Newly appointed Ulster County historian Eddie Moran discusses the role of a municipal historian and emphasizes the importance of presenting a complete and accurate history that includes all groups, with one such focus on the indigenous Lenape people. Moran, a SUNY New Paltz graduate and descendant of the region's Huguenot and Dutch colonists, shares his experiences working with various local organizations to expand the historical narrative. The episode also features a tour of the Ulster County Hall of Records led by archivist Jonathan Palmer, exploring the extensive archival collections and discussing the preservation and digitization efforts.00:00 Introduction and Context00:27 Meet Eddie Moran: Ulster County's New Historian01:38 Eddie's Journey and Passion for History06:55 The Role and Responsibilities of a County Historian10:54 Challenges and Goals in Historical Narratives16:50 Exploring the Ulster County Hall of Records19:34 Preserving History: Techniques and Challenges27:38 Significant Historical Documents and Their Stories38:55 Conclusion and Credits---Audio recording by Izzy SchuylerBehind-the-scenes video by Ruby Zuckerman
The Overlook, a new nonprofit newspaper, describes itself as "community journalism serving Hunter, Hurley, Olive, Saugerties, Shandaken and Woodstock."At a time when newspapers in America are disappearing at a rate of about 2.5 per week, The Overlook is attempting to buck that trend with community coverage and investigative reporting, served up weekly, in a free subscription model.Join us for a conversation with its inaugural Editor-in-chief, Noah Eckstein, who's taking the lead in shaping a promising new publication in a part of the Catskills where news coverage is sparse. Listen to the end, where we hear from 3 Kaatscast listeners who called in with reaction to our last show, "Wireless Watershed," about major communications gaps in the region. Please keep in touch, at kaatscast.com, and on Instagram: @kaatscast
In a new effort to enhance communications in the Catskills, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is partnering with New York's ConnectALL initiative to expand wireless and broadband access throughout the New York City watershed. The initiative was motivated by operational challenges faced by DEP staff due to poor cell coverage, and a recent Request for Information (RFI) seeks input from telecommunications providers and other stakeholders on how to eliminate cell phone dead zones. In this episode, DEP Commissioner Rohit "Rit" Aggarwala and Water Supply Deputy Commissioner Paul Rush join host Brett Barry for a discussion about the RFI; why a robust communications network is increasingly crucial; and how a network could be built to benefit everyone in the region.To put the complicated NYC/Catskills relationship into context, we check in with Lize Mogel––producer of the podcast series, Views from the Watershed––for a fascinating historical perspective. We also hear from local Town Clerk Joyce Grant, whose anecdotal evidence illustrates just how dangerous cellular dead zones can be in the remote Catskills, where land lines and cable internet can also be scarce. Grant is frustrated by what she characterizes as a minority of residents who are opposed to cell towers marring the mountain landscape. Referring to a proposal for a tower to be built in Shandaken, she says, "It's going to be a pole that's 85 feet tall, and it may be viewable above the trees... but it's a pole... that could save lives. We have to look at it like that."For more than a century, the Catskills have provided New York City with billions of gallons of clean drinking water. Will NYC be the unlikely partner that –– finally –– brings wireless coverage to the Catskills? 