Beacon Finance Leader Joins Dutchess County Regional Chamber, Offers Free Year-End Books Reviews
BEACON, N.Y. — Hudson Valley Growth Advisory, a bookkeeping and fractional Controller/CFO practice based in Beacon, has joined the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Founded by Stephanie Batson, who has more than 15 years of experience as a Controller and finance leader, the firm helps Hudson Valley small and mid-sized businesses get their books clean, keep them current, and understand what their numbers mean. Services include monthly bookkeeping, catch-up cleanup, Controller services, and
Guardian Revival’s One Mile Challenge Raises $78,658 to Support Military and First Responders' Mental Health
Guardian Revival, a nonprofit serving military members, veterans and first responders – collectively known as guardians – and their families, has concluded its fifth annual One Mile Challenge with $78,658 in donations. More than 578 people across 35 states and Washington, D.C. walked, ran, rolled or rucked (walked with weight) one mile a day in September to raise awareness around guardians’ challenges with mental illness and suicide. “Our guardians carry the weight of trauma, loss, responsibility and so
Security Plumbing & Heating Supply SHowroom Open House November 19th
Please come join us on November 19th to explore our showroom and all it ahs to Dutchess County. We have been working and selling Kitchens and Baths for over 20 years here in Poughkeepsie. We'll have all our business partners from Visual Comforts, Lighting Kohler, House of Rohl and others for a evening of gathering, conversion and design ideas. Please bring your friends, family designer, contractor or just your self and see what has been in your back yard all these years !!!
Dutchess County-Poughkeepsie Land Bank Appoints Matthew Arbolino to Interim Executive Director
The Dutchess County-Poughkeepsie Land Bank Corporation (DCPLB) announced the appointment of Matthew Arbolino as interim executive director, effective August 19th, 2026. The appointment comes as DCPLB’s board of directors launches its regional search for a permanent executive director to lead the organization into its next chapter.In addition to extensive consulting experience, Arbolino brings more than a decade of affordable housing, community development, and land bank programming experience across the
Karen Hagstrom, Partner at Stenger, Glass, Hagstrom, Lindars & Iuele LLP, Honored by City & State New York
Stenger, Glass, Hagstrom, Lindars & Iuele LLP announced that Karen Hagstrom, partner at the firm, has been named to City & State New York’s inaugural Hudson Valley Trailblazer list. Hagstrom is one of 44 individuals recognized as the most influential people assisting government, companies, organizations and associations, with priorities and legislation in the Hudson Valley. “It is truly an honor to be celebrated in this Hudson Valley Trailblazers List, alongside so many other accomplished leaders in our
Local Plastic Surgeon Recognized by Newsweek as One of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026
Poughkeepsie, NY — Dr. Adam T. Silverman of New Beginnings Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery is proud to announce that he has been selected by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026, receiving recognition in the categories of Breast Augmentation and Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck). Dr. Silverman has been practicing plastic and reconstructive surgery in the Hudson Valley for more than a decade and has built his practice around providing personalized surgical and aesthetic care to patients
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FKC&S LLP Partners Recognized for Excellence in Medical Malpractice Law In 33rd Edition of The Best Lawyers in America®
Continuing its long history of being honored, Hudson Valley, NY law firm Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP (FKC&S) announced that partners Robert R. Sappe and Kathryn C. Collinshave been selected by their peers for inclusion in the 33rd Edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. Both Sappe and Collins are being recognized in the area of Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants in Fishkill, NY. First published in 1983, Best Lawyers recognitions are compiled based on an exhaustive Purely Peer Review®
Ulster Insurance Services Welcomes Roland Garcia as Personal Lines Manager
(Kingston, NY)Ulster Insurance Services, a subsidiary of Ulster Savings Bank, recently announced the appointment of Roland Garcia as Personal Lines Manager. In this role, Roland will oversee the agency’s Personal Lines Account Management and Inside Sales teams. His background across banking and insurance operations positions him to strengthen team performance and drive client-focused service delivery. He will also represent the agency at community and networking events. "The most important part of my day
Alexandra Downey Thomas, Of Counsel at Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP, Honored by Dutchess County Bar Association
