Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

The Regional Food Bank of Hudson Valley will distribute 115,000 Thanksgiving meal packages on November 22 at several locations across five counties *Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, Sullivan, and Rockland* to serve over 25,000 residents.

The event will start at 10 a.m. and will rely on more than 800 volunteers plus support from local sponsors amid rising food insecurity due to federal spending cuts.

On Monday, (October 20), a handwritten sign on the door of Thrifty Check Cashing on North Hamilton St. in Poughkeepsie told customers it was closed for good.

An employee said no reason was given (and Thrifty Beverage stays open) for the check cashing service.

The state announced a $600 million plan to pave over 195 miles of road in the Mid-Hudson region, including busy routes in Poughkeepsie, as part of its largest transportation investment.

The work will begin in 2026 and cause lane closures and delays — affecting daily commutes until the repairs are completed.

Fishkill hotel rooms will be charged a 2.5 percent occupancy tax now that Governor Hochul signed a new law—covering 956 rooms and expected to bring in about $500,000 a year—and town officials say the revenue will help lower property taxes.

The Home Energy Assistance Program season in the Hudson Valley will start on November 17 after federal funds were halted by a government shutdown, and state officials warn that many families might not get the heating help they need.

The delay comes as counties prepare to assist residents through alternative emergency programs.

The State of New York is appealing a court ruling that allowed Holtec to release wastewater from the Indian Point nuclear plant into the Hudson River — Holtec officials said the appeal will significantly delay decommissioning work.

Local high school football games this weekend will see Minisink Valley face Port Jervis and Monroe-Woodbury play Washingtonville with playoff spots on the line—Rich Arnott shared his picks including Newburgh over Pine Bush and other matchups that could impact the standings—.

Paint & Sip Night at Crew Restaurant

6:30-9 p.m. — Crew Restaurant & Bar — Ticket required — Unleash your inner artist while enjoying wine and appetizers in a guided painting session.

Hudson Valley Speed Dating Event for Ages 20s/30s

7-9 p.m. — Zeus Brewing Company — Ticket required — Experience a fun and efficient way to meet potential matches at this lively speed dating event.

Annual Meeting with Dr. Meg Ronsheim

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — The Environmental Cooperative at the Vassar Barns — Registration required — Explore biodiversity changes in the Mid-Hudson region with expert insights from Dr. Meg Ronsheim.