Gene Baur is the founder of Farm Sanctuary, a place of rescue, refuge, and adoption for hundreds of farm animals each year. Farm Sanctuary shelters enable visitors to connect with farm animals as emotional, intelligent individuals. Gene has also led campaigns to change laws about animal treatment and taken undercover photographs of farms, stockyards, and slaughterhouses, documenting deplorable conditions. His pictures and videos exposing factory farming cruelties have aired nationally and internationally, educating millions about the plight of modern farm animals, and his rescue work inspired an international farm sanctuary movement. Once called “the conscience of the food movement” by Time magazine, Gene walks the walk and talks the talk when it comes to food and animal rights. Jay and Gene discuss the political and cultural steps that will bring about the end of factory farming and a healthier approach to animals and food. Today's episode was produced by Tani Levitt and Mijon Zulu. To check out more episodes or to learn more about the show, you can visit our website Allaboutchangepodcast.com. If you like our show, spread the word, tell a friend or family member, or leave us a review on your favorite podcasting app. We really appreciate it. All About Change is produced by the Ruderman Family Foundation. Episode Chapters 0:00 Intro 1:05 The state of veganism 6:18 Cultural shifts around factory farming and veganism 14:58 Gene’s three paths of activism 17:44 Gene’s legislative successes 22:25 Accepting people where they are in their journeys 25:36 Thank you and goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ Looking for more insights into the world of activism? Be sure to check out Jay’s brand new book, Find Your Fight , in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at www.jayruderman.com .…
As students head back to school at the end of the month, advocates are warning about a new wave of e-cigarettes targeting kids, with some even disguised as everyday objects or with built in video games. Despite crackdowns, more than 1.6 million youth still use e-cigarettes, which can have serious, lasting effects. A press release from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids says, "Today’s e-cigarettes are more potent than ever and deliver massive doses of nicotine – some contain as much nicotine as 20 packs of cigarettes or more. The U.S. Surgeon General has found that youth use of nicotine in any form is unsafe, causes addiction, and can harm developing brains, negatively affecting attention, memory and learning. E-cigarettes also expose kids to harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, lead and benzene." One major concern of health officials is the targeting of nicotine products at youth. Flavoring vapes is the most common way this is allegedly done by manufacturers. The only e-cigarettes authorized by the FDA are menthol and tobacco flavored, says Brian King, the Executive Vice President for U.S. Programs at the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. He added that all nicotine products are unsafe for those under 25 but that almost 90% of users prefer the fun flavors, which are especially dangerous because they are being sold illegally. Another tactic by the industry, the release says, is a teen-centered design. New vapes are "often designed to look like toys, highlighters and smartphones, making them easy for kids to hide." Some also have gimmicks to make them more entertaining, such as built in games. King told Radio Catskill that after peak use in 2019, they have seen numbers of underage vape users falling. But this is complicated by the introduction of new products, like nicotine pouches, that are growing in popularity. King emphasized that it's extremely easy to get hooked on nicotine from one thing at a young age and then become a full blown addict soon after. He spoke with WJFF about how parents can approach education and what trends to be aware of as the new school year begins.…
HOST INTRO The New Paltz Community Gardens for Nutrition has been a staple of local growing for 50 years. But now, gardeners are facing a new challenge: climate change. From flooding to shifting seasons, what once was reliable land is becoming harder to farm. Radio Catskill’s Jamie Case brings us to the gardens to hear how members are adapting—and what’s at stake for this long-standing community space.…
A coalition in the Hudson Valley screened the documentary Who Killed Shireen? this past Sunday at the Old Dutch Church in Kingston, NY. Shireen Abu Akleh, the namesake of the documentary, was a Palestinian American journalist. Born in East Jerusalem and raised in New Jersey, Abu Akleh provided award-winning coverage of the West Bank for Al Jazeera for 25 years - until 2022 where she was shot and killed by Alon Sacagiu, a captain in the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). The film was produced by Zeteo Media, the new independent media company founded by former MSNBC host Medhi Hasan. It follows three Zeteo journalists who traveled all the way to Tel Aviv, Israel and Jenin in the West Bank to identify the name and rank of Abu Akleh’s killer for the first time. Radio Catskill’s Genevieve Hartnett attended the screening and met with the organizers of the event ahead of time to discuss Shireen Abu Akleh’s legacy and the dangers journalists face when covering Gaza and the West Bank.…
Well, it's true what they say: bureaucracy takes time. And while judges and politicians draft bills and weigh testimony, life still goes on. In this case, that means homeless teenagers in the Delaware Valley remain tethered to indecision well out of their hands as the center's staff deal with the very circumstances they've dedicated years to preventing: job insecurity. This is a life in limbo resting on the hands of the powers at be four states away in Washington D.C. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) was just one of the politicians aiming to end this precariousness. The Senate Appropriations Committee, of which she is a member, is currently ironing out the budget for July 2026-July 2027, the upcoming fiscal term. If the group follows President Trump's requests, Job Corps sites across the country, including in Sullivan County, would shut down next year. But a proposal has been introduced to prevent this. Jennifer Cha, the Associate Vice President of Programs and Regional Operations for Adams and Associates (the organization that runs the Job Corps center), is cautiously optimistic. She said the proposal is a good sign and that the budget will be announced in the near future. "The congressional pieces hopefully were or will be worked through in September and landing in October when the budget actually goes through. As I understand the timeline, hopefully within the next 60 days we would have some really firm grasp." But the funding for the current year is also being jeopardized. Months ago, after receiving notification