Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Vitality Bowls, located at 1839 South Rd. (Route 9) in Wappingers Falls, is now under new ownership as Shimaa Elshafey took over operations in January.

She plans to strengthen community ties while continuing to serve nutrient-rich açaí bowls, smoothies, salads, wraps, and grain bowls.

Gas prices are surging amid heightened Middle East tensions and disrupted oil shipments, with experts predicting further increases for local drivers (costs have already crept upward).

Poughkeepsie motorists should brace for rising pump rates in the coming weeks.

Vehicle Safety Recalls Week runs from March 2 until March 8.

The DMV urges drivers to check their VIN online (a free process) to complete needed repairs, as unresolved recalls may delay inspections and registrations.

Defense analysts report that several military sites in the Hudson Valley, such as the US Military Academy and Stewart Air National Guard Base (a key airlift facility), could be considered strategic targets in a nuclear conflict, highlighting the region’s role in national defense planning.

Experts released a map showing what might happen if a nuclear bomb hit New York, and Governor Hochul increased state security after attacks on Iran, with officials advising residents to follow emergency guidelines & be ready.

Red Hook resident Ben Blatt saw his routine physical therapy session become unexpectedly expensive when Montefiore began charging facility fees after partnering with Access Physical Therapy in Kingston; his bill was reduced to $125 after he filed a complaint and now he awaits a response from state regulators.

Health inspectors in Dutchess County completed 38 restaurant checks in February and found that Sushi Village on 8 Raymond Avenue had five fixable issues — while 15 eateries had no problems.

The report shows that some locations must address earlier violations to keep food safe.

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.

Easter Dinner Celebration

1:15 p.m. — Shadows on the Hudson — Prices vary — Delight in a sumptuous Easter feast with a stunning view of the Hudson River.