Radio Chatskill

By Kimberly Izar, Radio Catskill | June 4, 2025

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger is speaking out after Ulster was named in a controversial list published last week by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which categorized nearly 400 cities and counties as so-called “Sanctuary Jurisdictions Defying Federal Immigration Law.” The list included neighboring Orange and Sullivan counties and drew immediate backlash from officials across the country—prompting DHS to quietly remove the page from its website.

In an interview with Radio Catskill, Metzger called the list arbitrary and misleading, emphasizing that Ulster County is not in violation of federal law and is committed to both constitutional rights and the rule of law.

“There is no clear definition of what a ‘sanctuary jurisdiction’ even is,” Metzger said. “But the idea behind these designations—going back to the Trump administration—is that certain communities are committed to protecting the rights of all residents, regardless of immigration status. And those rights are guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution.”

Ulster County, Metzger explained, operates under an executive order issued in 2019 by her predecessor, now-Congressman Pat Ryan. That order prohibits county employees from collecting or sharing information about a resident’s immigration status unless required by law, and it requires federal immigration officials to present a judicial warrant before taking action on county property.

“That executive order remains in place, and it is consistent with federal law and constitutional protections,” she said. “We are not obstructing law enforcement—we are ensuring due process.”

Metzger pointed out that the DHS list stemmed from an April executive order by former President Donald Trump, recently reintroduced by his administration. The order directs the U.S. Attorney General to pursue legal action against state and local officials who “obstruct criminal law” or restrict law enforcement activity under the banner of civil rights or diversity initiatives. However, Metzger said the order is vague and potentially dangerous.

“It doesn't define what a sanctuary jurisdiction is or how it supposedly violates federal law,” she said. “We’ve received no letters from the federal government—only a letter in December from a private organization aligned with the Trump agenda. It’s unclear how this list was compiled or what legal basis it rests on.”

She also flagged language in the executive order calling for military and national security assets to be transferred to local law enforcement—a move she described as unconstitutional.

“Military forces are not supposed to be used for domestic policing. This is not consistent with the Constitution,” she said. “We’ll have to see what comes of that, but it's deeply concerning.”

Metzger said Ulster County residents should be assured that the county is operating within the bounds of the law and remains committed to protecting individual rights.

“There is no basis for Ulster County to be on that list,” she said. “We are in full compliance with federal law. And we strongly believe in protecting the constitutional rights of everyone in our community.”

While the DHS has since removed the list from its website, Metzger says the lack of transparency and legal clarity raises broader concerns about how such policies may be enforced in the future.

“We’re going to stay vigilant,” she said. “And we will continue to stand by the Constitution.”

This interview originally aired on Radio Catskill. For more local news and interviews, visit WJFFRadio.org.

In the latest episode of Kaatscast, producer Brett Barry sits down with Don Dales, the visionary behind one of the most unique literary transformations in upstate New York. 

What began as a single bookstore in the struggling village of Hobart has grown into the renowned Hobart Book Village — a cultural destination boasting seven bookstores, the Book Village Inn & Bar, and beloved annual events. 

Dales shares the inspiring story of how determination, creativity, and a passion for books turned resistance into revival, making Hobart a must-visit haven for bibliophiles in the heart of Delaware County.

The Sullivan O&W Rail Trail, a multi-use trail system built along the historic Ontario & Western Railroad corridor, is at the center of a regional initiative to connect communities, promote healthy lifestyles, and boost economic development through tourism.

Shannon Cilento, Director of Community Development & Communications at Sullivan 180, and Heather Jacksy, Sullivan County’s Director of Planning are members of the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail Alliance, a coalition leading the charge on trail development across the county.

They discuss the current status of the project, including a major infrastructure component—the Neversink Crossing bridge in Fallsburg—as well as details about the upcoming ROAM multi-day trail hike, and how the trail vision connects with broader planning efforts like the Sullivan County Bike & Pedestrian Master Plan.

Last July, Sullivan County unveiled its first solid waste management plan in more than 30 years – a 10-year plan for how the county will manage its garbage. It includes expanding composting efforts and exploring a waste to energy facility.

