As we go about making choices in our everyday lives during the pandemic and rising impact of the Delta varient, knowing the numbers of our community and surrounding communities can help. To give context, at the end of June 2021, there were 56 Active Cases of COVID-19 in Dutchess County, as reported by Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro during his first video Town Hall in response to other counties sending out public health alerts to the rising numbers on August 18, 2021. This week, the number of Active Cases exceeded 800 twice.
Since then, Dutchess County Executive Molinaro has made a second video Town Hall presentation on August 27, 2021 where he presented more data in context. It should be noted, that the County Executive stated that hospitals in Dutchess County have told him that they are concerned with the current number of COVID-19 hospitalizations (around 29 people hospitalized for COVID-19 at the time), as it stresses their entire system. Since stating that, the number reached 41 people hospitalized recently.
Giving context for the Positivity Rate Percentage: In June 2021, that percentage was .28%. One month later at the end of August, the number spiked to the 4.5% range. Other states that are currently fighting many more infections have higher percentages, like Florida (20%), and Texas (ranging between 10%-20% who needed to ask FEMA for additional refrigerated morgue trucks).
Currently, hospitalization numbers (people in the hospital) in Dutchess County have been rising to the high 30s. The number of Active Cases in Beacon have been fluctuating in the 30s. In this date range alone (8/18/2021 - 8/30/2021), 7 people in Dutchess County have died from COVID-19 related complications. Indications of vaccinated status is not included in the Dutchess Dashboard at this time, but Dutchess County Executive Molinaro has been providing it verbally in his Town Halls of late.
Peace, love and compassion for people fighting the virus, those who have passed, and to their loved ones. And to any condition anyone is suffering.
Below are the numbers of people impacted for the past few days, as recorded from the Dutchess Dashboard:
COVID-19 Numbers for 8/18/2021
Dutchess County Active Cases: 732 people Dutchess County Hospitalizations: 28 people Dutchess County Deaths: 458 people Dutchess County Positivity Rates: 8/18/21: 4.64% 8/19/21:4.64% 8/20/21: 4.64% 8/22/21: 4.64% 8/24/21: 4.64% 8/26/21: 4.64% 8/27/21: 4.64% 8/28/21: 4.64% 8/29/21: 4.64% 8/30/21: 4.64%
Active Cases By Community:
Beacon: 31 people Fishkill: 63 people Fishkill Village <5 people Poughkeepsie: 106 people Poughkeepsie City: 140 people Wappingers Falls: 59 people Wappingers Falls Village: 20 people Hyde Park: 49 people
COVID-19 Numbers for 8/19/2021
Dutchess County Active Cases: 739 Dutchess County Hospitalizations: 32 Dutchess County Deaths: 460
As numbers and percentages continue to be the driving force of the pandemic used to justify decisions, there is one metric that has been quoted more often than its sibling metric: the percentage of the Dutchess County population 18+ who have received one of two vaccination doses (73.6% as of 8/28/2021), vs the percentage of people who have received two of the two doses of their vaccine (56.67%).
The HHS statement detailed: “The available data make very clear that protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection begins to decrease over time following the initial doses of vaccination, and in association with the dominance of the Delta variant, we are starting to see evidence of reduced protection against mild and moderate disease. Based on our latest assessment, the current protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death could diminish in the months ahead, especially among those who are at higher risk or were vaccinated during the earlier phases of the vaccination rollout.”
Community Protection Is Key
The CDC stressed on July 27, 2021 that as long as the community was not fully vaccinated, reduced risk of transmission would be difficult: “A growing body of evidence indicates that people fully vaccinated with an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) are less likely than unvaccinated persons to acquire SARS-CoV-2 or to transmit it to others. However, the risk for SARS-CoV-2 breakthrough infection in fully vaccinated people cannot be completely eliminated as long as there is continued community transmission of the virus.
