Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Unionized Starbucks workers in Ulster picketed the Massa Drive store on Monday, Dec.

15 to demand a first contract, higher wages, and better job security (part of the national Red Cup Rebellion). Local officials backed their call for fair treatment.

The Wonderland of Lights transforms Dutchess County Fairgrounds into a festive holiday display open most nights until Dec.

28. Visitors can drive through the show with admission starting at $25 per carload.

Historic sites in Dutchess, Ulster, Orange and Sullivan counties will host special exhibits and events in preparation for America's 250th anniversary celebration on July 4.

Visitors can tour presidential homes and Revolutionary War landmarks (offering scenic views and a unique taste of local history).

Adams Fairacre Farms in Poughkeepsie now displays a uniquely crafted avocado Christmas tree (created with help from Calavo) that has impressed locals on social media.

The store recently reopened with new bakery, pasta and sandwich sections, offering added holiday cheer for seasonal shoppers.

With another storm forecast, state agencies advise local residents to winterize their homes by sealing gaps, adding insulation, and clearing gutters (especially near the chimney) to reduce energy costs and repair risks.

A report shows that a proposed state takeover of Central Hudson Gas and Electric through forming the Hudson Valley Power Authority could lower local customers’ bills by 1.9% in the first year & 13% over 30 years, though the utility warns legal costs might increase rates.

Garnet Health Foundation, based in Middletown (the Hudson Valley), named Jackie Perez as its new director of philanthropy.

Perez (veteran in nonprofit development) will lead fundraising, donor engagement and community partnerships to support vital health programs.

Hope Rising Farm offers equine-assisted therapy with both mounted and unmounted lessons to help boost mental health and independence for local residents.

The nonprofit farm joins the Holiday Helping Hand campaign this season and plans facility improvements in 2026 to expand its services.

Varsity 845’s poll to honor the girls track and field athlete of the week for Dec.

8-14 is live with voting closing Sunday, Dec. 21 at 11 p.m. Coaches and community members may vote at RecordOnline (online) to choose a winner, who will be announced on the @Varsity845 account.

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.