H Houst & Son, a Woodstock institution for more than nine decades, is feeling the squeeze from President Donald Trump’s insistence that higher tariffs on imported goods will deliver faster economic growth and cheaper prices for U.S. consumers. Items that once cost a dollar now arrive in the U.S. at $1.30 before they reach the […]
Community
Posted inCommunity
Hunter
When Robert Redford Landed at Hunter Mountain
When a helicopter cut through the snow clouds over Hunter Mountain on February 2, 1977, the staff already knew who was coming. The man on board was Robert Redford, then fresh off the success of “All the President’s Men” and one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood. Redford died on Sept. 16 at his […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
Encomium for Bruce Ackerman
Bruce Ackerman! So full of life! So full of creativity! As the great Phil Ochs once sang about a fallen president “A man so full of life, even death was caught off guard.” Bruck Ackerman! Excellent artist. Fine musician. He built such beautiful guitars for his friends and loved ones! He was a excellent graphic […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
On Fathers and Disconnect from Dylan to Kirk
To the Editor: President Trump ordered the nation’s flags to fly at half-staff after the fatal shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10, but not after the killing of Democratic Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband in June. His selective decision should trouble anyone who values fairness in honoring public servants. No […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
Woodstock Film Festival Unveils 26th-edition Lineup, Honors, and Oscar-qualifying Shorts
The Woodstock Film Festival announced the program for its 26th edition, running Oct. 15–19 at venues in Woodstock, Rosendale, Kingston, and Saugerties, with a special pre-festival event Oct. 14. The slate features 39 narrative features and 27 documentaries, led by the centerpiece film “Jay Kelly” from Noah Baumbach, and highlights including new works by Richard […]
Posted inCommunity
Shandaken
Historic Catskills Inn Hits Market as Pine Hill Revitalization Accelerates
For decades, the Pine Hill Arms was more than an inn. It was a Friday night ritual, a roaring fire, and a place where neighbors became lifelong friends. Listed in July for $675,000, the landmark Catskills property has locals reflecting on what it meant—and what it could be again. “First thing to do was to […]
Posted inOutdoors
Overlook
Are Ticks Really Worse this Year?
If you spend enough time in the Catskills, you’ve likely heard the refrain: “The ticks are really bad this year.” The reality is more complicated. While ticks and the diseases they carry are a persistent hazard in the region, whether a given season is truly “bad” depends on a mix of perception, climate conditions, and […]
Posted inOutdoors
Woodstock
Pollinator Pathways Blossom in Woodstock
Insects are in trouble. A 2019 study found that, worldwide, 40% of insect species are threatened with extinction. Another survey found that up to 60% of the insects that pollinate crops in New York State are at risk of disappearing—the rusty-patched bumble bee already has. When Woodstock resident Georgia Asher attended a lecture by entomologist […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Onteora Board Continues to Weigh New Capital Plan After $70M Defeat
The Onteora Central School District Board of Education is leaning toward placing a new capital spending proposition before voters in December. The move comes after residents in May rejected a $70 million plan to redevelop the central school campus in Boiceville and close Woodstock Elementary School. At its Aug. 19 meeting, administrators told the board […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Letters to the Editor
Shandaken has seen an uptick in civic engagement in the past year, with new water district committees in Phoenicia and Pine Hill, a renewed Parks & Rec Committee, a Conservation Advisory Committee that hosted meetings that drew people from other towns, a Housing Smart Committee that spawned a new nonprofit, and PH2, a coalition of […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Six Months In, A New Chapter for The Overlook
