Matt Bathrick is reporting in the Columbia Paper the Ghent Town Board approved a new contract to change to a cheaper energy supplier last week. The town’s electric power will now come from Viridian Energy following the board's approval of a two-year agreement with the company. The decision adds Ghent to the growing list of municipalities in Columbia County switching to the Stamford, Conn. based energy supplier. Town Supervisor Mike Benvenuto said the agreement with Viridian will save the town an estimated $11,000 a year, roughly half of what Ghent currently pays. The energy will be supplied by Viridian and delivered by the New York State Electric and Gas Corporation. Read the full story in the Columbia Paper.

The Times Union is reporting 41 percent of New York residents would move elsewhere if given the chance. This is the finding of a new Gallup Poll that measured residents' interest in moving out of state. At the other end of the fulfillment spectrum are residents in Montana, Hawaii, Maine, Oregon, New Hampshire and Texas. Fewer than one in four residents in those states want to move, the lowest level recorded. The poll was conducted for all 50 states from June to December 2013 and included at least 600 representative interviews with residents aged 18 or older in each state. The average of all respondents across the 50 states who said they would like to move out of state was 33 percent. Read the full Gallup survey results online at Gallup [dot] com.

Weather right now


[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="128"] Cairo: High 64F; low 41F.[/caption]

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="125"] Catskill: High 65F; low 42F.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

READ TEMPERATURE IN HUDSON: On thermometer in Studio A.

FAR LEFT: The temperature on the far left is from the Hawthorne Valley Farm Weather Page.
MIDDLE TEMP: Cairo from Weather Underground page.
FAR RIGHT: Catskill from Weather Underground page.

Local weather forecast
Today’s forecast is specific to Catskill, in Greene County:

The National Weather Service in Albany has issued a Special Weather Statement, effective Thurs, May 1. The 2014 New York statewide test severe weather drill has begun. This test drill is in support of New York severe weather awareness week. This is a drill. There is no severe weather occurring at this time. The National Weather Service and New York state remind you to be prepared for severe weather. Severe weather can kill and injure so severe weather warnings should be taken seriously. Prepare by developing a severe weather safety plan. Know how to receive weather warnings. Identify safe shelters where you can go should severe weather threaten. Information at weather [dot] gov [forward slash] aly.

Today: Partly sunny. High near 63. Friday night, mostly cloudy. Low around 41.

Forecast for the next three days:
Saturday: Isolated showers, then scattered showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m. Mostly cloudy. High near 66. Saturday night, a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy. Low around 45.
Sunday: A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after noon. Some of the storms could produce small hail. Partly sunny. High near 61. Sunday night, mostly cloudy. Partly cloudy. Low around 41.
Monday: Mostly sunny. High near 64. Monday night, partly cloudy. Low around 39.

Sunrise today: 5:48 a.m.
Sunset today: 7:56 p.m.
Length of the day: 14:08 hrs.

Town meetings
Today is the first Friday of the month.
WGXC suggests calling ahead to confirm time and location.

HUDSON Common Council Legal Committee Zoning Workshop at 9 a.m., Hoystradt Hose Firehouse, second floor, 515 Warren St., Hudson (828-1030).

The day ahead on 90.7-FM

3 a.m.: Radia: Rectangular Grinder (This show usually airs at 10 a.m. Saturdays, moved this week for "Reveil.") Radia Show 474: "Rectangular Grinder" from radioworm, Rotterdam, Netherlands. "Radia" is a group of international stations, including Wave Farm Radio and WGXC, interested in new and forgotten ways of making radio. Each week one station makes a show for the others. This week: "Dr Klangendum tries to open an hard disk with a rectangular grinder and while doing so recording the sound and processing that live. His first attempt fails but the processed sounds form part one. credits; Grinding; Dj BadVibes Background Teeth Grinding; Dj Pausa Eternal Love; Dj Bearsucker, Dr Klangendum
3:30 a.m.: World of Radio: 20140502 Glenn Hauser's World of Radio, moved from its Saturday, 5:30 a.m. time, because of the "Reveil" broadcast.
4 a.m.: Framework: James Torrance This edition of framework:afield has been produced in the UK by James Torrance, and features readings from the essays of architect Erno Goldfinger by Geoffrey Streatfield. "Framework" is a show about field recordings, audio ecology, found sounds, and more.

