NEW EPISODE: Cole Martin On The Rumor That The Cartoon Paw Patrol Might Be Canceled

Back in the summer, over at ALBB’s “What, What Is That?” podcast, Brandon and Katie (that’s me) interviewed Katie’s son, Cole, about why he likes the cartoon, Paw Patrol. Early on in June 2020, during the cop show cancel domino fall, which included the show Cops after 32 seasons, there was a rumor that the cartoon would be canceled. In fact, later in July 2020, the president and White House press secretary stated how upset they were about the cancellation of the show - long after the rumor was debunked. USA Today and other publications had to publish news stories proving the White House wrong.

In this episode, recorded in August, Cole tell us why he likes Paw Patrol, as well as his true feelings on Optimum, how Optimum WIFI keeps failing him, how he was feeling leading up to Remote Learning starting in the fall, and a few tidbits on his favorite YouTube channels.

New York State Has Not Given Dutchess Nor Orange Counties Free COVID Testing Sites - Dutchess County Provides Alternatives

While Governor Cuomo encourages testing for all citizens of New York State, and boasts of some of the highest testing numbers, there are no state-sponsored free COVID-19 testing sites in Dutchess County nor Orange County for people without insurance, as there are in several other counties.

In his press briefings, when speaking to the people of New York and in his nightly emails, Governor Cuomo urges people to use New York’s free testing sites, like here on September 1, 2020. It’s a simple directive, but one that is not readily available to residents in Dutchess and Orange Countries who may never have had health insurance, or recently lost health insurance.

Individual medical facilities may opt to service people with no insurance, and absorb the cost or file to state or federal programs on behalf of the patient. Others may offer a flat rate of $100. Dutchess County has provided a list of medical facilities who provide testing, and of those, which offer free testing to the uninsured. Information about that is below.

On October 1, 2020, the Governor announced that COVID-19 rapid testing would be made available to every county in New York State. But how that rolls out remains to be seen, since Dutchess County has never had state sponsored testing sites since they rolled out months ago for other counties.

According to a representative at the the New York State Department of Health COVID-19 Hotline for testing there are free, NY state-sponsored sites in Albany, Binghamton, Erie, Nassau, Suffolk County, Niagara, Rochester, Rockland, and Utica. Colleen T. Pillus, Communications Director with Dutchess County Executive Office, has confirmed that New York State has not put free testing sites in Dutchess County, and encourages residents to visit the Dutchess County testing page to see which facilities offer free testing to the uninsured. Those locations have been highlighted below in this article.

Says one Beacon parent who recently lost their New York City based job in the hotel industry when the luxury hotel laid off most of their staff: “Having no health insurance is why I am keeping my child home for school and avoiding friends. We are not participating in the Hybrid Learning program that Beacon is offering because we can’t afford to get tested. I haven’t begun the research to find what our free options are, if any exist.” While on furlough, the hotel kept some employees on while cutting salaries, but maintained their health insurance. A month later, the Beaconite’s job was terminated due to the pandemic, and health insurance lost.

COVID-19 Testing And Kids In School

As some people have returned to work or college, testing has become mandatory. Those in the film industry, for example, just started returning to work, only after contracts with testing companies were established to allow for rapid and lab testing. Some college students who attend classes in person undergo mandatory testing, like those at SUNY Orange, who are “pool testing” every few weeks, and do not ask for insurance, and say that students will not be billed.

Kids in the Beacon City School District are not required to take COVID-19 tests to attend or return to school, but a test is one of the options if a student is sent home with a fever, or if a student opted to voluntarily stay home because of the sniffles.

If a family does not have insurance or the cash to pay for the lab and/or office visit for testing, the options narrow for how to get a child back in the in-person version school (Remote Learning can still continue on the computer from home). Prices for testing for the uninsured can range from $65-$175. As an insured person, my cost averages $50 per person for an office visit to an urgent care, and the lab test is waved.

Attempt To Get Free COVID Testing Site In Dutchess County

Dutchess County’s County Executive Marcus Molinaro wrote to Governor Cuomo on May 22, 2020, asking him for a drive-thru testing site in the City of Poughkeepsie, to help low-income residents there get access to rapid testing. The letter (shown below) went unanswered, Colleen told ALBB. MidHudson Regional Hospital had been operating a drive-through testing facility in the Town of Poughkeepsie. The location proved hard to access for many in the City of Poughkeepsie, and Dutchess County partnered with the hospital to provide transportation. There is a minimum co-pay of $75 for this option, for the uninsured.

Below is the letter from Marcus Molinaro in full, which details the request:

View fullsize

Photo Credit: Dutchess County Executive Office

View fullsize

Photo Credit: Dutchess County Executive Office

Individual Testing Centers Opting To Wave Fees For The Uninsured In Dutchess County

The Dutchess County website does go into detail about insurance information, and options for the uninsured. You should pay attention to:

• If the waved fee includes the office visit and the lab test.

• If you do have insurance, which insurance company is covered.

• If you don’t have insurance, that the office fee and the lab test are waved. Not just one or the other.

• If the information has changed.

As of today (10/21/2020), according to the Dutchess County website, the following locations in or near Beacon offer a true no-fee for any of the testing (not the lab nor the office visit):

• Hudson River Health Care (now called Sun River Health, after a merger). The Beacon location on Henry Street, and they specify that testing is available regardless of insurance or immigration status. (845) 831-0400. Appointment for testing required. No telahealth visit required.

• Excel Urgent Care of Fishkill (845) 765-2240. Appointments encouraged, but walk-in welcome.

• Northern Medical Group. You must call to see if you qualify. A telahealth visit is required for evaluation prior to testing. Hopewell Junction (845) 226-4590, and Poughkeepsie (845) 452-9800

• Nuvance Health (a location in Wappingers Falls is listed)

• Castle Point VA Medical Center (Wappingers Falls (845) 831-2000)

Close, but not quite for uninsured in Beacon:

• CVS is offering to submit testing for those with no insurance, but only at select locations. The Fishkill CVS is not listed as participating in this.

NY Clusters And Higher Infection Rate For Mid-Hudson Region

The Mid-Hudson region does have a higher infection rate than other areas. In Governor Cuomo’s nightly email, he reported the figures from yesterday:

In Long Island, it was 1.6%.
In the Capital Region, 0.8%.
In Central New York, 1.9%.
In the Finger Lakes, 1.7%.
In the Mid-Hudson Region, 2.6%.
In Mohawk Valley, 0.5%.
In the North Country, 0.6%.
In Western New York, it was 2.0%.
And finally in the Southern Tier, 1.3%.

It is unclear why Dutchess County and Orange County do not have state-sponsored testing locations for the uninsured. If we get answers from the New York State Department of Health, this article will be updated.

So Your Child Has The Sniffles, And Is Hybrid, And It's Cold/Allergy Season. What Do You Do?

Beacon’s school district is one of the only that opened with a Hybrid model, meaning, kids in elementary, middle, and high school could opt to go to school for 2 days, and stay home on the Remote Learning plan for 3 days a week. Children in Special Needs programming can go 4 days. Beacon took many precautions with opening safely and maintaining sanitized rooms, which included investing in more disinfecting equipment and personnel, dividing the classes in half in order to reduce the class sizes to comply with state social distancing requirements, enforcing masks in the building (with breaks), and using outside spaces for learning or more breaks.

But as we are in cold/flu/allergy season, the sniffles are bound to happen. What do you do in a pandemic, when requirements exist about how to treat symptoms you may or may not have kept your child home for before?

Step 1: You call your school nurse.
Step 2: Consult with the Beacon City School District’s (BCSD) website, where they have a Reopening section with several documents, including a Protocol for Symptomatic Students or Staff chart that explains what to do.
Step 3: Decide if you are going to visit your primary care physician, or an urgent care, or a free testing site. This article evaluates all of these options.

Symptoms: What Are They?

Many symptoms exist for COVID-19, and you should always refer to New York State’s guidelines, the CDC, and the BCSD’s website for the latest.