This week marks six months since The Overlook began publishing every Friday morning. In that time, our audience has grown to 4,000 dedicated weekly readers and counting. Your tips, ideas, donations, encouragement, and belief in robust local journalism have fueled our mission to deliver independent, high-quality local news to Woodstock, Saugerties, Hurley, Hunter, Olive, and […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
Woodstock’s ‘Day of Gratitude’ Returns Aug. 16 to Honor Volunteers
Woodstock’s “A Day of Gratitude,” the town’s annual celebration honoring current and retired volunteers, will return for its 21st year on Aug. 16 at the Mescal Hornbeck Community Center. Organizers say Woodstock remains the only town in the United States with a dedicated Volunteers Day. The event began in 2004 as an anniversary celebration for […]
Posted inOutdoors
Shandaken
Climb it for Climate Draws Record 100 Runners, Walkers for Carbon-Neutral Courses at Belleayre
A record number of runners, joggers and walkers turned out at Belleayre Ski Resort on Sunday to take on eight- and 25-kilometer courses at Climb It For Climate, an eco-friendly event held four times a year across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York that aims to raise awareness of threats to the world’s climate. Sponsored […]
Posted inCommunity
Olive
Olive Community Rallies Around Family After Devastating House Fire
A local family is picking through the ashes after a devastating house fire destroyed their home, soap business, and nearly all their belongings on the morning of July 25. Though the Wingard family live just over the town line in Kerhonkson, members of the Olive community have come together in force—offering food, clothing, shelter, and […]
Posted inObituaries
Woodstock
Laurent Rejtö, Film Advocate and Devoted Community Builder, Dies at 63
Laurent Rejtö, who spent more than two decades building the Hudson Valley into a thriving hub for film and television production, died on July 27 at his home in Woodstock, NY from pancreatic cancer. He was 63. Laurent will be remembered for his creative spirit, generosity, and fierce passion for the people and places he […]
Posted inCommunity
Olive
Ten-Year-Old Leads Fundraiser for Breast Cancer Research
With a steady handshake and a bright smile, Nola Greenfield welcomed each guest to her fundraiser picnic at Grant Avery Park. “Hi, I’m Nola, welcome,” she said, as the sound of laughter echoed from the Jenga tower collapses and the scent of barbecue drifted through the air. The event, held Sunday, July 13, brought together […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
Candlelight Vigil in Woodstock Honors John Lewis’s Legacy
Residents gathered on the Village Green Thursday evening for a candlelight vigil honoring the late Georgia Congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis, five years to the day after his death from pancreatic cancer at age 80. The event, organized by Third Act Creatives, took place at 8:30 p.m. and featured remarks from local faith […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Greener Living, One Roof (or Loaf) at a Time
Making a move towards sustainability can look like Melissa Gibson’s promotion of biodegradable hemp products at HERbal Woodstock or the installation of green roofs by Hudson Valley Green Roof’s Nicholas DePalma. It can be through a community push via the composting program by Woodstock Farm Festival or the gradual shift towards reusable and efficient housing […]
Posted inPublic Safety
Overlook
Are We Ready for the Next Storm? What to Know About Disaster Preparedness
As extreme weather events become more common, a question arises whether communities in The Overlook Region are prepared for natural disasters—especially after recent catastrophic flooding in Texas. On July 4, torrential rains swept through the Texas Hill Country, leaving at least 120 people dead and 173 still missing. Among the hardest-hit areas was Kerr County, […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
The Overlook Hosts Open Hours at Woodstock Farm Festival July 16
Come say hello! The Overlook will be holding open hours at the Woodstock Farm Festival (Parking Lot, 20 Mountainview Ave) on Wednesday, July 16, from 3 to 7 p.m. Stop by for free lemonade and conversation, and learn more about our growing community publication.
