The Upstate Owl ("we," "us," or "our") operates upstateowl.com (the "Site"). This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and your choices regarding your information.

We believe in transparency. This policy is written in plain language so you know exactly what's happening with your data.

Information We Collect

Information You Provide

• Newsletter Subscription: If you subscribe to our newsletter, we collect your email address.
• Tips and Submissions: If you submit a tip or story idea, we collect the information you provide (name, email, message content).
• Contact: If you email us, we receive your email address and message content.

Information Collected Automatically

• Usage Data: We use Google Analytics to collect information about how you use our Site, including pages visited, time spent, and general location (city/country level). This helps us understand what content resonates with readers.
• Device Information: Browser type, operating system, and device type.
• Cookies: We use cookies and similar technologies as described below.

Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use the following cookies and tracking technologies:

• Google Analytics: Tracks website usage and visitor behavior. Google may use this data as described in their Privacy Policy.
• Google AdSense: Displays advertisements and uses cookies to serve ads based on your prior visits to this Site or other websites. You can opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Google Ads Settings.
• Session Cookies: If you log in, we use cookies to maintain your session.

Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. However, disabling cookies may affect your experience on the Site.

How We Use Your Information

• To send you our newsletter (if you subscribed)
• To respond to your tips, submissions, or inquiries
• To analyze Site usage and improve our content
• To display advertisements
• To detect and prevent fraud or abuse

How We Share Your Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information with:

• Service Providers: Companies that help us operate the Site (hosting, email delivery, analytics).
• Advertising Partners: Google AdSense and related advertising services.
• Legal Requirements: If required by law or to protect our rights.

Third-Party Services

Our Site uses the following third-party services that may collect information:

• Google Analytics - Privacy Policy
• Google AdSense - How Google Uses Information
• Cloudflare (hosting) - Privacy Policy
• Amazon SES (email delivery) - Privacy Policy

Data Retention

• Newsletter subscriptions: Until you unsubscribe
• Tips and submissions: Indefinitely, unless you request deletion
• Analytics data: As determined by Google Analytics (typically 26 months)

Your Rights and Choices

• Unsubscribe: You can unsubscribe from our newsletter at any time using the link in any email.
• Opt Out of Personalized Ads: Visit Google Ads Settings or aboutads.info.
• Delete Your Data: Contact us at dan@upstateowl.com to request deletion of your personal information.
• Do Not Track: We do not currently respond to Do Not Track signals.

Children's Privacy

Our Site is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have collected information from a child under 13, please contact us.

California Privacy Rights

California residents have additional rights under the CCPA, including the right to know what personal information we collect and the right to request deletion. Contact us to exercise these rights.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by posting a notice on the Site.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, contact us at:

Dersch Technologies, Inc.
Email: dan@upstateowl.com