Hudson Valley Online Chat

Chat with 1,433 fellow Hudson Valley creators, professionals, and small business owners

See how people are using our Slack community to ask questions, share opportunities, find work, and make friends. Below is the full archive of content from three of our most active channels:

January 5, 2026
Dee Dee
Dee Dee 9:09 PM
Still have some spots open for this weekend.

Hey everyone. I'll be doing black and white pop up studio sessions January 10th and 11th . Great chance to get your branding images or headshots in 30 minutes. Couples/ Families are welcome too.

https://deedeethompsonphotography.pixieset.com/booking/Black-and-White?utmsource=ig&utmmedium=social&utmcontent=linkinbio&fbclid=PAdGRleAOtnKBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAacZrx8PtjExnmOUlDxNmsbQKcWCy4oOZ7vsZAtHaqsBqw-dKUwMxm4xRM6GAaem_phNdVZEqZAkEVnGVSgGZwA
Signature black and white portraits that show emotion and put your personality on full display. This is an in studio experience based in Hopewell Junction, New York.Deliverables include 10 high qualit...
deedeethompsonphotography.pixieset.com
Black and White Pop Up Portraits | January 10th with Dee Dee Thompson Photography
January 6, 2026
Nick Abbey
Nick Abbey 6:25 PM
HI all 👋
Best to all in the community and wishes for prosperous new year for all.
I'm looking to re-introduce myself to folks. I attempted to get my tech consultancy off the ground in '25 but faced some personal headwinds that forced me to change priorities. With '25 in the rear view, I'm back at it in the new year and hoping to make contacts and find productive partnerships. I have a long history of adding value as a trusted partner in the DevSecFinOps space. My hope is that I can help folks make their lives easier and more productive with workflow automations and software lifecycle management tools and processes. From AI integrations to old school SDLC management techniques, break fixes, bug squashing and SRE expertise, I'm here to help you focus on what you do best an leave the annoying tech headaches to me.

Nick Abbruzzese
The Clouditect
https://theclouditect.com
January 7, 2026
Alfie
Alfie 12:19 PM
I know a lot of this slack channel is mainly professional, transactional etc. but this is a bit of this and a bit of that. The other day at an interview with the Wall Street journal. I admitted that a lot of my time spent working in tech has been depressing. Demoralizing and sometimes filled with straight up harassment. Honestly though I do know how to get the attention of the right people and over the years have built up a super impressive network. Despite the fact that my family brought me to America as a baby escaping a genocide in the country I was born in, one that no longer exists. I grew up with parents that where young, had nothing and where scared. Over hearing stories of the atrocities happening over seas. I'm a bold person. I am historically the first woman in my family to go to college have a career get an mba, live alone. So when people ask me where I get my nerve ? My audacity ? It's simple. I've worked for some
Of the richest people in the world and I've watched as they ordered world leaders around like personal assistants. I've pissed off Marc Anderson and all of a16z bc unless you're a blind sycophant that venture fund is full of psychopaths. I even pissed off zuckerburg and his cronies ages ago after reluctantly interviewing for them out of boredom one day. (They locked me out of my Facebook account forever ) .. considering Facebook and nearly every tech platforms enshittifocarion I'm totally ok with that. I've pissef off VCs and some angel investors. Bc well a lot of them are ridiculously stupid and sexist beyond their ability to know it due to a fundamental lack of self awareness. Don't get me wrong my best friend waS an early investor at evil corp I mean Amazon, and he's a great guy. I have asked numerous start up investors how many of the projects they have funded have been women led. Only one actually researched his investments and gave me an answer. The rest of start up investors I've encountered with the exception of the ones that have invested early funds into my start up have dismissed me. KEEP IN MIND I'm also a part of a VC myself. But I digress. I'm in the process of refining the brand positioning and differentiating factors of my start up. If you think all of this is just cool logos and nice websites, unfortunately you would be wrong. A lot of the work not listed on my resume has been brand differentiation. Going into 2026 I hope everyone in the tech sector starts looking at things through a critical thinking lense. I'm excited to be working with our first customers. I've already turned down more investment inquiries for now. wexley house
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January 9, 2026
ms.yinmei
ms.yinmei 7:28 PM
Hey HV folks - happy new year!

Yin here! I've been meaning to intro myself to this group for some time now and today we just had an official announcement of my role in joining the leadership of Sail, a company creating technology that can unlock a service that's perfectly positioned to support community banks, credit unions, and local employee benefit groups that need a better way to unlock how health savings reimbursements are accessed.

