Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Children can ride stick ponies at the Dutchess County Fair's Stick Pony Rodeo—open to kids aged 4 to 7 and featuring events such as Barrel Racing, Steer Roping, and Bull Riding.

Registration is required by August 20 and the event is set for 3 p.m. on August 24 in the Livestock Pavilion following the parade of champions.

A group of Poughkeepsie residents from South Bridge and Grand Streets in the Union Street Historic District cleaned up their neighborhood last week by picking up litter that filled several trash bags and trimming overgrown vegetation—tasks usually left to property owners—and their volunteer work included Justin Brown, Paul Hessey, Heather McArthur, and John Pray.

Three men were arrested by State Police during a traffic stop on Wednesday at 1:18 p.m. near Main Street when a 2021 Jeep was searched and 40.6 grams of crack cocaine meant for sale was found—two were taken to Dutchess County Jail while one was released on recognizance and the investigation is ongoing.

A 24-year-old woman from Wallkill was arrested in Highland after allegedly robbing a liquor store and assaulting a state trooper on Route 9W at 8:40 p.m.—she and three others were taken into custody.

Residents across the Hudson Valley and visitors from the United States and Mexico will take part in the annual La Guelaguetza celebration in Poughkeepsie today at Waryas Park along the Hudson River.

More than 200 dancers, musicians, and singers will perform as organizers predict over 10,000 people will attend—many coming from Putnam County for the 18th consecutive year.

WalletHub’s study for 2025 ranked New York’s school system 10th out of 51 states, noting strength in digital learning plans, pupil teacher ratio, ACT scores and quality while safety ranked 20th—these results show gaps compared to top systems in Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Dinosaur Adventure

9 a.m. – 8 p.m. — MJN Convention Center — Ticketed event — Explore life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and engage in hands-on activities for all ages.

Summer Preview Day at Mount Saint Mary College

10 AM — Mount Saint Mary College — Possible Visit Grant Available — Explore career-focused programs and experience campus life with student ambassadors.

Big Lawn Music Festival

2-10 p.m. — Plan Bee Farm Brewery — Free for children 12 and under — Celebrate live music with diverse artists in a festive outdoor setting.

Poughkeepsie PorchFest

12-6:30 p.m. — Academy Street Historic District — Free entry — Discover diverse musical performances on the porches of Poughkeepsie's historic district.