6 a.m.: Background Briefing with Ian Masters Inside breaking international and national news. A radio program featuring international and national news, expert guests, policy makers and critics with analysis and insight on national security, foreign and domestic policy, political, cultural and social issues. This program goes far beyond the headlines and deep under the radar to bring forward truths unheard in the American media.
7 a.m.: WGXC Morning Show: Kathy Nolan, Sontag Shogun Yet another crude oil train exploded Apr. 30, the same day New York state issued a report saying that 160,000 barrels of oil a day are transported through the state, and 82 percent of the cars carrying that oil are deficient and that the state does not have the staffing to properly handle spill response and emergency planning. Catskill Mountainkeeper Regional Director Kathy Nolan calls in after 7:30 a.m. to discuss the issues involved. The show looks at this news, and other new reports and past accidents, and plays railway-themed songs in between. Plus, Jeremy Young from Sontag Shogun previews their show May 3 at Spotty Dog Books & Ale with Patrick Higgins and Aaron Martin. Tom Roe hosts the show live from Wave Farm, interrupted by "Democracy Now!" at 8 a.m.
8 a.m.: Democracy Now! hosted by Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez.
9 a.m. WGXC Morning Show continues.
4 p.m.: WGXC Afternoon Show: Hudson Children's Book Festival Authors from the festival will join Hudson Talbott, Theresa Moran, and the hosts of WGXC's Bound By Books in the Hudson studio. During the first hour: Alison Formento, Mitchell Kazanjian, Elizabeth Zunon, Melanie Hall, Shelley Rotner, Jimmy Preller, Debbie Dadey, and Judi Moore. During the second hour: Victor Mojica, Doug Snelson, Jean Barlow, Barbara Mojica, Bruce Hopkins, Mary Beth Wenger, Nancy Viau, Ann Haywood Leal, Hollis Seamon, Terry Trueman, and Edward Averett. Plus, News, music, events, and more.  
6 p.m.: Feature Story News

Kyle Adams is reporting in The Daily Mail the village of Catskill's proposed budget calls for a $50,000 increase in spending during the coming year, and an increase in the tax levy of 1.2 percent. Catskill Village President Vincent Seeley said the village saw some notable savings this year by paying off debts, which helped offset costs. The $4.38 million budget includes funds for a new police car, but no raises for village trustees, who earn $5,000 a year. The spending plan also includes grant funds that will be used to rehabilitate Canal Street as an access to the planned Catskill Creek Walking Loop. As in past years, the largest increases projected were in the cost of workmen’s compensation insurance and health benefits. The budget will be presented to the public at an appropriations meeting, 7 p.m., Tues., May 13 in the Catskill High School auditorium. Read the full story in The Daily Mail.

[caption id="" align="alignright" width="200"] Columbia County District Attorney Paul Czajka will now handle the Windham Town Hall probe.[/caption]

Michael Ryan is reporting in the Register Star an independent prosecutor has been assigned to the Windham Town Hall probe. Greene County acting District Attorney Charles Bucca said Wed., Apr. 30, the investigation has been turned over to the office of Columbia County District Attorney Paul Czajka (CHIA-kah). Bucca said the decision was made in Greene County court in mid-April to avoid any appearance of impropriety. State police investigators raided Windham Town Supervisor Stacy Post’s home and seized a computer from her town hall office in March. No charges have been filed. Town officials continue to decline comment on the matter. Read the full story in the Register Star.

A survey is being conducted by the Columbia County Board of Supervisors in partnership with U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson about broadband access, according to a statement released Wed., Apr. 30. The information gathered via the poll will eventually help facilitate the installation of high speed Internet throughout Columbia County. The survey can be found online at Columbia County NY [dot] com. County residents without Internet access may report their status and participate in the survey project at their local library or by calling (518) 828-3375 to request a hard copy.

Weather right now


[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="128"] Cairo: High 74F; low 42F.[/caption]

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="125"] Catskill: High 74F; low 43F.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

READ TEMPERATURE IN HUDSON: On thermometer in Studio A.

