Now that New York State’s recreational cannabis rollout is at last up and running, the Hudson Valley is blessed with experts who are growing, crafting, and marketing a creative cornucopia of products. To grasp the breadth and depth of what’s out there, consider a visit to the newly opened Grounded in Poughkeepsie, where the dispensary menu features 70 locally grown selections.
When Dutchess County natives Frank and Stephanie Barone and their parents Richard and Angela Barone were granted one of the state’s first licenses, creating a one-of-a-kind dispensary for their community was top of mind. “We’re deeply rooted in Hyde Park and Poughkeepsie,” he says. “Our mission is to give back to our neighbors, and provide them with the level of customer service they deserve. We’re very interactive here. Someone from our family—whether it’s myself, Stephanie, Richard, or Angela—is always here in the shop, and our team is phenomenal, always ready to offer warm, knowledgeable engagement.”
Alongside larger local growers like Hudson Cannabis, Hepworth Farms, and Harney Brothers, Grounded focuses on showcasing the work of micro-producers. “We buy the wares of very small brands, so we have a selection of small-batch products in here that you’ll have a hard time finding anywhere else,” Barone says. “Some of the micro-businesses that we work with are just producing an insanely high quality of flower and product.”
Barone says that each product is as distinctive as each human who walks in their doors. “That’s the thing about cannabis—it’s really a journey of trial and error for each individual of finding the variety that will enhance that person’s life in precisely the way they prefer,” he says. “You can come in here and talk to any of us about what you’re after and discover a non-intoxicating CBD product, the perfect smoke for movie night, or just some great recommendations. We’re all about education and safety here.”
The vibe at Grounded is all about healing, learning and fun. The dispensary has its own salt cave, where guests are welcome to pause for a mind-clearing deep breath or five. Well-attended “Brunch and Grows,” held the third Saturday of the month, invite the public to come meet and learn from a professional grower. Frank’s wife Stephanie, who is also a yoga teacher, holds classes on site on the fourth Sunday of the month, and the donations collected go to a local charity.
“We did the first two with Hope On a Mission, and we’re actively looking for others who’d like to partner with us. We want to host and sponsor all kinds of events to bring the community together, give back, and find ways for this revolution to benefit everyone, even people who don’t choose to consume cannabis.”
For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children and pets. In case of accidental ingestion or overconsumption, contact the Poison Center. Consume responsibly. Cannabis can be addictive. Cannabis can impair concentration and coordination. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of cannabis. There may be health risks associated with the consumption of this product. Cannabis is not recommended for use by persons who are pregnant or nursing. Concerned about your cannabis use? Contact the New York State HOPELine by texting “HopeNY”, calling 1-877-8-HOPENY, or visiting oasas.ny.gov/HOPELine.
This article appears in July 2025.
