Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Erin Scott led Dutchess BOCES students and staff in the 2026 Polar Plunge, which took place over three days at various venues including Lake Carmel, to raise $6,000 for Special Olympics New York.

She honored a late student by taking the plunge in memory of him.

Middletown-based Orange Bank and Trust promoted Joseph A.

Ruhl to Senior Executive Vice President, recognizing his role in growing deposits in Westchester and the Lower Hudson Valley. The bank noted his legal background and community service (including involvement with the Italian American Forum).

Brian McCabe from Warwick, a retired detective and community leader, will serve as Grand Marshal for the 49th annual Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Day parade on Sunday, Mar.

15 in Goshen. He is proud to lead the celebration and will join family & friends along the parade route.

Congressman Pat Ryan invites NY-18 high school students to submit original artwork for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition at 29 North Hamilton Street, Suites 112 & 113; entries close Monday, Apr.

20 at 5 p.m., and winners' pieces will be shown at the U.S. Capitol and his district office.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is expanding in New York through a partnership with the NYS Office of Children and Family Services, which will award $1M in grants to public libraries, schools & non-profits to boost early literacy.

Organizations interested in partnering must apply by April 30.

A new state law now allows local bars, restaurants, and hotels to buy up to six bottles of wine or liquor from a store instead of through wholesalers, a change that took effect last week and may help them restock easily.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York received the top ranking for tech laws protecting kids online according to a study by non-profit The Anxious Generation.

Her office said the ranking reflects billions invested in mental health programs that reduce digital risks.

A recent WalletHub survey shows New York ranks near the top in tax burden with an effective state and local tax rate of 14.95% and residents paying about $12,143 annually ahead of Tax Day.

Residents in Poughkeepsie may feel the pinch as state taxes remain steep.

Health experts advise adjusting sleep schedules before daylight saving time today as clocks move ahead at 2 a.m. (losing an hour of sleep may cause grogginess) and urge residents to go to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier than usual.

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.