of immediate termination, staff were told to send all the program's participants home within a week, says Cha: "In many cases, young people who participate in the program do not have the average supports that somebody would have. They may be homeless, for example. Or, they may not have the means to have that same support structure normally without the program. And so being quickly sent [out of the] center to what, in many cases, is unstable housing, non-existent housing, [or] unsafe housing without any pre-warning, is obviously extremely destabilizing." An injunction was granted by the judge to pause the termination notice while its legality is weighed in courts. The center has returned to full function but Cha estimates as many as 40% of the youth that were sent home have not returned. Also, new enrollment in the program is usually rolling, but has been on pause. "We have, 17,000 young people nationally who have actually applied to the program since March. But because the background checks were paused in March, which is required for enrollment into the Job corps program, those 17,000 people have been denied the opportunity to pursue this training... that will provide for them and their family in the future." Cha has noticed widespread support among Delaware Valley, which brings her, the staff, and the residents comfort as they wrestle with uncertainty. "The way the community has really rallied around... has been a boon for for us and for everybody at the center." She encourages interested families to apply now as the waitlist for background checks continues to pile up. Regardless of the setbacks, the mission of Job Corps has not wavered. "This is a life changer," Cha reflected.…
On today’s show we’re taking you to the heart of New Paltz, the Water Street Market, where art meets public health on the side of the road. Artist Ryan Cronin has teamed up with the Ulster County Department of Health for a new campaign called “We are Public Health.” Part roadside art, part community dialogue, and all about rethinking how we communicate what public health means and who it's for— join Radio Catskills Jamie Case as she speaks Ryan Cronin, Melanie Cronin, and Mary Jane Shepard about the project from concept to completion and the art community in New Paltz.…
Bill Wiand knows he was abducted by aliens. "Since I was a very, very young boy, they would come, take me out of the house, go through the window. I could actually feel the screen and see the trees glow." He struggled finding people to talk to about instances like these. He asked, " If you went home and told your parents or your husband that you felt that you were removed from your home and encountered aliens on a spaceship, what would they think?" In 1993, however, he found a place to turn. The United Friends Observer Society (UFOS) took out a small ad in a local paper and started meeting, according to The Pine Bush UFO and Paranormal Museum. Wiand recalls people from across the world coming to visit their group and see for themselves what Pine Bush had to offer. The town has been dubbed "the UFO capital of the North East." As its members grew older and interest wained, the club stopped meeting regularly in 2023. Wiand says COVID played a role as well. At the beginning of 2025, however, the museum asked them to come back. Wiand says: "I was working with the director and he reminded me that there's still a lot of people that are looking for answers... A lot of people came in and they were very interested in UFOs (and) wanted to know what was going on in the Pine Bush area. Because they go to the museum, they see all the local history that's going on, and they want to be part of it." As of March, they've resumed meetings. The Pine Bush UFO and Paranormal Museum hosts UFOS the first Wednesday of each month at 7 pm.…
Sonita Alizada was only 10 years old when her family sold her into marriage. When that deal collapsed, they nearly sold her again—for $9,000. Born in Afghanistan and raised in Iran under strict conditions, Sonita’s future was supposed to be one of silence and servitude. Instead, she found her voice—and used it to fight for the freedom of girls around the world. In a compelling new interview with Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo , Sonita recounts her escape from child marriage and her rise as a rapper, activist, and global symbol of resistance. Her 2015 song “Daughters for Sale” went viral, amassing over 1.5 million views on YouTube. Its raw, emotional message about the reality of forced marriage sparked international attention and helped Sonita secure a scholarship to study in the United States. Against the odds, she learned English, thrived academically, and graduated from Bard College in 2023. In October 2025, she will begin a master’s program at Oxford University as a prestigious Rhodes Scholar. Sonita’s story is captured in her new memoir, Sonita: My Fight Against Tyranny and My Escape to Freedom (HarperOne; July 8, 2025). The book chronicles her life under Taliban rule, her fight to escape, and her mission to end child marriage. It includes personal family photos and a playlist of her original songs, accessible via QR code. Recognized as one of TIME Magazine’s Next Generation Leaders and featured by Forbes and BBC, Sonita now has over 155,000 followers and continues to reach millions through her music and activism. She has performed at the U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Awards and received the Cannes Lions Humanitarian Award. Her message is clear: every girl deserves the right to choose her own future. Through her music, her writing, and her voice, Sonita Alizada is ensuring they are heard.…
For the celebration of our 35th year bringing news, culture and NPR to Sullivan County, Radio Catskill put out a call to all local creatives back in May - help us design a logo that will be featured on T-shirts, thank you cards to our listeners, and all of our merchandise. The winning designer was also promised a feature on Radio Catskill. We are so excited to announce that Nya Reebe of Parksville is our winner! Her unique take on the past, present and future of radio, along with her intriguing use of color and our signature lightning bolt stood out and captured Radio Catskill’s energy! Radio Catskill’s Genevieve Hartnett spoke with Nya about her creative process, how her artistic vision is home grown, and her future aspirations to animate for the small screen.…
Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo speaks to Acting Ulster County Clerk Taylor Bruck about a growing legal and political clash between two states with vastly different views on reproductive rights: Texas and New York. At the heart of this national controversy is Bruck’s decision—twice—to reject Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s attempt to enforce a $113,000 civil judgment against a New York physician. The doctor prescribed abortion-inducing medication via telehealth to a Texas resident, which is legal under New York law but a violation under Texas law. Now, Paxton is suing Bruck, escalating a battle that could reach the U.S. Supreme Court and test how far state laws can extend beyond their borders….…