Now, the chatter around trash is heating up. The county’s contract with Seneca Meadows, New York state’s biggest landfill, is up at the end of 2025, and the future of Sullivan County’s trash is uncertain.

So what’s really happening with your trash? Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar paid a visit to the Monticello transfer station to find out.

This June, the Upper Delaware River will transform from a serene natural landmark into a powerful symbol of inclusivity, joy, and resilience. Paddle for Pride returns June 28 for its second year with a one-of-a-kind rafting event designed to celebrate queer identity, educate participants, and foster community.

“We’re creating a space where people of all ages, identities, and backgrounds can feel safe, seen, and celebrated,” said Taylor James, director of TriVersity. “In a time where safe spaces are increasingly under threat, events like this are not just important — they’re essential.”

A Celebration of Nature and Identity

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. with interactive activities, educational sessions, and community engagement, all free and open to the public. At 10:30 a.m., attendees will launch into a guided rafting experience along the Delaware River, complete with on-water safety support from the National Canoe Safety Patrol.

For those new to rafting, there’s no need to worry. “We’ve made this event beginner-friendly,” said Corinne Hinton, event organizer and environmental scientist. “We’re offering pre-launch water safety training, including paddling basics, proper life jacket use, and river etiquette.”

Beyond rafting, Paddle for Pride will include short workshops on LGBTQIA+ history in outdoor recreation, river ecology, and the importance of environmental stewardship — tying nature directly to community identity.

“Pride and nature are deeply intertwined,” said Hinton. “By helping participants connect to both, we’re encouraging healing, learning, and unity.”

More Than a Parade

While Pride Month features parades, parties, and rallies nationwide, Paddle for Pride offers something distinct: a hyper-local, heart-forward alternative grounded in nature and education.

“Growing up around here, nearly everyone has a river memory,” said James. “We wanted to reclaim that experience for queer folks and their families — to give them a day to be themselves, have fun, and feel welcome on the water.”

The event is also pet-friendly and family-inclusive, with activities designed for all ages. “We’re fostering joy, and that means joy for everyone — kids, parents, friends, and even furry companions,” James added.

A Personal Mission

For both Hinton and James, organizing this event goes beyond logistics — it’s personal.

“I see this as a chance to build connections, inspire others, and show that queer people belong in every space — especially in nature,” said Hinton. “We are not apart from the natural world. We are part of it.”

James echoed that sentiment. “This event is healing,” he said. “It gives people, especially young queer people, a memory of pride that isn’t about protest or pain — it’s about joy, laughter, and floating down the river with your people.”

The Deep Water Literary Festival returns to the Upper Delaware Valley this June with an ambitious and emotionally charged opening night event that sets the tone for a weekend dedicated to transformation and artistic exploration.

The festival’s opening performance, I Am Living, I Remember You--A Midsummer Night’s Concert, will take place on Friday, June 20 at 7:00 p.m. at the Tusten Theatre in Narrowsburg. The evening combines the poetry of 2025 Pulitzer Prize winner Marie Howe with original music by acclaimed composer Ricky Ian Gordon, creating a fusion of spoken word and operatic song.

The collaboration is rooted in personal loss and creative transformation. Gordon, who lost a partner to AIDS in the 1990s, was profoundly moved by Howe’s 1997 collection What the Living Do, written in memory of her brother. The poems—meditations on grief, memory, and the minutiae of everyday life—became a source of solace and inspiration for Gordon, who eventually set them to music.

“She dealt with loss with a kind of radiance and simplicity I’d never seen before,” Gordon said in a recent interview. “Her poems were like a Bible to me. I memorized them. They lived in me before I ever set them to music.”

The performance will feature Howe reading selections from her work, accompanied by Gordon on piano and soprano Jennifer Zetlan performing the musical adaptations.

Festival founder Aaron Hicklin, who curated the evening, says the theme of this year’s festival—metamorphosis—is embodied in the event. “Writing is an act of transformation,” Hicklin said. “Marie took personal grief and turned it into poetry. Ricky took that poetry and turned it into music. This is about how art reshapes experience.”

The festival’s return marks a cultural highlight for Narrowsburg and the wider region, bringing together writers, artists, and audiences for a weekend of readings, performances, and conversations. More than 30 events are scheduled over two days, many of them free or by donation.

