimberly Izar spoke to egg farmers and poultry veterinarians to understand how they’re dealing with fluctuating markets and the deadly disease.

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger has appointed poet and music critic Mike Jurkovic as the county’s 2025 Poet Laureate.Jurkovic, a resident the Shawangunk hamlet of Wallkill, follows Kate Hymes of New Paltz, who held the inaugural title created by Metzger in 2023.Originally from the South Bronx, Jurkovic has lived in Ulster County for over 30 years. He is the president and co-founder of Calling All Poets, a Hudson Valley-based poetry organization and series now in its 26th year.Jurkovic’s poetry, celebrated for its expressive and surreal style, has appeared in literary journals across the U.S., including those in New York City, San Francisco, Baltimore, and London. Jurkovic has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and has published several poetry collections, including "smitten by harpies & shiny banjo catfish" (2016), "Eve’s Venom" (2014), and "Purgatory Road" (2010). His work has been featured in over 400 magazines and anthologies. Beyond writing, Jurkovic co-chairs the Music Fan Film Series at the Rosendale Theatre and hosts NuJazzXcursions on WVKR-91.3FM at Vassar College.Radio Catskill’s Miguel Santiago Colón spoke to Jurkovic about his goals for the poet laureate role.