For guidance on how to treat a child with symptoms related to COVID-19, like chills, a cough, a sore throat or nausea, the Beacon City School District has posted a flow-chart that explains it. The flow-chart says that if a student has symptoms, then the student is to be isolated and sent or kept home. From there, they should seek medical attention and/or get tested for COVID-19.

This means, the child can see a doctor to be evaluated, and at the doctor's discretion, come away with a note from the doctor saying that they don't think it COVID-19 and can return to school, or that the doctor recommends getting the test.

To return to school, there are a few options:

• Get a note from a medical provider. Says Beacon’s head Nurse Aakjar: “The note from the Doctor must provide an alternate diagnosis (as per NYS requirements),” or

• Provide a negative COVID-19 test of the RT-PCR kind (meaning, the one that gets sent out to a lab, vs the same-day rapid test), or

• Wait 10 days from the onset of symptoms.

If siblings of the sniffler are also sniffly, they are also asked to stay home until symptoms are over. If the sniffles passes through a house with multiple children, you could be looking at a long time of staying at home, if you are a Hybrid family. It's OK. If this had been done prior to the pandemic and with playdates and sleepovers, it might have reduced the amount of stomach bugs and other viruses from being passed around anyway.

If the student tests positive for COVID-19, then the school nurse notifies the local health department. Close contacts to positive cases can return to school after a 14-day quarantine period.

Testing - Where To Go

This is where things can get creative, as there are several variables and costs to consider, including office visit charge, testing charge, scheduling time, and if computers for new telahealth visits are working that day.

Dutchess County put their list of testing sites here. Three of those are evaluated below. Where you go might depend upon your insurance, if you have insurance. If you do not have insurance, Excel Urgent Care is accepting patients and submitting to the CARES ACT on their behalf.

If you do not have insurance, there are no state-sponsored free testing sites in Dutchess County or Orange County at this time, according to a representative from the New York State Department Of Health, and confirmed by Colleen T. Pillus, Communications Director with Dutchess County Executive Office. However, Colleen does encourage people to visit Dutchess County’s list of testing sites, as an insurance breakdown is provided for each one.

Counties that do have free testing sites for non-insured (or insured, if you want to avoid paying whatever your insurance company will still bill you), include: Albany, Binghamton, Erie, Nassau, Suffolk County, Niagara, Rochester, Rockland, and Utica. Visit covid19screening.health.ny.gov to complete a Screening questionnaire, then call the NYS COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065 to make your appointment. Bring proof of ID and confirmation number.

ALBB’s Review Of Urgent Cares

PM Pediatrics - Hopewell Junction
The easiest urgent care to go for Beaconites is PM Pediatrics. Possibly because they are dedicated to pediatrics, there are less people going there. Also, maybe it’s the area’s best kept secret. Got a splinter and a very upset child who won’t let you touch it? PM Pediatrics has a special splinter puller. Need stitches removed? They can do that too. All from friendly, kid-decorated offices.

At PM Pediatrics, your child can walk-in to be seen by a doctor, and tested at the same time. Or, the doctor may decide that a test is not necessary, and send you on your way with a note. A telahealth visit prior to the visit is not necessary. The test will be done inside their building.

Pulse MD - Poughkeepsie
During the 10/13/2020 Board of Education Meeting, Beacon’s Superintendent mentioned a partnership that BCSD has with the urgent care Pulse MD. According to BCSD’s head nurse, Hannah Aakjar, RN, this is a line of scheduling communication with the District that can be used by any District family, especially those who are new to the District and don’t have a primary care physician yet. Once you connect with your school nurse, your school nurse can set up a virtual telahealth visit with Pulse MD.

A text will be sent to your phone, and you fill out insurance information first. For the 2 times I used it, the telahealth connection did not work, and a phone call was had between myself and the medical professional about my children who had sniffles. They recommended a COVID-19 test.

COVID-19 testing is done on site, but it is in Poughkeepie and averages 300 people per day, for a 2 hour line in the car. Testing is done by nurses outside, rain or shine, and the nurse, in our experience, was so nice and helpful when administering the test, despite the rain that day. The line, however, is real. Go to the bathroom prior, and bring snacks. Or go to PM Pediatrics for walk-in service with no call-ahead scheduling.

Excel Urgent Care - Fishkill

Beaconties have been visiting Excel Urgent Care in Fishkill for their sniffle evaluations and testing. Some waiting of at least an hour in the parking lot may be required, but depends on the day. Excel Urgent Care is accepting people with no insurance, and are filing to programs on the patient’s behalf. Reservations encouraged, but walk-ins welcome.

Sun River Health (formerly HRHCare Beacon)
An appointment for testing is required, but not a telahealth visit. The cost of the test is covered by Sun River Health for those who do not have insurance. This is not an urgent care, but is a resource you should know about for primary care physicians, women’s medical issues, and other medical needs.
6 Henry Street
Beacon, NY
(845) 831-0400

Caremount Medical Urgent Care - Poughkeepsie

We wrote about testing at Caremount Medical Urgent Care here. Being a prior patient of their system is not required, and walk-in service is available. Depending on the wait, you may be waiting in the car for testing or to be called to your appointment. Testing will be done inside the building or from your car.

Primary Care Physician

Being seen by your primary care physician is ideal. But sometimes, their schedules do not allow for this. Which is why a trip to PM Pediatrics may nip your wait time in the bud.

If your child has conditions like asthma cough, causing them to cough without being sick, then a note from your primary care physician is needed to be kept on file with your child’s school. Says Nurse Aakjar: “As far as getting a note for students with chronic conditions that would cause a cough, sneeze or sniffles, this would elate the students from having to stay home and receive a note each time they are having an ‘episode’. We also would accept physician notes that state if a child has a chronic condition that may cause diarrhea or headaches (ie. IBS, lactose intolerance, anxiety, migraines...) to also eliminate the student from having to be sent home.”

This is a good time to make sure your child has an inhaler in the office if needed, and to get the note and prescription from your doctor.

Nurse Hannah Aakjar, RN encourages families and caregivers to reach out and call the nurses at the schools: "If anyone has questions, they could reach out to myself or to their school nurse. We have spoken to many families since reopening and have learned a great deal along the way. This is a learning process for all of us but we are happy that we are able to help families navigate through this very unusual and trying time."

Wishing your family health and safety.

New Candidate Applies For Beacon's BOE Member Seat, Stating "All lives matter, Black and white"

During the next Board of Education meeting following September’s meeting, where the Board was faced with confronting the process of creating a process to appoint 2 people to 2 vacated Board seats (see previous article, “What Shook The Room At Beacon’s BOE Meeting; 2 Open Seats But 1 Was Filled”), the Board heard from one new candidate, Joseph Puliafito. The candidate has been a resident of Beacon since the 1950s, owns 9 parcels in Beacon, and has teaching experience in educational technology and special education. A second candidate had applied in addition to Joseph, but withdrew before this meeting where the Board could interview candidates in a public format.

Of the 4 original candidates who applied previously, Jasmine Johnson was appointed to the Board, and John Galloway Jr. opted to have his application roll over for reconsideration to this second appointment process. Both Jasmine and John are Black. The other two candidates - Barb Fisher and Travis Fisher - a married couple who are white - withdrew their applications (read their letters of withdraw here) shortly after that meeting, both stating that the Board seemed to have a candidate who would fit the Board’s needs (this was prior to Joseph applying).

Interview With Candidate Joseph Puliafito

In their public interview with Joseph, where he stated that John Galloway Jr. “seems to be a great, nice guy” with a lot of people supporting him, Joseph asked the Board how they felt they were doing with their goals, stating: “It's a very trying time, in terms of economics and racial unrest. I do hope we see change as soon as possible and that everybody would be on the same page because all lives matter, Black and white.”

Joseph’s experience includes orphanages and public schools, stating: “I have a lot of experience since I was a teenager, in orphanages, for many different types of social problems in the family. I've worked since 1970 in colleges, with public school teachers in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. And I've seen the problems there. It's not easy as you said to solve problems. And it's slow in some cases.”

Joseph continued to express how he roots success in happiness and selflessness: “Everyone has to be on the same page, and not think about themselves, but each other. And their lives. And to make everybody else's life better. Economically, socially. People should be happy. People are not happy now. Everyone has to be served.”