When not working at Sail, I've been active locally as I'm based in Beacon. Since coming upstate, I've been actively a supporter of Fareground.org, and now Beacon Mutual Aid. I've also worked with a number of local businesses, and have an infinite respect for the community-focused energy I see around me here in the Hudson Valley:

If you have a moment, give me a like to support my post - and if you feel compelled, add me to connect! If you're in Beacon, say hi - I'd love to chat. If you know me, say hi!
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/yinmeiits-an-honor-to-call-yin-part-of-sails-activity[…]m=memberdesktop&rcm=ACoAAALv4UkBOdvjkMLIzHKBgZeNWenJvyIyDHM
Starting 2026 on an incredible high note! I am thrilled to officially announce my role as Head of Strategy & Operations at Sail. As you all know - I don't join a team unless I believe in their w...
linkedin.com
#jpm | Yin Mei
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January 13, 2026
staceyburgay
staceyburgay 1:44 PM
Hey HV Connectors, That Creative Space in Beacon hosts a creative co-working day on the second Wednesday of each month. It’s one of the ways we’re building awareness around our new studio and welcoming new people into the space. By design, we’re more of a community art studio than a traditional co-working space, so this gathering isn’t ideal if you need privacy for calls or Zooms. We usually start around 10 am with introductions, a bit of goal-setting for the morning, and a group check-in around noon. If you’re interested in joining us, the next one is tomorrow (Wednesday, January 14). RSVP required.
Join community events, creative co-working, private parties, and retreats at That Creative Space in Beacon, NY designed to connect, create, and celebrate.
THAT CREATIVE SPACE
Creative Events, Parties & Retreats in Beacon, NY | That Creative Space — THAT CREATIVE SPACE
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Cionín
Cionín 12:06 PM
I can't make it today but please post a reminder for the next one, would love to join.
January 14, 2026
David Cutler
David Cutler 7:17 PM
👋 HV Connectors! I'm local in Accord and excited to announce a product launch I've been working on with my co-founder and team over the last 6 months. I believe it can benefit many of you here in the HV community and wanted to share 🙂

HelloSkills is a skills and learning marketplace that is laser focused on empowering the creator economy. We believe there remains an opportunity for creators, teachers, educators and other "SkillExperts" to connect with their audience and current or prospective students in a more personalized and valuable way. We also believe that short form video-first engagement and micro-lessons is the future of the learning ecosystem. We want our platform to meet humans where they are and respect how they spend their time. This platform becomes a more personal way to monetize the engagement and help SkillExperts expand their reach and career, mutually beneficial for their audience.

If I were to use a fun analogy, the HelloSkills platform is if Masterclass and Cameo had a baby which was then groomed for the video social world ☺️. We are in the early days of our launch but have already onboarded a handful of SkillExperts that are: bakers, musicians, interior designers, landscape architects, chefs, real estate professionals, pottery teacher, marketing leaders, tennis and golf instructors and stylists. It's an open marketplace - a fit for anyone that has knowledge or skills to offer a current or a prospective audience. And part of the fun is some of our first SkillExperts are local to this HV area! Not to mention the amazing @Lindsey Grossman who has collaborated with us as an advisor!

My ask for this community is:
Do you have a skill you want to share and get paid for, while engaging your community and building your online brand? You might be a great fit for joining the SkillExport platform as a creator! Feel free to sign up for the waitlist directly, or get in touch with me via DM. We would love to bring on more HV based creators and have you try it and share in your network.
Are you an investor or know investors who are passionate about early stage companies in the social media, education, or content space? We are kicking off a fundraising round to fuel our post-launch expansion and go-to-market plans. We are talking with local investors, angel groups and early-venture VCs - if that's you or someone you know, get in touch!
Follow us: We are bootstrapping our social presence, please follow us and our progress on IG.
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Lindsey Grossman
Lindsey Grossman 11:42 PM
So exciting! I bet there are lots of talented folks in this ConnectHV community who have skills to share with others on HelloSkills!
January 15, 2026
Yulia Ovchinnikova
Yulia Ovchinnikova 1:54 AM
Seeing so many HV based amazing creators, founders, startups, tech talents. we encourage you to show and tell your projects! https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-hudson-presents-hudson-valleys-tech-community-meet-up-in-kingston-2/
The next networking HVTech meetup will be in Kingston Feb 11th, and we are looking for your presentations. Ongoing 2025 call for speakers is available for your submission
In-person Event - We invite you to join us at the Kingston Library on February 11th at 5:30-7:30 pm for the Hudson Valley's Tech Community M...
Google Developer Groups
Hudson Valley's Tech Community Meet up - in Kingston
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Jeremy Toeman
Jeremy Toeman 5:12 PM
been a while since i posted y’all, but … i have news! my startup Augie’s been acquired by JWX! more on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7417592474858291200
I'm incredibly excited and proud to share some big news about Augie Studio, right as we kick off the beginning of our 4th year of operations: we’ve been acquired by JWX! This is an amazing outcome for...
linkedin.com
I'm incredibly excited and proud to share some big news about Augie Studio, right as we kick off the beginning of our 4th year of operations: we’ve been acquired by JWX! This is an amazing outcome… | Jeremy Toeman | 26 comments
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jr954
jr954 10:43 PM
Congrats @Jeremy Toeman !!
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Anthony DeLuise
Anthony DeLuise 2:56 PM
Congrats!
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Helen Jonsen
Helen Jonsen 3:34 PM
Very exciting. Good luck as the adventure continues
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January 19, 2026
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 9:22 PM
Friends, I am beyond excited to announce the brand-new ConnectHV website, built from the ground up over the past several months!

