Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

A Hudson Valley bride lost over $1,500 when the videography company she booked online shut down just weeks before her June 27 wedding; she secured a partial refund from her credit card and hired a new videographer (others have reported similar issues).

Experts say that gas prices in New York are expected to continue rising, with averages predicted to peak near $4.30 a gallon later in April (up from $4.15 now) as full oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz are delayed for months.

Mario Vilardi, a fourth grader from Fishkill Plains Elementary, earned national recognition as a finalist in the Boys 10-11 division of the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals on April 10 at Augusta National.

He finished second overall and won the chipping contest on the Golf Channel.

Reid Wiseman returns to Earth today as the Artemis II spacecraft splashes down off the California coast at 5:07 p.m. Pacific Time, marking a historic record for a crew that traveled farther from Earth than ever before and spotlighting the RPI graduate’s Upstate New York roots.

Breakneck Ridge, Wilkinson Memorial and Lower Brook trailheads remain closed in 2026 due to a 2-year construction project that began in March 2025 to add restrooms and parking improvements; officials say the trails will reopen in 2027 while nearby options remain open.

Under state distracted driving laws, drivers in Poughkeepsie cannot hold a phone at a red light (even when stopped) and risk fines from $50 to $450 if caught using it for texting, calling, or other tasks.

Certain 2-pound bags of Lundberg Organic Jasmine White Rice sold at Wegmans and other retailers may contain foreign material, prompting a voluntary recall.

Shoppers are urged to check their pantries plus return any affected product for a full refund.

A WalletHub study published April 10 found that New York ranked eighth for children's health care with a score of 57.41, highlighting strong access to pediatric care and nutrition (dental care ranked lower).

A multi-family dwelling on North Hamilton Street that partially collapsed was demolished Thursday night for safety after residents were evacuated.

Crews removed most debris into containers and will clear the remaining rubble on Saturday.

Hudson Valley fourth grader Mario Vilardi of Fishkill Plains Elementary finished second overall and won first place in chipping in the Boys 10–11 division at the 2026 Drive, Chip, Putt National Finals at Augusta National in Georgia on Friday, Apr.

10 (he snapped a photo with professional golfer Bryson DeChambeau).

Wappingers 4th grader Mario Vilardi earned second place at the national finals of the Drive, Chip and Putt competition held at Augusta National during the Masters tournament; his longest drive measured over 200 yards.

Mother’s Day Buffet

11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — The Grandview — $60.95 — Treat Mom to a gourmet buffet with scenic views of the Hudson River featuring hand-carved meats and gourmet entrées.