00:00 Intro00:26 NYC DEP's Wireless Communication Initiative01:44 Joyce Grant's Pursuit for Better Communication07:17 Challenges of Cell Service in the Catskills10:34 Community Efforts and Future Plans15:12 The Catskills and NYC Water Connection16:15 The "Takings" and Eminent Domain19:06 The 1990s MOA and Water Quality23:29 Controversial Land Acquisition Program24:24 City's Land Ownership and Broadband Infrastructure24:56 New York City's Evolving Relationship with the Catskills25:37 DEP's Land Purchase Strategy27:46 Recreation and Utility Easements on City Land29:11 Challenges and Opportunities for Broadband Expansion32:06 Future of Wireless Communications in the Catskills34:41 Funding and Implementation of Broadband Project36:22 Historical Context and Technological Evolution38:50 Public Engagement and Relationship Building43:42 Climate Change and Water Supply45:36 Personal Reflections and Memories of the Catskills49:37 Conclusion and Podcast Information
Exploring the Legacy of Clayton 'Peg Leg' Bates: The One-Legged Dancing LegendIn this live episode of Kaatscast, recorded at theEmerson Resort & Spa on November 8, 2024, host Brett Barry engages in a detailed discussion with Elinor Levy,Folk Arts Program Manager at Arts Mid Hudson, about the life and legacy of Clayton 'Peg Leg' Bates.The show explores Bates' inspiring journey from losing a leg in a cotton gin accident at the age of 12 to becoming one of the most celebrated tap dancers, performing on Broadway and appearing on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' at least 21 times.Elinor shares insights from her research, Bates' entrepreneurial venture in establishing an interracial resort in the Catskills, and his impact on the Black community. The episode includes personal anecdotes, clips from a documentary about Bates, and audience Q&A, enriching the narrative of Bates' remarkable resilience and contribution to the arts.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:38 Discovering Peg Leg Bates01:36 Clayton Bates' Early Life and Career03:07 Elinor Levy's Journey with Peg Leg Bates04:53 The Peg Leg Bates Exhibit06:45 Peg Leg Bates' Performances and Legacy13:11 The Peg Leg Bates Resort18:32 Community Impact and Personal Stories24:56 The Decline of the Resort30:44 Audience Q&A41:06 Closing Remarks and CreditsLinks:The Dancing Man documentaryArts Mid-Hudson Folk Collection on Peg Leg BatesSaints of Swing with David Winograd and Miss Rene Bailey
Justin Kolb is an accomplished pianist who began playing at the age of four. Now 82, Justin continues to practice almost daily and performs intimate house concerts called "From the Bench," showcasing music "by living American composers as well as music that lives in undeserved obscurity." Justin shares vivid memories from his early competitions to his debut with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and recounts his time in the military where he balanced service with a budding concert career. After a successful stint in the business world, Justin returned to his passion for music, performing globally and conducting house concerts that are always a sellout. Tune in to hear about Justin’s extraordinary journey and his deep connection to the piano, culminating in a life dedicated to evoking emotion through music. 00:00 Introduction to Justin Kolb 01:04 Early Life and First Piano Lessons 02:19 Competitions and Early Success 05:04 Military Service and European Debut 08:54 Post-Military Career and Business Ventures 10:44 Return to Music and Retirement 13:10 From the Bench Concert Series 17:54 Reflections on Music and Practice 22:16 Conclusion and Contact Information
Grilled Cheese with a Twist: Lunch and Jam with New York First Lady Silda Wall Spitzer Join us for a delightful culinary and conversational journey with Silda Wall Spitzer in her Hudson Valley home. In this episode, we explore Silda's gourmet jam business and taste a unique grilled cheese featuring brie and blueberry elderflower jam. Silda shares memories of how her jam-making journey began, her experiences as the former First Lady of New York, and her ongoing passion for sustainability and community service. Discover the blend of flavors in Silda's Jam, the ethos behind her entrepreneurship, and the stories that continue to inspire her work. 00:00 Introduction to a Gourmet Grilled Cheese 01:06 Meet Silda Wall Spitzer 01:42 The Origins of Silda's Jam 05:43 From First Lady to Jam Entrepreneur 06:29 Balancing Public and Private Life 10:05 Sustainability Initiatives in the Executive Mansion 13:18 A Diverse Career Beyond Albany 15:29 Innovations in Jam Making 17:53 Local Ingredients and Community Impact 19:19 Conclusion and Tasting the Grilled Cheese 21:44 Final Thoughts and Farewell