Further demonstrating its commitment to excellence, Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP (FKC&S) has announced that Alexandra Downey Thomas, who serves Of Counsel, has been awarded the 2026 Amee VanTassel Young Lawyer Award by the Dutchess County Bar Association. This prestigious recognition honors attorneys with less than 10 years of professional practice who exemplify the late VanTassel’s spirit and character. Recipients are also chosen for their ongoing service to the Bar, their communities and
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Impact PR & Communications to Lead Regional Outreach for Hudson Valley Connected
Award-winning public relations and communications agency, Impact PR & Communications(Impact PR), has been selected to provide strategic communications and support for Hudson Valley Connected, a regional initiative expanding free technology assistance and digital literacy resources throughout the Hudson Valley. The project is funded through a $500,000 grant awarded by Empire State Development’s ConnectALL Office to the Westchester Library System, the lead financial partner and grant administrator for Hudson
Bridging more than just the Hudson Valley
The Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) has awarded its first loan through its Local Impact Fund for Tomorrow (LIFT) program, providing Friends of the Walkway with bridge financing to complete the final phase of its New York State-supported lighting improvement project for the Walkway Over the Hudson. The first of several LIFT loans already in the pipeline, this loan demonstrates how charitable capital can be put to work to help nonprofits across Dutchess, Ulster and Putnam counties. The
Market Signage That Stands Out: A Guide for Dutchess County Vendors
The Hudson Valley has made a serious business of its markets. Dutchess County sits in the middle of one of the country's more discerning local-food regions, with a busy calendar of farmers' and maker markets and customers who take provenance and presentation seriously. A market stall there has about two seconds to work: someone is walking an aisle of a dozen similar tables, and what stops them is almost never the produce itself, which looks broadly the same from stall to stall at a distance. It is the
Guardian Revival Names Kim Haight to Chief Executive Officer
Guardian Revival, a Hudson Valley-based nonprofit focused exclusively on supporting the mental health of military members, veterans and first responders – collectively known as guardians – and their families, at no cost to them, announced the appointment of Kim Haight to chief executive officer, following her service as interim CEO since March. After leading the organization through a period of transition, Haight emerged as the natural choice to continue guiding Guardian Revival’s mission. Bringing more
Alexandra Downey Thomas Joins Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP
Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP (FKC&S), a Hudson Valley-based law firm concentrating in personal injury and medical malpractice defense, has announced that Alexandra Downey Thomas, Esq., of Poughkeepsie, NY, has joined the firm. For more than four decades, FKC&S has represented clients in complex litigation across state and federal courts throughout the Hudson Valley and Capital Region. “Alexandra brings nearly a decade of hands-on litigation experience and a well-rounded background across
Tompkins Financial Corporation Reports Record First Quarter Financial Results
Tompkins Financial Corporation ("Tompkins" or the "Company") reported diluted earnings per share of $1.82 for the first quarter of 2026, up $0.45 or 32.8% compared to the first quarter of 2025 and down $4.88 per share or 72.8% compared to the fourth quarter of 2025. Net income for the first quarter of 2026 was $26.1 million, up $6.4 million or 32.5% from the first quarter of 2025 and down $70.2 million or 72.9% compared to the immediate prior quarter. As previously reported, net income for the fourth
Millbrook Vineyards & Winery Names Ian Bearup as General Manager, Continuing His Role as Head Winemaker
The next chapter at Millbrook Vineyards & Winery is taking shape, as the Hudson Valley’s flagship winery announces that Head Winemaker, Ian Bearup has been appointed general manager. In his dual role, Bearup will oversee all day-to-day operations of the winery, including strategy, team leadership, hospitality, sales and the guest experience, while continuing to direct the winery’s acclaimed wine production. From vineyard coordination and harvest decisions to fermentation, blending and bottling, he will
Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP Announces Addition of Jordan M. Gwynn
Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP (FKC&S), a leadingpersonal injury and medical malpractice law firm in the Hudson Valley, has announced that Jordan M. Gwynn of Fishkill, NY has joined the team as an associate attorney. For more than 40 years, FKC&S has represented clients in complex matters in state and federal courts throughout the Hudson Valley and Capital Region. “Jordan brings a strong litigation background and a thoughtful, disciplined approach to his work,” said Jeffrey M. Feldman, founding
Be Your Own Marketing Department: Channels, Messaging, and Measurement for Dutchess County Businesses
Running a business in Dutchess County often means wearing every hat at once — and marketing is usually the one that fits least comfortably. That's changing. A recent survey of 1,000 small business owners found that 63% actively upskilled in marketing and 78% boosted their budgets despite economic uncertainty, signaling that owner-led marketing is now the norm. You don't need an agency or a dedicated team to compete effectively. You need a working grasp of three things: channels, messaging, and
Most Small Business Owners Are Confident About Their Finances — and Half Are Wrong
Nearly 42% of small business owners had limited or no financial literacy before starting their businesses, and 45% lost at least $10,000 as a direct result of that gap. If you're running a business in Dutchess County and feel like you have a handle on your finances, the data suggests it's worth a second look. Financial literacy — the ability to read, interpret, and act on your own financial information — is one of the highest-leverage skills you can develop, and gaps in it rarely announce themselves until
What Your Website Is Quietly Costing Your Dutchess County Business
The Conference Board's consumer confidence index hit a post-pandemic low in spring 2025 — a signal that buyers are hesitating and doing more research before they spend. That shift puts your website front and center in the sales process, regardless of whether you've optimized it. The businesses that build revenue during downturns aren't the ones waiting for things to stabilize — they're the ones removing friction for cautious buyers."My Word-of-Mouth Gets Me Enough Business" If referrals keep your
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Impact PR & Communications Founder and CEO Filomena Fanelli to be Inducted into the Dutchess Community College Alumni Hall of Fame
In recognition of her exceptional professional achievement, leadership in her field and meaningful community contributions, the Dutchess Community College Foundation will induct Filomena Fanelli, founder and CEO of Impact PR & Communications, into its prestigious Alumni Hall of Fame. Fanelli will be formally recognized at the Foundation’s annual Our Community’s Bridge to the Future Gala, on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, New York. The event honors and celebrates alumni and
Navigating Zoning, Permits, and Local Decisions in Dutchess County
Dutchess County businesses operate in a landscape where local decisions—from zoning laws to infrastructure investments—can shift quickly and reshape day-to-day operations. Whether you’re running a restaurant in Poughkeepsie, expanding a manufacturing site in Beacon, or opening a retail shop in Red Hook, knowing how policy evolves helps you stay compliant, competitive, and ready for opportunity. Learn below about: How nearby policy changes influence business costs, growth, and compliance. What local
News Release: 10/28/2025
Dear Colleagues at DCRCOC My sixth book, published by Shanti Arts is ready today. - just in time for the holidays! Makes a nice gift. COLORSCAPES is out! Here are links where you can find it: https://poetleewoodman.com/books/colorscapes/ Enjoy the refreshed website too!https://www.poetleewoodman.com Thank you for welcoming me to the Chamber! Best, Lee
Top Mistakes New Small Business Owners Make (and How You Can Avoid Them)
Starting a business is exciting, but it’s also full of challenges. Many first-time owners find themselves making avoidable mistakes that can slow growth or create unnecessary risks. Below are some of the most common pitfalls — along with strategies and resources to help you build a stronger foundation. Mistake 1: Ignoring Cash Flow Management New owners often focus on sales and overlook cash flow. Even profitable businesses can collapse if payments are delayed or expenses pile up unexpectedly. How
Tompkins Community Bank Appoints New Branch Manager to Lead Mahopac Branch
Reinforcing its promise to deliver trusted financial guidance and personal service, Tompkins Community Bank (Tompkins) has named Tyreik Brown as a new branch manager of its Mahopac branch. With eight years of industry experience and deep knowledge of banking operations, lending and loan processing, Brown will be responsible for driving business growth, overseeing branch operations, and strengthening relationships with clients and the community.“Tyreik brings a strong leadership ethos and a customer-first
A Breath of Fresh Air: The Yoga House Opens its Doors in Poughkeepsie