Radio Catskill’s Jason Dole speaks with New York Focus about New York’s deepening prison staffing crisis. Four months after a mass walkout led to over 2,000 firings, the state remains short 4,700 corrections officers and sergeants—forcing lockdowns, cutting programs, and raising safety concerns across the prison system. https://nysfocus.com/2025/07/22/new-york-doccs-prison-staffing-crisis-guard-strike…
As summer temperatures climb, safety experts are warning families about a persistent and deadly threat: pediatric heatstroke caused by children being left in hot cars. So far in 2025, 15 children have died this way, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Laura Dunn, a Highway Safety Specialist with NHTSA, who emphasized that these deaths are entirely preventable. Dunn highlighted the importance of the “Stop. Look. Lock.” campaign, which urges parents and caregivers to check the back seat every time they exit the vehicle — and to always lock their car doors to prevent children from getting in on their own. “You can see heatstroke happen even when it’s just 60 degrees outside,” Dunn said. “In just ten minutes, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise by 20 degrees.” Dunn explained that hot car deaths typically happen in three ways: a child is forgotten in the car, gains access to a vehicle on their own and becomes trapped, or is knowingly left in the car. A common factor in many cases is a change in routine — when a parent who doesn’t normally do daycare drop-off simply forgets the child in the backseat. To prevent these tragedies, NHTSA recommends putting a needed item — like a purse or phone — in the backseat as a reminder, setting alerts, and working with childcare providers to confirm when children are dropped off. “Anyone can make this mistake,” Dunn stressed. “That’s why awareness and routine are so important.” For resources and more information, visit nhtsa.gov/heatstroke .…
Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Times Union Hudson Valley Editor Philip Pantuso about his latest reporting into the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office. The conversation dives into allegations of altered accident reports, bulk ammunition purchases delivered to the department, and conflicting claims over whether there’s been an FBI investigation. Pantuso and reporter Lana Bellamy spoke to several current and former deputies who say they were recently questioned by federal agents……
In New York state, hundreds of individuals are currently incarcerated for second degree murder, even if they were not at the scene of the crime or had no proven intention to commit the crime. It’s all because of the state’s felony murder law that can carry a maximum sentence of twenty-five to life. Prisoners Brain Trust, a multicultural coalition looking to end carceral harm is working to repeal the felony murder law as well as uplift the writing and stories of incarcerated individuals through a monthly newsletter and social media campaign. Radio Catskill’s Genevieve Hartnett spoke with Co-Founder Alisha Kohn and Board Member Nathaly about how this law disproportionately affects young Black and brown people and why implementing community driven preventative policies is how we should be looking at ending crime nationwide.…
Authorities in Sullivan County say a major cache of illegal weapons, including multiple “ghost guns,” was recovered during a multi-agency investigation that led to the arrest of two Liberty residents. At a press conference Monday, District Attorney Brian Conaty announced felony weapons possession charges against Darrin McCosco, 39 , and Kimberly Murran, 33 , following a joint effort by law enforcement in Fallsburg, Liberty, Monticello, and the DA’s office. The case began with a stolen property complaint in Fallsburg, but escalated quickly when a police drone and social media posts revealed suspected illegal firearms. Investigators secured a search warrant, leading to the recovery of a stockpile of weapons from a home on North Main Street and a vehicle under the suspects’ control. Seized items included: 5 unserialized ghost guns 3 assault weapons 7 rifles 1 pump-action shotgun High-capacity magazines Hundreds of rounds of ammunition Tactical gear , including a ballistic helmet Ghost guns, which lack serial numbers and are difficult to trace, are illegal under New York State law. DA Conaty warned that these weapons “pose a very real threat to our community” and said his office will prosecute the case to the fullest extent of the law. No imminent threat to the public was identified, though the investigation remains ongoing. Both McCosco and Murran are being held at Sullivan County Jail.…
July is Disability Pride Month—a time to not only celebrate the contributions of disabled individuals, but also to examine the systemic challenges they continue to face. As Congress debates sweeping changes to Medicare under “One Big Beautiful Bill,” advocates are raising the alarm about exactly what these cuts could mean for the people that rely on it Radio Catskill’s Jamie Case sat down with Patrick Cokley, Senior Program Officer at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, to talk about how these proposed cuts could disproportionately impact disabled Americans and how impacted individuals can understand how cuts may impact them.…
Governor Hochul announced on June 30th that $75 million will be put into New York's dairy factories. Walton's branch of "Lactalis" is receiving $15 million from that fund. Lactalis, the world's largest dairy company, is giving the money for construction improvements to increase production. In exchange, the state is offering tax incentives through the Excelsior program, which provides write-offs for job creation. The $15 million will create 20 more jobs and increase factory output by 30%. Allison Stark, the Senior Director of Industry Development for Empire State Development, said "Dairy is absolutely booming right now in New York. We're really excited that the dairy industry has taken off the way that it has. So this is not just a win for the communities... but for the farmers as well. The farmers that are providing this milk to these companies, they're all gonna be able to expand and get additional sales." Listen to hear how the state says Delaware County will benefit and how environmental sustainability is taken into account.…
The Woodstock Library may have expanded into a bigger building, but they’re facing big cuts as part of the Trump Administration’s broader cuts to public services. The impact of funding for public libraries would not only be a loss for intellectual curiosity, it would be especially devastating for rural communities. Radio Catskill’s Genevieve Hartnett spoke with Ivy Gocker of the Woodstock Public Library District and Jen Park and Grace Riario of the Ramapo Catskill Library System about how libraries in New York are funded, why federal support is so important, and all the services libraries offer that you may not have known about.…