The episode explores a long-standing tradition of square dancing at the Chase (now Sparer) family home and barn, in Ashokan. Host Brett Barry and production intern Olivia Sippel put on their dancing shoes and joined the fun, recording tales of traditional Catskills square dancing, and the musicians who are passing it down to a new generation of enthusiasts. Fiddler and caller Earl Pardini leads the festivities at this particular event, which goes back to the 1970s. The barn where it's held has all the warmth and joviality of a Charles Dickens scene, and we felt very much welcomed into a mostly friends-and-family affair. Featuring conversations with the Chase and Sparer families, the episode highlights deep-rooted Catskills traditions and includes insights from folklorist Ginny Shear and square dance caller Dane Scudder, who learned to "call" from a legend. The episode is sponsored by Ulster Savings Bank, the Mountain Eagle, and Briars & Brambles Books. And if you're interested in joining our new member-listener program, we'd love to welcome you! 00:00 The Thanksgiving Square Dance Tradition 00:31 A Warm Welcome to the Chase Family Barn 01:37 The Origins of the Square Dance Tradition 02:55 The Sparer Family Continues the Legacy 03:48 Generational Memories of Square Dancing 05:24 Earl Pardini: The Fiddler and Caller 08:19 The Cultural Significance of Square Dancing 09:43 Fostering Traditional Catskills Square Dancing 11:55 The Future of Square Dancing 15:06 Concluding Thoughts and Future Adventures 15:37 Support and Sponsors
Unveiling the Mysteries of the North American Porcupine In this episode of 'Kaatscast,' host Brett Barry delves into the fascinating world of the North American porcupine with Uldis Roze, the world's foremost expert on this mysterious and lovable Catskills rodent. Hear about the porcupine's habitat preferences, diet, mating behaviors, and unique defense mechanisms. Roze addresses common misconceptions, shares personal encounters, and reveals insights from his decades-long research, including the discovery of the molecule responsible for the porcupine's distinctive smell. The episode is sponsored by Ulster Savings Bank, the Mountain Eagle, and Briars & Brambles Books, where you might consider requesting a copy of Uldis's book, The North American Porcupine! 00:00 Introduction to Porcupines in the Catskills 00:43 Meet Uldis Roze: Porcupine Expert 01:41 Porcupine Basics and Misconceptions 03:18 From Chemistry to Mammalogy 04:53 First Encounters with Porcupines 06:04 The Lifelong Study of Porcupines 07:00 Porcupine Defense Mechanisms 12:22 Capturing and Studying Porcupines 20:39 Porcupine Classification and Evolution 24:11 Porcupine Mating and Reproduction 27:04 Winter Survival Strategies 30:34 Threats to Porcupine Population 33:25 Personal Stories and Reflections 39:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -- Image of "Musa" courtesy of Uldis Roze Click here for a bonus clip of the "porcupine house."
