Walter Mullen, publisher of The Daily Catch, delves into the growing tension between the town and village of Rhinebeck over the cost and transparency of firefighting and EMS services. Town Supervisor Elizabeth Spinzia raises concerns about the village's budget transparency and the town's annual contribution, totaling nearly $280,000. Village Mayor Gary Bassett argues that the town is getting excellent service at a competitive price. Beat reporter Eloise Goldsmith breaks down the situation, including the 2024 contract specifics and broader political tensions between local leaders.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

Schools and education reporter Claire Greenberger joins editor Emily Sachar to talk about some major changes coming to Red Hook High School. The district just approved a slate of new courses for the 2026-27 school year that's getting people excited, including a three-course Race Car Program, an In-House Welding Pathway, AP Cybersecurity, and a new IB Literature and Performance option. These programs move beyond traditional classroom learning, giving students hands-on experience and real-world skills. Claire and Emily discuss what these courses mean for students and the broader community, including the costs, safety measures, and community backing needed to make them happen.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

On this episode of The Catch Up, host Emily Sachar sits down with all three Democratic candidates competing in the January 27th primary for Rhinebeck Village Board of Trustees. Incumbent Eleanor Pupko reflects on her first term and what she hopes to accomplish next, while challengers Mimi Joh-Carnella and Jennifer Neufeld explain what's driving them to run and their priorities for the village. The conversation covers everything from environmental policy and village governance to community engagement and local development. Also: Walter and Emily remind everyone to fill out The Daily Catch's 2026 audience survey.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

Welcome to the first episode of 'The Catch Up' for 2026! The main focus of this episode is the recent tensions in Rhinebeck between the town board and the Chamber of Commerce over a proposed 3% occupancy tax on short-term stays. Rhinebeck reporter Eloise Goldsmith provides give the background on the letters exchanged, the key figures involved, and the interpersonal conflicts between supervisor Elizabeth Spinzia and Chamber president Luciano Valdivia.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

In this special year-end episode, Walter and Emily reflect on the top three news stories of 2025, including the contentious takeover of the Red Hook Boat Club and the political dynamics in Red Hook and Rhinebeck. They announce, the first annual newsmaker of the Year, highlighting key figures that shaped the community's headlines.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

Emily explores why more Red Hook High School students are choosing the International Baccalaureate program over traditional AP classes. Guest reporter Claire Greenberger brings perspectives from students and teachers on how IB's approach to learning shapes critical thinking and prepares students for college. They go over the program's origins, its educational philosophy, and what makes it different from the test-focused AP track. Plus: Emily and Walter talk holiday happenings around Rhinebeck and why small-town traditions matter. A look at how we teach, how we learn, and how we gather.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

he Catch Up welcomes beat reporter Eloise Goldsmith for a close look at Rhinebeck's winter season. Alongside publisher Walter Mullen and editor Emily Sacker, Eloise reports on new parking laws and the debate over holiday symbol placement in the village. Local governance meets community tradition in these intertwined seasonal stories.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio

Walter and Emily explore the Wonderland of Lights at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds with Tammy Peters, founder of North Pole Productions. Peters discusses the behind-the-scenes work that brings this holiday light show to life, from its origins to the challenges of installation and this year's new features.

Produced by Emily Sachar, Walter Mullin, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud at the Radio Free Rhinecilff studio