A Poughkeepsie couple says they have one of the five licenses issued Monday to sell recreational marijuana in the Mid-Hudson region.

Sonia Murphy says it's a far cry from the authentic Jamaican food they currently specialize in.

"With anything new, there are challenges," she told News 12.

Delaurna Murphy says they scored high on their application because of their business experience and because he was once jailed for a marijuana offense. Applicants with related convictions get extra consideration.

"I redeemed myself,” said Delaurna. “Got an education, became a professional, worked for many years, paid my taxes, and also became an entrepreneur."

He wants the community to know that the new venture is going to be a family business – just like the restaurant they have been running for the past five years.

The couple is waiting on the state Cannabis Control Board to send them a few Mid-Hudson locations to choose from for their dispensary.

It could end up in Poughkeepsie – other businesses in the area told News 12 that they would be OK with that.

"I would personally love to see more foot traffic in this area. This neighborhood is like a hidden gem," said Lauren Polowski, manager of Hurricane Bar.

The Murphy family says they plan to invest even more in whichever community their shop ends up in. They're considering another Jamaican restaurant to compliment the dispensary.