Welcome to episode 173! With Tad off chasing tumbleweeds out west, I’m holding down the fort with historian and author A.J. Schenkman, who joins me to talk about his book Wicked Ulster County. We’re diving into the wild side of local history—think gangs, thieves, shady characters, and scandalous tales that once rocked the Hudson Valley. Oh, and there’s good news for the Catskills: we break down what the new NYS budget means for the region. History, mischief, and money—what more could you want? Need a sticker? Shoot me an email or stop by Camp Catskill and grab one! Make sure to subscribe on your favorite platform, share the show, donate if you feel like it… or just keep tuning in. I'm just grateful you're here. And as always... VOLUNTEER!!!!

Links for the Podcast: https://linktr.ee/ISLCatskillsPodcast, Donate a coffee to support the show! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills, Like to be a sponsor or monthly supporter of the show? Go here! - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills/membership

Thanks to the sponsors of the show: Outdoor chronicles photography - https://www.outdoorchroniclesphotography.com/, Trailbound Project - https://www.trailboundproject.com/, Camp Catskill - https://campcatskill.co/, Another Summit - https://www.guardianrevival.org/programs/another-summit

Links: Wicked Ulster County, AJ Schenkman, New York State Budget, Barner Books

Volunteer Opportunities: Trailhead stewards for 3500 Club -https://www.catskill3500club.org/trailhead-stewardship, Catskills Trail Crew - https://www.nynjtc.org/trailcrew/catskills-trail-crew, NYNJTC Volunteering - https://www.nynjtc.org/catskills, Catskill Center - https://catskillcenter.org/, Catskill Mountain Club - https://catskillmountainclub.org/about-us/, Catskill Mountainkeeper - https://www.catskillmountainkeeper.org/, Bramley Mountain Fire Tower - https://bramleymountainfiretower.org/ 

Post Hike Brews and Bites - Main Course Catering, Helena’s Pierogies

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