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

Reporter Claire Greenburger, who is producing a special series on AI in Red Hook and Rhinebeck schools, joins The Catch Up from The Daily Catch to discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT and Khanmigo are making their way into classrooms, what parents and educators think about it, and how the two districts are handling these new technologies differently. The episode also covers Thanksgiving food pantry efforts and The Daily Catch's expansion into Clinton. Brought to you by Edgewood Restaurant and Bar at Hutton Brickyards.

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

Daily Catch publisher Walter Mullen and editor Emily Sachar dive into the ongoing controversy surrounding the Boat Club. They discuss the planning board's review of new local laws, the implications of a Court’s decision from August, and the environmental impacts under scrutiny. They also share a personal dining experience at Edgewood Restaurant and highlight the importance of their current fundraising campaign.

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

Democrats flip Dutchess County Legislature for first time since 2008, Kara Gerry defeats incumbent judge creating all-female bench, and Dan Aymar-Blair wins comptroller race.

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