FAR LEFT: The temperature on the far left is from the Hawthorne Valley Farm Weather Page.
MIDDLE TEMP: Cairo from Weather Underground page.
FAR RIGHT: Catskill from Weather Underground page.

Local weather forecast
Today’s forecast is specific to Catskill, in Greene County:

The National Weather Service in Albany has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for western Massachusetts, east central New York and southern Vermont for Thursday. Isolated, non-severe thunderstorms are expected throughout the day.

Today: Occasional showers and possibly a thunderstorm, mainly before 11 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11 a.m. High near 72. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent. Thursday night, isolated showers and thunderstorms before 7 p.m., then isolated showers between 7 p.m. and midnight. Partly cloudy. Low around 42. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Forecast for the next three days:
Friday: Scattered showers, mainly after noon. Partly sunny. High near 66. Friday night, scattered showers, mainly before 7pm. Friday night, mostly cloudy. Low around 41.
Saturday: Isolated showers between 9 a.m. and noon, then scattered showers and thunderstorms after noon. Partly sunny. High near 67. Saturday night, scattered showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy. Low around 44.
Sunday: A chance of showers. Partly sunny. High near 62. Sunday night, a chance of showers. Partly cloudy. Low around 43.

Sunrise today: 5:49 a.m.
Sunset today: 7:55 p.m.
Length of the day: 14:05 hrs.

Town meetings
Today is the first Thursday of the month.
WGXC suggests calling ahead to confirm time and location.

ANCRAM Planning Board meeting at 7 p.m., at Town Hall, 1416 County Rte. 7, Ancram (329-6512).
AUSTERLITZ Planning Board meeting at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall, 812 Route 203, Spencertown (392-3260).
COPAKE Planning Board meets at 7 p.m., at Town Hall, 230 Mt. View Road, Copake (329-1234).
GHENT Planning Board meeting at 7 p.m., at Town Hall, 2306 State Route 66, Ghent (392-4644).
KINDERHOOK Zoning Board of Appeals meets at 7 p.m. at Town Hall, 4 Church St, Niverville (784-2233).
WINDHAM Town board meets at 8 p.m. at Town Hall, 371 State Rt. 296, Hensonville (734-4170).

The day ahead on 90.7-FM

6 a.m.: Background Briefing with Ian Masters Inside breaking international and national news. A radio program featuring international and national news, expert guests, policy makers and critics with analysis and insight on national security, foreign and domestic policy, political, cultural and social issues. This program goes far beyond the headlines and deep under the radar to bring forward truths unheard in the American media.
7 a.m.: WGXC Morning Show News, weather, events and music. Hosted by Noah Reibel, in for Philip Grant. Call in to have your say: (518) 828-0290.
8 a.m.: Democracy Now! hosted by Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez.
9 a.m. WGXC Morning Show continues with local news, weather, interviews and events.
10 a.m.: We the People: Ed Moore, Will Pflaum Hudson Police Chief Ed Moore will discuss the recent meeting of the Common Council Police Committee. Stuyvesant resident Will Pflaum will also be in the studio to discuss the investigation into the billing practices of a former Assistant Columbia County Attorney and his ongoing effort to acquire records from Columbia County through a series of Freedom of Information Law requests. Hosted by Tom DePietro.
11 a.m.: One Size Fits All: 20140501 An hour-long investigation into the idea of amplified sound, beginning with Burning Spear and concluding with the Scott Amendola/Ben Goldberg/Devin Hoff trio, with Your Host. Playlist at www.facebook.com/OneSizeWGXC.
2 p.m.: The Art of the Hudson Valley: Denise Alper, Eart Gifford, Linda Spokane, Sheena Salvino Discussion of the integration of arts programming with the aging with LeadingAgeNY Executive Vice President Denise Alper, Member Specialist Earl Gifford, and Vice President for Research and Analytics Linda Spokane, recorded Fri., Apr. 25 in Latham, N.Y. Plus, an in-studio conversation with Sheena Salvino, Executive Director of the Hudson Development Corporation about the fourth volume of the Hudson walking guide, pedestrian scaled signage and kiosks, marketable icons and the development of a mobile application. Hosted by Chad Weckler.
3 p.m.: Radio Theatre: The Mysterious Madam Sara The Mysterious Madam Sara, Rise of the Wicked Woman. An anthology series of dramas and comedies for radio. Each week a program will be made up of one radio play. Produced at KSVR Studios at the radio station KSVR-FM in Mount Vernon, Washington. The actors are from the Skagit Radio Repertory Company. The producer is Joseph C McGuire. Based on stories written by L.T. Meade and Robert Eustace; Adapted for radio be Heather Elliott Madam Sara is a mysterious woman who is out to steal the wealth of upper class America in the 1930's. She uses secret and dark technology to pretend to be a modern day Sorceress. Produced by Joseph C McGuire. Edited by Jay Charles. Performers: The Skagit Radio Repertory Company. Made with a grant from the Corporation For Public Broadcasting. From Pacifica Radio.
3:30 p.m.: Kids Brain Radio Hosted by Matt Bua and Sam Sebren. Live from the Catskill Community Center.
4 p.m.: WGXC Afternoon Show
6 p.m.: Feature Story News

