Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Rita's Italian Ice and Frozen Custard will give away free six-ounce Italian ices at all its locations on Friday, Mar.

20 to celebrate spring. Customers can also enter a Mystery Peeps Italian Ice Flavor contest with entries open through Sunday, Mar. 29 + five winners earning a year's supply.

Price Chopper and Market 32 launched a United Way campaign letting customers round up at checkout to help local nonprofits fight food insecurity + housing instability.

The matched funds up to $10,000 will support essential services and run through March 31.

The Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park now offers extended hours — 7am to 6pm until March 7 — so residents can enjoy its historic trails and scenic views along the Hudson River.

Local visitors may plan outdoor activities at this popular landmark.

On March 6 at 7 p.m., Laugh It Up Comedy Club at Mahoney's in Poughkeepsie will host the Comedy Cares fundraiser for Sparrow's Nest.

Hosted by Darion Edwards, the event features comedy by Mike Sicoli, Dan McRitchie + Ken Krantz and supports free meals for children with cancer.

On Sunday, March 1, longtime owners Christine and Casey announced their retirement and new owners took over the popular Di’Vine Wine Bar in Wappingers Falls; the venue will continue offering its favorite food, drinks, and live music to the community.

New York's DMV is urging drivers to check for open recalls using an online tool during Vehicle Safety Recalls Week (Mar.

2–8) after records showed one in five vehicles had recalls last year, and affected cars may be blocked from passing inspections.

Repairs on the Mid-Hudson Bridge began late in 2025 and will run through summer 2027 to improve structural support and drive smoothness in Poughkeepsie's key crossing.

Traffic will remain open with alternating lane closures and nighttime detours — drivers are urged to follow posted signs for safety.

Sergeant Corey Kilfoyle retired last week from the Poughkeepsie Police Department after serving since 2010 + he worked in crisis negotiation, as a school resource officer, and as a detective before his promotion to sergeant.

The department thanked him for his leadership and commitment to the community.

Health officials report a surge in norovirus, known as winter vomiting disease, across New York with nearby regions — including the Hudson Valley — showing high levels.

They advise residents to wash hands with soap and water and disinfect surfaces with bleach-based cleaners to prevent further spread.

Fleet Feet's Shamrock Fun Run

5:45 PM – 2:00 PM — 1895 South Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY — Registration required — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a fun run and earn exclusive SWAG!

The First Ever Famous Pickle Festival

12-6 p.m. — MJN Convention Center — Free for kids 12 & under — Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with pickle tastings, lively music, and delicious eats.

St. Patrick's Day Paint Class

6:30-9 p.m. — Crew Restaurant & Bar — Cash bar available — Unwind with friends while painting a festive St. Paddy’s gnome and enjoying complimentary appetizers.