Howe, who lives in the Hudson Valley, was initially unable to attend, but a last-minute schedule change allowed organizers to include her in the live performance. “There was a lot of angst, a lot of hair-pulling,” Hicklin joked. “We were thrilled when she said she could join us. It changed everything.”

For more information, visit deepwaterfestival.com.

Radio Catskilll is a media partner of Deep Water Literary Festival. Stay tuned to Radio Catskill for continuing coverage and exclusive previews.

A federal immigration raid unfolded at a Honesdale restaurant on Thursday, drawing community attention and concern. In an interview with The River Reporter’s Liam Mayo, who was on the scene, details emerged about the ICE operation and the strong response from local residents.

According to Mayo, plainclothes ICE agents were first spotted around 11:10 a.m. near the Wayne County Courthouse. “They weren’t in full tactical gear at that point — more of a dress-down uniform,” he said. After entering the courthouse briefly, the agents reemerged in tactical gear and proceeded to Elegante’s, a popular pizzeria on Main Street.

At approximately 11:50 a.m., agents entered the restaurant and remained there for several hours. By about 12:45 p.m., they escorted two employees — a man and a woman — out of the building in handcuffs. Agents stayed on site for some time afterward, eventually removing several boxes and a computer, which Mayo said hinted at a broader investigation.

This marks the second ICE operation in Honesdale this spring. A similar raid occurred in March, during which one man was arrested. The recurrence of these events has sparked growing concern — and organization — among local residents.

“This time, the community was ready,” Mayo said. “Between the March raid and now, people had been working to spread awareness and prepare for the possibility it could happen again.” According to Mayo, between 20 and 30 community members stood watch outside the restaurant, filming the operation, questioning agents, and documenting what they saw.

“There’s a sense of horror that this could happen here,” one woman told The River Reporter. “We shouldn’t have to watch, but we do.” She added that such raids shake citizens’ faith in the protections of the rule of law.

Mayo described the atmosphere as tense but peaceful, with residents pressing for transparency from ICE, often receiving little in return. “People were asking to see warrants, asking for badge numbers,” he said. “Agents generally didn’t respond.”

Honesdale Borough Mayor Derek Williams was present for part of the raid and reiterated the importance of accountability. “Transparency is crucial at every level — local, state, and federal,” he said, adding that residents’ presence at the scene reflected their commitment to that principle.

As of this writing, ICE has not released the names or charges related to the individuals detained. In the March incident, the name of the individual arrested was made public over a month later, without formal charges being filed at that time.

No official comment has been issued yet by Elegante’s Pizza or the families of the detained employees.

For ongoing coverage, visit riverreporter.com.

At Chesters Creative, an intimate gallery space known for pushing artistic boundaries, a new exhibition is offering a deeply personal and timely meditation on what it means to belong. We Are Not Alone, featuring works by artists Catherine Chesters and David Barnett, runs through June 23 and draws on themes of identity, migration, and the human need for connection — all set against a surreal, abstract backdrop.

The collaboration, which Chesters describes as “intuitive” and “stream-of-consciousness,” grew out of conversations between the two artists last fall. Both were independently exploring abstract forms, but quickly discovered that their artistic languages were in sync.

“We’re living in a time where we’re technically more connected than ever, but emotionally more isolated,” Chesters said in an interview. “This show came from a shared sense of unease. We wanted to create something that reminds people — you’re not alone.”

Despite the title, We Are Not Alone isn’t a literal nod to extraterrestrial life. Instead, it serves as a metaphor for human connection, the subconscious mind, and our relationship with the natural world. “It’s about community, and about nature as a teacher,” Chesters explained. “It’s about finding signals — not from space, necessarily — but from each other.”

A Shared Visual Language

The works on display reflect a cohesive, if unplanned, visual dialogue between the artists. Chesters’ pieces incorporate motifs from nature — including graphic patterns inspired by monarch butterflies, a subtle nod to migration — and finely rendered textures made up of dots and ribbons. Barnett’s works, by contrast, lean into cosmic symbolism, with recurring patterns that recall crop circles and abstract language systems.