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="590"] A bill to ban the import of hydrofracking waste into New York sponsored
by state Sen. Cecilia F. Tkaczyk died in committee, Tuesday.
(Courtesy nysenate.gov)[/caption]

Kyle Hughes is reporting for New York State News a state Senate committee Tues., Apr. 29, killed a bill that would have banned the import of hydrofracking waste into New York. The bill's sponsor, Sen. Cecilia Tkaczyk (KAT-chik), blamed Senate Republicans for blocking the legislation as a favor to the oil and gas industry. The bill was rejected by the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee in a party-line vote of 7 to 6. The senator introduced the bill last May, but it was not placed on the committee’s calendar until now. Tkaczyk said hydrofracking companies in Pennsylvania already disclose that toxic waste they produce is shipped for disposal to companies in western New York and New York’s Southern Tier. The gas industry is not currently required to disclose what chemicals are used during the hydraulic fracturing process, commonly called fracking. New York does not allow high-volume fracking, but there is no prohibition on the transport and dumping of the waste material from other locales. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.

Dennis Yusko is reporting at The Saratoga Blog the Saratoga County Independence Party voted Mon., Apr. 28, to endorse Republican state Sen. Kathleen Marchione for reelection. The first-term senator from Halfmoon said Tuesday she was honored to have received the party's endorsement. Democrats have not announced a candidate to oppose Marchione. Marchione represents the 43rd state Senate District, which includes Columbia County, and parts of Saratoga, Rensselaer and Washington counties. She has also received endorsements from the Columbia County Republican Committee, the Columbia County Conservative Committee the Saratoga County Republican Committee and the Rensselaer County Republican Committee. Read the full story at The Saratoga Blog.

The National Weather Service in Albany has issued a Flood Watch effective Wednesday night through Thursday morning for the Capital District and Mid-Hudson Valley. A large, slow-moving low pressure system will impact the area resulting in widespread showers. The heaviest rainfall is expected late Wednesday afternoon and evening. Total rainfall amounts of one to three inches are expected Wednesday night through Thursday. The higher totals are expected to the south and east of the Capital District, with locally higher amounts up to four inches possible in the eastern Catskills. Minor flooding of rivers and streams is possible with flooding of poor drainage, urban and low-lying areas likely with the heavy rainfall.

Weather right now


[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="128"] Cairo: High 44F; low 44F.[/caption]

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="125"] Catskill: High 44F; low 44F.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

READ TEMPERATURE IN HUDSON: On thermometer in Studio A.

FAR LEFT: The temperature on the far left is from the Hawthorne Valley Farm Weather Page.
MIDDLE TEMP: Cairo from Weather Underground page.
FAR RIGHT: Catskill from Weather Underground page.

Local weather forecast
Today’s forecast is specific to Catskill, in Greene County:

The National Weather Service in Albany has issued a Flood Watch effective Wednesday night through Thursday morning for the Capital District and Mid-Hudson Valley. A large, slow-moving low pressure system will impact the area resulting in widespread showers. The heaviest rainfall is expected late Wednesday afternoon and evening. Total rainfall amounts of one to three inches are expected Wednesday night through Thursday. The higher totals are expected to the south and east of the Capital District, with locally higher amounts up to four inches possible in the eastern Catskills. Minor flooding of rivers and streams is possible with flooding of poor drainage, urban and low-lying areas likely with the heavy rainfall.

