Greene County Success Stories

As the hospitality industry continues to rebound from the pandemic downturn, more and more rural properties like the former Thompson House in Windham are getting serious consideration and investment from visionaries like John Flanagan – CEO and founder of Wylder Hotels. His company creates destinations for adventurers to escape the crowds, experience the outdoors, and enjoy all the modern amenities they demand.

Katlyn Irwin has always had an appreciation for all the unique towns, hamlets, and communities located throughout Greene County. In her opinion, the sights, sounds, and sensations they offer couldn’t be beat by anyplace in the world. That’s why she answered that longing call to home after wandering New York State. Now, she operates a cozy little café known as Shipwrecked, where she and her husband Nathan are serving up coffee, carefully crafted baked goods, and countertop banter to everyone at their location at 8 Reed Street, in Coxsackie, NY.

Ryan Penny has always loved the outdoors and everything about it. Like many Greene County residents, he knows that there’s tons of natural splendor to enjoy throughout the region – whether it’s through hiking, camping, or just exploring. He’s making it his mission to take that passion for nature and adventure and spread it to everyone. At Camp Catskill in Tannersville, that passion is evident in everything from the products on display at the newly-opened storefront, to the genuine enthusiasm of its owner.

Chad Paliotta understands that while it’s great to have a day job to pay the bills, there still needs to be an outlet for creativity and passion. That’s as true in his life as it is in the lives of every other Greene County resident. Armed with years of experience in woodcarving, painting, sculpture, and pottery, Chad is bringing wonder and enchantment to life with his handcrafted knickknacks. At Storybrook Hollow on the road to East Durham, you can find a little bit of magic everywhere you look.

It’s been almost 3 years since the renovation and repurposing of the Black Bridge linking Water Street to West Main across the Catskill Creek. The creation of the Catskill Creek Walking-Loop coaxes pedestrians creekside and provides ample foot traffic for the growing number of businesses along its path. From Crossroads Brewing, to the Avalon Lounge, Church Street Bakery, Left Bank Cidery, Piccolo Italian Eatery, to the FORLAND Campus for Contemporary Art (Home to Willa’s Café) visitors and residents alike enjoy a wide range of food and drink options in the heart of this charming village.