Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

On Thursday, DOT workers found wrapped Christmas presents on Route 9 near Marist University and quickly returned them to Marist's Giving Tree program so a needy family could have a brighter holiday.

Local farms are shifting toward agritourism — offering taprooms, seasonal events and community programs to blend farm tradition with modern experiences.

New owners are adding pop-ups and cultural events to attract family and visitor engagement in our region.

Poughkeepsie was named a top Hallmark-like city by The Action Network for its historic charm, vibrant economy, and picturesque December snowfall.

This ranking highlights it as an ideal backdrop for holiday movie scenes (third nationally and first in New York).

Regal Cinemas is showing a series of classic Christmas movies on the big screen through Dec.

31 at local theaters, and locals can enjoy favorites such as Elf and The Polar Express while checking showtimes at each location (additional details are available from the theater listings).

The U.S. Department of Labor reported that new jobless claims in New York jumped from 14,488 to 25,088 last week, and nationwide claims rose to 236,000 on a seasonally adjusted basis.

SUNY New Paltz president Darrell Wheeler urged Ulster County business leaders at a Chamber of Commerce breakfast in Kingston—during this holiday season—to explore partnerships with the university’s business school and consultation group to boost the regional economy.

A group of local labor and business organizations oppose proposed legislation to allow a state takeover of Central Hudson, warning that delivery bills could jump 36 percent and burden households and businesses with extra costs by 2028 despite lawmakers citing long-term savings.

Dec. 12's LeapFrog Group report showed 33 New York hospitals earned A grades for patient safety while two got F's — the study aimed to help patients choose safer care using extra data when surveys lacked responses.

Flu cases have surged this season as mid-Hudson counties saw numbers climb—Dutchess recorded 138 and Orange 512 as of Nov.

29 (state data); health officials urge residents to get vaccinated and stay home if sick.

Realtor.com data shows Dutchess County home prices dipped 3.2% in September compared to August, with overall medians at $455,000+ single-family homes selling for $465,000 while statewide figures dropped.

Marist football improved under head coach Mike Willis in his second season as the Red Foxes finished 5-7 and defeated multiple full-scholarship programs—setting new records in team GPA and player awards.

The coach plans a spring ball and fall camp to build on this progress.

Small Business Holiday Party

6-11 p.m. — The Grandview — $90 — Celebrate the season with cocktails, a delicious buffet, and dancing overlooking the Hudson River.

MET Live in HD: Andrea Chenier

1-3 p.m. — Bardavon — Ticket prices vary — Experience the majestic opera performance of Andrea Chenier broadcast live from the Metropolitan Opera.

New Year’s Celebration at Noon

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum — $12-$18 — Celebrate 2026 with music, crafts, science demos, and a lively countdown to noon.