Today: Periods of rain. High near 49. Chance of precipitation is 100 percent. Wednesday night, rain with thunderstorm also possible after 2 a.m. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 48. Chance of precipitation is 100 percent. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.

Forecast for the next three days:
Thursday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm, mainly before noon, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. High near 72. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent. Thursday night, scattered showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m., then isolated showers between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Mostly cloudy. Low around 45.
Friday: Scattered showers after 1 p.m. Partly sunny. High near 66. Friday night, scattered showers, mainly before 7pm. Mostly cloudy. Low around 43.
Saturday: A chance of showers after 9 a.m. Mostly cloudy. High near 67. Saturday night, a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy. Low around 45.

Sunrise today: 5:50 a.m.
Sunset today: 7:54 p.m.
Length of the day: 14:03 hrs.

Town meetings
Today is the fifth Wednesday of the month.
WGXC suggests calling ahead to confirm time and location.

HUDSON Common Council Economic Development Committee meeting at 9 a.m., at Hoystradt Hose Firehouse, second floor, 515 Warren St., Hudson (828-1030).

The day ahead on 90.7-FM

12 a.m. (midnight): Radio News: Cell Phone Searches Feature Story News reports on Supreme Court considering: Can police search cellphone's without warrant?
1 a.m.: Vital Weekly: Sontag Shogun Episode 929 of weekly experimental new music show, by folks formerly behind Staalplaat. Click on title for playlist 929.

6 a.m.: Background Briefing with Ian Masters Inside breaking international and national news. A radio program featuring international and national news, expert guests, policy makers and critics with analysis and insight on national security, foreign and domestic policy, political, cultural and social issues. This program goes far beyond the headlines and deep under the radar to bring forward truths unheard in the American media.
7 a.m.: WGXC Morning Show News, weather, events and music. Hosted by Cheryl K., in for Philip Grant. Call in to have your say: (518) 828-0290.
8 a.m.: Democracy Now! hosted by Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez.
9 a.m. WGXC Morning Show continues with local news, weather, interviews and events.
10 a.m.: @Issue: Sherry Wykoff, Cyndy Hall Sherry Wykoff will discuss the recent opening of Hudson River Healthcare, a comprehensive healthcare facility located on Union Street in Hudson. Plus, Cyndy Hall, Chair of the Columbia County Democratic Committee, will discuss the committee's upcoming Martin Van Buren Awards and the November elections. Hosted by Victor Mendolia and Debora Gilbert.
4 p.m.: WGXC Afternoon Show
6 p.m.: Feature Story News

Melanie Lekocevic is reporting in The Daily Mail Coxsackie village officials are currently at work on the 2014-15 budget and one of the biggest challenges they are facing is finding affordable healthcare for village employees. The village is facing a 40 to 60 percent increase in health care expenses alone, making for a difficult budget challenge, Mayor Mark Evans said recently. Village Trustee Paul Sutton said the new health insurance regulations have hit the village hard. Other costs have also increased, such as fuel and chemicals for the water filtration plant. Officials are currently shopping for a new health insurance provider, but the deadline for finalizing and adopting the budget is May 1. Read the full story in The Daily Mail.

Adam Clayton is reporting the Register Star the city of Hudson police have not been able to collect revenue for three weeks from parking violators as the result of a glitch in the parking ticket kiosks located at the Amtrak station on South Front Street. Hudson Police Chief Ed Moore said Mon., Apr. 28, he has already implemented a fix for the problem. The problem occurred when city Internet provider Mid-Hudson Cable changed the Internet Protocol address for the kiosks. The police department was notified, but no one understood what impact the change would have. The Amtrak parking kiosks ticket revenue is part of the overall parking bureau revenue, which is reportedly one of the main sources of income for the city. The city collected nearly $100,000 in parking bureau proceeds during the first quarter of 2014, according to Moore.