When Board president Meredith Heuer asked if he had considered applying to the Board in the past, Joseph exclaimed: “I've always paid my taxes, and they have been exorbitant. I have 9 parcels in Beacon. I did want to see where the money was going. I started to think: ‘Well maybe I should be part of it.’"

Interview With Candidate John Galloway Jr.

With most of his appeals made during the first meeting on 9/14/2020, where John focused on his young age and current connection with youth in Beacon, which would help him be a bridge between the Board and the students, John focused this speaking opportunity on how his supporters were behaving. Most of the supporters calling in to the voice support for the meeting were adults who felt passionately about voicing their opinions about what was said at the prior meeting. Some of those vocal supporters stated professional experiences with Boards of Education in general, run a business, or run a local organization. A handful of vocal supporters were current students.

John addressed that by saying: “Thank you for the opportunity again for allowing my application to roll over. I want to make a point to everybody who is calling in and doing a lot of things on social media. I appreciate the support, it is really outstanding, it is really appreciated. But also to remember to do your best to respect the Board and respect the process of the Board. This is an appointment process, this isn't an election. Some stuff that's going on is a bit, I would say it's ...supportive but also unnecessary. It is an appointment process, we just have to stick to the process, and hopefully that will be the result. We just have to hope for the best. Just respect the Board if possible. Because it is still not getting anything done, raising what I would call havoc - coming at board members - and making daily posts about it. Just try your best to support me, and if you would like to call in, that's fine, but there is no need to come at the board. If you want me on it so bad, I would just think that counter-productive.”

The Board will finish their appointment process during their October 26, 2020 meeting. You can watch recorded Board of Education meetings here at YouTube. The Zoom link to the live meeting is usually posted at the District’s website.

More Good Leaves Beacon Storefront Space - Bottling Business and Syrups Brand To Continue - A Look Back and Forward For This Brand

Longtime Beacon-based business, Drink More Good (DMG), is leaving Beacon. The spacious storefront next to Towne Crier Cafe and Oak Vino, is for rent. Oak Vino had been for sale prior to the pandemic, and all through the pandemic, and continues to be (but has had tasty nibbles…our sources say it may be selling soon). Announcement to come on what that space will become, or if it stays the same.

Jason started as a bartender and mixologist, and began his bottled syrups company with a big vision and a g-chat message (gmail chat…back in the olden days) with an early investor. The brand More Good earned shelf space on several retail stores including Whole Foods, Key Foods, and several boutiques across the country. Jason’s businesses endeavors continued to expand, as he partnered locally with businesses including Ella’s Bellas, Story Screen, and even the Roosevelt Bar in HV Food Hall, as well as other brands in New York and elsewhere. Generosity-wise, his business has always given a portion to Generosity.org, an organization that brings clean water to people who don’t have access to it.

The Expansions Started In Beacon

We first wrote about the syrup company, More Good, when they were moving out of their 500 square foot space on Main Street in the little space across from Homespun, that was used by Homespun for their catering, and shared with More Good (the space is now up for rent) to go further down the street to what has been More Good’s long-running location at 383 Main Street. That location opened with 2,000 square feet as a tea shop with a commissary kitchen in the back. Owner Jason Schuler’s syrup business was growing, and he was using the space to bottle the sweet stuff.

“I took the risk with that expansion because I needed more production space, and I saw a value add for the community as a resource for accessible organic herbs and spices and teas,” Jason told ALBB for this article. “We also opened our doors to other local food and beverage entrepreneurs to help with overhead, and to fulfill the need for a commissary kitchen in our area. We knew there was one because we needed it and it wasn't available.”

While keeping the Beacon tea storefront, he outgrew the space for bottling his own brand, and expanded again into the Old East Fishkill IBM building in 2017. According to a feature in The Valley Table, the new space enabled Jason to take on more bottling clients, where he was “co-packing,” where he assisted other entrepreneurial companies with ordering, manufacturing and fulfillment.

From The Valley Table’s article: “Schuler was producing his own products as well as those of 8 other emerging beverage companies in a 10,000-square-foot space in the former IBM complex in East Fishkill. Early in 2019, the company, in the midst of its first major capital drive, began planning to expand to 27,000 square feet and increasing its production capacity to more than 10,000 gallons per day, up from its current production of 5,000 gallons per week.”

Local insurance agency, Antalek and Moore, produced a client-feature video about More Good, where you can see parts of the build-out of the IBM location.

The expansion was a success, and outgrew itself in a way where one of the co-packers bought the facility. Says Jason to ALBB for this article: “We opened that space in October of 2018 and immediately saw massive growth in our manufacturing business, so much so that our resources were focused on growing that side of the business instead of the syrup or retail side of the business. It was an exciting opportunity and relentlessly difficult. At one point we had over 30 employees and were producing for 10+ companies across several product categories. In 2019 one of our clients realized massive growth, and we wound up selling our manufacturing side of the business to them and vertically integrating our Hopewell facility with their business.”

Jason went on to work full time for that company, and his wife, Morganne Frazier, a pilates instructor and gym owner of Warwick Pilates Gymnasium, took over operations at More Good.

The Pandemic And The Beacon Storefront

“COVID decimated the DMG business, and forced us to rethink and restrategize our entire business plan,” Jason told ALBB. “Evolve or die, they say. Morganne has been rebuilding the vision for DMG ever since. Unfortunately, with the way the economy has panned out, the retail store and commissary is no longer a financially viable option for DMG to sustain. It served its purpose for the company, and I hope for the community too. I built that place with my bare hands and next to no money, literally. There were many days where I didn't know how we would survive to the next, but we did, and we built something beautiful out of it.”

New directions for the syrup company seem like they are revisiting their roots, and tapping into the creative side again, rummaging around in smaller spaces and dirt of the earth, as Jason and Morganne have move out to Warwick, and the syrup shop will once again share a space with another retail business.
”DMG will live on as a brand as Morganne continues to restructure the organization to be focused on online sales and the DTC business, our wholesale business for distribution, as well as reopening a small 300 sq ft shop in a shared space with her Pilates studio in Warwick,” Jason tells ALBB.

“Earlier this year, we also invested in a 1948 Chevy Pickup truck that we converted into a farmstand and Cocktail truck for special events and weddings. COVID has put our big plans to rest on that for a while, but we will be utilizing it as we see opportunity to do so.” Each year, Jason has hosted or co-hosted a fundraiser, and this pandemic year is no exception. A Trunk or Treat 2020 is planned at their new farm, Goodmaker Acres in Warwick, NY, with all proceeds going to Generosity.org.

Meanwhile…

Jason and Morganne are working on a homestead project on their 7 acre farm in Warwick, called Goodmaker Acres. “It will be our next passion project over the next 3-5 years as we build it up to be a sustainably farmed practice that supports the DMG business by growing our own seasonal produce. We will be opening that property up to the public for Upick orchards and berry patches as well. More to come on that as we are in just the beginning planning phases.”

Anybody who watched Jason’s early Instagram photos after he moved into the 383 Main Street space could see how much he enjoyed working with and crushing the ingredients that went into the syrups. The brand leaving Beacon is a loss of a vibe locally, but the beat goes on elsewhere in the world, and Beacon will continue to feel it.

Wishing Jason and Morganne the very best as they expand their family and businesses!