“We didn’t check in on each other’s progress constantly,” said Chesters. “But when we finally brought the pieces together, there was this undeniable connection. The patterns, the energy — it all just worked.”

Their shared use of dots, for example, creates rhythm and texture across both bodies of work. Chesters uses them to build layered surfaces, while Barnett uses them more structurally, evoking celestial or coded forms. Ribbons in Chesters’ work, often resembling surveyor’s tape, reference property boundaries and ideas of ownership, drawing subtle connections to themes of displacement and land.

Reception and Community Response

The exhibition opened to a strong turnout on May 24, with six pieces sold during the first two days. According to Chesters, the response was overwhelmingly positive.

“People said it felt fresh. That the work was in conversation with itself,” she said. “It’s always gratifying to hear that, especially when you’ve poured so much of your own experience and emotion into it.”

Chesters is both the curator and one of the featured artists — a dual role she admits is rewarding but challenging. “I need to find someone to run the gallery so I can just be an artist again,” she joked.

Looking Ahead: Industry Night and Final Viewing

As the exhibition’s final weeks approach, Chesters Creative is planning an Industry Night — an after-hours gathering geared toward those in the service and retail sectors who often miss weekend events. Set for a Monday evening in mid-June, the event will feature a Q&A with both artists and serve as a farewell to the show.

“It’s a nod to the people in our community who work weekends and support the arts behind the scenes,” said Chesters. “It’s also a last chance to see the show and hear more about the process from David and me.”

For Chesters, the exhibition has reinforced one central idea: that connection — through art, community, or shared experience — is more vital than ever.

We Are Not Alone is on view through June 23 at Chesters Creative. More information can be found at chesterscreative.com.

Hamlet gets a serious shakeup in Narrowsburg—by way of slapstick, sock puppets (though they object to that term), and the comedic chaos of solo performance. Enter Clown Daddy Presents: Hamlet (All by Myself), the latest creation by physical theater artist and clown performer Ellie J, also known onstage as Clown Daddy.

Performances take place June 6th and 7th at The Parlor in Narrowsburg, and promise a rollercoaster ride through Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy—with a twist.

“It’s not really a one-person show,” Clown Daddy clarifies. “I have help from some very special actors: Gratch and Conrad.” These self-described “big boys” are not your average puppets. In fact, they’d prefer you don’t call them puppets at all.

“I play Ophelia and Horatio,” says Gratch in a gravelly voice. Conrad, somewhat more serious, adds: “I play King Claudius and Polonius. Also, I’m an alcoholic. Wait, no—that’s a different Conrad.”

The show, originally conceived out of necessity—“the rest of the cast didn’t show up”—is a fast-paced, high-spirited adaptation of the famously long and brooding Hamlet, trimmed to a tight 75 minutes. 

Through expressive clowning, physical comedy, and minimalist props like balloons and brooms, Clown Daddy plays nearly all the characters herself—with interjections and assists from her longtime companions.

There’s no red nose, no circus makeup. “People in America get weird about the clown nose,” says Jetty. “It might pop up occasionally in other shows, but not here. This is Shakespeare.”

She draws more from the European tradition of physical theater and clowning, having trained at Jacques Lecoq in Paris and Atlantic Theater Company in New York.

The show is equal parts silly and sincere, absurd and analytical “I love blending my acting chops with my clown training,” Clown Daddy explains. “This show is for me first—but I think it’s for everyone. We’ve said it's 13+ because I drop a few swears, but it’s really accessible. If ticket prices are a concern, just come. We’ll make it work.”

Asked what they hope audiences take away, Gratch keeps it simple: “I just want people to have a good time.” Conrad, meanwhile, leans into the existential: “I want them to think... about where their madness lies.”

Graduation season is upon us, and every graduate has their own story of why they wanted to pursue their education.

For Sullivan County resident, June Hanley, her story began more than 20 years ago after recovering from her own substance use disorder.

Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar spoke to June Hanley, Clinical Director at Samaritan Daytop Village treatment program in Ellenville, about her inspiring journey as someone who struggled with addiction to SUNY Stony Brook University Master of Social Work graduate.

A listener’s note that this story discusses addiction and substance abuse.