James M. Odato is reporting at Capitol Confidential leaders of the Libertarian Party of New York on Sat., Apr. 26, gathered in Colonie to elect Michael McDermott, a Suffolk County real estate broker, as their gubernatorial candidate in the November election. McDermott and his supporters expect he will be defeated by incumbent Democrat Andrew Cuomo, but they hope McDermott gets the 50,000 votes in the election necessary for the party to become recognized for the ballot next time. McDermott will run with Chris Edes, of Rochester, who will challenge for the post occupied by Lt. Gov. Robert Duffy, also from Rochester. Carl Person, a Manhattan lawyer will challenge Democratic Attorney General Eric Schneiderman. John Clifton will challenge Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. The Libertarians claim 4,000 to 5,000 members statewide. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog.

Weather right now


[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="128"] Cairo: High 53F; low 38F.[/caption]

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="125"] Catskill: High 53F; low 39F.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

READ TEMPERATURE IN HUDSON: On thermometer in Studio A.

FAR LEFT: The temperature on the far left is from the Hawthorne Valley Farm Weather Page.
MIDDLE TEMP: Cairo from Weather Underground page.
FAR RIGHT: Catskill from Weather Underground page.

Local weather forecast
Today’s forecast is specific to Catskill, in Greene County:

Today: A chance of rain, mainly after 4 p.m. Cloudy. High near 55. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent. Tuesday night, rain likely, mainly after 7 p.m. Cloudy. Low around 41. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Forecast for the next three days:
Wednesday: Periods of rain. High near 49. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent. Wednesday night, periods of rain and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 47. Chance of precipitation is 100 percent. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.
Thursday: Showers likely, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy. High near 71. Thursday night, isolated showers. Mostly cloudy. Low around 46.
Friday: A chance of showers. Partly sunny. High near 65. Friday night, partly cloudy. Low around 44.

Sunrise today: 5:52 a.m.
Sunset today: 7:53 p.m.
Length of the day: 14 hrs.

Town meetings
Today is the fifth Tuesday of the month.
WGXC suggests calling ahead to confirm time and location.

COLUMBIA COUNTY Board of Supervisor Fiscal Oversight Committee at 6 p.m., 401 State St., Hudson (828-1527).

The day ahead on 90.7-FM

12:05 a.m.: Radio Stew: Karen Carpenter Vocal-only tracks from singer Karen Carpenter, tributes from Sonic Youth ("Tunic [Song for Karen]"), The Young Fresh Fellows ("Hank, Karen, and Elvis"), and Charlie Hunter ("A Song for Karen Carpenter"), and other songs from The Carpenters. From Wikipedia: "Karen Anne Carpenter (March 2, 1950 – February 4, 1983) was an American singer and drummer. She and her brother, Richard, formed the 1970s duo, the Carpenters. Although her skills as a drummer earned admiration from drumming luminaries and peers, she is best known for her vocal performances. She had a contralto vocal range. Carpenter suffered from anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder which was little known at the time. She died at age 32 from heart failure caused by complications related to her illness."

6 a.m.: Background Briefing with Ian Masters Inside breaking international and national news. A radio program featuring international and national news, expert guests, policy makers and critics with analysis and insight on national security, foreign and domestic policy, political, cultural and social issues. This program goes far beyond the headlines and deep under the radar to bring forward truths unheard in the American media.
7 a.m.: WGXC Morning Show News, weather, events and music. Hosted by Cheryl K., in for Philip Grant. Call in to have your say: (518) 828-0290.
8 a.m.: Democracy Now! hosted by Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez.
9 a.m. WGXC Morning Show continues with local news, weather, interviews and events.
4 p.m.: WGXC Afternoon Show
6 p.m.: Feature Story News

Some of the stories that made the news Apr. 25 to Apr. 26:

Brian Nearing reported in the Times Union a Wall Street bond rating agency said Fri., Apr. 25, Columbia County's finances could be imperiled by its financial support of the county-owned, 120-bed Pine Haven Nursing Home. Moody's Investors Service assigned a negative outlook designation to the county. The county's cash position is already low, and further drains on cash could lead to a negative rating action. A lowered credit rating could make it more expensive for the county to borrow money. According to Columbia County Board of Supervisors Chairman Pat Grattan, the county subsidized Pine Haven's operating budget by nearly $1.5 million last year.

