Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

On Monday, Optum workers picketed across the Hudson Valley—chiefly near Newburgh—to demand a fair first contract with improved wages, pension, and health care; local lawmakers, including Congressman Pat Ryan, were expected to join other pickets in support.

On Saturday night, over 400 runners participated in the inaugural MJN Convention Center 'Chasing Daylight' 5K along local routes, raising $12,900 for non-profits such as Family Services Inc + Mental Health America.

A new guide details operating hours and locations for farmers markets in Orange, Dutchess, Ulster and Sullivan counties, including Poughkeepsie's Eastdale Village market open every first and third Sunday through October.

Readers can check each market’s website for payment options and vendor information.

Crews battled lingering hot spots at the Hudson River Psychiatric Center after a major fire on June 3—flare-ups were reported on June 19 as pockets of heat persisted in collapsed sections, with debris hindering safe access.

The investigation remained active.

Antonella's Pizza in Wappingers Falls closed after 30 years, leaving loyal customers without their usual Friday night pizza spot (its Fishkill and Hyde Park locations remain open).

The former Jaeger Haus in Tivoli will soon house Gross Bagels, a new bagel shop by Bard College graduates Andy & Jake Gross, aiming to open in October on Route 9G.

The Better Business Bureau reports that employment scams nearly doubled in the Hudson Valley from 11,748 incidents in 2024 to 23,234 in 2025 as scammers send unsolicited text offers for secret shopper and work-from-home tasks—residents should avoid upfront fees and high-pressure tactics.

On Saturday, Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino opened a new Live Fire Training Building at the Emergency Response campus in Hyde Park to give firefighters a modern facility for live burn exercises.

The county dedicated its Fire Training Grounds to Deputy Fire Coordinator Ray Nichols (serving nearly 40 years).

The CDC and FDA warned consumers not to eat recalled soft cheeses from Clover Hill Dairy after a listeria outbreak that caused one death and eight hospitalizations (including one New York case), advising buyers to check packaging for permit number (24-128) and monitor for symptoms.

The FDA upgraded its recall of Alfredo sauce sold in 41 states after a supplier flagged possible Salmonella in the dry milk powder in the product from The Coffee Connexion Co. Inc. (based in Lebanon, Tennessee).

Customers in New York are advised to check their purchases.

Minisink Valley track star Ella Michelitch won the heptathlon at the New Balance Nationals in Philadelphia on Friday, setting a state record with 5,348 points+ earning a text from her future University of Oklahoma coach.

Circus Vazquez

7-10 p.m. — Poughkeepsie Galleria — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrills and excitement of Circus Vazquez live in Poughkeepsie.

Green Day Tribute Release Show

3-9 p.m. — Reason & Ruckus — Donations encouraged — Experience an exciting tribute to Green Day while supporting local animal shelters.

Circus Vazquez

7-10 p.m. — Poughkeepsie Galleria — Tickets required — Experience the excitement of Circus Vazquez live with thrilling performances and family fun.