This episode of "Katz"cast delves into the fascinating life and career of Morris Katz, a Polish-born Holocaust survivor and acclaimed painter known for his lightning-fast painting technique using a palette knife and toilet paper! Recognized by the Guinness World Records, Katz captivated audiences with his vibrant performance art in the Catskills, creating over 280,000 pieces. Learn about his unique method, his impact on Jewish cultural history, and recent exhibitions celebrating his work. Listen for an in-depth story about this charismatic and prolific artist, and discover how one host's bid on a Katz painting sparked a journey of discovery. --- Clips provided by George Schlatter Productions. Thanks to Eddy Portnoy at the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. Memories of Morris Katz Geoff Rogers Picture Framing Real People TV report with Skip Stephenson --- 00:00 Introduction to Morris Katz 01:48 Discovering Morris Katz 02:28 Morris Katz's Artistic Journey 03:14 YIVO Institute Exhibition 04:53 Eddie Portnoy's Encounter with Katz 06:00 Morris Katz's Unique Art Style 08:08 Katz in New York 09:28 Borscht Belt Museum Exhibit 11:08 Katz's Legacy 19:16 Conclusion and Personal Connection
Just in time for Thanksgiving, Kaatscast visits the unique International Museum of Dinnerware Design in Kingston, New York. Founded by Margaret Carney in 2012, the museum recently found its new home, offering dedicated exhibitions that celebrate the art and history of dining. This episode highlights the museum's two inaugural exhibits, 'Dining Grails,' featuring renowned designers like Eva Zeisel; and 'Dining Memories,' showcasing a diverse array of dinnerware in nostalgic vignettes. And for an 'interactive' experience like no other, visitors can step into the Instagram-ready 'a la carte gallery' and try their hand at the famous tablecloth trick. See how host Brett fared, in this slow-mo video. 00:00 Introduction to the Museum of Dinnerware Design 01:14 The Museum's Origins and Evolution 03:59 Why Kingston? The Journey to a New Home 06:17 Exploring the Inaugural Exhibits 07:36 Interactive Experiences and Unique Art Pieces 16:18 Dining Memories: A Walk Through Time 25:05 The Future of Dining and Museum's Vision 27:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This episode of Kaatscast delves into the transformative period of the 1830s in the United States, marked by mass enfranchisement and significant demographic changes. The focus narrows to New York's Anti-Rent War (1839-1845), a period of political violence rooted in immigration anxiety and financial distress. Rebecca Rego Barry, our new literary correspondent (!), interviews author Jennifer Kabat about her new book, The Eighth Moon, which explores the Anti-Rent War and its legacy in the Catskills and beyond. Kabat shares her research process, the radical political history she uncovered, and personal anecdotes about moving from London to the Catskills. The conversation evaluates the parallels between past and present political climates, culminating in a discussion about belonging and rebellion in rural America. 00:00 The Radical 1830s: A Time of Change 00:27 Exploring New York's Anti-Rent War 01:34 Interview with Jennifer Kabat 03:34 Discovering Local History 08:33 The Anti-Rent War Unfolds 17:07 Modern Parallels and Reflections 21:42 Community Connections and Belonging 27:31 Upcoming Works and Final Thoughts 34:39 Conclusion and Credits
We sat down with historian Samantha Misa in the Frisbee family cemetery to uncover some witchy tales from our collective Catskills past. Just in time for Halloween, Samantha shares some haunted encounters from Delaware County's Frisbee House and recounts tales from her book, Witches of the Catskills, including Molly Meyers, "witch cat," in Gilboa area's "Spook Woods." Misa recounts the challenges of researching historical witchcraft, using old newspapers and archival records to reconstruct the tales. --- 00:00 Introduction: Do You Believe in Witches? 00:20 Halloween Costumes and Modern Witches 00:56 Historical Witches in the Catskills 01:42 The Frisbee Family Legacy 03:45 Haunted Tales of the Frisbee House 04:55 Researching Witches of the Catskills 08:16 Challenges in Witchcraft Research 09:56 Witchcraft and Cats: A Historical Perspective 11:59 The Dark Mysteries of the Catskills 12:53 Chilling Tales and Skepticism 15:17 Molly Myers and Spook Woods 18:50 The Esperance Witch 19:48 Modern Beliefs and Halloween 20:46 Closing Remarks and Credits --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books and The Mountain Eagle.