After nearly a year of anticipation and ground-up construction, The Yoga House, an award-winning yoga studio owned and operated by Amy Reed and Joyce San Pedro, will open its third location – and first in Dutchess County – on Saturday, September 6, at 2623 South Road (Route 9) in Poughkeepsie. The Hudson Valley community is invited to celebrate the studio’s new beginnings, meet founders Amy and Joyce and sample The Yoga House’s inclusive and uplifting offerings during a weekend-long grand opening, including
Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP Partners Honored in 32nd Edition of the Best Lawyers in America®
Hudson Valley, NY law firm Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP (FKC&S) announced that partners Jeffrey M. Feldman, Robert R. Sappe and Kathryn C. Collinshave been selected by their peers for inclusion in the 32nd Edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. All three are being recognized in the area of Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants in Fishkill, NY, and Feldman is also being honored in the category of Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants in Fishkill, NY. First published in 1983, Best Lawyers
The Verdict is in: Jad Haddad, Attorney at Stenger, Glass, Hagstrom, Lindars & Iuele LLP, Earns Third Accolade by Best Lawyers®
Stenger, Glass, Hagstrom, Lindars & Iuele LLP announced that for the third consecutive year, associate Jad Haddad was included in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America for his work in litigation - real estate and real estate law. Best Lawyers®, which employs a rigorous, peer-to-peer, industry-driven evaluation to determine its rankings, analyzed over four million votes for the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers: One to Watch in America. “I’m grateful to be recognized on the Ones to Watch® list for the third
Crafting a Sharp Digital Marketing Plan Without Breaking the Bank
Every brand, no matter how lean its pockets, deserves a digital presence that punches above its weight. But when marketing dollars are scarce, creativity has to work overtime. A limited budget doesn’t mean limited impact—it just demands a smarter playbook. With the right approach, even scrappy startups and small operations can build a marketing strategy that competes in the same digital space as the big spenders. Start With the Data You Already Own The most valuable resource hiding in plain sight is
Let’s Roll: Dutchess Roots Opens in Town of Poughkeepsie
Dutchess Roots, the Town of Poughkeepsie’s first and only dispensary, officially opened its doors at 2615 South Road (Route 9) in South Road Crossing. Marking the milestone with a grand opening celebration from 12 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, Dutchess Roots will welcome customers, neighbors and local leaders to experience a new standard in cannabis dispensaries. The grand opening celebration will invite guests into a thoughtfully designed, customer-focused space that showcases over 450 cannabis products,
Tompkins Community Bank Welcomes Todd Lake as Business Development Officer
Demonstrating its commitment to growing its business and expanding its offerings in the Hudson Valley, Tompkins Community Bank (Tompkins) has welcomed Todd Lake as its newest business development officer. Before joining Tompkins, Lake, who has worked in the financial industry for nearly two decades, oversaw the business development of Brightbox Capital. He will be responsible for generating new business, focused on Tompkins’ footprint in Dutchess County.“Todd has an expansive background in business
The CTA, BOI and FinCEN: What Businesses in Poughkeepsie, NY Should Do Now
The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible criminal penalties. However, filing your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report will help you avoid fines
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TOMPKINS FINANCIAL ADVISORS PROMOTES WILLIAM LYONS TO FINANCIAL PLANNER
Lyons to serve clients in all Tompkins markets across New York and PennsylvaniaTompkins Financial Advisors (Tompkins) has promoted William “Will” Lyons to financial planner, serving clients in Western, Central, and the Hudson Valley New York; Wyomissing and Blue Bell, Pennsylvania and Delray Beach, Florida. Lyons supports the firm’s financial planning efforts across client-facing services and expertise in this new role. His promotion reflects his dedication to delivering expert, personalized, strategic
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The Yoga House Flows into Third Location, Breaks Ground on First Dutchess County Studio
Building on the success of its two Ulster County locations, Amy Reed and Joyce San Pedro, co-owners of The Yoga House, have announced that ground has been broken on what will be the studio’s third, and first Dutchess County, home.The Yoga House’s Poughkeepsie sanctuary, located at South Road Crossing on Route 9, will open in the spring of 2025, anchoring a variety of businesses, including Sleep Number, Buff City Soap, Jersey Mike's Subs, uBreakiFix, Smoothie King, Home 2 Suites by Hilton and more. The