New features include:
:worldmap: An interactive map. Click a town or county, see the people and businesses who are there
:department
store: Business profiles. Showcase your business and find your new favorite store/restaurant/small business
:camerawithflash: New & better navigation for the free public-domain 4K drone footage library

Feel free to send me any ideas/feedback/bug reports/thoughts!

https://connecthv.com
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Sebhia Dibra
Sebhia Dibra 9:49 PM
Wow, this is awesome!
Jocelyn Bergen
Jocelyn Bergen 4:41 PM
Beautiful site! Thank you so much!! What platform is it built on (or did you create your own 😉 ... BTW the merch page isn't displaying the images correctly in duckduckgo...
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 4:44 PM
Thanks @Sebhia Dibra! And thanks @Jocelyn Bergen!

I wrote it myself! It's written in PHP and Javascript, using Laravel as the framework to abstract away some of the boilerplate stuff like database calls, URL routing, etc. But no underlying platform! (I could imagine a world in which this becomes a platform for other communities to use, as a white-labelled product)
Laravel is a PHP web application framework with expressive, elegant syntax. We’ve already laid the foundation — freeing you to create without sweating...
Laravel - The PHP Framework For Web Artisans
Jocelyn Bergen
Jocelyn Bergen 4:45 PM
Super f-ing awesome!!!
Yulia Ovchinnikova
Yulia Ovchinnikova 9:15 PM
Hey, awesome job @Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Did you use any Vibe Coding or hard-coded everything from the scratch?
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 9:40 PM
Thanks @Yulia Ovchinnikova! A combination — I actually wrote up a little thing about how I'm using LLMs here: https://connecthv.com/ai-usage
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And if you don't have a profile yet, you can always create one right from Slack by typing /connect
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January 21, 2026
David Cortez
David Cortez 3:25 PM
Does anyone know who is running the HV Venture HUb? Used to be Eliza Edge?
David Cortez
David Cortez 3:42 PM
thanks, Jordan.
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 3:25 PM
Yes, it's @Bailey Burke!
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David Cutler
David Cutler 3:27 PM
What is the Venture Hub?
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 3:28 PM
They're a startup accelerator funded by NYS and run through SUNY New Paltz. They do semi-annual startup pitch competitions, among other things:
https://www.newpaltz.edu/schoolofbusiness/hvventurehub/
SUNY New Paltz, The State University of New York, is a four-year, public liberal arts college located in the Hudson Valley region.
Josh McKible
Josh McKible 4:02 PM
Hi all! New year, new reel! Just wanted to take this opportunity to re-introduce myself to the community. I’m Josh, a Beacon based motion designer and illustrator looking to partner with local non-profits, start-ups, brands and studios. Please check out more of my work at: http://mckibillo.com
MCKIBILLO Creative is a multi-tool of a design studio. We’ve illustrated, explained, and brought to life clear, concise, and playful visual solutions for over two decades.
mckibillo.com
McKibillo Creative
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ms.yinmei
ms.yinmei 4:33 PM
It was so cool meeting you this last week, Josh! What beautiful illustrations and animations - wow love your work!
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Josh McKible
Josh McKible 3:36 PM
Thanks! So great meeting you as well!
Joey Fulginiti
Joey Fulginiti 5:54 PM
Really nice work Josh! Good on you mate!
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Josh McKible
Josh McKible 6:22 PM
Thanks Joe!
January 26, 2026
ms.yinmei
ms.yinmei 4:29 PM
Folks... I made a rather bold post on LinkedIn with my authentic voice this morning in solidarity with Minnesota, hoping to promote more cohesion and courage. In case you feel an urge, sharing to help promote courage for more voices. If you share, I'll come comment/support/like:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/yinmeiopen-letter-from-more-than-60-ceos-of-minnesota[…]m=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAALv4UkBOdvjkMLIzHKBgZeNWenJvyIyDHM
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ms.yinmei
ms.yinmei 4:31 PM
I will admit, my tone is timid but it was terrifying to post, as a woman and as a POC. Also, I looked around this morning and there weren't a lot of folks voicing this way who weren't already in media etc. I want this to really take off, I want us to be brave. ❤️ I say this with my whole heart.
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Josh McKible
Josh McKible 3:33 PM
Reposted. And I get the trepidation. I’ve been grappling with that myself.
The only thing I know is that I will never do business with anyone who can support what ICE is doing under this president.
And I think I just found my LinkedIn post.
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ms.yinmei
ms.yinmei 4:46 PM
Josh, I can't wait to read it!
Jaclyn
Jaclyn 4:29 PM