SCHEDULE: Parking and Retail Therapy Guide 10/16/2020

Alright so it's raining...but that might not stop anyone from coming up to this region for a visit, especially during leaf season. Apparently in Cold Spring, people are parking a bit haphazardly, causing parking tickets to increase from 50 in June, to 277 in September, according to the Highlands Current. Meanwhile, in Phillipstown, officials are threatening to sue New York State over its management of visitors to local parks. Officials have discussed deputizing a tow-truck company to tow away illegally parked cars near Indian Brook Falls in Garrison. In Beacon, The Parking and Traffic Safety Committee has been hearing from residents whose personal property and street parking have been hampered by hiker parking. The cul de sac at Exeter Circle was a place families moved to in order to use the circle for children riding bikes and playing, but can no longer due to constant hiker parking, according to a resident who submitted a complaint to the committee. A proposal for "resident only parking" has been made for Exeter Circle, as well as to Mountain Lane. The issues have made it to City Council who is holding a Public Hearing about it on October 19, 2020. Meanwhile on Main Street, drivers do commonly not see people standing in crosswalks, and with more young and teenage children and families out during the middle of the day, it is paramount that you take notice, and drive slow enough to even notice a person standing on the side of the road. And you know how we feel about U-Turns (that includes you, Hubby of ALBB!) WELCOME! Special welcome to our new sponsor, Brett's Hardware! If you recall, we were so happy to have a hardware store open up in Beacon back in 2018 (it's been a while since we had one!).   THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Marilyn Perez and Katie Hellmuth Martin Hudson Valley Fair Food Drive-Thru Days: Thursday-Sunday, October 15-18, 2020 Time: Thursday & Friday 4pm-9pm, Saturday & Sunday 11:30am-9pm Location: Dutchess Stadium, 1500 Route 9D, Wappingers Falls, NY We all missed the county fairs this summer! Here is your chance to fill up on all your favorite foods! Hop in your car and head to the stadium THIS WEEKEND!   Information > Story Screen Drive-In presents "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and "Friday the 13th Part IV: The Final Chapter" Day: Friday-Sunday, October 16-18, 2020 Time: 7:00pm (Nightmare), 9:00pm (Friday the 13th) Location: The Park at USC, 724 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY Information > "Unchained Equity Seminar" At The Newburgh Armory Larkin Center Day: October 17, 2020 Time: 1-5pm Location: 321 William Street, Newburgh, NY Melanin Unchained presents an Equity Seminar focused on goal-oriented solutions to specific areas impacted by systematic racism within everyday lives. Moving forward into 2021, an after-school program will be launched to explore ways to strengthen and develop youth's perspectives. Organizational goals like mentoring, youth services, community building, recreational, creative, and literacy development will be available. Information > Southern Dutchess Resist Rally-ING Day: Saturday, October 17, 2020 Time: 2pm Location: Polhill Park, 1146 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY Public demonstration protest Rally and March. Rally and marching together in support of and defense of Women's Rights. Rally will most likely be on all 4 corners of the intersection. No literal Marching... though Rallying and speaking out - without curse words - encouraged. Social distancing. Read more about the Beacon event in this article. Information > "Journey To Freedom" At The Newburgh Free Library Day: October 12 - December 12, 2020 Location: 124 Grand Street, Newburgh, NY Newburgh Free Library is hosting "Journey to Freedom," a year-long series of arts, cultural and educational programs inspired by the courage, vision and strength of the American abolitionist and political activist, Harriet Tubman. This sculpture of Harriet Tubman by award-winning artist Wesley Wofford will be on display in front of the Newburgh Free Library from October 12 to December 12, 2020. For more information, please visit www.newbughfreelibrary.org. This project is funded in part by Humanities New York Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!     EAT CHURCH 511 Fishkill Avenue, Beacon, NY Eat Church will be back this Friday and Saturday with a brand new menu! Check out their CURRY KULT REVUE: October 16-17 / 4-8pm at  @marbledmeatshop Pop-Up, 3091 Route 9, Cold Spring. Online ordering is LIVE. View all dishes and full menu at eatchurch.com Pictured is 🌶 DHAL TADKA - Tempered spiced lentils, sweet potato fries, pear chutney. Warming and Vegan! 📸 @chris.perino Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor! MEYERS OLDE DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY In addition to beef burgers, the menu at Meyer's Olde Dutch offers chicken, hot dogs and vegan options with multiple toppings and house-made signature sauces, plus hand-cut fries, salads and daily specials. They serve breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays. Wait, what you say? Breakfast? Yes! All items will be available via counter service and served in open seating and a back open-air patio. Information > Meyers Olde Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY and the Cafe at the Dia : Beacon This bottle of wine is going out into the world to help fight voter suppression in the state of Texas... @vines4votes has done great work creating an online auction to raise money and awareness to help fight voter suppression, with special regard to Texas. If you’ve read what is going on there, they’re going out of their way to make voting difficult, and the people need to speak this year more than ever. Homespun says they will miss this bottle, but they are sure it is going to a good home, and doing the good work on its way. More > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor!   HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY We've been talking about OKTOBERFESTand we are excited to see the Hudson Valley Food Hall all decked out for the occasion.  Have you stopped by yet? Grab a giant soft pretzel and enjoy! Happy Oktoberfest!!! Information > Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY As we mentioned last week, outdoor parklet dining will end November 1st.  Still time to enjoy some tasty tacos from Baja 328 - made with the freshest ingredients. Indoor and outdoor seating available here! Tuesday - Thursday: 4-9pm Friday - Saturday: 12pm-10pm Sunday: 12pm-8pm Follow on Instagram > Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor!   BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon The wall of space heaters is full at Brett's Hardware! But what is not pictured here, is the new shipment of tall patio heaters, which are in very high demand. Especially as some of you may host a Thanksgiving dinner out back. When you go into Brett's, if you don't see a floor model out, ask a helpful staff member for information on the patio heaters. Meanwhile, browse through the large selection of smaller ones right in front of the store! Go Shopping > Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon It's vintage  @teyaknapp! Wearing @sabinebe.eyewear⁠. The be gipsy frame from Sabine Be comes in 12 different colors to choose from. Sabine Be has a fun collection of color pairings. that will add a *pop* to any look. Go Shopping > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!   BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon Now available at Binnacle Books, David Treuer, “The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America from 1890 to Present” “Through memoir, interviews and extensive reading, Treuer counters the familiar narratives of invisibility that have so readily frozen America’s indigenous peoples. Interweaving stories from family members, the voices of policymakers and assessments of contemporary youth culture, the book introduces alternative visions of American history. The result is an informed, moving and kaleidoscopic portrait of ‘Indian survival, resilience, adaptability, pride and place in modern life.’ Rarely has a single volume in Native American history attempted such comprehensiveness.” (NY Times) Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon Whatever your indulgence, treat yourself and express it on a fun t-shirt like this one you can pick up at La Mére Clothing And Goods. They will have more fun Halloween theme tees coming to the shop this week so keep checking back either in person or shop online 24/7. And don't miss their $10 and $20 rack on the sidewalk! Lots of great finds. Information > La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon Word got around that new designs and scents dropped at Lewis and Pine, and if you hit the shop at the right time, there is a line to get in! The shop is small, and you'll discover with boutique shopping in Beacon, each store has a different social distancing capacity. The wait is worth it, and you have shopping on all sides of you, including a new pottery store and smoothie shop that opened up next door. Get yours!!! @lewisandpine⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Shop  > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! View more upcoming classes for in the Adult Classes Guide and Kids Classes Guide. ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 340 Main Street, Beacon Antalek & Moore is proud to receive the Superior Travelers Agent Recognition Award for the Central NY region. They were awarded the STAR because of their outstanding production results, consistently high retention, engagement with their digital initiatives, and focus on their future. "Thank you, Travelers, and of course to all of our clients for your continued support." Information > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!   TIN SHINGLE Are you pitching the media but don't know what to say? Are you saying all the things you ever wanted to say in an email, but you left out the most important part? Tin Shingle has a Pitch Whisperer service within its membership, and this week, recorded a quick video tip in response to a pitch that someone submitted who needed help. Watch This > KATIE JAMES, INC. Designing a website is exciting and involves new possibilities. It can also be overwhelming to conceptualize. Katie James, Inc. wants to be on that journey with you, and wants to put together the puzzle that is your business or venture, so that people can experience it for a strong impression of your brand. Learn More >

SIGN UP FOR THIS NEWSLETTER

Sister Women's March Rally/March-In-Place Scheduled For October 17 In Beacon At Pohill Park

A reader wrote in to alert us to a rally happening in Beacon that they wanted to attend, and were surprised to learn was happening. The reader stated: “I will be a new resident of Beacon in October, and I've been following your blog to get to know the community. Thank you for providing such a fantastic resource! I don't know if you promote events like this but I wanted to call it to your attention. I went to sign up for the Women's March on Oct 17 to protest the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett for SCOTUS & was planning to march in Manhattan. But, I was pleasantly surprised to find that out of the 2 marches planned in the state of NY, the other happens to be planned for Beacon, NY.”

