Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Volunteer fire departments in the Hudson Valley hosted live training exercises this weekend to show locals what it takes to serve amid a 40-year low in volunteer numbers.

The Chappaqua Fire Department demonstrated firefighting techniques and flexible training options to encourage new and returning volunteers.

Neighborworks America announced its latest affordable housing grants — awarding $254,000 to Poughkeepsie's Hudson River Housing Inc. and $428,000 to Kingston-based RUPCO Inc. The grants aim to expand housing stock, revitalize neighborhoods and boost economic opportunities.

Hudson Valley mourns Officer Justin Brown, who died on April 13 in a motorcycle accident while commuting to work at Fishkill Correctional Facility; a celebration of his life will be held Friday, Apr.

24 at Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home in New Paltz.

County fair dates for summer 2026 have been released, including the Great New York State Fair (178th edition) running from Aug.

26 through Sep. 7 with carnival rides, concerts, livestock contests, and local food. Check the complete schedule for other fairs across the state.

Consumer Reports shows that grocery prices in New York rose over 25% from Dec.

2020 to Dec. 2024, making dairy+beef+pork nearly record high compared to Walmart. Stores such as Wegmans+Whole Foods are up to 31.9% pricier.

After the US Mint stopped producing pennies last year, New York lawmakers proposed rounding cash totals to the nearest nickel so that amounts like $10.23 become $10.25 — a measure already in practice in states like Arizona and Oregon that may soon affect local transactions.

New York State Police Troop F will hold a free car seat safety check Saturday, Apr.

25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its Middletown headquarters, where certified technicians inspect seats and answer questions — call 845-344-5327 to schedule an appointment.

Frankie's Superette, a family-owned local staple in Hopewell Junction, is listed for sale after 60 years of service.

The mixed-use property is priced at $1,499,999 + the seller is open to offers that could keep the shop running.

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.