The Local Edition

A growing number of NYSEG customers in Sullivan County and beyond are reporting massive spikes in their electric bills this winter, with some seeing increases of several hundred dollars.

Rock Hill resident Tom O’Donohue saw his January bill jump to $834—nearly triple his highest previous bill. Shocked by the surge, he created a Facebook group where dozens of customers shared similar experiences, some with bills exceeding $1,000. Even those who don’t rely on electric heat or have opted out of smart meters reported extreme increases.

In response to mounting complaints, Assemblymember Paula Kay met with NYSEG’s CEO to demand answers. She acknowledged that winter rates and increased usage could contribute to higher bills but said they don’t explain such drastic spikes. Kay has arranged for NYSEG to hold a public meeting at the Sullivan County Government Center on February 27, 2025 to address customer concerns.

NYSEG stated that winter usage naturally leads to higher bills and urged affected customers to reach out for assistance programs, including budget billing and HEAP. However, frustrated customers are calling for more action, with some even considering a class-action lawsuit.

Radio Catskill's Patricio Robayo has more. 

The governor’s latest budget pitch would send an additional $290 million to the state’s public transit agencies, invest more in a new student-teacher stipend, and more.

All Things Liberty Winter Festival, happening on February 22, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Liberty High School Gym. It’s a day of fun for families with sled riding, carnival games, craft vendors, karaoke, and more.

But this year, there’s something extra special: the Liberty Faculty Association is hosting a book giveaway for Liberty Elementary students, made possible through a grant from the American Federation of Teachers. 

The giveaway will feature books in Spanish, bilingual editions, and a range of reading levels, ensuring all students have access to stories they can connect with.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke to Jill Parks, the Middle School Librarian at Liberty Central School District on the book giveaway.

Students across New York State may soon be required to put away their cellphones during school hours under a new proposal announced by Governor Kathy Hochul.

The plan, which still needs legislative approval, would take effect next academic year and prohibit students from using their phones in class, during lunch, and even in hallways. Hochul argues that limiting smartphone access will help students stay focused in class and improve their mental health. However, some educators and advocates raise concerns about how this policy might affect immigrant students who rely on their phones for translation apps, staying connected with family, and accessing critical resources.

At the same time, immigration enforcement policies are also creating uncertainty for students and schools. The federal government has removed protections that previously limited immigration raids in sensitive locations like schools, meaning Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents could now operate more freely on school grounds. This has raised concerns among immigrant families, with some districts reporting increased student absences due to fears of deportation.

Additionally, efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education are gaining momentum. Some lawmakers are pushing to shift control of education entirely to states, which could impact funding for low-income schools, special education programs, and federal civil rights protections. Critics argue that removing federal oversight could make it harder to ensure equal education opportunities for all students, particularly those from immigrant and disadvantaged backgrounds.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Monticello Central School District Superintendent Dr. Matthew Evans about the district’s policies on the cellphone ban, its stance on potential immigration raids in schools, and the possible dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education.

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has been making headlines due to recent outbreaks, particularly of the H5 subtype. To shed light on this pressing public health issue, epidemiologist Haley Motola and community health nurse Amanda Wolfe from Sullivan County Public Health share their expertise on the virus's impact, transmission, and preventive measures.

The Spread of Bird Flu and Recent Outbreaks

Bird flu primarily affects avian species but has also been detected in some mammals. Recent cases in New York State have raised concerns, but health officials emphasize that no cases have been reported in Sullivan County. The experts explain how the virus spreads and the steps taken by health and agricultural departments to monitor and contain it.

The Role of Health and Agricultural Departments

To prevent outbreaks, state and local agencies work collaboratively to track infections and enforce biosecurity measures. Surveillance efforts include monitoring wild and domestic bird populations and implementing quarantine measures when necessary. Motola and Wolfe discuss how these coordinated efforts help mitigate risks and protect both public health and agriculture.

Preventing Transmission: Practical Measures

While human cases of bird flu remain rare, experts recommend several precautionary steps:

• Vaccination: Staying up to date with flu shots to reduce susceptibility.
• Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing, especially after contact with animals or contaminated surfaces.
• Protective Measures for Farmers: Poultry and dairy farm workers should use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow strict hygiene protocols to reduce exposure.

Considerations for Backyard Chicken Owners

For those raising backyard chickens, it’s essential to maintain good sanitation practices and prevent contact between domestic and wild birds. The experts outline simple steps to safeguard small flocks and minimize the risk of infection.

Staying Informed and Prepared

Motola and Wolfe said residents to stay informed through official health channels and practice recommended safety measures. While the current risk in Sullivan County is low, vigilance and preventive actions are key to keeping both humans and animals safe.

For more updates on public health topics, stay connected with Sullivan County Public Health

Ulster County now has its own historian. Edward Moran, a former Tour and Interpretation Manager at Historic Huguenot Street, was appointed to the role by acting Ulster County Clerk Taylor Bruck just last week.

Moran, who graduated from SUNY New Paltz back in 2020 and holds a bachelor’s degree in History, will now be in charge of interpreting the history of its communities to the public.

As his personal mission, the newly appointed historian looks forward to connecting with the county’s different groups and helping them better understand their histories. 

Radio Catskill’s Miguel Santiago Colón had the chance to talk to Moran about his previous work and how he came to this position…

Hochul says she has a plan to make New York affordable, through tax cuts and payments to families.

Jennifer Grossman, a land use and environmental attorney representing Catskill Mountainkeeper, discusses the surge in intensive development across the Catskill region.

Grossman highlights the significant challenges towns and villages face in regulating land use and stresses the importance of sustainable development and strong zoning laws. She outlines Catskill Mountainkeeper’s multi-year campaign, which aims to assist municipalities through grassroots empowerment, technical support, and strategic advocacy.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio speaks with Grossman about the importance of affordable housing, the role of grassroots organizations in shaping local policies, and the broader economic and environmental implications of development.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for our region from 4 AM to 4 PM on Thursday February 5, 2025. The National Weather Service warns of mixed precipitation, with 1 to 2 inches of snow and sleet expected, along with ice accumulations of up to one-tenth of an inch.

The advisory covers Broome, Delaware, and Sullivan Counties in New York, as well as Lackawanna, Northern Wayne, Pike, Southern Wayne, and Susquehanna Counties in Pennsylvania.

Roads, bridges, and overpasses could become slick and hazardous, making for a dangerous Thursday commute.

To get a better idea of what to expect, Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with National Weather Service Meteorologist Bryan Greenblatt.

The governor’s announcement appears to expand New York’s ability to cooperate with federal immigration authorities — but it’s not clear if the state has actually changed its policy.

By Julia Rock and Chris Gelardi , New York Focus