Editorial Standards

Hudson Valley Happenings is a regional publication built to help readers understand, enjoy and participate in life north of New York City. We cover the people, places, businesses, events and public decisions that shape the Hudson Valley and nearby communities. Our first obligation is to readers: accuracy, clarity, fairness and useful local context.

REPORTING AND VERIFICATION

We distinguish reporting from rumor, commentary and promotion. Before publication, factual claims should be checked against primary documents, direct observation or knowledgeable sources whenever possible. We identify where important information came from, link to original records when they are available and explain what remains unknown. Time-sensitive guides are dated and updated when material details change.

SOURCES AND FAIRNESS

We seek direct, relevant sources and give people or organizations criticized in our reporting a meaningful opportunity to respond. Anonymous sourcing is reserved for information that serves a clear public interest and cannot reasonably be obtained on the record. When anonymity is granted, an editor must know the source's identity and understand the reason protection is necessary.

INDEPENDENCE AND CONFLICTS

Editorial decisions are made independently of advertisers, sponsors, event partners and featured businesses. Payment, gifts, free admission, travel support or other material relationships do not guarantee coverage or influence our conclusions. Writers disclose conflicts that could reasonably affect a reader's trust, and we reassign work when independence cannot be protected.

REVIEWS, GUIDES AND SPONSORED WORK

Reviews and editorial guides reflect our own judgment. Participation in a paid partnership does not purchase a positive opinion. Sponsored, partner-produced, affiliate-supported or paid promotional material is labeled clearly so readers can distinguish it from independent journalism. Our sponsorship disclosures explain the commercial relationship in plain language.

CORRECTIONS AND UPDATES

We correct substantive errors promptly and transparently. Minor spelling, grammar or formatting fixes may be made without a note. Changes that affect meaning, context or a reader's understanding receive a correction or update note on the article. Readers can report a possible error through our Contact page; include the article link and the specific fact in question.

IMAGES, AI AND ORIGINALITY

We credit photographers and source organizations when information is available and do not knowingly present generated or illustrative images as documentary photographs. AI tools may assist with research organization, transcription, brainstorming or production, but they do not replace human reporting, verification or editorial responsibility. Published work is reviewed by a human editor.

ACCOUNTABILITY

These standards apply across our newsroom and will evolve as the publication grows. Questions about a story, a correction or our editorial process are welcome through the Contact page.