Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Hurricane Melissa hit the Caribbean earlier, causing major damage in Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas and prompting New Yorkers with family overseas to launch relief drives—officials urge donors to only use trusted sources to avoid scams.

The Poughkeepsie Police Department announced the passing of K9 Falcone, a trusted partner who served for 12 years and was a favorite at local schools and events.

Residents now honor his loyalty and bravery as they remember his role in keeping the community safe.

Local law enforcement shared Halloween safety tips that advise wearing reflective costumes, using flashlights, and staying with an adult while trick or treating.

Officers in Goshen and East Fishkill are enforcing curfews and increased sobriety checkpoints—ensuring safe celebrations for the community.

Food banks in the Capital Region and Hudson Valley warn that several hundred thousand people will lose SNAP benefits on Nov.

1 due to a government shutdown—local pantries are already seeing a sharp increase in demand.

New York State Police and volunteers kick off the 49th Annual Pumpkin Patrol tonight along the Thruway to prevent Halloween pranks and improve driver safety—hundreds of local amateur radio volunteers will monitor overpasses and alert law enforcement through tomorrow night.

The patrol, coordinated by Troop T since 1990 and rooted in a 1976 volunteer effort, will bolster efforts against impaired driving.

Columbia Memorial Health President Dorothy Urschel—speaking at a town hall in Hudson—told more than 150 attendees there will be no layoffs as the hospital cuts its bed count to 25 to qualify as a critical access hospital and boost Medicare rates.

The plan also includes expanding the inpatient psychiatric unit and converting a nearby building into an outpatient surgical center, with the process expected to take six months to two years.

In Poughkeepsie, Adams Fairacre Farms is offering a new Ghost Latte—a cold coffee drink with marshmallow fluff and a spooky face decoration—in time for Halloween.

Local customers can enjoy the treat as part of the Hudson Valley's seasonal spooky celebrations.

Rich Arnott has released his playoff picks for Section 9 football games this weekend — including expected wins by Washingtonville over Our Lady of Lourdes, Warwick over Goshen, and Eldred over Onteora — which set the stage for the postseason match-ups.

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.

Paint & Sip at Vino

6:30-9 p.m. — Crew Restaurant & Bar — Ticketed event — Unleash creativity with guided painting and delicious drinks in a fun atmosphere.

Thanksgiving Feast at Shadows on the Hudson

11:30 AM – 6:00 PM — Shadows on the Hudson — Pricing not specified — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a bountiful meal prepared by the talented chefs.