Is the U.S. president above the law? That’s what Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo wanted to find out when he spoke to Michael Kirk, an award-winning filmmaker and founding producer of FRONTLINE. Kirk’s latest documentary, Trump’s Power & the Rule of Law, explores how the foundational idea that no one is above the law is being tested like never before—in the courts, in Congress, and in the Oval Office itself. The film tracks the expansion of presidential power from the Nixon era to the Trump administration, and examines the legal battles that have reshaped the limits of executive authority. It explores the implications of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on presidential immunity and what it means for future presidencies. Through interviews with Trump allies, critics, and legal scholars, the documentary illustrates how unchecked power can erode democratic institutions and weaken the rule of law. Michael Kirk discusses how Trump’s presidency redefined the boundaries of presidential conduct, what separates this moment from past political crises, and why the stakes for American democracy are so high. Watch the full documentary on PBS FRONTLINE: https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/documentary/trumps-power-the-rule-of-law/…
The Wurtsboro Founder’s Day Street Fair was held last Saturday, July 12th on Sullivan Street in Wurtsboro, NY. The annual celebration saw one of its biggest years yet with the 200th Anniversary of the village’s naming by William and Maurice Wurts. The street fair included over 100 vendors and featured live music, face painting, a birds of prey exhibit, an antique car show, and five new murals painted by New York-based artists. But among the visitors to Wurtsboro on Saturday were also some very special guests - the descendants of George Wurts, the brother of the town’s namesake. Two branches of the same family, currently located in Massachusetts and California, were specially invited by the Wurtsboro Board of Trade and welcomed by Mayor Frank Sisco to enjoy the street fair and a weekend of activities honoring their lineage. Radio Catskill's Genevieve Hartnett went to the festival for the first time and got to learn more about Wurtsboro's culture, art scene, and unique history through a conversation with the Wurts families.…
Votebeat PA reports that the U.S. Justice Department is asking Pennsylvania how it manages voter rolls. Several other states are also facing new scrutiny as the Trump administration refocuses election-law enforcement. Carter Walker explains that some elections officials and observers are wary because of the larger context in which this effort is occurring, although the commonwealth has not yet responded to these requests.…
The public now has access to crucial data about air quality around Hudson Valley. Bard College has partnered with an environmental justice group, “JustAir,” to install sensors and publish the data in real time. Before this initiative, only government agencies could view the data without a formal request and it was being measured from farther away. Citizens have to file using the Freedom of Information Act to access EPA statistics, explains Eli Dueker. Dueker is the Director of the Center for Environmental Sciences and Humanities at Bard College. He told WJFF, “We are the first publicly accessible air quality network in the Hudson Valley. The nearest ‘official’ Department of Environmental Conservation station is in Newburgh and not publicly accessible.” The program is a huge step for environmental justice and democratizing information, says Desirée Lyle, the manager of Bard’s Community Sciences Lab. The program is a “resource for the community” that isn’t vulnerable to the politicization of climate science. Lyle explains that Hudson Valley was previously part of an “air quality monitoring desert,” in which fifty million Americans still currently live. Now, however, residents are empowered to use data to investigate potential health hazards to the community: “If you have something that just happened in your neighborhood, let’s say there was a fire, and you’ve been coughing a lot for the last two weeks, and you’re wondering if that fire in your neighborhood is the cause of that, then you can go back three months ago and see what the air quality was like before you had your cough, and see if it was the same or if it was different. So that’s another way that data are helpful to individual community members, not just municipalities or hospitals or larger organizations. It could be just, you know, a person who’s sick and wanting to get more information about why they might be not feeling well.” Lyle and Dueker hope to grow the program even further by installing sensors on-the-ground. These are more accurate than those on top of roofs because gravity moves a lot of harmful particles down to where people are actually breathing. They encourage people to limit burning firewood and partaking in other activities that can hurt the air quality. Dueker says: “We as a community, we have control over our air quality… in this era of living, there’s a lot that we can’t do anything about… Our point is that air quality is not one of them. We can make decisions that affect our air quality immediately." He continued, "We also aren’t into in the business of using guilt as a way to achieve environmental excellence. We actually believe that there are a lot of decisions that everyone has to make on a daily basis and we have no business judging that. But we can, as a community, make some decisions that can help guide people around that.” Listen to the audio here for more and visit https://hvaq.wordpress.com/ to sponsor a sensor, volunteer for the program, or learn more.…
Radio Catskill's Jaime Case explores the intersection of biodiversity, conservation, and native plants with environmentalist and landscape designer Carolyn Summers. In this conversation, Summers shares insights from her ambitious 20-year project, Flying Trillium , located on a 100-acre property in Sullivan County. The project serves as both a living laboratory and a sanctuary—where native plants are not only cultivated but allowed to flourish alongside local wildlife.…