44% Of Dutchess County Not Fully Vaccinated
While it is important to celebrate the accomplishment of half the population of Dutchess County being fully vaccinated, 44% of people traveling throughout the county and into neighboring counties is a lot of people. People may assume that a friend of theirs is vaccinated, and may assume incorrectly. While some industries are requiring vaccinations in order to return to work, some employees are opting to work from home to avoid that mandate. Others, like this soap opera star who is openly against vaccinating, are one such example. As of today, actors are not required by their union to vaccinate in order to work on set with other vaccinated people.
The Booster Shot Preparation 8 Months After Initial Vaccine Series
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is preparing for all Americans get the 3rd shot booster, according to their August 19, 2021 statement. HHS stated that they are awaiting data for the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccine, but anticipates that boosters will be needed for that group as well.
From their statement : “We have developed a plan to begin offering these booster shots this fall subject to FDA conducting an independent evaluation and determination of the safety and effectiveness of a third dose of the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines and CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) issuing booster dose recommendations based on a thorough review of the evidence. We are prepared to offer booster shots for all Americans beginning the week of September 20 and starting 8 months after an individual’s second dose. At that time, the individuals who were fully vaccinated earliest in the vaccination rollout, including many health care providers, nursing home residents, and other seniors, will likely be eligible for a booster. We would also begin efforts to deliver booster shots directly to residents of long-term care facilities at that time, given the distribution of vaccines to this population early in the vaccine rollout and the continued increased risk that COVID-19 poses to them.”
For example, if you got your full vaccination sequence with your second shot on April 27th 2021, you would get a third booster shot on or around December 27th. Which happens to be the one year anniversary date of this blogger’s quarantine release date from recovering from actual COVID-19! Would not wish the actual virus to be in anyone. See you in the booster shot line.
Majority Of Hospitalizations Are Non Or Partially-Vaccinated People
Photo Credit: Screenshot of the Dutchess County Dashboard taken on 8/30/21, reflecting numbers from 8/28/2021.
County Executive Marcus Molinaro offered new vaccinated segmented data on his Facebook Live update on Friday, August 27th, 2021. The County Executive’s Communication Director, Colleen Pillus, confirmed with ALBB this data:
Hospital Demographics 7-day average (8/15-8/21) 29 patients on average [in the hospital] 76% [people] partially or not vaccinated vs. 24% [people] fully vaccinated on average
The HHS and group of experts who signed the statement maintains that vaccinating is a highly recommended mode of protection, by elaborating: “Our top priority remains staying ahead of the virus and protecting the American people from COVID-19 with safe, effective, and long-lasting vaccines especially in the context of a constantly changing virus and epidemiologic landscape. We will continue to follow the science on a daily basis, and we are prepared to modify this plan should new data emerge that requires it.”
In terms of vaccinated vs unvaccinated, HHS continued: “We also want to emphasize the ongoing urgency of vaccinating the unvaccinated in the U.S. and around the world. Nearly all the cases of severe disease, hospitalization, and death continue to occur among those not yet vaccinated at all.”
As of August 28, 2021, there are 844 Active Cases of COVID-19 in Dutchess County. That is a 4.57% positivity rate, according to the Dutchess Dashboard, which changes daily.
On August 18th, 2021, days after Sullivan and Orange Counties issued public health alarms about the rise in COVID-19 cases due to the Delta variant, prompting them to put into place a preventative mask measure to slow the spread of COVID-19 in their regions, Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro delivered a video presentation via Facebook addressing the rise of cases over the summer a week after warnings in neighboring counties.
When last he gave a video presentation at the end of June 2021, there were 56 Active Cases in Dutchess County. By August 18th, 2021, just over a month later, there were 726. The number remains between 700-800 Active Cases today.
“Those who are seeing more severe cases and are coming to a hospital setting are overwhelmingly not vaccinated.”