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Independence Day Celebrations Offer Parades, Fireworks
Saugerties, Tannersville, and Phoenicia are among the local towns celebrating Independence Day with a mix of fireworks and parades this weekend, starting at 10 a.m. Friday. Plan ahead—you just might be able to make it to more than one event, or even all four. Saugerties: Fireworks and Parade on Friday A full day of events […]
Posted inAffordable Housing
Hunter
Tannersville Breaks Ground on 56-Unit Affordable Housing Complex
Officials, advocates and residents gathered Wednesday to mark the groundbreaking of Cold Spring Apartments, a 56-unit workforce housing development in Tannersville slated for completion in 2027. The project has been in the works for at least four years. The $31 million development, led by RUPCO—a Kingston-based nonprofit housing advocacy group—is located on the former site […]
Posted inOutdoors
Overlook
Seven Local Hikes With Views, Fire Towers—and the Occasional Snake
With one heat wave done and summer in full swing, it may be time to venture into our local wilderness for hikes that range from adventurous to family-friendly, offering your pick of stunning mountaintop views and the serenity of deep forest. Just pack plenty of liquids, be sure to haul out all your trash, and […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
From Onteora to the White House: Ben Johansen’s Fast Track in Political Reporting
Imagine having a ringside seat these past six months to observe the frenzied pace of the Trump White House—from the Department of Government Efficiency’s offensive in dismantling federal operations to the June 21 decision by President Trump to bomb three Iranian nuclear sites. Ben Johansen, a 23-year-old Woodstock native, has been in the thick of […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Meet The Overlook’s Interns
The Overlook has welcomed two new interns to its newsroom this summer—Mia Quick and Sophie Moos—and continues to benefit from the steady presence of Mercedes Dykes, a contributor who now supports both editorial and administrative operations. “All three have become important members of the team,” said Noah Eckstein, editor-in-chief of The Overlook. “They bring curiosity, […]
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Onteora’s Top Graduates Reflect on Growing Up, Speaking Out, and What Comes Next
Graduating high school represents a milestone moment. The end of high school closes a significant life chapter and serves as a launchpad for young adults as they embark on a new world full of hope and challenges. Earlier this week, The Overlook sat down with the three top honor students from Onteora High School to […]
Posted inGardening
Hurley
It’s Domesday for Two Local Gardeners Betting on Geodesics
A former New York City real estate agent and a retired medical center engineer say the future of gardening is here—and it’s round. Joe’l Moss and Harold Castellano, who met when Castellano visited her property while serving as Hurley’s building inspector, have turned to geodesic domes—half-sphere structures invented for a German planetarium more than a […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
Juneteenth Marked in Woodstock With Food, Art—and a Call to Action
Woodstock celebrated Juneteenth, the day three years after the Emancipation Proclamation that America’s last enslaved people learned they were free, with poetry, music and, great food. “Writing is a release for everything that we are absorbing in this time,” said poet Khe Charles, a speaker at the Village Green event, which included a miniature concert. […]
Posted inGardening
Overlook
`Moon Gardens’ Bloom as Gardeners Cultivate Nocturnal Pollinators
An alarming quiet has replaced the familiar buzzing from pollen to petals as populations of honey bees and other pollinators rapidly decline. Nothing, it seems, can bring them back, not even colorful, nectar-rich flowers that greet the morning sun with open petals and should lure bees and butterflies. In response, and perhaps in quiet defiance, […]
Posted inCommunity
Olive
Olive Free Library Hosts Fourth Annual Fair
The Olive Free Library celebrated its fourth annual Library Fair on June 7 with live music, a bustling plant sale, and a performance by juggler and beatboxer “Jester Jim,” drawing families and community members for a day of entertainment and connection. Jester Jim’s high-energy set—featuring juggling, beatboxing, and comedy—was a standout. Many attendees called it […]
Posted inCareers
Overlook
Join Our Team
We’re Building Our Team Part-Time Ad Sales Representative The Overlook is looking for sharp, curious writers to help cover local meetings, community events, and stories that matter across the Catskills. This is a paid, flexible role, ideal for freelancers, early-career journalists, and seasoned reporters who believe in the power of local news. Love showing up […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
Judy Whitfield Remembrance Next Week at Colony
Woodstock will honor the life and legacy of singer-songwriter Judy Whitfield with a celebration at the Colony Cafe on Wednesday, June 11, featuring live music and storytelling to remember a woman who shaped the town’s creative spirit for more than three decades. “Judy was the central connector to so many different people in the Woodstock […]
Posted inCommunity
Tannersville American Legion Post Hosts Memorial Day Parade