Camille O'Brien represented the Catskills this Independence Day on Coney Island for a great American tradition, Nathan's annual hot dog eating contest. O'Brien ate six and a half weiners in just ten minutes, placing eleventh out of thirteen women. At the weigh-in on July 3rd, O'Brien was feeling starstruck, surrounded by the biggest names in professional eating, including two former champions. " It's so surreal to be right behind Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo right now.... I got to be announced with the people that I've been watching for so many years. That's so cool." James Webb, an Australian competing in the contest, sees this event as the pinnacle of U.S. culture. "I never realized what the Fourth of July means to people in America, but you all always find a way to celebrate... So tomorrow there's gonna be drunk idiots with those big Nathan's hats. It's the most fun. I love this week. I bring my whole family from Australia for this week." O'Brien has now signed a contract with Major League Eating and is expecting to compete in more events going forward. Next up? Hopefully the buffalo wing contest in Buffalo, NY, she said.…
Jeffersonville’s Camille O’Brien is heading to Brooklyn this July 4 to compete in one of America’s most iconic eating competitions — the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island. “I can’t even believe it,” said O’Brien. “I actually signed a contract yesterday with Major League Eating, so technically I’m a professional eater now.” She secured her spot by winning a qualifying event at Hershey Park, where she ate 8.5 hot dogs in 10 minutes, narrowly edging out her competitors. “Second place ate eight, and third place ate seven and a half, but only the winner gets a seat at the big show,” she explained. This will be O’Brien’s first time competing in a hot dog eating contest at this level, though she’s no stranger to the world of competitive eating. “I’ve been in other eating contests, but funny enough, my whole family is from South Brooklyn. One of my earliest memories is being at Nathan’s on Coney Island in the summer and eating French fries with the little red fork they used to have.” Preparation for the contest has been intense. “I’ve been eating a lot of watermelon to create more space in my stomach,” she said, adding that she’s also practiced with members of her local fire department nearby in case of choking — a real risk in the world of speed eating. “Hot dogs are one of the things people choke on the most… so I did have a practice the week before.” O’Brien is also planning to use her moment in the spotlight to promote a cause close to her heart: volunteer firefighting. “I’m hoping to wear some of my fire department bunker gear and promote volunteer firefighting.” For O’Brien, this contest is more than a competitive milestone — it’s deeply personal. “It means, I think, way more than a lot of people know to me. Having lost both my parents, it’s such a throwback to my family and the memories I have there.” She knows the event will be physically demanding — “the energy it takes from your whole body to digest that much food” is no joke — but for O’Brien, it’s worth it. “I never thought this was the way I was going to get on ESPN. But here we go.”…
The story of Sullivan County’s growth and transformation begins along the banks of the Delaware and Hudson Canal. In a recent conversation with Radio Catskill, Fiona Feltman, Assistant Parks Director for Sullivan County, spoke with Patricio Robayo about the D&H Canal Interpretive Center in Summitville. The center highlights the history of the canal, once a vital transportation route that helped shape the economic and social landscape of the region. “The canal played a critical role in connecting communities and industries in the 19th century,” Feltman said. “Its impact is still visible in the layout and character of towns throughout the area.” The Interpretive Center includes exhibits and artifacts that trace the canal’s legacy—from its construction and operation to its role in moving coal and other goods through the Catskills. The site also serves as a space for education and engagement, offering visitors a chance to better understand the infrastructure and labor that powered early industrial growth in the region. In addition to the permanent displays, the center is hosting a series of free public programs throughout the summer. The lineup includes historical talks, guided walks along the canal path, and other events designed to highlight both the human and natural history of the area. “We’re focused on helping people connect to the broader story of the region, whether they’re history enthusiasts or just looking for something meaningful to do with their families,” Feltman said. The D&H Canal Interpretive Center is operated by the Sullivan County Division of Parks, Recreation, and Beautification. A full schedule of summer programming is available on the county’s website.…
Statewide spending on hotels has more than tripled in recent years. The shift away from shelters has prevented families from accessing services like child care and help finding housing. Read more here: https://nysfocus.com/2025/06/24/new-york-homelessness-hotels
For Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, Radio Catskill's Patricio Robayo speaks with keynote speaker and entrepreneur Kevin Green. From Division 1 athletics to fine dining and an appearance on the Food Network’s Chopped, Green’s journey is one of resilience and reinvention. He shares his personal story of facing burnout, divorce, and career shifts—highlighting the importance of men’s mental health, vulnerability, and redefining what strength really means.…
Author Patricia Grayhall joins Radio Catskill’s Jamie Case to discuss her new book, A Place for Us , an autofictional account of her search for a country where she could legally live with her British partner—years before the United States extended immigration rights to same-sex couples. At the heart of her story is a message to queer youth: “Love will prevail.”…
Sweeping changes are coming to a massive program that aims to bring high-speed internet to everyone in the U.S., after the Trump administration rejected one of the initiative’s key policy goals. The new rules for the $42.5 billion program change the way states will evaluate competing proposals, which areas are eligible for funding, and how long states have to award the grants. The announcement in early June upended months of planning and left Pennsylvania officials scrambling as they race to meet a newly accelerated timeline for getting the money out. The changes likely will result in fewer Pennsylvanians in remote and rural areas being connected to the internet via fiber optic cables, widely considered the gold standard for speed and reliability. The program originally prioritized fiber projects, but under the new rules, states must select winners based on the lowest cost. The change will make applications from wireless and satellite internet providers, including Elon Musk’s Starlink, more competitive.…