Michael Ryan continues to report in The Daily Mail on the newest piece of the Windham town government puzzle. Ryan writes Supervisor Stacy Post has now restricted the established flow of information to the news media. On Thurs., Apr. 24, Post informed Ryan that any and all documentation related to town business regularly distributed to the press will now require a formal request under the Freedom of Information Law. Ryan asked for a copy of the written, prepared statement delivered by Post during a meeting of the town board Thursday, but he was refused without explanation. Post was elected supervisor in Nov. 2013, following a campaign that called for more transparency in local government. State police investigators raided Post’s home and seized a computer from her town hall office in March. No charges have been filed and the investigation is ongoing. Town officials continue to decline comment on the matter.

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="278"] Olana south facade. (Courtesy olana.org)[/caption]

Adam Clayton reported in the Register Star the Olana State Historic Site was one of 53 state parks and historic sites to be awarded funds through the New York Works initiative. Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced last week Olana will received $950,000, which will be used for improvements to better welcome visitors and upgrade the grounds, according to Sara Griffen, president of the Olana Partnership. Among the improvements needed: Additional public restrooms at the carriage barn, tower woodwork, fresh paint and an upgrade to the security system. Griffen said a number of the improvements will be completed this year.

Thomas Kaplan reported in The New York Times a Manhattan federal judge Thurs., Apr. 24, struck down New York’s limit on contributions to independent groups that spend money supporting political candidates. The move could unleash large spending by so-called super PACs in state races. New York imposes a $150,000 limit on an individual’s annual political contributions. The judge ruled the limit was a violation of the First Amendment when it was applied to independent groups. Three weeks ago, the United States Supreme Court struck down a cap on the total amount any individual can contribute to federal candidates in an election cycle. In the five-page opinion, the judge Thursday expressed concern about the influence of outsized donations on the political process, but wrote he had no choice but to follow the Supreme Court’s lead. New York State attorney general, Eric T. Schneiderman expressed disappointment with the ruling, and said the state had not decided whether to appeal.

The Daily Freeman is reporting a $1 million Powerball ticket was sold Sat., Apr. 26, at the Stewart’s Shops located on State Route 23 in Leeds. As of Sunday afternoon, the winner had not yet been identified and the store manager declined to provide further information. According to the New York State Lottery Gaming Commission, the chance of winning the $1 million prize is 1 in more than five million.

Weather right now


[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="128"] Cairo: High 62F; low 44F.[/caption]

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="125"] Catskill: High 62F; low 44F.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

READ TEMPERATURE IN HUDSON: On thermometer in Studio A.

FAR LEFT: The temperature on the far left is from the Hawthorne Valley Farm Weather Page.
MIDDLE TEMP: Cairo from Weather Underground page.
FAR RIGHT: Catskill from Weather Underground page.

Local weather forecast
Today’s forecast is specific to Catskill, in Greene County:

Today: Sunny. High near 65. Monday night, mostly cloudy. Low around 43.

Forecast for the next three days:
Tuesday: A chance of showers, mainly after 1 p.m. Cloudy. High near 58. Tuesday night, showers likely, mainly after 1 a.m. Cloudy. Low around 40.
Wednesday: Showers likely. Cloudy. High near 50. Wednesnday night, occasional showers. Low around 46.
Thursday: Showers likely. Cloudy. High near 70. Thursday night, a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy. Low around 47.

Sunrise today: 5:53 a.m.
Sunset today: 7:51 p.m.
Length of the day: 13:58 hrs.

Town meetings
Today is the fourth Monday of the month.
WGXC suggests calling ahead to confirm time and location.

CATSKILL Village board meeting at 7 p.m. at Firehouse near Catskill Commons (Wal Mart) (943-3830).
HALCOTT Town meeting at 7 p.m. at Town Hall, 813 Route 3, Halcott Center (845-254-9920)
HUDSON Common Council Police Committee Meeting, 6 p.m. at City Hall; Fire Committee Meeting at 6:45 p.m., at City Hall, 520 Warren Street, Hudson (828-1030).
PHILMONT Local Development Corp meeting at 7 p.m., Village Hall, 124 Main St., Philmont (672-7032).
STUYVESANT Planning Board meeting at 7 p.m. at Town Hall, 5 Sunset Drive, Stuyvesant (758-6248).

