Ulster County Real Estate Blog - Hudson Valley To Do List

Rosendale & "The New York Times" - A Look At The Relationship Between A Small Upstate Town & A Big City Newspaper

Posted by Dylan Taft on June 7th, 2011

"Terror Stricken" - The town of Rosendale NY has been capturing the attention of the New York Times for over 100 years. A quick search on the newspaper’s website turned up this harrowing headline from December 28th 1899(!)

        “The mountain near the Railroad Bridge at Rosendale last night caved in, causing a terrific noise and arousing the entire village from slumber. Some of the inhabitants were terror stricken…”

In recent years, the Times has focused on Rosendale’s appeal to New York City residents. 2010 produced some very positive articles that have highlighted Rosendale’s sense of community and appreciation for local history and the arts. In particular, the growing number of Brooklyn NY transplants (undoubtedly given a boost by an article last…

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The Ulster County NY Lifestyle

Posted by Dylan Taft on May 9th, 2011

Ulster County NY is one of those places where people come to visit and never leave. As a realtor I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard the phrase, "Well I came to visit, and I liked it so much I decided to buy a home here." What is it about Ulster County that draws people? There are the obvious answers like the breathtaking environment, or its proximity to that other well-known town, New York City. However, as any resident can tell you, there’s a certain lifestyle that comes with having a home in Ulster County. A lifestyle that is as a sort of mash-up between a rugged co-existence with one’s natural surroundings, and a welcoming sense of community with a love of diversity and culture. This lifestyle helps make Ulster County NY home to some of the…

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Restaurant Review: The Rock and Rye Tavern in New Paltz

Posted by Dylan Taft on May 4th, 2011

      

           Looking for a different kind of dining experience in New Paltz? I think I may have just the place. The other night I attended a dinner with friends at a brand new restaurant. The Rock and Rye Tavern is nestled into the historic Huguenot section of New Paltz. Located in the former Locust Tree inn, The Rock and Rye Tavern offers a tranquil setting, worlds away from the noisy bustle of the Main Street strip. Upon arriving at The Rock and Rye Tavern, one is struck by the beauty of the historic tavern itself, and its surrounding environment which borders the New Paltz Golf Course. As I strolled down the walkway to the tavern’s entrance, I instantly unwound as the natural sounds of a spring evening filled the air and the sun set over the…

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Disaster Readiness 101

Posted by Dylan Taft on May 2nd, 2011

Recent events around the world, most recently in Japan, are a sobering reminder of the sheer strength and unpredictability of nature. The horrifying events that took place in Japan left the rest of us wondering, what if it happens here? Will I be ready?  Granted, the danger of a tsunami is not as great in America as it is in Japan. However there are a number of potential threats, both natural and man-made, that warrant caution. By following a few simple, logical strategies, you can help ensure the safety of you and your family in the unlikely event of a natural (or unnatural) disaster. 

Tsunamis

The threat of a tsunami on the scale of the one that struck Japan is not necessarily a constant here in the States. However our coastal regions and the Hawaiian…

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I Heart Farmers Markets!

Posted by Dylan Taft on March 30th, 2011

The arrival of spring in the Hudson Valley region also marks the beginning of the season for local farms and farmers markets.  Whether its fresh produce, beautiful flowers, or scrumptious organic foods, Ulster County is home to a wide variety of family owned farms and community run farmers markets. Local real estate activity tends to pick up in the springtime and we here at Taft Street think it has as much to with sweet corn and strawberries as it does with beautiful homes and great value. No matter which direction you’re headed in Ulster County, there’s a farm nearby ready to provide fresh local cuisine!  

 

• Davenport Farm - Stone Ridge, New York – A staple of Stone Ridge, Davenports has evolved from a family farm providing corn and other simple wares…

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Hudson Valley Wineries, an Upstate New York Treasure

Posted by Dylan Taft on July 21st, 2010

The French Huguenots planted the first grape vines on the hillsides of the Hudson Highlands in 1677, and started the tradition of growing grapes and winemaking that continues today. Over 330 years later, the vintners and wineries of the Hudson Valley have taken measures to present this historic wine regions historic contributions to the growing and cultivating of fine grapes and the ancient art of winemaking, and to introduce the natural beauty, the outdoor recreation opportunities, historic sites, and all of the culinary treasures that goes along with everything that makes Hudson Valley real estate great.  Its communities, farms, lodging, restaurants and other contributions it makes to our lifestyle. The Hudson Valley Wine region, and the hudson valley…

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