Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

The Boys and Girls Club of Poughkeepsie's Project Learn now provides a third safe space for local children to play, complete homework, and join in art and STEM activities until 6 p.m. (Holiday Helping Hand donations helped supply holiday gifts and essentials.)

The Hudson Valley community voted in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards to name its favorite restaurants, salons, skilled trades, and entertainment spots.

The winners reflect local pride and spotlight businesses — the backbone of the region.

Amazon refund claims are open for eligible New York customers who accidentally enrolled in or had trouble canceling Prime between June 2019 and June 2025.

Amazon will send notices with claim instructions by Jan. 23 so customers may receive up to $51 in refunds.

An article explores ghost towns frozen in time in parts of the Hudson Valley and upstate areas like Rockland and Dutchess Counties, detailing abandoned settlements and a few residents who remain in these relics of the past.

It explains how resource depletion and new infrastructure led to these sites losing their vibrant communities.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a state plan allocating $1.7 billion from a $4.5 billion effort by 2027 to expand free child care for two-year-olds in high-needs NYC neighborhoods and pilot full-day programs statewide (including the Hudson Valley).

Lawmakers aim to build a cradle-to-kindergarten pipeline offering universal access for young children.

Marc Molinaro, the FTA leader, is mulling a run for Congress to fill the soon-to-be-vacant NY-21 seat.

Former Assemblyman Kieran Lalor has questioned his residency and motives, and Molinaro is seeking support from party leaders (he has not yet made an official announcement).

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday, Jan.

9 that nearly 1,300 households will receive help for repairs, upgrades, or rental assistance through over $68 million from NY State Homes and Community Renewal. Local groups will deliver funds to eligible homeowners, seniors, veterans, and families.

Sen. Gillibrand announced 11 Hudson Valley nominees for US service academies+ including local candidate Claire Wagner for the Air Force Academy.

Nominees were chosen for academic success and leadership, with final acceptance to be decided by each academy.

Health officials report that a vaccine-resistant super flu strain led to record flu hospitalizations last week with over 4,500 cases and warn that numbers may rise further (flu shots help reduce severe illness).

Paint & Sip Night at Crew Restaurant & Bar

6:30-9 p.m. — Crew Restaurant & Bar — $35 — Unleash your inner artist while sipping your favorite drink and making colorful memories.

Live Music with Just Two

7-10 p.m. — Curry Estate (Restaurant Six) — Free entry — Enjoy captivating performances by a dynamic duo playing hits from the 1960s to today.