The solar power industry is increasing its presence in the Catskills. This rise is accompanied by debates over land use and accusations of predatory marketing tactics. Pennsylvania, specifically, is in the midst of a heated legal battle. First lies the question of where to put large solar farms. The vast open spaces suited for them are commonly farm lands. Hundreds of thousands of acres have been converted from farmland for solar development. However, this number is somewhat misleading, says Solar United Neighbors. Monica Carey, the nonprofit’s Pennsylvania Program Director, explains that the soil grade is important to account for. While the land may technically be categorized as farmland, Carey says the soil grade is so low it often was unusable for agriculture. In fact, sometimes solar’s presence can make the soil more tenable in the future. There’s also been accusations of unethical sales practices by big solar companies. Carey says they’ll often promise free solar installation and then jack up monthly payments to hundreds of dollars. Patrons say the contracts are deceptive and the marketing is invasive. Door-to-door sales are a common practice from companies looking to get buyers on the hook. Carey and the Pennsylvania Program Associate, Rachel Pecharka, spoke with Radio Catskill about the region’s complex relationship with solar power. In New York and Delaware, community solar is in place, which means residents can access benefits from the electricity demonstrated by solar farms. In Pennsylvania, that issue is currently being debated. Listen for more.…
In a stunning political shift, Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani’s decisive victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary has not only toppled former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s attempted comeback but also stirred speculation about the future of Democratic politics across New York State. Speaking with Jason Dole on Radio Catskill’s Local Edition , David Lombardo of The Capitol Pressroom described the outcome as “a surprise,” particularly since Cuomo was widely expected to lead after the first round of ranked-choice voting. Instead, Mamdani emerged ahead, propelled by a broad anti-Cuomo coalition and a populist message that resonated beyond typical ideological divides. Lombardo says Mamdani’s communication skills and message discipline, calling him a “once-in-a-generation communicator” whose appeal crossed from Democratic Socialists to centrists concerned about affordability and quality of life in the city. His victory is not necessarily an embrace of socialism, Lombardo noted, but rather a demand for change and authenticity in leadership. This upset has caught the attention of state leaders, including Governor Kathy Hochul and Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. Delgado, who is eyeing a 2026 gubernatorial run, may see Mamdani’s success as a signal that a populist message can thrive—even against better-funded opponents. The primary also spotlighted the power of grassroots campaigning. While Cuomo leaned heavily on media spending, Mamdani's ground game and direct voter engagement made a critical difference. Young voters turned out in unexpectedly high numbers, with the 18–48 demographic becoming a major factor in the outcome. Looking ahead, Lombardo said the key question is how Governor Hochul responds. Will she double down on centrist policies, or pivot to address the rising energy on the party’s left flank? Her strategy for the 2026 election cycle may hinge on how seriously she takes Mamdani’s win as a broader political signal. As Lombardo says, “The party has to decide if it wants to harness this energy—or ignore it at its peril.”…
What do a half-eaten batch of brownies and a grassroots movement have in common? In this episode, Mariabella Todaro, founder and CEO of “Millions of Butterflies,” shares how one spontaneous moment sparked a community-powered effort to fight hunger in Ulster County. Relying on the heart of a town that shows up, Todaro discusses accomplishments and everyday realities of leading an organization built by the community, for the community. The New Paltz Free Food Fridge isn’t just a volunteer opportunity. It’s a lifeline. For Todaro, their mission goes beyond meals. It’s about helping neighbors not just survive, but thrive.…
The bill package will now head to Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk, and she could either sign, veto, or scale it back through amendments to the legislation. Amid one of the most chaotic years for New York’s prison system in recent memory, the state legislature passed a limited omnibus prison reform bill Thursday night, hours before one of its chambers closed out its lawmaking for the year. The bill is the legislature’s response to the state prison agency’s mounting scandals. In December, body-worn cameras captured corrections officers taking turns beating a handcuffed incarcerated man named Robert Brooks, who died hours later. The killing sparked nationwide outcry and served as a backdrop for months of tumultuous events that followed, including a three-week corrections officers strike , another alleged killing at the hands of prison guards, and two contentious legislative hearings .…
This fall, the State of New York is launching SUNY Reconnect , a tuition free program for all SUNY Community Colleges for adult learners with no prior degree between the ages of 25-55. As the cost of higher education increases exponentially year after year, New York state is taking steps towards making the pursuit of an education more accessible and affordable. Radio Catskill’s Genevieve Hartnett spoke with Dr. David Potash, President of SUNY Sullivan about investing in New York’s future with education and preparing for the impact of cuts from the Department of Education at the federal level.…
Today, on Juneteenth, we celebrate the generations of Black Americans whose contributions have shaped our country’s history. In New York’s Catskills region, community leaders and public officials took the day to recognize important Black leaders in our community. Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar was at the Sullivan County’s legislative meeting on June 19, where the legislature honored the Watson family’s public service contributions to the region. She brings us this report.…