can't wait to read it @ms.yinmei
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January 30, 2026
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 7:18 PM
Friends, ConnectHV has been nominated for a HUDSY award! Voting is opened through the weekend, and I would really, really appreciate your vote in the CONNECT category: https://form.jotform.com/HUDSY/vote-for-the-2026-HUDSYS-finalists
Please click the link to complete this form.
form.jotform.com
Vote for the 2026 Finalists of The HUDSYS Community Awards!
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It's thanks to all of you that ConnectHV was nominated, and I'm truly grateful to even have the opportunity for the project to be recognized like this🙏
February 5, 2026
Joseph Wright
Joseph Wright 5:01 PM
Hey there! I was wondering if anyone could point me in the direction of a reliable website or app I can use to calculate taxes throughout the year? I am working freelance and need help finding out my quarterly payments etc.
Thanks!
Veronica Choroco
Veronica Choroco 5:50 PM
Not what you asked, but normally your accountant will provide this information. If you have used TurboTax, I would assume this is something they would do based on your previous years' income.
Julian
Julian 1:18 AM
:pointup2:This! But if you need a rough guide in the meantime Keeper Tax has a nifty little calculator that will get you in the ballpark (and not take into consideration business expenses)
Calculate your upcoming quarterly tax payment, with this free tool for freelancers. Try Keeper's free quarterly tax calculator to easily calculate you...
Quarterly Tax Calculator - Calculate Estimated Taxes
February 6, 2026
vamashah21
vamashah21 4:08 PM
Does anyone here play pickup soccer or know someone who does? Haven't been able to find it around Kingston.
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 4:09 PM
Paging @Dennis Crowley!
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 4:09 PM
(To be clear, I don't know if he'd know, but he is the founder of Stockade FC and also one of the people behind Street FC as well as a Kingston guy)
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vamashah21
vamashah21 8:12 PM
That's amazing!!
sebastianodell
sebastianodell 2:43 PM
There's bi-weekly pickup in Marbletown, feel free to Dm me if you're interested and I can get you in the google group. They usually play Wednesday evenings, and Sunday mornings. Currently indoor, outdoor starting in the spring
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sebastianodell
sebastianodell 2:46 PM
There's also indoor pickup at Prime in Kingston: https://share.google/3rp100FTbOE6zE74R
5.0 :star: · Recreation center in Kingston, New York
Prime Athletic Center · Kingston, NY
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February 9, 2026
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 2:17 PM
Good morning! I just published an interview with Ulster County local Alexis Krauss, who's the lead singer of iconic 2010s band Sleigh Bells as well as the cofounder of several local climbing organizations: https://connecthv.com/blog/alexis-krauss
The lead singer of the noise-pop duo Sleigh Bells talks about climbing the Gunks, music in the Hudson Valley, and how lifelong locals and recent transplants can stay engaged with the needs of the comm...
ConnectHV
Alexis Krauss on her band Sleigh Bells, climbing in the Gunks, and giving back in the Hudson Valley - ConnectHV
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Caroline Aurigemma
Caroline Aurigemma 8:00 PM
:camerawithflash: Calling all photographers and outdoorsy humans who have been enjoying this cold winter in the Hudson Valley with their friends and family!! The Scenic Hudson Snow & Tell photo contest is back! :snowflake:🎉

Grab a camera (+ your warmest layers!) and snap a photo of you + your crew enjoying winter in the Hudson Valley. We’re looking for real seasonal moments — snowy hikes, bundled-up adventures, and time spent in nature with people in the frame.

Please remember to dress for the cold, be mindful of extreme temps + ice, and enjoy the outdoors safely.

👀 Ready to join in? Check out the contest guidelines here, and submit your photos at this link.
Calling all shutterbugs! We’re looking for inspiring photos — funny, beautiful, thought-provoking, quirky — of you and yours loving the outdoor life in the Hudson Valley this winter. Have you ever gon...
Scenic Hudson
Snow & Tell 2026 Photo Contest
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February 10, 2026
ertyumichael
ertyumichael 2:36 PM
💗💟 Love Where We Living and Thriving💟💗

We love the Hudson River Valley - its farms, forests, rivers, towns, and WE the people :facepunch::skin-tone-4:✊:skin-tone-4:

But it’s becoming harder for many to call this place home :bird:‍🔥:butterfly:

As member and support of the Alliance; Taproot CLT {Community Land Trust} &, Hudson Valley Alliance for Housing is proud to partner with 15 land trusts and affordable housing organizations working harmoniously together for protecting and securing expansions for housing opportunities as well as conservation efforts across the Hudson Valley Region :nationalpark:

