Photo by Charles Chessle

Conservation photographer Carla Rhodes tells visual tales of the natural world, focusing on the overlooked and misunderstood. From endangered storks to everyday moths, her work is a testament to the beauty found in the unexpected. 

Her journey, once rooted in the realms of comedic ventriloquism, now flourishes in the wild, capturing images that inspire and educate. Skillfully morphing her narrative craft from the stages’ spotlight to the boundless theater of the wilderness, she is truly a wild storyteller, unveiling the hidden narratives of the unsung heroes of the wild.

Published in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian and more, Carla's images challenge perspective while encouraging a deep appreciation of our shared environment.

Senator Michelle Hinchey proudly represents the upstate and Hudson Valley communities of the 41st Senate District, which includes Columbia and Greene Counties, Northern Dutchess, and portions of Ulster County.

Senator Hinchey made history in 2020 as the youngest woman to represent an upstate district, and over just one term, has proven to be one of the most effective legislators in Albany, with over 50 of her bills signed into law, championing issues spanning broadband and healthcare expansion, climate progress, healthy food access, and farmland protection. Hinchey has delivered record investments to support her region, including bringing universal pre-K to communities outside of New York City and the phase-in of universal child care for the first time.

Senator Hinchey was born and raised in Saugerties before graduating in 2009 from the Industrial and Labor Relations School at Cornell University, where she studied the history of the American labor movement and the importance of collective action in establishing an equitable labor market and economy. 

Senator Hinchey credits her love of public service and community-based activism to her father, the late Hudson Valley Congressman Maurice Hinchey, widely regarded as a champion for working people and the environment, who instilled in Hinchey that there’s no higher calling than public service, giving back to your community, and standing up to fight for what’s right. Full bio HERE

Named for Alf Evers, this annual award is given in memory of the noted Catskills author and historian, who was also a long time member of The Catskill Center's Board of Directors. Through this award, we recognize individuals or organizations who have made outstanding contributions in community development, education, arts & culture or natural resource protection in the Catskills.