{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Radio Chatskill","title":"Fifth Annual Catskills Conductor’s Clambake Brings Live Bands, Barbecue, and History to Livingston Manor","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":626,"description":"What do railroad conductors, clams, and modern-day music have in common? In Livingston Manor, the answer is the Catskills Conductor’s Clambake, a community celebration with roots stretching back more than a century. The event returns for its fifth year on Sunday, September 7, hosted by The Smoke Joint in Livingston Manor.The tradition dates back to the late 1800s, when the Ontario & Western Railway (O&W) helped connect the Catskills’ agricultural communities to New York City markets. Conductors would thank the towns along the line by hosting massive annual clam bakes—festivals that once drew thousands of people to Sherwood Island in Livingston Manor.“We wanted to reinvigorate that tradition and give back to our community,” said organizer Jennifer Grossman, co-owner of The Smoke Joint. “This is about celebrating our roots while showcasing the culture, cuisine, and music that make the Catskills so vibrant today.”Battle of the BandsThis year’s clambake adds a new twist: a Battle of the Bands, organized in partnership with Tom Semrad of Killer Trout Productions. Local soloists, duos, and groups will compete for two $850 cash prizes, awarded as the Brass Hat Award and the Iron Horse Award—railroad-inspired titles.Performers will have 20 minutes to showcase original songs or covers before a live audience. “It’s not really a battle—it’s about giving artists a chance to shine,” Grossman said. “We’ve seen incredible local talent at our Riverside Sessions over the years, and this is a way to support them with recognition and real prizes.”Applications for the contest are open now at catskillsclambake.com.Food, Music, and MoreTrue to its name, the clambake will feature a traditional clam and shrimp boil with corn and potatoes, along with The Smoke Joint’s signature barbecue—ribs, brisket, chicken, and wings. Vegetarian and vegan sides will be available, alongside local beer, cocktails, and desserts.Craft vendors and community partners will also be on hand. A 50/50 raffle...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/q7XXsnSXT_u4mZLCn3chUorwDmUD_kWiB272D6emB18/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS80N2Uy/OGY5MWUwZThkYTEw/NDVkZGM2ZGZkZDIw/ZjliOS5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}