According to Forbes.com, additional marches supporting the main Women’s March in Washington, D.C., include over 100 satellite marches happening in 39 states, with more than 70,000 people who have pledged to participate.

The march-in-place event in Beacon is hosted by Southern Dutchess Resist, a group who organizes many rallies, including the first Black Lives Matter that happened on the sidewalk in Beacon, which was followed by the next, and larger march down Main Street by a group of young people who united to become by Beacon4Black Lives. The two organizations have since worked together to plan education and protest events, along with other organizations in the region, including 854Unity, Label Foundation, Next Step Hudson Valley, and others, to bring awareness to different issues.

How The March-In-Place Rally Will Work

Location: Pohill Park, on the corner of 9D (Wolcott) and Main Street.
Day: Saturday, October 17, 2020,
Time: 2-4pm
No walking. A rally. Marching-in-place.

This rally is in support of, and in defense of, Women’s Rights. Participants can bring signs that express different messages. Parking is available in free municipal lots, which include City Hall, but not the fire station. Regarding behavior, the organizers say: “This is a peaceful rally in community. Profanity and the like is not condoned - verbally nor written.”

Social distancing will be encouraged, with masks. Bring your hand sanitizer.

Please do not ask shops to use their bathrooms. You can go shopping, however! So bring your wallet as well. Need a face mask from a boutique in Beacon? Visit A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide, where we indicate which shops sell face masks.

Details about Beacon’s rally can be found here.

Sexy Nails Leaves Beacon - Replaced By Beans Cat Café - Coming Soon

Left: The writer Izdihar Dabashi holding her newly adopted cat. Right: The storefront of Beans Cat Cafe, formerly Sexy Nails. Photo Credits: Izdihar Dabashi (left), Katie Hellmuth Martin (right).

Editor’s Note: This storefront, 325 Main Street, is in the Ritter Building, owned by Beacontie and photographer Frank Ritter. This location used to be Sexy Nails, the nail salon that many Beaconites went to regularly. In the middle of the shutdown, Sexy Nails left. A couple months later, rumors of the cat cafe started, and A Little Beacon Blog’s writer Izdihar Dabashi pursued the story, which you can read below.

Cats and Coffee… Hey All You Cool Cats and Kittens

Quarantine has been a whirlpool of Netflix binges, seemingly spontaneous pet adoptions, and baking addictions. A majority of us have fulfilled our destinies of becoming Betty Crockers or Crazy Cat Ladies. Personally, I have become a plant hoarder and while most of my plants are thriving, a few have crossed over to the great unknown. Maybe more than a few. At this point, I no longer need to eat or drink or sleep, I simply photosynthesize.

Izdihar’s newly adopted cat, Aladdin, striking the pose for the recent “adoption photo” post. Photo Credit: Izdihar Dabashi.

I will admit, I fell victim to the cute adoption posts posted all over my socials. I am now a proud aunt to a 6-month-old kitten. I love the little troublemaker so much, that I would love more little clumsy kittens teetering around my living room like the Rugrat toddlers. Sadly, there are far too many cons outweighing the pros on my list.

If you have also been thinking about adopting a cat or simply want an adorable cat to cuddle with, then you will be excited to hear about Beacon’s first-ever cat cafe, Beans Cat Cafe, a concept seemingly straight out of a dream (or nightmare for all you Tiger King fanatics). Beans Cat Cafe hopes to create an experience for people unable to welcome cats in their own homes perhaps due to living space restrictions, allergies, whatever the reason may be. New to the idea of cat cafes? They have been trending for a while now, and in 2018, there were 40 across the country, according to The Sauce.

Coming Soon-ish

Beans Cat Café plans to open on Main Street this October, and set a GoFundMe fundraiser to help make it happen. The actual opening date may be later in the year, because it takes a lot to open a business. Owners Jessica Cruz-Strika and Justin Strika were inspired by their own love for cats, and were introduced to the idea of a cat café through various articles. Both owners graduated from Highland and have maintained connections to the Beacon community. While Justin grew up in a cat household, Jessica became obsessed with cats after adopting her first cat, Luca, a few years ago and started regularly visiting Dutchess County SPCA (DCSPCA).

Luca, aka Bean, is credited with the origins of the name of their cat café. The day-to-day operations of the cat café will mainly be run by Jessica, who has experience in the food/beverage service industry, while Justin will continue to work as a Direct Support Person working for the Anderson Center for Autism.

How This Cat Café Will Work

When visitors enter Beans Cat Café, they will be greeted with the café side that includes baked goods from Frida’s Bakery and Café in Milton, NY, as well as a wide variety of beverages that will only be served in the café area. Guests who wish to include the cat lounge in the experience will be offered entrance through the partition walls for a small fee and are welcome to bring their food with them.

The cat lounge will have seating, board games, and up to 8 cats at a time that are all adoptable through Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (HVARS) in Poughkeepsie. All portions of the adoption including the fee are exclusive to HVARS.

Beans Cat Café is currently completing construction in anticipation of their opening later this year. Currently, there is not a set date to open, but guests who have contributed to the business through GoFundMe and Bonfire will receive invitations for a soft opening. There are even Cat Café face masks for sale as part of the fundraiser. More information will hopefully become available as we approach the end of October.

Second Saturday! Beacon Gallery Openings for October 2020

Some of the art gallery openings in Beacon, NY, for October 2020. Clockwise from top right: MP Gautheron at Clutter Gallery; Jebah Baum at Bau Gallery; Ronnie Farley at No. 3 Reading Room and Photo Book Works; Teron Wright at Twins Barbershop; Bridget Caramagna at Mother Gallery.

Happy Second Saturday, Beacon! We hope you get out and about - socially distanced, of course - to enjoy this (probably) last warm day for a while. It’s perfect weather for strolling Main Street and peeking into galleries, or enjoying the art mounted in their storefront windows.

The pace of art openings has slowed a bit compared with the past couple of months. Still, you’ll find new shows at Clutter Gallery (they have two openings!), Twins Barbershop, No. 3 Reading Room and Photo Book Works, the Howland Cultural Center and Bau Gallery (where several artists are showing).

Shows continuing from last month include exhibitions at Mother Gallery, Parts & Labor and Clarkson University’s Beacon Institute, along with the longer-running shows at Dia, Marion Royael, Morphicism and others. We've got it all covered in Beacon’s most comprehensive Art Gallery Guide.

This month’s Second Saturday Art Gallery Guide is sponsored by No. 3 Reading Room and Photo Book Works, at 469 Main Street, down toward the east end of Main Street, where you’ll find not just rotating exhibits, but cool collections of handmade books that the public is encouraged to peruse. Owner Paulette Myers-Rich has found new veins of creativity, coming up with ways to engage readers and consumers of art via her storefront windows.

While you're out and about doing Second Saturday, stop by our sponsors and support the businesses who support us! You too can become a sponsor at any time.