Conservation and affordable housing UNITED are stronger together especially towards shared abundant collective progress :lotus: :classical
building:- and when we are taking actions and making efforts aligning them, the whole Hudson Valley is thriving :atomsymbol::sunwithface::earthafrica:

💞 Learn more about this regional effort:

👉:skin-tone-4: https://rpa.org/hudson-valley-affordable-housing-conservation-strategy?utmsource=ig&utmmedium=social&utmcontent=linkinbio

Link :link: in the BlOs 🚀

#lovewherewelive #housingandconservation
#hudsonvalley #communitylandtrust #valentinesday

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUftyRbEair/?igsh=NmMyc2M5a2F5cXBj
An Innovative Collaboration of Land Trusts and Affordable Housing Organizations Conserving Critical Landscapes and Responding to the Region’s Housing Crisis.
RPA
Hudson Valley Alliance for Housing and Conservation
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February 16, 2026
William Brooke
William Brooke 5:07 PM
Hi everyone at ConnectHV! Wanted to introduce myself 👋 as a new member. Quick thank you @Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) for putting this community together. I’m impressed with the diversity in backgrounds of folks here!

I’m a tech startup founder that’s based in Hudson, NY, that’s simultaneously taking on a new role at Upstate Venture Connect, a non-profit that’s helping to build the entrepreneurial ecosystem in upstate NY (defined as anything outside of NYC). As their new Community Advocate, I cover the Hudson Valley region and support founders through introductions to potential mentors, advisors, investors, customers, etc. We have tons of resources.

I’d love to chat with any founders whether on a call (Call Scheduling Link :telephonereceiver:) or grab coffee IRL (slack me!). My Linkedin and email as well.
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Mat Zucker
Mat Zucker 6:24 PM
Welcome! I'm in Hudson too!
William Brooke
William Brooke 6:25 PM
Ha, love it! Grab coffee this week?
samantha
samantha 8:11 PM
Hi! We’re creating momentum for the week with Monday Meetups at HudCo and would love to have you join us in the Lower Hudson Valley. Below is a list of our upcoming March dates. We meet at Boxing Day Cafe at 10:00 AM. It's free but we kindly ask to RSVP to have the right amount of coffee and treats ready!
3/2 @ 10am | Monday Meetup for Event & Hospitality Pros: Those Who Run The Show
A reset for planners, producers, and creatives who make the magic happen behind the scenes.
3/9 @ 10am | Monday Meetup for Change-makers: Those Who Build, Advocate, and Serve
A morning for bold ideas, shared impact, and the people working to strengthen their communities every day.
3/16 @10 am | Monday Meetup for Wellness Pros: Those Who Heal, Guide, and Inspire
Start the week grounded and energized alongside fellow practitioners dedicated to helping others thrive.
February 17, 2026
zolajane.eg
zolajane.eg 1:57 PM
Happy Tuesday! I’m Zola, a local HV film producer helping out a new post production house called Studio Central that does everything from dailies to deliveries based in Syracuse NY, offers remote capabilities and has the highest tax incentive in the country (45% on labor, or an additional 20% on Syracuse based productions which can stretch the incentive to as high as 55%). It can be a huge savings so if anyone has any post needs and wants to reach out, happy to chat more!
Coming Soon...
studiocentralpost.com
Studio Central Post
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February 18, 2026
andy151
andy151 4:04 PM
Hey everyone — Andy DeSanctis here, based in West Shokan. Wanted to introduce myself and what I'm working on.

I run UpSkillr — we're a Salesforce partner and custom software shop focused on mission-driven organizations. Workforce development, nonprofits, social enterprises — that world.

The short version of what we do: the organizations doing the hardest work are never short on ideas. They know exactly how they want to serve more people or improve how their teams work. What they usually don't have is the technical capacity to make those things real — and the landscape of tools out there doesn't make it easier. Hundreds of platforms, none of them quite right, none of them talking to each other.

We step in as a capacity partner. Not another product to evaluate, but the team that helps make sense of what you have, build what you need, and integrate AI where it actually does something useful.

Excited to be part of this community and happy to connect with anyone doing similar work in the Valley or just curious about what we're up to.
UpSkillr is a capacity partner for Salesforce consulting and custom development. One partner for your Salesforce and the purpose-built tools around it.
UpSkillr Main
Alfie
Alfie 10:52 PM
Hey everyone currently looking for a new place to move. Currently I'm In the city of Newburgh. Like any city it has its blocks that are nice and not dangerous. Then there are blocks that are. To be fully transparent I was assaulted a few blocks from where I currently live a few months ago. I am dealing with symptoms of ptsd. A lot of days I'm ok. I do have to consider a place that is super close to the MTA for when I need to commute into NYC for client meetings/ work. What I'm open to is suggestions along the mta Hudson valley stops obviously all the way up to poughkeepsie. In terms of a relatively safe area. I do think alot of areas a bit away from the MTA are nice ideally I can't do more than a 5-15 minute drive away from train stops.