— County Executive Marcus Molinaro
Currently, he reported, there are 60-93 new cases each day of COVID-19 in Dutchess County. Whereas before, in June, there were 1-4 new cases each day. “None of these data-points individually would cause us to sound an alarm,” he said. “But collectively, we want to monitor those things.” With press releases coming out of the County Executive’s Office weekly about accomplishments including monies designated for grants, a new mental health website, agricultural spotlights, etc., no press release was sent about this spike from 56 to 726 new Active COVID-19 Cases in Dutchess County from June to August.
After Sullivan County mandated that all people in county buildings must wear masks, and Orange County strongly recommended that all residents wear masks indoors, ALBB reached out to the County Executive’s office on August 16th to inquire if Dutchess County or their Health Department had made similar announcements, but received no reply. Days later on August 18th, Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro delivered his first COVID-19 update video. A week after that, the Dutchess County Commissioner of Behavioral and Community Health (DBCH), Dr. Anil Vaidian MD, resigned, thanking the county for the opportunity to have worked for them.
Positivity Rate Rises To 4.8% (August) From .28% (June)
"Today we are at a 4.8% positivity rate. Not a 'transmission rate' this is a 'positivity rate,’” County Executive Molinaro explained, and then continued to give a reference point: “At the end of June, we were at .28% transmission rate. We are now at 4.8%." ALBB has confirmed with the County Executive’s office that the quoted .28% transmission rate was indeed referencing the positivity rate.
86% Hospitalized With COVID-19 in Dutchess County Are Not Vaccinated; 77% of Active Cases Are Not Vaccinated
County Executive Molinaro released hospital data not included in the Dutchess Dashboard that presents tracked COVID-19 data, confirming that 86% of those hospitalized in Dutchess County are not vaccinated. "Those who are seeing more severe cases and are coming to a hospital setting are overwhelmingly not vaccinated."
As for Active Cases, according to the data collected by Dutchess County Contact Tracers, who personally call people with Active Cases to check in on them to learn about transmission patterns, 77% of people recovering from COVID-19 told Contact Tracers that they were not vaccinated, County Executive Molinaro said.
Hospitals In Dutchess County Are Concerned And Explain Why 28 COVID-19 Hospitalizations In 1 Month Is Too Much
“Not every particular hospital room is built to contain an airborne virus of this kind. As those rooms fill up, hospitals have to use other rooms. As those rooms fill up, hospitals have to use other rooms. Use of those rooms might close down a whole floor.”
— Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro
With 60-93 new Active Cases a day, and 8 new hospitalizations in a week, County Executive Molinaro exclaimed: “That is a pace that is of concern to all of us, in the public health world and in the health care world.” He went on to explain why the number of 28 hospitalizations in 1 month stresses the hospital system in Dutchess County, by explaining that not all hospital rooms are designed to entrap an airborn virus.
"The growth in hospitalization is what puts pressure on the health care system. There are several hundred beds that might be available in the region. That is true. Keep in mind that not every room in every hospital is protected in a way that would prevent an airborne virus - a virus that travels in the way that this does - to escape the room,” he stated. “Not every particular hospital room is built to contain an airborne virus of this kind. As those rooms fill up, hospitals have to use other rooms. Use of those rooms might close down a whole floor."
He went on to explain that hospitals have voiced concern: "Our health care providers - our hospitals - with whom we are on calls with every week - they have a level of concern about the transmission among individuals, visitors who come into the hospital, visitors to staff, and then those staff members have to isolate. Those become big challenges for health care providers."
As of 8/18/2021, in the last 10 days, 9 Dutchess County residents have lost their life to the virus, the County Executive said. “There are severe cases, and those severe cases are taking some lives." Later in the presentation, Molinaro said: "The severity of the cases have been on the incline.”
County Executive Molinaro ended with a push to get vaccinated, walking a middle line between encouragement and recommendation: "We encourage you to choose to get vaccinated. I hope that you will. We encourage you to get the answers to the questions you may have."
Where To Get Vaccinated In Beacon
Vaccinations are free, and available at the new Beacon Wellness Pharmacy on Main Street. An appointment is necessary to make on their website. Sun River Health on Henry Street is now vaccinating any person, not just current patients. Dutchess County is offering home services to those in need. Castle Point is offering a driving service for Veterans to be driven to an appointment, and is looking for volunteers to drive. Details for all of these locations is at the Dutchess County vaccination page.
