Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

On Monday, dozens of golfers, local businesses, and corporate sponsors gathered to support the Mid-Hudson Civic Center/MJN Convention Center by raising funds for daily operations and programming—while board member Michael McCormack was honored for his 20 years of service.

Dutchess County Sheriff Kirk Imperati presented a citation on behalf of Assemblyman Anil Beephan, who was unable to attend the awards banquet.

A report by EcoCation found that the Delaware River, which supplies water for millions in New York, was very polluted with chemicals, mercury — and industrial runoff, raising concerns as the EPA noted nearly 30 percent of U.S. water bodies are seriously polluted.

Metro-North began using new Siemens Charger electric trains on the Hudson Line on Monday — these trains lower emissions by 85% as they travel from Poughkeepsie to Grand Central.

Starting Oct. 5 the super-express service will cut travel time by up to 20 minutes for faster trips.

Imelda Muller—a native of Copake Falls in Columbia County—has reported for two years of training as one of 10 NASA astronaut candidates at the Houston center, and she will work with her team on missions to the moon and Mars.

Today, Poughkeepsie's water treatment facility said that water drawn from the Hudson River tastes and smells different because drought has shifted the salt line north, raising sodium and chloride levels while still keeping it safe to drink.

Town Supervisor Rebecca Edwards said monitors will check levels and posted signs warn residents to avoid contact with untreated river water—especially where harmful algae blooms may affect areas downstream.

Metro North will add extra weekend trains called LeafPeepers from Grand Central to Poughkeepsie starting October 5 to help travelers see fall colors—additional holiday trains will run at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's.

Governor Hochul said the extra service is part of a broader plan to improve train travel.

New York State Police announced a new visor card program to help autistic drivers communicate during traffic stops — the card displays icons intended to ease confusion for both police and drivers.

The agency said each vehicle will soon include the card and urged drivers to keep it in the car for better interactions.

This summer, USCIS ended paying New York county clerks for administering the Oath of Allegiance to new citizens, and several counties continued holding naturalization ceremonies without reimbursement—raising questions about the policy change.

Some clerks said they expected written confirmation from the federal agency on the new rules.

New York Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado joined local leaders at Vassar for a panel discussion on Sept.

18 that examined federal policy impacts and the need to protect local health and community services—panelists called on residents to engage young voters and strengthen support for local initiatives.

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.