Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Hudson Valley resident Rizzo Velovic, known as RizGod, is competing on Survivor Season 49 and he compared the Hudson River to Fiji’s clear water—saying the river looks green and even has dead bodies.

His remark has drawn local attention for its humor and bold honesty.

Dutchess County is joining Operation Green Light by having homes and businesses switch their traditional white lights to green to support local veterans through November 11.

The county lit up key sites in Poughkeepsie and Pleasant Valley — a sign of hope and renewal.

Governor Hochul announced today New York’s first maternal mental health report, which finds that nearly one in five pregnant women face challenges and calls for expanded screening, treatment and support services.

The report recommends extending programs such as Project TEACH and Healthy Steps, plans virtual roundtables later this month, and allocates $850,000 to extend a Collaborative Care Model — all aimed at reducing care disparities.

Optum Health announced that patients on Fidelis/Wellcare and Cigna/HealthSpring plans will lose in-network coverage at its Hudson Valley facilities starting in January.

The change is part of adjustments to its Medicaid and Medicare relationships and leaves affected patients to seek new care options.

On November 4th at 6:34 p.m., police and negotiators stopped a woman on the Mid-Hudson Bridge from jumping by talking her down—she was then escorted by a mental health team to a nearby hospital for evaluation.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul just announced the state’s first maternal mental health report that shows the challenges pregnant women face and calls for improved provider training, robust screening, and enhanced doula support— the report was prepared by the state’s Office of Mental Health workgroup to expand vital mental health services.

Minisink Valley named Shana O’Hara as its new softball coach — she replaces Bruce Guyette, who was suspended on May 7 after nearly four decades that included 647 wins, 13 Section 9 championships, and two state titles.

A 2005 graduate who served as his assistant and coached at SUNY Orange, O’Hara said she is ready to guide the team to success on the field and in the classroom.

The Section 9 girls’ soccer coaches association announced its 2025 all-star teams by naming top players from area schools for Class AAA, AA, A and B/C/D + the selections were based on regional performance.

Standout picks include junior Kallie Bennett and senior Kate Allen + the list recognizes top talent from various positions.

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.

Pet Photos with Santa

4-7 p.m. — Poughkeepsie Galleria — Reservations recommended — Capture magical moments with Santa and your beloved pets.