I would really appreciate any suggestions on neighborhoods or a DM from anyone currently living in Poughkeepsie ect

Thanks in advance
Tyler Walker
Tyler Walker 2:18 PM
all around poughkeepsie are lovely towns like arlington, hyde park, pleasant valley but tend to be a bit expensive. i haven't been in the market for a bit, but we found that west of the river prices dropped about $100k. take a look at marlboro and highland. i'm in highland and 20m from beacon train. for comparison, 20m from beacon and 5m from poughkeepsie train both get into city at same time. beacon's parking lot is easier, too.
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dsalvat596
dsalvat596 4:10 PM
You can look at some of the river towns further south. Cold Spring, Peekskill, Ossining, Tarrytown, Yonkers etc . Right on the Hudson line
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Alfie
Alfie 11:35 PM
Thanks yeah I'm from westchester so def keeping options open
February 27, 2026
brock
brock 5:15 PM
Hey y'all are there any Framer experts here who can help me understand why the site I'm building isn’t responding the way I need it to?
Bjorn Hansen
Bjorn Hansen 6:42 PM
We've worked with https://www.flowglanz.com/ and they use Framer extensively and have been responsive.
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March 1, 2026
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 2:58 AM
Hey friends, the next ConnectHV meetup will be Monday, March 16 in Newburgh!

It's free and open to everyone, as always, but please RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/march-meetup-at-newburgh-brewing-tickets-1984205041693

And I'm looking for sponsors! DM me if you want to get your logo in front of hundreds of Hudson Valley creators, professionals, and small business owners.
Meet fellow Hudson Valley creatives, professionals, and enthusiasts for a fun evening at Newburgh Brewing.
Eventbrite
March Meetup at Newburgh Brewing
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March 3, 2026
The Learicist {Michael Leary}
The Learicist {Michael Leary} 2:23 PM
Hi everyone! I'm a Musician in New Paltz who is psyched to learn that there's a Slack space for this dope ass project. @thelearicist on all socials. 20 years experience live performance and studio recording and production. I'm in the bands Catawampus and SevenSouls, and I perform solo under my moniker The Learicist as a spin on my last name. See you out there at our favorite venues this year! Be well and listen to a song you love today.
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Haven Acupuncture
Haven Acupuncture 4:23 PM
Hey I know you :) my husband is Zach from Low Noon. I think this could be a great way/place for musicians to connect and get word out about shows and collaborations!
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The Learicist {Michael Leary}
The Learicist {Michael Leary} 4:25 PM
Oh no way! Hi Zach and family :)

I really dig how he writes songs. Been trying to get back to that open mic more often, but Thursdays are so difficult for me
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Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 12:12 AM
Hi Michael! How long have you been in New Paltz? I lived there for a long time before moving across the river
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The Learicist {Michael Leary}
The Learicist {Michael Leary} 12:49 AM
This April will be 11 years since moving up from Brooklyn. Where are you now?
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 12:55 AM
I'm in Poughkeepsie!
The Learicist {Michael Leary}
The Learicist {Michael Leary} 2:53 AM
Ah very cool. Over there often. Hoping to play at 1915 this year, got a bunch of friends who do
Scott Tillitt
Scott Tillitt 2:40 PM
Friends, I wrote a blog post that is entirely relevant to what @Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) has created here, and I think most of you will appreciate.

First, close your eyes and think of all the casual interactions you have throughout your day:

• the barista who knows your name (or at least your order);
• the neighbor you say hello to at the gym or farmers market;
• the folks you see regularly at the ConnectHV meetup;
• the playful DMs with your Facebook-only friend or the quick LinkedIn check-in with the former colleague.
Those arms-length connections (that you likely overlook) are more important than you think — and science backs that up.

Read more: https://bit.ly/casual-connections
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Haven Acupuncture
Haven Acupuncture 4:27 PM
Hi all! I just joined as a result of @Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) ConnectHV’s most recent instagram video. Beautiful footage of the Hudson valley :)
So nice to meet you all and discover this amazing inclusive space for folks of all creeds doing their own thing!
My husband and I own and operate an acupuncture practice in Marlboro NY focusing on women’s health, pain relief, and connecting with your own sense of self/embodiment/intuitive nature. I love helping women across their lifespan with hormonal shifts, menstrual healing (endo, PCOS, infertility, etc), mental wellness, migraines, and more. I do acu-reiki sessions, acu-facials, and microneedling too.
Providing acupuncture, chiropractic, and holistic healthcare to patients in Marlboro, Milton, Newburgh, Beacon, Poughkeepsie, Gardiner, New Paltz and beyond for relief of symptoms related to: back pai...
havenacu.com
Haven Acupuncture & Chiropractic
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The Learicist {Michael Leary}
The Learicist {Michael Leary} 12:48 AM
Hey, I know you!
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Jacki Schaefer
Jacki Schaefer 5:14 PM
Hello! I'm Jacki Schaefer, a photographer near Hyde Park/ Rhinebeck in the summer. I specialize in photographing artists, artisans, chefs, sign painters, and anyone else who works with their hands to make stuff. I'll be back in the valley from June through August and would love to capture my fellow artists at work for social media / website use. I've priced my services for the creative community and also work trades occasionally 😏 I’m mostly glad to just see and hang out with creators in the area, because it inspires me deeply!