More than 100 people lined the streets of Tannersville on an overcast Memorial Day as a solemn procession sponsored by American Legion Bunt-Brewer Post 165 made its way through the village to pay tribute to fallen service members. “We honor the veterans who never made it home from war, as well as those who returned […]
Posted inCommunity
Turtle Jam Grows in Spirit and Sound
Friends and family gathered at Rip Van Winkle Lake in Tannersville on Saturday, May 17, to honor Jerry “Turtle” Meigs, who died in a tragic 2019 fire. The spring fundraiser marked the third of its kind and previewed the fifth annual Turtle Jam, set for Aug. 23. “May 17 was our spring fundraising event, primarily […]
Posted inQ&A
In Conversation with James Amenta
James Amenta, a Phoenicia resident with 18 years of federal experience at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), was appointed deputy county executive of Ulster County by County Executive Jen Metzger on April 21. Amenta replaces Johanna Contreras, who is departing April 25 to join […]
Posted inQ&A
Overlook
In Conversation with Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha
Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha said she will oppose a proposed rate hike settlement for Central Hudson customers, citing what she called “unjust and unreasonable” profit margins for the utility and a lack of transparency in the process. The joint proposal, developed through closed-door negotiations, would allow Central Hudson to collect nearly $144 million more from ratepayers […]
Posted inThoughtful Discussions
Peter Beinart Talks Gaza, Zionism, and Jewish Identity
Political commentator and author Peter Beinart joined Rabbi Jonathan Kligler at the Woodstock Jewish Congregation on May 13 to discuss Jewish identity in a time of crisis. The event marked a local high point in the national debate over Israel’s war in Gaza and the moral responsibilities of American Jews. Beinart, whose book “Being Jewish […]
Posted inCommunity
Woodstock
In Conversation With Peter Beinart
Ahead of his May 13 appearance at the Woodstock Jewish Congregation, the author of “Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza” reflects on Jewish identity and the moral questions raised by the war in Gaza.
Posted inCommunity
Who Will Speak for You When You Can’t?
A packed event in Saugerties underscores why seniors—and their families—are turning to estate planning before it’s too late.
Posted inCommunity
Blacksmithing Is Alive in Olivebridge
At the Ashokan Center, generations of smiths gather to pass on centuries-old techniques—and forge something new.
Posted inCommunity
Olive
Dolly Parton Surprises Fans at Olive Library Fundraiser With Personal Video Message
A sold-out crowd at the Olive Free Library’s “Dolly Forever” fundraiser on April 26 received a special surprise: a personal video message from Dolly Parton herself. The country music icon thanked attendees for supporting her Imagination Library, a program that mails free books to children under five. Parton also gave a shoutout to Shandaken-based author […]
Posted inAffordable Housing, Community
A Housing Crisis Has Woodstockers Getting Creative
With housing costs soaring, Woodstock residents embrace innovative solutions—from roommates and bartering to community-driven initiatives.
Posted inCommunity
Olive Library Celebrates Dolly Parton
Fans of Dolly Parton won’t want to miss “Dolly Forever,” an evening of live music, Southern comfort food, and literary insights honoring the beloved icon and her Imagination Library. Hosted by local writer Martha Frankel, the event takes place Saturday, April 26, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Olive Free Library in West Shokan. […]
Posted inCommunity, Protest
Saugerties and Woodstock Join Nationwide Anti-Trump Protests
Residents in Saugerties and Woodstock joined thousands of protesters across the U.S. on Saturday in a coordinated demonstration against President Trump, marking the largest public opposition since his second term began in January. The protests, known as the “Hands Off” rallies, expressed disapproval of Trump’s recent policy actions, including controversial tariffs, cuts to federal spending, […]
Posted inCommunity, Outdoors
Brook Trout and Spring Stillness in the Catskills
As native trout stir in the Beaver Kill’s cold waters, a fly fisherman reflects on the delicate balance of life in a stream that helps supply New York City’s drinking water.
Posted inCommunity
One Gravestone at a Time
In Saugerties, a dedicated group is cleaning, repairing, and resetting gravestones—restoring dignity and preserving history.
Posted inCommunity
The Girls Club
Nearly a century after its founding, a women’s civic club in Saugerties balances friendship, charity, and tradition.
Posted inCommunity
Tannersville Food Pantry Needs Community Support
The Kaaterskill United Methodist Church food pantry, a longtime source of support for Tannersville residents in need, is asking the public for help as rising food prices and dwindling funds force service cutbacks. Founded in 1985 by Bernice “Berna” Hoyt, the pantry now serves between 25 and 35 families per week—nearly triple its reach just […]
Posted inCommunity, Outdoors
A Strong Ice Climbing Season in the Catskills, but Next Year Is No Guarantee
Despite one of the best ice seasons in a decade, warming trends threaten the future of ice climbing in the Northeast.