This episode takes us to the Woodstock Film Festival's Youth Film Lab, a three-week intensive filmmaking program for teens in Kingston, NY. Each summer, participants learn filmmaking from industry professionals like Gregg Bray, Megan Sperry, Saskia Madlener, and David Becker. The YFL provides a tuition-free launchpad for young filmmakers to produce documentaries and narrative films, which go on in the fall to be screened at the Woodstock Film Festival. 00:00 Introduction to a Creative Journey 00:23 Youth Film Lab Overview 01:50 Inside the Filmmaking Process 04:03 Meet the Instructors 12:07 Student Experiences and Reflections 14:42 Program Impact and Future Prospects 18:37 Conclusion and Festival Information --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Ulster Savings Bank, and The Mountain Eagle. Please rate and review on the podcast app of your choice. Thank you! (Photo courtesy of Megan Sperry)
More than Maps: Insights from the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference In this episode of Kaatscast, host Brett Barry interviews Melissa Cascini, Senior Program Coordinator for the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, during a hike on the Upper Ridge Trail at the Catskills Visitor Center. Melissa shares her journey with the organization, highlighting the importance of their iconic, durable trail maps and the broader scope of the Trail Conference's activities, including trail maintenance, public land protection, and battling invasive species through innovative programs like the conservation dog team. The discussion also delves into the conference's collaborations with other entities such as the DEC and various local clubs to maintain trails and infrastructure, especially in the Catskills region. Melissa reflects on her passion for trails, the rewarding experience of working with dedicated volunteers, and how she balances professional responsibilities with her personal love for hiking and the outdoors. --- 00:00 Introduction to the Trail Conference 00:17 Iconic Trail Maps 00:53 Meet Melissa Cassini 02:18 History and Mission of the Trail Conference 04:15 Partnerships and Collaborations 05:53 Trail Maintenance and Volunteer Work 09:52 Lean-to Projects and Accessibility 13:19 Getting Involved and Volunteer Opportunities 14:26 Personal Insights and Hobbies 16:05 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, and The Mountain Eagle. Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you!
In the early 20th century, Cauliflower Was King in the western Catskills, and –– especially in the good years –– farmers called it "white gold." Historian Diane Galusha describes the origins of cauliflower farming in Margaretville, the rise and fall of the industry from the 1890s to the 1950s (and beyond), and the notable contribution of the Van Benschoten family. Plus, voices from the annual Cauliflower Festival, celebrating its 20th year on September 21, 2024. 00:00 Introduction to Cauliflower and Personal Stories 00:55 Margaretville Cauliflower Festival Announcement 01:14 Historical Significance of Cauliflower in the Catskills 02:28 Interview with Historian Diane Galusha 03:47 The Rise and Fall of Cauliflower Farming 10:39 Challenges and Decline of the Industry 14:58 Legacy and Memories of Cauliflower Farming 20:11 Modern-Day Celebrations and Personal Anecdotes 22:59 Conclusion and Podcast Information --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, Ulster Savings Bank, and The Mountain Eagle. Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you! Please rate and review on the podcast app of your choice. Thank you! (Photo courtesy of Diane Galusha)
In this episode of Kaatscast, we explore the journey of Emily Li Mandri, founder of the women's accessories brand MLE, based in Saugerties, New York. Emily shares insights into the challenges and rewards of running a fashion brand in Upstate New York, her commitment to eco-conscious materials and sustainable fashion, and the influence of her family's background in apparel. We also hear from her assistant, New Paltz theater grad Kiana Duggan-Haas, about the importance of sustainability in the fashion industry. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on ethical fashion practices, local craftsmanship, and a life/work balance in the Catskills. --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, and The Mountain Eagle. Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you! --- 00:00 Introduction to MLE 01:40 Meet the Founder: Emily Li Mandri 03:20 Sustainability in Fashion 05:58 Challenges and Innovations in Sustainable Fashion 12:51 Living and Working in the Catskills 14:44 Building a Local and National Brand 17:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Mark Hearon didn't always drink coffee, but when he got started, he was all in. Now, he's roasting fair trade organic coffee at an 1872 general store that also carries gourmet sandwiches and local essentials –– beer, bread, milk, fishing bait, even a fill-up for your car from a vintage gas pump, making it a unique one-stop-shop for both locals and travelers. Joined by his daughter Ashley Hearon-Smith, the store’s part-time publicist and social media manager, Mark shares his journey from discovering coffee roasting in California to perfecting his craft in the Catskills. The episode covers the store’s rich history, the roasting process, and the community’s enthusiastic support, including local products such as meats, cheeses, and fresh baked goods. https://www.charlottevillegeneralstore.com 00:00 Introduction00:38 Meet Mark Hearon: The Man Behind the Coffee01:54 History of the Charlotteville General Store03:08 Mark's Journey into Coffee Roasting06:13 Ethically Sourced Coffee Beans07:18 Ashley Hearon-Smith: Publicist and Media Guru09:38 Roasting Process and Local Products14:57 Tasting the Coffee and a Sampling of Sandwiches16:21 Local Products and Community Support17:47 Conclusion and How to Visit---Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, Ulster Savings Bank, and The Mountain Eagle.Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you!Please rate and review on the podcast app of your choice. Thank you!