The day ahead on 90.7-FM

3 a.m.: Exploration: Time Travel Hosted by Dr. Michio Kaku with Guest 1: Dr. Richard Gott, is time travel possible?; Guest 2: Dr. Fulvia Melia, authority on black holes. From Pacifica Radio.

6 a.m.: Background Briefing with Ian Masters Inside breaking international and national news. A radio program featuring international and national news, expert guests, policy makers and critics with analysis and insight on national security, foreign and domestic policy, political, cultural and social issues. This program goes far beyond the headlines and deep under the radar to bring forward truths unheard in the American media.
7 a.m.: WGXC Morning Show News, weather, events and music, live from the Catskill Community Center. Hosted by Petee Pete, in for Philip Grant. Call in to have your say: (518) 291-WGXC (9492).
8 a.m.: Democracy Now! hosted by Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez.
9 a.m. WGXC Morning Show continues with local news, weather, interviews and events.
2 p.m.: Roots, Runners, Rhizomes: Robin Rose Bennett Writer, green witch, herbalist and wise woman Robin Rose Bennett shares herbal wisdom and EarthSpirit teachings from her new book, "The Gift of Healing Herbs: Plant Medicines and Home Remedies for a Vibrantly Healthy Life." Hosted by Sarah Falkner and Lauren Giambrone.
4 p.m.: WGXC Afternoon Show: Omar Sosa Cheryl K., host of “The Jazz Disturbance,” will interview pianist Omar Sosa before his evening performance with his ensemble in Hudson. Plus news, weather, music, events and more. Hosted by Mark Bailey and Gregor Trieste.
6 p.m.: Feature Story News

Jad Mouwad reports in The New York Times that while Canada has been quick to respond with preventative measures after a giant oil train explosion last year, the United States has been slow to reform, even with several recent minor accidents in the Hudson Valley. On February 25, an Ulster County accident involved empty rail cars that had recently off-loaded crude oil and occurred after the conductor missed a red signal and reversed the train through a switch. In Albany County Feb. 28, a derailment at the Selkirk Rail Yards involved thirteen train cars fully-loaded with crude oil. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo on March 4 urged federal officials to strengthen rail safety standards. On April 24 federal regulators in the United States said that they would push forward new oil tank standards next week. The proposed rules would include “options for enhancing tank car standards,” said Kevin Thompson, a spokesman. Read the full story in The New York Times.

Performance artist Marina Abramović, who is planning on opening the Marina Abramović Institute in Hudson, was named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people last week, with her name mentioned on the cover. The actor James Franco wrote her blurb: "I trust Marina to carve the artist out of her celebrity and use her celebrity to bring what she stands for into the here and now, looking straight into the eyes of all of us, strangers still, but courageous, curious, inspired, creative participants afterward." See Time Magazine for the full story.

Local News
Local news from Wave Farm‘s WGXC 90.7-FM in the Hudson Valley, New York for Sun., April 27. PLAY AUDIO (2:09)

Weather right now


[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="128"] Cairo: High 64F; low 39F.[/caption]

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="125"] Catskill: High 64F; low 29F.[/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

READ TEMPERATURE IN HUDSON: On thermometer in Studio A.

FAR LEFT: The temperature on the far left is from the Hawthorne Valley Farm Weather Page.
MIDDLE TEMP: Cairo from Weather Underground page.
FAR RIGHT: Catskill from Weather Underground page.

Local weather forecast
Today’s forecast is specific to Acra, in Greene County:

Sunday: A chance of showers, mainly before 10 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54, and a low around 36.
Monday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 61, and a low around 38.
Tuesday: A chance of showers, mainly after 1 p.m. Cloudy, with a high near 50.

Sunrise today: 5:55 a.m.
Sunset today: 7:50 p.m.

WGXC Programming

Saturday Night Special: If, Bwana, CO(P)E
April 26, 2014: 8 p.m. – April 27, 2014: 5 a.m.

CounterSpin: Rafael Correa, Laila Al-Arian
April 27, 2014: 5:30 a.m. – 6 a.m.