October 9th Is A Big Day! Second Saturday! The Retail Therapy 10/9/2020

For the first time in ages, SallyeAnder has opened their factory store to the public this weekend. Those details and more in this weekend's Retail Therapy/Happening This Weekend Guide. Enjoy!                      THE SECOND SATURDAY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Catherine Sweet TWIN'S BARBER SHOP 349 Main St. We're excited to include an art showcase pop-up at Twins Barbershop, featuring vivid portraits by Lonell Wright. MOTHER GALLERY 1154 North Ave. (downstairs) Continuing at Mother Gallery, Bridget Caramagna and Brian Belott in finally golden. NO. 3 READING ROOM AND PHOTO BOOK WORKS 469 Main St. With her indoor gallery space remaining closed, Paulette Myers-Rich of No. 3 Reading Room and Photo Book Works has updated her windows with yet another moving installation. This time, photographs by Ronnie Farley highlight the centuries-long fight by Indignenous women for their people and their land. "In this time of reckoning with racist injustice, it’s important to put into view the Indigenous women who have struggled against sexist, racist and genocidal policies for centuries," Rich and Farley write. GET THE FULL SECOND SATURDAY ART GUIDE THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Marilyn Perez and Katie Hellmuth Martin Story Screen Drive-In presents "Get Out" and "Candyman" Day: Friday-Sunday, October 9-11, 2020 Time: 7:00pm (Get Out), 9:00pm (Candyman) Location: The Park at USC, 724 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY Information > Springfield Baptist Church Encourages Voter Registration And Voting Day: October 9, 2020 Location: Online The Springfield Baptist Church is encouraging all New York State residents to register to vote by Friday, October 9th, 2020, which you can do online here. Information > Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church Encourages Voter Registration and Early Voting Day: October 9, 2020 Location: Online Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church is running a voting campaign to help people vote. Information on 1. How to register to vote; 2. Deadlines for early voting, absentee and Mail-In-Voting and other pertinent info Information > "Journey To Freedom" At The Newburgh Free Library Day: October 12 - December 12, 2020 Location: 124 Grand Street, Newburgh, NY Newburgh Free Library is hosting "Journey to Freedom," a year-long series of arts, cultural and educational programs inspired by the courage, vision and strength of the American abolitionist and political activist, Harriet Tubman. This sculpture of Harriet Tubman by award-winning artist Wesley Wofford will be on display in front of the Newburgh Free Library from October 12 to December 12, 2020. For more information, please visit www.newbughfreelibrary.org. This project is funded in part by Humanities New York Information > "Unchained Equity Seminar" At The Newburgh Armory Larkin Center Day: October 17, 2020 Time: 1-5pm Location: 321 William Street, Newburgh, NY Melanin Unchained presents an Equity Seminar focused on goal-oriented solutions to specific areas impacted by systematic racism within everyday lives. Moving forward into 2021, an after-school program will be launched to explore ways to strengthen and develop youth's perspectives. Organizational goals like mentoring, youth services, community building, recreational, creative, and literacy development will be available. Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week! Sallye Ander Factory Sale Days: Friday-Saturday, October 9-10, 2020 Time: 10am-3pm Location: 18 W. Main St #6, Beacon, NY (Enter through the door next to Brett's Hardware and follow the signs) Their first ever factory sale! Shop their full line of products, get special discounts. Credit Cards (preferred) and Cash are accepted. For social distancing, 4 people at a time allowed inside. Mask and social distance required. Information > RSVP On Facebook > (not required) Field + Supply Virtual MRKT Day: Thursday, October 8-11, 2020 Time: TBA Location: https://www.fieldandsupply.com     EAT CHURCH 511 Fishkill Avenue, Beacon, NY TEST KITCHEN ALERT! Eat Church will be closed this weekend as they work the Test Kitchen for their new curry menu. They will be back in full force next weekend at Marbled in Cold Spring, October 16-17, 4-8pm. The new menu will be up this coming Wednesday morning. Order early, this event will sell out!  Meanwhile...Check this out about owner and chef Mark. He grew up in Lowell, MA during a time of massive immigration and shifting ideas about community. The 1970’s and 80’s brought a huge Cambodian, Laos, and Vietnamese population to Lowell along with his first taste of something special. A fine arts painting degree from RISD translated into a quick entrance into the professional kitchen via the sinks. Follow Eat Church on Instagram (@eatchurch) and check their online store for pre-orders. Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor! MEYERS OLDE DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY A couple new cocktails for this weekend! Including a new favorite Witch’s Kiss, featuring aged tequila, St Germain and house made apple butter. Both patios open 11:30am-10pm, online ordering available by clicking here for takeout and delivery More > Meyers Olde Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY and the Cafe at the Dia : Beacon Beacon is quite lucky to have the new owner of Homespun - Joe Robitaille - in our foodie world. Joe is a sommelier who takes special care to train his staff and head sommelier Heather to help you pick the most delicious wine for your evening. Homespun's Wine & Beer Store To Go at Homespun's Dia Beacon Café location is great for visitors coming up from the train. All bottles sold here are for off-premise consumption only. Great for your hotel or Airbnb! Also grab a bottle from Homespun's Main Street location. You can order after your museum visit, or email at joe@homespunfoods.com to set up a pick up ahead of time. More > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor!   HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY TEST KITCHEN ALERT! OKTOBERFEST is here and we have a Test Kitchen alert! There’s a new vendor to try for the next two weekends. Stop by, try a German Soft Pretzel & let us know what you think. Get here quickly this pop up is only for this weekend and next. Happy Oktoberfest!!! Information > Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY Eat outside in Baja's parklet while you still can! Parklet dining will end in Beacon on November 1st. Baja offers spacious indoor seating with their flexible garage door front wall, to keep you safer and ventilated. Tuesday - Thursday: 4-9pm Friday - Saturday: 12pm-10pm Sunday: 12pm-8pm Follow on Instagram > Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor!   LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon These monogram sunglasses from @emmanuellekhanh⁠ are styled to perfection by @thedailydeb. Emannuelle Khanh has been making iconic eyewear since 1969. Handcrafted in France & Japan. Their Autumn 2020 collection is out now, for you to try in Beacon at Luxe Optique! Put yourself in to Luxe's hands, and you will come away so happy. Promise. Go Shopping > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!   BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon Now available at Binnacle Books, N.K. Jemisin, “How Long ‘Til Black Future Month?” “Three-time Hugo Award winner and NYT bestselling author N. K. Jemisin challenges and delights readers with thought-provoking narratives of destruction, rebirth, and redemption that sharply examine modern society in her first collection of short fiction, which includes never-before-seen stories. Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon Could there be an any more perfect kind of shoe for the cooler weather? Put your best foot forward in La Mére Clothing And Goods new Demian Sherpa Lined Sneaker featuring zippers on both sides of the shoe. Much more where this came from! New inventory always arriving. Information > La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon The Artifact Necklace from @lewisandpine - a geometric mashup with a handcrafted texture. The hammered surface breaks up the hard lines of the central triangle, softening the look and creating the minimal look.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This long necklace is perfect over a t-shirt or turtleneck. Wear it alone or layer it with a shorter necklace to personalize your look and get fancy!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Materials: Sterling Silver, Oxidized Brass, Golden Brass⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Could Lewis and Pine be your new favorite designer?? Get yours!!! @lewisandpine⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Shop  > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! View more upcoming classes for in the Adult Classes Guide and Kids Classes Guide. ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 340 Main Street, Beacon Antalek & Moore is proud to receive the Superior Travelers Agent Recognition Award for the Central NY region. They were awarded the STAR because of their outstanding production results, consistently high retention, engagement with their digital initiatives, and focus on their future. "Thank you, Travelers, and of course to all of our clients for your continued support." Information > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!   TIN SHINGLE Did you know that The Associated Press has made its official recommendation on if the "b" in Black is capitalized when referring to Black people? It is. As well as the "I" in Indigenous. But not the "w" in white, due to its past history and connection. Learn More > KATIE JAMES, INC. Designing a website is exciting and involves new possibilities. It can also be overwhelming to conceptualize. Katie James, Inc. wants to be on that journey with you, and wants to put together the puzzle that is your business or venture, so that people can experience it for a strong impression of your brand. Learn More >

SIGN UP FOR THIS NEWSLETTER

"Meal Kits" To Come With Free Remote Meals For Beacon Kids - Kitchen Staples Included - Sign Up Required!

Remote Learning Life just got a little more enriched with the delivery of fresh food and Meal Kits to prepare it for kids and families who signed up for Beacon’s Free Remote Meals by Friday, October 9, 2020. Kits will include items such as a child-safe knife and cutting board, olive oil, a seasonal recipe and a recipe binder. This initiative has been made possible through local organizations in a collaborative project of the Beacon City School District, Common Ground Farm, Land to Learn, Fareground and Green Teen Beacon to ensure that all students have access to fresh food both in school and at home.