With four confirmed cases of measles recently reported in neighboring Orange County and over 1,000 cases nationwide this year, local health officials are urging residents to take action to prevent a wider outbreak. Dr. Jodi Galaydick, an infectious disease specialist and epidemiologist with Garnet Health Doctors, emphasized the highly contagious nature of the virus during a recent interview with Radio Catskill. "Measles is airborne," Dr. Galaydick explained. "It can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves." Recognizing the Symptoms Measles often begins with high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A telltale rash typically follows three to five days after initial symptoms, starting on the face and spreading downward. Dr. Galaydick warned that individuals are contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after. "It’s extremely infectious—if 10 unvaccinated people are exposed, nine will likely get sick." Do Not Walk In—Call First Residents who suspect they have measles are urged not to visit clinics or hospitals without calling first. “We ask people to call ahead to prevent exposing vulnerable individuals—babies, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems,” said Dr. Galaydick. Healthcare providers will advise on safe next steps. Vaccination Remains the Best Defense The two-dose measles vaccine, given first between 12-15 months and again at ages 4-6, is up to 97% effective. Amid rising vaccine hesitancy, Dr. Galaydick stressed that the measles vaccine is safe and has no link to autism—a myth long debunked by scientific research. “We’ve had three measles-related deaths in the U.S. this year alone,” she noted. “These were preventable.” Travel and Community Awareness With summer travel approaching, parents are advised to speak with their pediatricians. In some cases, an early dose may be appropriate for infants as young as six months traveling to higher-risk areas. Dr. Galaydick concluded with a call to action: “Promote vaccination, fight misinformation, and know the symptoms. Community awareness is key to preventing a broader outbreak.” For more information, residents should contact their healthcare provider or the local health department.…
As June marks Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association is amplifying efforts to educate the public on the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, with new data revealing that over 7 million Americans are currently living with the disease—a number projected to double by 2060. Speaking with Radio Catskill, Dr. Carl V. Hill, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at the Alzheimer’s Association, emphasized the pressing need for early detection. “Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death among those 65 and older,” Dr. Hill noted. “Early recognition can lead to timely interventions, support, and potentially access to new treatments that slow cognitive decline.” For families like mine, the signs often go unnoticed. Dr. Hill pointed out that loved ones are usually the first to observe subtle changes—difficulty managing finances, losing track of dates, or making poor decisions that deviate from lifelong patterns. “Normal aging might include occasionally misplacing items or forgetting appointments,” said Dr. Hill. “But Alzheimer’s can manifest as repeated memory loss, confusion with time, or challenges in completing familiar tasks.” One major concern is the disparity in diagnoses and care. Black Americans are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s or other dementias, yet often go undiagnosed. According to Dr. Hill, socioeconomic factors and higher incidences of conditions like diabetes and heart disease are likely contributors. To combat these challenges, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Ad Council have launched a new wave of public service announcements under the “Some Things Come with Age” campaign. These ads spotlight meaningful family moments and gently educate viewers on signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Dr. Hill encouraged families to visit 10signs.org for resources and guidance. “It’s never too early to speak with a doctor,” he said, underscoring the importance of acting before the disease progresses beyond the early stages, when treatments are most effective. For more support, the Alzheimer’s Association provides a 24/7 helpline at 1-800-272-3900.…
The City of Middletown became the latest upstate city to adopt a local 'Good Cause Eviction' law, which protects tenants against eviction without justifiable cause and from predatory rent increases. Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar spoke with For the Many's Brahvan Ranga and Vanessa Cid just hours before the Middletown Common Council adopted the legislation on June 17. For the Many is a statewide grassroots advocacy nonprofit that has been organizing Hudson Valley tenants to strengthen renter and homeowner protections. They dive into what the local law means for Orange County residents – and their continued fight to build tenant power in the region.…
By Patricio Robayo As millions prepare to celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday, mental health professionals are calling attention to a lesser-known reality facing thousands of new fathers: paternal postpartum depression. Often overshadowed by maternal mental health discussions, paternal postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 10 new dads, according to Postpartum Support International (PSI). When a partner is also experiencing postpartum depression, that figure increases to a staggering 1 in 2. “This is not just a women’s issue. This is a public mental health issue,” said Dr. Dan Singley, a psychologist specializing in men’s mental health and director of The Center for Men’s Excellence. “And too many dads are suffering in silence.” Warning Signs Often Missed During a recent interview with Radio Catskill, Dr. Singley explained that male depression—particularly after the birth of a child—often goes undetected. While traditional symptoms like sadness and lethargy can appear, many men experience less obvious signs: irritability, anger, isolation, excessive work, substance abuse, or even compulsive behaviors like gambling or video gaming. “Men tend to somaticize,” Dr. Singley noted, referring to the phenomenon where emotional pain manifests as physical symptoms. “Chest tightness, headaches, digestive issues—these can be signs of unspoken emotional distress.” Unlike mothers, who are routinely screened for postpartum depression, fathers rarely receive formal mental health evaluations during pediatric visits or postnatal check-ups. Social Norms and Silence Experts say one of the biggest barriers to treatment is cultural. The prevailing stereotype of fathers as stoic providers often prevents them from seeking help—or even recognizing their own symptoms. “As men, we’re taught to protect, provide, and sacrifice,” Dr. Singley told me. “But no one tells us that sometimes we’ll need others to protect and support us . That’s where the stigma lies.” The stigma extends beyond the doctor’s office. On social media, memes that mock male vulnerability often circulate widely—messages like “Deal with it, no one cares”—which reinforce silence and shame around men's mental health. “I’ve heard from dads who feel they have no right to feel overwhelmed because their partner is the one physically recovering from childbirth,” said Singley. “But this isn’t a competition of who has it worse. It’s about identifying when someone needs help.” Shared Struggles at Home One of the more sobering statistics: when a mother is experiencing postpartum depression, the likelihood that her partner is also struggling jumps to 50%. “That doesn’t mean one causes the other,” Dr. Singley clarified. “It speaks to how deeply interconnected co-parents are. When one is struggling, the other often