ALBB is looking for local resources who are helping with refugee resettlement so that we can promote it. If you know of a local group who is helping, please also let us know.
ALBB's poetic writer, Izdihar Dabashi, shared a fundraiser from a local resource, Columbia Muslim Students Association (MSA). Izdihar is a graduate of Marist in Psychology and Neuropsychology, and a Masters student at Columbia studying Psychology, Neuroscience, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
"In response to the disastrous earthquake in southern Haiti and political/humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, Columbia MSA is raising funds to support response & recovery in Haiti and Hazara refugees fleeing Afghanistan. The proceeds from this fundraiser will be evenly distributed to charity organizations Hope for Haiti and GIFT Organization's Refugee Sponsorship services.
"GIFT Organization is a CRA registered charity in Ontario, Canada. In light of the Canadian government allowing 20,000 Afghan refugees to settle in the country, a coalition of Canadian Hazara community organizations and North American Islamic Centers have made a goal to sponsor 20 Hazara families to settle in Canada, using GIFT as an intermediary fund. This fundraiser is focused on sponsoring Hazara Afghans, an ethnic minotiry that has long been persecuted by the Taliban. Hazaras are targeted because 1. many are Shia Muslims, 2. they have distinctive ethnic roots and 3. they have separate economic and political origins."
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
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Black Trans Lives Matter: Rally & Ritual Day: Friday, August 27, 2021 Time: 6pm Location: Poughkeepsie
Rally and Ritual Friday at 6pm in Poughkeepsie. Day: Saturday, August 28, 2021
Virtual Black August Teach-in on Saturday at 4pm!
Link to register for the teach in: http://bit.ly/BlackAugustTeachIn Information >
Dutchess Fair Days: Tuesday, August 24, 2021 - Sunday, August 29, 2021 Time: 10am - 10pm Location: Street Address: 6550 Spring Brook Avenue – Rhinebeck, NY 12572 GPS Address: 6636 Route 9 – Rhinebeck, NY 12572 (Gate #1 Entrance All Events)
Pop-Up Vaccination opportunities are at the fair.
ALBB recommends you wear a mask when indoors or under a tight-fitting structure waiting in line. Also, when waiting in line, make your own social bubble away from the person in front of you. While venues may not be creating visuals to space people out in line, try to work together to remember to give space. Information >
High School Musical Jr
Day: August 27 & 28, 2021 Times:
Friday, August 27 at 6:00pm - Sharpay Cast
Saturday, August 28 at 11:00am - Ryan Cast
Saturday, August 28 at 2:00pm - Sharpay Cast
Saturday, August 28 at 5:00pm - Ryan Cast Location: University Settlement Camp 724 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY 12508
Beacon Performing Arts Center proudly presents High School Musical Jr. They will be spacing out Pods by 6 feet so households and pods can sit together. Face masks must be worn during check-in and whenever exiting your POD spot (e.g. to visit the restrooms or concessions, etc). *Rain date: August 29 Information >
#TeachTruth Day: Saturday, August 28, 2021 Time: 12pm Location: Newburgh Colored Burial Ground, Broadway & Robinson Avenue (US 9W), Newburgh, NY
Join a national movement of communities coming together at historic locations around the country to speak up against legislative efforts to ban teachers from teaching the truth about the role of racism, sexism, heterosexism, and oppression throughout U.S. history. Learn about your place in the fight for more Just and Equitable schools. Information >
Paint & Sip at Two Way Brewing
Day: Sunday, August 29, 2021 Time: 6:30pm Location: 18 W Main St, Beacon, NY Information >
Mindfulness Back To School Yoga Day: Sunday, August 29, 2021 Times:
11pm - 12pm (Youth in 5th grade & under)
12:30pm - 1:30pm (Youth in 6th grade & up) Location: Long Dock Park, Beacon NY Information >