To get this Meal Kit, you need to have signed up by Friday, October 9, 2020, which you can do online here. If you have already signed up, you are good. You don’t need to sign up again for this special kit.

Says Erika Rincon, Beacon’s Farm to School Coordinator who works for Common Ground Farm about the program: “Each month, we will highlight our Vegetable of the Month by including the vegetable, a simple recipe, and fun facts! We will also supply families with video demonstrations and a link to participate in a recipe taste test after you have made the dish! In October, we will be featuring kale from Common Ground Farm!”

Kids are used to the Vegetable of the Month concept, as it was incorporated into the school menu, and at South Avenue and possibly other schools, playful and interactive charts were posted about it in the school cafeteria.

October 9th is also the deadline to sign up to have remote meals delivered to your home. Once you have signed up to receive a free breakfast/lunch meal, and you know that you will have trouble picking it up from one of the Beacon destinations, you are able to sign up for Delivery by school bus. Don’t be shy. Just sign up now for delivery so that they can organize (deadline October 9, 2020). Delivery begins on October 21, 2020.

If you are reading this after October 9, 2020, and have not yet signed up for Free Meals, you can do that at any time by clicking here.

"John Lewis: Good Trouble" Playing On Wednesday At 4 Hanna Lane In Beacon

From the people who brought you many of the protest Marches down Main Street in Beacon this summer, Beacon4Black Lives, is staying committed to educating about Black lives by starting new projects, like by establishing a free WIFI hub in Memorial Park, and outdoor movie viewing experiences.

On Wednesday evening, in partnership with Miz Hattie’s Southern BBQ, LNJ Tech, Beahive, and Storyscreen Beacon, you can watch this movie for $7, the proceeds of which go to Beacon4Black Lives to help them continue their work, stating via Instagram: “As we continue to work with our community to create a better tomorrow, we collaborate to educate and fund new and necessary projects for our community.”

For tickets, visit www.beaconfilmsociety.org

As the weather looks stormy, you should keep tabs on a rain or shine status by visiting @beacon4blacklives on Instagram.

---

Editorial Transparency Note: Miz Hattie’s an advertiser with A Little Beacon Blog. This did not influence the reporting, or the how or why this article was produced.

Susan Pagones, of Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency, To Chair Go Red for Women Luncheon

It was only after Susan Pagones’ mother passed away suddenly from heart disease that the family found clues that might have alerted them that she had been having heart issues. 

“It was 22 years ago, and I still get choked up talking about it,” Pagones said. “She was only 57 years old. She used to watch her grandchildren every Tuesday, but this Tuesday she was helping my father  run the Norm Schofield scholarship golf tournament, in memory of Norm who ironically passed from heart disease. Some of the symptoms we know now were connected to heart disease were that she was really tired, and had had a lot of heartburn. We found a lot of antacids in her medicine cabinet after she passed away. Back in the day, we didn’t realize that those were signs of heart disease in women.” 

Pagones, partner of Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency in Beacon, is now 53, and when she recently experienced chest pain and numbness on her left side, she didn’t hesitate. The chair of the 2020 Go Red for Women Luncheon went right to her husband, Timothy, and asked him to take her to the emergency department. She is waiting for results. 

“If it’s nothing, that’s fine,” she said. “But I don’t think I would have gotten my husband and gone to the ER before I was part of the Go Red for Women movement. I would have worried that I would be embarrassed. That’s a mindset we women need to get out of.” 

Denise Doring VanBuren, now retired from Central Hudson Gas & Electric, chaired the 2019 Dutchess-Ulster Go Red for Women movement, and invited Pagones to be part of her Executive Leadership Team. Pagones also joined the 2019 BetterU, a 12-week heart-health improvement program. She shared her mother’s story during the Luncheon itself, and now is leading the 2020 Go Red for Women campaign, which has taken a different turn in this COVID era. 

Luncheon Will Be A Digital Experience

The 2020 Dutchess-Ulster Go Red for Women Luncheon will be a digital experience on Thursday, Nov. 5, from 11 a.m. to noon. Participants can register at DutchessUlsterGoRed.heart.org, and a Zoom link will be sent to them. They can also follow the Facebook event page for updates, https://www.facebook.com/events/695557514363882/.

“We need to hold this event now more than ever,” Pagones said. “COVID has had an effect on all of us. My 12 weeks in the BetterU were some of the best 12 weeks of my life, to have people pushing us to be healthier, and all of us working together for the same purpose. I learned a lot about cooking, the grocery store, and going to the gym. COVID had slowed me down, but I’ve joined the Go Red Get Fit Facebook page, and someone wrote something about COVID that expressed exactly how I feel. COVID put things in perspective. It has made me think about what I want to do, and the need to get myself out there, walking, exercising and being mindful of everything.” 

COVID-19 has also affected Pagones’ work life, as small businesses have been reassessing their insurance coverage. “I’ve done a lot of research and have been involved with the Chamber,” Pagones said. “We’re working with our clients now on ways to save money so we can all hold steady.”

Just as she is supporting the fight against heart disease in women, Pagones is supporting local businesses. “I’m a stickler for shopping local,” she said. “When restaurants were doing takeout, we got food from a different restaurant each week.” 

More About Susan Pagones

Pagones started working at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency, LLC, the business her father owned, when she was 22. Ten years ago, she took it over, and now owns it with a partner. 

“It’s a great family business on Main Street in Beacon,” Pagones aid. “We grew up together, and I love that we all know each other.” 

Pagones is from Beacon, got her B.S. from SUNY Brockport, and after getting her insurance license, started working at Antalek & Moore in 1989. She and her husband, also a Beacon native, have five children and three grandchildren between them. 

Now, Pagones is encouraging women to make time for the Go Red for Women Luncheon, and learn about the signs and symptoms of heart disease in women. 

“Our survivor speaker is Golda Black, and her story - well, I’m a crier, and it really got me. When you hear all the stories of people living with heart disease, it’s hard to imagine,” she said. “That’s why I share my mother’s story, which I started doing last year. When I joined the committee, it became a passion to get everyone educated. Heart disease can happen to anybody. Women should be part of this because of what I went through, and am still going through. I want everyone to recognize the warning signs, and not be embarrassed. There are more issues around COVID and that makes our mission more important now than ever. If you’re not taking care of yourself, who are you helping?” 

“Susan brings a passion and warmth to the Go Red for Women movement that draws people in,” said Melissa Hanigan, manager of patient registration/office manager of specialty service at Ellenville Regional Hospital, and chair of the Hudson Valley Board of Directors of the American Heart Association. “She shares her story and is committed to educating women. I know we will have a very successful event with her at the helm. We’re honored that she stepped up to lead this event.” 

Pagones is joined by an Executive Leadership team. Its members are: Kim Kenyon, Susan Howell, Maureen Kangas, Barbara Ostrander, Carol Schmitz, Elizabeth Donohue, Melissa Hanigan, Tricia Mood, Sonia Kesselmark, SharonDiCarlo, Denise Doring VanBuren & Debbie DiRubbio.

About the Dutchess-Ulster Go Red for Women Luncheon

The 2020 Dutchess-Ulster Go Red for Women Luncheon will be a digital experience on Thursday, Nov. 5, from 11 a.m. to noon. Susan Pagones of Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency, LLC is chairing the Luncheon. Golda Black will share her story of living with heart disease. Anne and Ryan from Q92.1 will emcee the event. CVS Healthcare is the national sponsor of the Go Red for Women movement. Local sponsors include Nuvance Health, Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency, LLC, Central Hudson Gas & Electric and Tompkins Mahopac Bank. Media sponsors are Hudson Valley Magazine and Q 92.1.

For information or to register, visit DutchessUlsterGoRed.Heart.org or contact Danielle.Schuka@heart.org. 

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Additional Resources

• DutchessUlsterGoRed.Heart.org 

• www.GoRedForWomen.org 

• Heart Attack Symptoms In Women
  

Board Of Education Opens Application Process For 1 Board Seat Appointment - And Do The Qualifications Need A Refresh?

Two Board member seats on Beacon’s Board of Education were open as of last week. One seat was filled with the appointment of Jasmine Johnson, and the second seat is open for applications, the deadline for which is October 9, 2020. Click here to apply to it.