Posted inCommunity, Thoughtful Discussions
In Conversation: Part Two
A deep dive into the vision behind The Overlook with co-founders Scott Widmeyer and Jacqueline Kellachan, exploring their inspirations and hopes for the future of local journalism.
Posted inCommunity, Event Calendar
Community Forum on Immigration Crisis to Take Place March 9 in Woodstock
A community forum addressing the evolving immigration crisis in the U.S. and its local impact will be held on Sunday, March 9, at 2 p.m. at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church in Woodstock. Pastor Liz Estes of the Ulster Immigrant Defense Network will provide an update on the current situation in the region. Her talk, “Loving […]
Posted inCommunity
Shandaken
Pine Hill Residents Unite to Revitalize Historic Wellington Hotel
For nearly 150 years, the Wellington Hotel has stood at the heart of Pine Hill, a relic of the Catskills’ golden age of tourism. Once a grand 12,000-square-foot landmark, it has spent decades in disrepair—windows broken, floors buckling, its once-stately wrap-around porch deteriorating with time. Now, a determined group of local residents is working to […]
Posted inCommunity, Thoughtful Discussions
In Conversation: Part One
A deep dive into the vision behind The Overlook with co-founders Scott Widmeyer and Jacqueline Kellachan, exploring their inspirations and hopes for the future of local journalism.
Posted inCommunity, Public Safety
Fear on the Preserve
After suffering a serious injury from an off-leash dog, a Woodstock resident pushes for stronger enforcement at Thorn Preserve.
Posted inCommunity
Olive Town Supervisor Outlines Progress, Challenges at State of the Town Address
At the annual State of the Town meeting on Feb. 19, Supervisor Jim Sofranko addressed approximately 45 residents at the Olive Free Library, sharing updates on key town initiatives, including zoning, housing, infrastructure, and conservation efforts. Sofranko emphasized the importance of collaboration in a time of national division, urging residents to stay engaged with local […]
Posted inCommunity
Breaking Bread and Building Community
A community potluck in Woodstock invites neighbors to break bread and engage in meaningful conversations, fostering connection across differences.
Posted inAffordable Housing, Community
Community Conversations Spark Local Engagement in Saugerties
Saugerties residents gathered Monday at The Orpheum Theater for a “Community Conversations” event hosted by ShoutOut Saugerties, a volunteer operated community organization. The discussion centered on affordable housing, zoning policies, and local initiatives.
Posted inCommunity
Overlook
Purple Mountain Press Gets a New Chapter
Purple Mountain Press, the Catskills-based publisher of regional history books, has new owners.
Posted inCommunity
Fix It Instead: Saugerties Repair Cafe Restores More Than Just Items
More than 90 items were fixed at the third Saugerties Repair Cafe, a free local event where neighbors bring broken items to be repaired by volunteer fixers and tinkerers. Part of an international movement, the event was held Feb. 1 at the Saugerties Senior Center and organized by a team of local volunteers through the […]
Posted inCommunity, Data
By the Numbers
From population shifts to demographics, a closer look at the data shaping Hunter, Hurley, Olive, Saugerties, Shandaken, and Woodstock.
Posted inArts & Music, Community, Culture
The Genetic Methodist: Garth Hudson (1937-2025)
Bittersweet, it is. It almost seems a little too poetically fitting that this local writer’s first piece for the first issue of a new Woodstock-based publication, would be a remembrance of Garth Hudson, the last living member of the town’s most famous musical ensemble and one of its most beloved community figures. But here we […]
Posted inCommunity
Lucky Catskills: Asian-Inspired Cafe Adds New Flavor to Tannersville’s Food Scene
At first glance, Main Street in the Village of Tannersville appears to end just past the Village Hall, where a row of decaying buildings marks a boundary many tourists rarely cross. But now, there’s a compelling reason to venture further up the street. Nestled on the left-hand side, in the building once occupied by Bear […]
