Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Local synagogues met with law enforcement on Monday to review safety measures as they prepared for Rosh Hashana amid rising antisemitism in the region.

Officials tested safe rooms and held practice drills — no threats have been reported so far.

Jews begin the High Holy Days as Rosh Hashanah starts at sundown today and ends at nightfall September 24 — local synagogues offer welcoming services with prayers and teachings.

Yom Kippur will follow starting at sundown on October 1 and end at nightfall on October 2.

Thirty New York community colleges made WalletHub’s list that compared cost, education outcomes and career outcomes—New York ranked 20th among state systems and only CUNY Stella and Charles Guttman Community College made the top 100.

Dutchess County will host a hazardous waste and electronics collection event at the Public Works Facility in Poughkeepsie on October 18 from 8 AM to 12:30 PM—registration costs $10 per household for the first 400 residents and accepted items include pesticides, pool chemicals, propane tanks, and old electronics while paint, tires, and medical waste are not allowed.

Officials say the Hudson River has the largest toxic algae bloom in almost 40 years and warn residents to avoid swimming or boating today due to risks like itchy skin and upset stomach.

Experts blame warm water and nutrient pollution for the spread — urging people to stay clear of affected waters.

Federal officials extended the shelf life of some at-home COVID test kits by 18–24 months on Sept 16, as COVID cases rise and hospital visits increase.

New Yorkers are urged to check online for guidelines since many kits still show an original expiration date.

On Sept. 20, Western United Fish Company, doing business as Annasea Foods Group, recalled 3,314.7 pounds of Kirkland Signature brand Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke—sold at Costco stores—after a green onion supplier reported a positive Listeria test.

Consumers were advised to avoid the product and return it for a refund, and no illnesses were reported.

An invasive tick from Asia is spreading across New York and has reached parts of the Hudson Valley; the tick, first found in 2018, can cause anemia and death in cattle.

Health experts say that while it has not affected people yet, local farmers and pet owners should take preventive steps (using repellent and checking animals) to reduce risks.

Dutchess County’s median home price dropped by 3.2% from July’s $599,000 to $579,900 in August—though it remained a bit higher than August 2024 levels, while new home listings rose 34% year-over-year and homes were on the market for a median of 54 days.

Section 9 football guru Rich Arnott named Minisink Valley the top team after they beat Newburgh on Saturday night—Minisink Valley will host undefeated Washingtonville on Friday in a showdown of top contenders.

Lucas Rodriguez-Lopez, a junior at Burke Catholic, was called to play quarterback in a Friday non-league game against James I.

O’Neill after starter Tim Brogan broke his fibula. He led the Eagles to a 21—14 win with a 1-yard touchdown run on his first drive and key passes throughout the game, and he will remain the starter for the rest of the season.

Dutchess County Classic

8:30 AM – 12:30 PM — Dutchess Community College — Registration fees apply — Celebrate the beauty of the Hudson Valley with races for all ages at the 47th Annual Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club event.

An Evening With David Sedaris

8-9:30 p.m. — Bardavon — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of wit and humor from America’s beloved humor writer and storyteller.

Hudson Valley Speed Dating for Singles in Their 40s and 50s

7-9 p.m. — Zeus Brewing Company — Check website for ticket cost — Find your spark in a relaxed and friendly speed dating atmosphere.

MET Live in HD: La Sonnambula

1-4 p.m. — Bardavon — Cost info not provided — Experience the enchanting music of 'La Sonnambula' broadcasted live from the Metropolitan Opera.

Joe Bob Briggs and Darcy Live — Cult of the Rock Star Night

6-8:30 p.m. — Bardavon — Ticket required — Experience a double feature with Joe Bob Briggs and Darcy the Mail Girl at a legendary theater.