is too.” The positive side of that equation? Recovery can be contagious. “When one partner starts to heal, the other often follows. Mental health lifts the whole household.” Resources and Support To raise awareness, PSI marks the day after Father’s Day—June 16 this year—as International Father’s Mental Health Day . The goal is to shatter the stigma and connect dads with accessible resources. No diagnosis is required to seek help. PSI offers a range of free services, including a helpline (1-800-944-4773), text support, and weekly online groups tailored specifically for dads. Their website, postpartum.net , also features a dedicated section for fathers, including tools to find therapists trained in paternal mental health. “Sometimes just logging into a group and listening is enough to start the journey,” Dr. Singley said. “You don’t even have to speak. You just have to show up.” A Message for Dads Dr. Singley says to any new father reading this: you're not alone. You’re not weak. And you’re not broken. You’re going through one of life’s biggest transitions, and it’s okay to struggle. What matters is what you do next. If you know a dad who seems off—withdrawn, short-tempered, distant—Dr. Singley offers this simple advice: “Ask him how he’s doing. Then ask again.” In the days surrounding Father’s Day, amid the celebrations and cards, it’s worth remembering that being a strong father doesn’t mean carrying the weight in silence. Sometimes, it means having the courage to say, “I need help.”…
In this "Meet the Candidates" episode, Patricio sits down with Tim Dymond, a longtime Sullivan County resident and recently retired senior investigator with the New York State Police. With more than 20 years of law enforcement experience—including service with both the NYPD and State Police—Dymond discusses why he's running for Sullivan County Sheriff. He outlines a detailed platform focused on modernization, community engagement, and tackling urgent local issues like the opioid epidemic. Dymond also addresses bail reform, transparency in law enforcement, and his vision for building a more connected and accountable sheriff’s office. This candid conversation offers voters a clear look at the values and plans behind Dymond’s campaign.…
In this "Meet the Candidates" interview, we sit down with Sullivan County Sheriff Mike Schiff as he seeks re-election. Sheriff Schiff reflects on his extensive tenure since 2006, outlining the key initiatives he's led to improve public safety, such as implementing drone technology, launching a dedicated emergency services unit, and enhancing youth engagement programs. He directly addresses recent allegations circulating on social media, calling them baseless, and details the internal reviews and policy safeguards in place. Schiff also shares insights on law enforcement’s role in the opioid crisis, the use of new tools like Bearcats and license plate readers, and his views on ICE and immigration issues. This candid conversation highlights his plans for deepening community trust and the continued modernization of local policing. Don't miss this opportunity to hear directly from the candidate on the issues that matter most to Sullivan County voters.…
A video that’s been making the rounds on Facebook has sparked controversy and political tension in Sullivan County just weeks before the Republican primary for sheriff. The video alleges an improper relationship involving a Sullivan County undersheriff, a former deputy, and an inmate—and suggests a cover-up. The footage, posted in the group Behind the Scenes of Sullivan County Politics , compiles surveillance clips and recorded video calls, painting a picture of alleged misconduct inside the Sheriff’s Office. In speaking with Radio Catskill, Schiff called the video "completely unfounded" and politically motivated. "This outrageous claim is being made without any evidence whatsoever," he said. Schiff’s campaign said in a Facebook post that the video was “obtained without authorization and is pieced together, out of context,” noting that the District Attorney’s Office had already reviewed the matter and determined it had no merit. According to Schiff, the video omits key facts. In one clip, the undersheriff is seen handing a bottle of DayQuil to a former deputy in his truck—something Schiff says happened during the height of the pandemic when the woman, a longtime family friend, wasn’t feeling well. In another part, she’s seen on a video call with an inmate, but Schiff says she was no longer employed by the department at that time. The campaign's statement also criticized challenger Tim Dymond, accusing him of trying to sway voters with what Schiff described as a "wild conspiracy theory." The former deputy, Schiff said, had come forward on her own, reporting that she had developed feelings for an inmate. She resigned shortly after. An internal review found no evidence of contraband or sexual misconduct, Schiff added. Dymond has publicly called for an investigation, but Schiff insists the DA’s office already looked into the matter. No charges have been filed, and there’s been no indication of a formal investigation.…
The New Paltz Pride Coalition co-hosted a special documentary honoring singer-songwriter Janis Ian’s life at the Rosendale Theatre on June 11 as part of their lineup of Pride Month events. The documentary, Janis Ian: Breaking Silence , is named after her 1993 album where she publicly came out as a lesbian. New Paltz Pride Coalition is a haven for the LGBTQIA community in New Paltz currently working to create a dedicated center for folks to gather at. Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar spoke with Eve Papp, Co-Founder and Board President of the New Paltz Pride Coalition, about what they have lined up for June and why creating safe spaces is more important than ever.…
The Forestburgh Playhouse in the Sullivan Catskills is hosting its second Drag Me to the Catskills, a weekend-long series of events from June 13 to 15, focused on celebrating drag performance. Featuring a renowned cast of drag queens, who have been critical to the modern drag movement and drag’s rise in pop culture through shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race, Drag Me to the Catskills aims to bring this powerful form of LGBTQ+ expression directly to Sullivan County. Radio Catskill’s Julia Kim had the chance to speak with Forestburgh Playhouse’s director Franklin Trapp about what the event has in store for audiences and then long-time queen Mrs. Kasha Davis on the importance of drag to both her own life and that of others — especially amid the federal government’s increasing hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community within the United States. Here’s Franklin……
مرحبًا بك في مشغل أف ام!
يقوم برنامج مشغل أف أم بمسح الويب للحصول على بودكاست عالية الجودة لتستمتع بها الآن. إنه أفضل تطبيق بودكاست ويعمل على أجهزة اندرويد والأيفون والويب. قم بالتسجيل لمزامنة الاشتراكات عبر الأجهزة.