Good morning, Poughkeepsie.

Deputy John Carney delivered a sack of Christmas gifts on Tuesday to 3-year-old Anya in Pleasant Valley after her presents were stolen from the family's porch, easing a tough holiday for her family.

On Friday night in Pleasant Valley, Santa Claus helped reunite Army Reservist Alexa Peterson with her four young children as state troopers, the fire department, and the sheriff’s office coordinated the surprise at her home.

The event ended an 11‑month wait for the family, sparking joy in the community.

Cardinal Dolan retired on Friday after Pope Leo XIV accepted his resignation and welcomed Bishop Ronald Hicks at St. Patrick’s Cathedral; he is remembered in Putnam for regular visits to local churches and community outreach (including support for incarcerated individuals).

Newburgh native James Patterson awarded $500 bonuses to 55 bookstore employees across New York, including 6 Hudson Valley members, through his Holiday Bonus Program.

He will launch new titles in 2026 (including an Alex Cross novel and a Women’s Murder Club book), continuing his support for the state's literary community.

The CDC reported that New York and four other states are experiencing very high flu activity due to a fast-spreading new variant that reduces vaccine match, with doctors urging residents to get a flu shot (even as the current vaccine still protects against other strains).

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.