The creation of that process was made during the evening of the September 29, 2020 meeting, at which Board President, Meredith Heuer confirmed via email: “We decided to restart the appointment process for the newly open seat. Applications for that will be due 10/9. Applications that we already received will be automatically rolled over if the applicant wants. Applicants will be invited to make a public statement at the 10/13 meeting and we will finish the process at the 10/26 meeting.”

At the September 29th meeting, Board member Elissa Betterbid added that she thought that the applicant who was appointed that evening “should be part of the decision to appoint for the second seat.” You can watch live and past Board meetings here.

As of the September 29th meeting, there were 4 applicants: Jasmine Johnson (a mother who is Black and went through the Beacon school system), John Galloway Jr. (a young adult who is Black without children who went through the Beacon School system) and Barb Fisher and Travis Fisher (a young couple who are married to each other with children in the Beacon school system).

Regarding The 3 Remaining Candidates

Jasmine has since been sworn onto the Board, and John confirmed via email to ALBB that his application is still active. He said he intends to be a candidate for the appointment again, and would run in a public election if necessary, stating to ALBB via email: “I plan to make any kind of impact I can within the community regardless of if I get a seat or not! I love doing community work and giving children someone to look up to. I clearly have a better chance if I go the election route which is very strange to me but that’s just the circumstances to the situation right now. With a seat on a school board, I can possibly make real changes surrounding youth development. Our city hasn’t focused on it in almost 15 years as far as I’m concerned and it’s time to make it a priority.”

Travis withdrew his candidacy the day after the meeting, stating to the Board via email to them, which he shared with ALBB via email: “It seems clear you will have at least one energetic candidate who brings diversity and much-needed community connections. If I would stay in the running it would be mostly to make sure again you have a choice of candidates with different strengths. But at this point I think it is clear that the strengths I offer are not what the Board most needs in the current moment.”

Barb also withdrew her candidacy the Saturday after the meeting, stating to the Board via email to them, which she shared with ALBB via email: “With regards to the new vacancy, I believe there are other people who are well qualified and willing to serve. So, I respectfully request that my application be removed from consideration.”

During the first appointment meeting on September 29, 2020, members of the Board alluded to another person who intended to apply, and that they wanted to give them a chance. ALBB does not know the name of that person, or if they have since applied.

How To Apply

Links to the application have been posted to the Beacon City School District’s website.

Basic qualifications of a member of the Board of Education are listed in the packet and include:

• must be able to read and write;

• must be a qualified voter of the district; that is, a citizen of the United States, at least 18 years of age or older, and not adjudged to be an incompetent; (Note: a convicted felon is barred from running for a seat on a board of education if his or her maximum prison sentence has not expired or if he or she has not been pardoned or discharged from parole)

• must be and have been a resident of the school district for at least one year prior to election;

• may not have been removed from any school district office within the preceding year;

• may not reside with another member of the same school board as a member of the same family;

• may not be a current employee of the school district; and

• may not simultaneously hold another incompatible public office, including, but not limited to Superintendent, clerk, tax collector, treasurer or librarian, or an employee of the Board. Board members may not hold any city office other than that of police officer or firefighter.

A few readers have asked about the relevance of people who are married and living in the same house running for Board seats at the same time. People asked this prior to the reading this list of qualifications. So, we reached out to the Board Presdient, Meredith Heuer, for clarification. She answered: “We would not have been able to appoint both Barbara and Travis but it is not illegal for them to both apply.”

As for the rest of the applicant requirements, the first one regarding reading and writing is surprising that it is still here. Language requirements were part of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that John Lewis (of “good trouble”) fought to remove, as a barrier to voting. It is also not clear if a Beacon parent were to apply who is fluent in Spanish, but not English. Is there an English literacy test they would take? And if so, would a person who is fluent in English even pass it? Or for parents who are deaf, is there an interpreter provided?

According to Wikipedia:

“The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is a landmark piece of federal legislation in the United States that prohibits racial discrimination in voting.[7][8] It was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson during the height of the civil rights movement on August 6, 1965, and Congress later amended the act five times to expand its protections.[7] Designed to enforce the voting rights guaranteed by the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution, the act secured the right to vote for racial minorities throughout the country, especially in the South. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the act is considered to be the most effective piece of federal civil rights legislation ever enacted in the country.[9]

”The act contains numerous provisions that regulate elections. The act's "general provisions" provide nationwide protections for voting rights. Section 2 is a general provision that prohibits every state and local government from imposing any voting law that results in discrimination against racial or language minorities. Other general provisions specifically outlaw literacy tests and similar devices that were historically used to disenfranchise racial minorities.”

It is also noteworthy that no person serving in a government position can also serve on the Board of Education, except for police officer or fire fighter.

Is it time for a refresh of these qualifications?

Click here to find the application links.

Click here to find the Board of Education videos at YouTube, where you can subscribe to watch them live, and watch past meetings.

---

Editorial Transparency Note: Barb Fisher is the owner of Barb’s Butchery, which has been an advertiser with A Little Beacon Blog in the past. The business is a website design client of our parent company, Katie James, Inc. This did not influence the reporting, or the how or why this article was produced.

The Hudson River Maritime Museum Announces Women's Sailing Conference Goes Virtual In November 2020

The Hudson River Maritime Museum is pleased to announce the Fourth Annual Riverport Women’s Sailing Conference has opened registration for its new, virtual event taking place on Friday, November 6 and Saturday, November 7, 2020.

Energize And Empower Women To Get Involved In Sailing

Taking place on the evening of Friday, November 6, 2020 and from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2020, the Women’s Sailing Conference features speakers and instructors from around the world. The goal of the conference is to energize and empower women to get involved in sailing at all levels. Everyone, women and men, from experienced sailors to those who have never been on the water before are welcome! Conference registration is by household, so gather around your screens to participate in these amazing opportunities.

The conference begins on Friday, November 6 at 5:00 pm. Pour yourself a glass of wine or sparkling cider and get ready to be wowed by our Friday night keynote speaker, Captain Dawn Riley, the first woman to manage an America's Cup sailing team. She has raced on four America’s Cup campaigns and two Whitbread (The Ocean Race) teams. Dawn now runs Oakcliff Sailing Center (oakcliffsailing.org), which provides opportunities for participants to build world class sailing skills in local and offshore racing and to learn the business of sailing.  Based in Oyster Bay, NY, Oakcliff hosts sailors from around the world and trains them to work and sail at the highest levels of the sport.

Watch Maiden on Amazon Prime or STARZ

Tracy Edwards, captain of Maiden, opens our Saturday, November 7 session at 1:00 p.m. You may recognize Tracy’s name from the recent film Maiden (2019), about the all-women crew who competed in the Whitbread Around the World Race in 1989-1990. Members of the original and current crews will regale us with stories and keep us updated on their efforts to educate girls around the world through their current project The Maiden Factor. Participants are encouraged to watch the documentary film about the race before attending. Maiden is available for purchase on Amazon Prime or included with STARZ.

The afternoon will continue until 6:00 pm with more amazing women-led presentations including: 

• Welcoming Sailors from Diverse Communities 

• The History and Mission of the Sloop Clearwater

• Safety Around Large Vessels

• Maritime Careers

• Blue Water Sailing

• Basic Navigation

• Communications at Sea

• Sail Care and Repair

• and Outboard Engine Troubleshooting

Afternoon sessions will be available in three sets of three concurrent sessions. All sessions will be recorded, so those participants who want to revisit presentations they did not attend will have access to the recordings after the conference.

The fee for the entire conference is $50 per household. We welcome participants from low-income and underserved communities and have scholarships available. To apply for a scholarship, please email Jody Taffet Sterling at jsterling@hrmm.org                                                                               

About the Hudson River Maritime Museum

Located along the historic Rondout Creek in downtown Kingston, N.Y., the Hudson River Maritime Museum is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime history of the Hudson River, its tributaries, and related industries. HRMM opened the Wooden Boat School in 2016 and the Sailing & Rowing School in 2017.