Michael Kudish is a Catskills legend and the authority on Catskills trees and forests. In 1971, Kudish earned his PhD with the thesis, "Vegetational History of the Catskill High Peaks." Five decades later, that research is ongoing. In 2000, Purple Mountain Press published his landmark book, The Catskill Forest: A History. Now, an updated 6-volume set is in the works. I met up with Michael at his home/research library in Delaware County, to hear about his latest research sampling Catskills bogs and radio carbon dating peat and charcoal for even more insights into our Catskills forest past. --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, and The Mountain Eagle. Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you! Kaatscast: the Catskills Podcast was just recognized for the third consecutive year as the "Best Regional Podcast" in the 2024 Chronogrammies! Thank you for your votes, and please take a moment to rate and review us on the app of your choice so even more listeners can find us! --- 00:00 Introduction to Michael Kudish and His Work 00:46 Meeting Michael Kudish: A Visit to His Research Library 01:09 Sponsors and Supporters of Kaatscast 02:09 Michael Kudish's Research Journey 04:50 Understanding the Catskills' Unique Vegetation 08:47 The Impact of Glaciation on Catskills Vegetation 12:41 Discovering History Through Bogs 19:03 Defining and Differentiating Bogs and Fens 28:41 Discovering Ancient Moss in the Catskills 29:08 Peat Sampling Techniques and Challenges 29:57 Radiocarbon Dating: Methods and Costs 31:01 Funding Research Through Retirement 32:09 Transitioning to Writing: The Next Chapter 32:54 Expanding Knowledge: From One Volume to Six 34:22 Consistent Vegetation Over Millennia 37:41 Climate Change Insights 38:39 Exploring the Extent of Catskill Bogs 39:52 Ancient Charcoal and Forest Fires 42:48 Uncovering Prehistoric Forests 47:04 The Six-Volume Catskill Forest History 50:16 The Joy and Work of Field Research 52:15 The Interconnected Lives of Trees 53:45 Conclusion and Future Work
Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears. Hark! On this day's Kaatscast, we journey to the quaint village of Hunter in fair New York, whereupon Catskill Mountain Shakespeare doth present a stirring rendition of the noble tragedy, Julius Caesar. Attend thee this discourse with the esteemed founder and artistic director, Sarah Reny. And verily, seize thee a billet, for this performance doth breathe new life into a timeless saga. --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, Ulster Savings Bank, and The Mountain Eagle. Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you! Please rate and review on the podcast app of your choice. Thank you! Poster design by Nicole Caputo; courtesy CMS.
The Bruderhof is a worldwide community of 3,000 Christians who, inspired by the early church, share their money and possessions, and practice "full-time discipleship," working, dining, and singing together. Perhaps you've bumped into one of their members out in the world (women can be identified by their conservative dress, reminiscent of Amish or colonial attire). Here in the Catskills is a sizable community of 240 residents, in Greene County's Platte Clove. They invited me in for a firsthand look at life in the community, and they graciously answered even my most pointed questions regarding a lifestyle that might seem foreign to others. The Bruderhof aren't reclusive, though, and as the Bible instructs, they are the best kind of neighbors. Join us on this special trip to the Platte Clove Bruderhof community. --- Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, and The Mountain Eagle. Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you! Kaatscast: the Catskills Podcast was just recognized for the third consecutive year as the "Best Regional Podcast" in the 2024 Chronogrammies! Thank you for your votes, and please take a moment to rate and review us on the app of your choice so even more listeners can find us!