My website is versophotography.com and you can find me on Instagram as verso.photo
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Barry Koblenz
Barry Koblenz 7:30 PM
Greetings, I'm Barry Koblenz, owner of Base Twelve Photography, building professional corporate and personal branding through professional photography. I learned about the group through ConnectHV’s most recent instagram video. Great drone shots! I'm keen on meeting and connecting with other creative professionals.
I grew up watching my father build a highly reputed jewelry business by sheer force of personality. I want to use that same talent for a small business or entrepreneur to build their personal brand identity through photography.
Base Twelve Photography A stress-free & enjoyable headshot & portrait experience
BASE TWELVE PHOTO
Base Twelve Photography
Christine Ortiz
Christine Ortiz 9:07 PM
SUBJECT: Exploring a Collaborative Design + Build Partnership
Hi Hudson Valley!
I just joined Connect HV. I’m an interior designer in Cold Spring who works closely with homeowners during renovations and new construction, and I’d love to connect with architects and contractors to explore ways we could collaborate to offer our mutual clients a smooth, well-coordinated design + build experience.
When I’m involved early in the process, I help streamline selections, clarify design intent, and anticipate potential challenges before they reach the job site which keeps projects moving efficiently and reduces decision delays. My goal is always to support the build team, protect the timeline, and ensure the finished result reflects both thoughtful design and seamless execution.
If you’re open to it, I’d enjoy setting up a quick call to connect.
Please follow me on Instagram @ohdesignsinteriors
Warmly,
Christine, Interior Designer & President
Oh! Designs Interiors, Inc
www.ohdesignsinteriors.com
3 Stone St, Cold Spring, NY
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Jaclyn
Jaclyn 9:09 PM
I'd love to intro you to a few people! And if you're looking to update your website I’d love to throw my hat in the ring for that, too! @Christine Ortiz
Christine Ortiz
Christine Ortiz 10:34 PM
Thanks @Jaclyn
March 4, 2026
Elizabeth Savanella
Elizabeth Savanella 1:38 PM
Hi everyone! I'm Lizzie Savanella. I currently live in Pleasantville. I'm a freelance illustrator focused on publishing art for books and magazines and I also work full time as a print and pattern artist. Excited to have discovered this group to connect with other creatives in the area.

https://www.esprints.com/
https://www.esprints.com/design-folio
Tim Button
Tim Button 2:54 PM
Hi all, I am an interior designer with an office in the city. I also have a base in Dutchess county and projects in the Catskills ,Hudson and Westchester . Although my practice does projects around the country, I am always looking for local resources in the Valley for trades people. .ie; curtains, furniture, carpets, painting and of course contractors who understand fine interior finishes www.stediladesign.com
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Tosin Hoskins
Tosin Hoskins 8:17 PM
Good to have you here, Tim! I'm an architect turned brand consultant, and many of my clients are in the AEC field serving luxury residential and commercial clients. Always happy to make an intro.
Tim Button
Tim Button 11:51 PM
Thanks Tosin, I will reach out when I need a recommendation!
Lesley Green
Lesley Green 4:37 PM
Hi Tim! I have a stained glass studio in Kingston and work with lots of interior designers on custom projects, and I have a trade program. I'm putting together a mailing list specifically for local interior designers and can add you if you like!
Jeffrey Grimshaw
Jeffrey Grimshaw 2:54 PM
👋 Hi everyone!
Hello All,
I am new to the group and work as a Nonprofit Business consultant focusing on Strategic planning/business planning, as well as business coaching. I provide over 30 years of experience to help navigate the world of operating an organization and would be glad to talk about what I do. Contact me if you nhave questions or ideas.
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James Vincent
James Vincent 9:12 PM
Hey y'all, a friend recently shared this group and wanted to introduce myself. Currently working on updating my profile on the website, but can't hurt to say hi here.

I'm James, a photographer, designer, writer, etc who has mostly been working for purpose-driven organizations in a marketing capacity for the past decade and have been trying to shift my focus to more community driven/local work in the Hudson Valley/Catskills - though wouldn't be opposed to working with non-profits.

My photography work spans from tourism, events, interiors, portraits and products - while my design work is primarily social media and web based.

Have been spending a decent amount of time over the past year working on tourism projects, collaborating with a friend on building her furniture brand (couchcouch.life) and am currently working on an architecture website, mental health app (also do that), and potentially a website for a Psychedelic Psychology practice.

Happy to chat if anyone has any need for the sort of thing I do, or even just needs some advice or guidance.

Always happy to meet people trying to do something interesting, helpful, or just fun.

Headyscholars.com
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March 5, 2026
Laura Heavey
Laura Heavey 12:10 AM
Hi everyone! I’m Laura, I recently moved to Beacon from Portland Oregon. Coming from a city that is innately about building community and supporting local business, I got so excited to hear about ConnectHV!!
I’m the marketing director for a Portland cocktail brand, Straightaway, and a liqueur brand called Accompani. We love to support non-profits, the arts, and hospitality so if you’re ever in need of cocktails for events, please reach out :)
Straightaway Cocktails
straightawaycocktails.com
Straightaway Cocktails
Scott Tillitt
Scott Tillitt 1:05 AM
Hey Laura! We’re hosting the June ConnectHV event at Beahive. Maybe you want to sponsor it? @Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) : Laura is a Beahive member.
amylitt
amylitt 3:26 PM
Hi Laura! I run Makers & Lovers, which promotes and produces inclusive events around spirits and food. Right now I'm working on an event series that could be perfect to partner on. I'll DM you!
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Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 7:14 PM
Hey Laura, welcome, thank you so much for joining!
Laura Heavey
Laura Heavey 8:48 PM
@Scott Tillitt count us in!
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Laura Heavey
Laura Heavey 12:47 AM
@amylitt sounds great!
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV)
Jordan Koschei (ConnectHV) 2:51 PM
Props to @jonathan671 — I just saw this review for a play he produced in the NYT! https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/22/theater/waterfall-review-patrice-johnson-chevannes.html
Phanésia Pharel’s wistful two-hander starring Patrice Johnson Chevannes and Natalie Paul looks at a Haitian American family and questions of legacy.
By Rhoda Feng
The New York Times
‘The Waterfall’ Review: A Mother’s Blessing and a Daughter’s Burden
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jonathan671
jonathan671 2:52 PM
Final performances this week!
https://thrownst.one/wf-tix
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Erin Mercadante
Erin Mercadante 3:15 PM
Hi folks! 👋 I'm Erin. I'm relatively new to the Kingston area and recently launched my interior design company after many years at larger firms in and around NYC. Looking forward to connecting with people here, commiserating about small business ownership, and exploring our beautiful Hudson Valley region.
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craig344
craig344 4:01 PM
I'm kinda an extrovert, who is heading to Newburgh Brewery on Monday 3/16?
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Lisa Kelsey
Lisa Kelsey 8:00 PM
Hello all! I'm an editorial designer and an occasional writer of local news articles for various publications (some of which still exist lol!). I'm also on the board of a nonprofit organization called The Spark Presents based in Pawling, NY. We host events like film screenings, book signings, lectures and panel discussions for a general community audience interested in the arts, culture, politics, science and technology. We're always looking for exciting new ideas to present to our community, but right now I'm looking for people who make fermented products to participate as a speaker or panelist for an event on Sunday April 12th. If you know anyone who is a brewer of beer or kombucha or sake, or a cheesemaker, or a kimchi or sauerkraut producer—virtually any fermented product, please reach out!
Our talks, presentations and film screenings foster dialogue and strengthen connections within our community.
thesparkpresents.org
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Kathryn Arffa
Kathryn Arffa 2:23 PM
Lisa Kelsey
Lisa Kelsey 3:44 PM
@Kathryn Arffa Ooooh, this is a great tip! Do you have a contact there?
March 6, 2026
Christopher Sauvé
Christopher Sauvé 7:05 PM
Hi Everyone! I am new here. Creative director working in the fashion and beauty space and located in Kingston. www.studiosauve.com
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Dee Dee
Dee Dee 2:06 PM
Nice to meet you Chris! I'm a photographer in Poughkeepsie.

www.deedeethompsonphotography.com
March 7, 2026
Peter Bogulaski
Peter Bogulaski 2:33 PM
Hi everyone! Just joined the group! I am an operation, supply chain and logistics consultant and fractional-COO with experience in furniture, apparel and consumer electronics based in East Fishkill.

Working with a few colleagues in start up operations and supply chain (early stage and growth phase) as well as to incubate some brands. Would love to connect with more folks in the area and if anyone ever needs some help on the supply chain, logistics and operations side I'm just a message away!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-bogulaski-mps

Leading the supply chain strategy at Branch, my role encompasses driving operational… · Experience: Branch · Education: Penn State University · Location: Hopewell Junction · 500+ connections on Linked...
linkedin.com

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