TWO WAY BREWING COMPANY
18 West Main St.
Serving up cold beer, tasty dishes, and live music tonight at Two Way! Music starts at 7:30pm with The Judith Tulloch Trio, and The Flying Jib offers their delicious menu all night long. Paint & Sip happens this Sunday at 6:30pm! Name a better Sunday activity! See beers on tap here > PS: Don't forget about Trivia Thursdays! PPS: More live music coming up! Stay tuned OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 9:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm
Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Banh Mi sandwiches from Eat Church look so good! They're always surprising us with goods at the Beacon Farmers Market! Stop in & see them there every Sunday!
You can also catch Eat Church at Indsutrial Arts Brewing from Thursday - Sunday & at the grab-n-go fridge at Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring. Basically, there are many opportunities to get your hands and mouth on the delicious offerings from Eat Church! Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
Beacon Bread Company does it right! A full coffee & espresso bar, mouth-watering breakfast & lunch options (look at that photo to the right!), vegan breakfast & brunch options, and compliments, like the loaded potato tots & shishito peppers! Can't forget about the brunch cocktails and other refreshments. Open 8am - 5pm every day except Wednesday! Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Have you tried the P&B BBQ burger from MOD? Berkshire pork and chopped bacon hand-formed into a patty, topped with cheddar, grilled onions, and their house-made chipotle BBQ sauce. Mouth-watering - isn't it? Open Sunday thru Thursday for Food 11:30am - 9pm; Bar until 10pm Friday and Saturday Food 11:30am - 11:00pm; Bar until midnight. Order Now > Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!
TITO SANTANA TAQUERIA 142 Main St.
Tostadas from Tito! Fried tortilla, refried beans, Pico creme, Guacamole - add chicken, pork, or smoked brisket! Other options include tacos (that are only $3 every Tuesday), quesadillas, soups, chopped cheese sandwiches, empanadas, nachos, bowls, salads, burritos... you get it right? PS: Vegan options available (tacos, bowls, salads, & soups. PPS: Dinner takeout special available Monday-Friday from 4pm - 9pm: 4 tacos, + 2 street corn, + 1 chip & salsa, + 1 rice & beans for only $24! PPPS: Catering available! Menu > Catering > Tito Santana Taqueria is a Sponsor, thank you!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Frittata with tomatoes from Common Ground Farm and cucumber salad with basil vinaigrette. Looks refreshing and delicious! Also, one of Common Ground's biggest fundraisers is going on now! A group of sponsors has agreed to match the dollars they raise. Consider donating directly to Common Ground - in addition to your Farm Kit or if a Farm Kit was sold out for the day you want it. Every little bit helps! Donate here > PS: Gift Cards are available in-store at Homespun! PPS: Order cutoff for Farm Kits is every Tuesday at 5pm, and pick up is at Homespun every Friday, anytime between 10am-7pm. Find more Farm Kit Info Here > OPEN HOURS:
Thursday - Monday, 10am - 7pm Order Food > Homespun is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Have you stopped into El Nica (located inside the HV Food Hall) yet? El Nica serves Nicaraguan food like Carne Asada, Pinchos, Sweet Plantains & more! Not sure what to order? Check out their mix platter (pictured to the right) - A little bit of everything!
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu! Momo Valley: Himalayan Spiced Hand-Crafted MoMo & More Barb's Fry Works: Gourmet, small-batch-loaded fries. And salads. El Nica: Nicaraguan Food Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio! Schmuck's Sweet Stuff: Local Ice Cream, Hot Waffles, and Other Sweet Stuff Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Sometimes ya just don't feel like cooking and that's ok! Especially when Baja is in town! Chicken rise bowl, guacamole, salsa, steak quesadilla, and yucca fries & onions pictured here but MANY MANY more good options! Treat yourself & order delicious take-out from here. Or dine in! PS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
ZIATUN
244 Main St.
We are so excited to see Ziatun back & hope they enjoyed their time off. After a wonderful start to the week, they shared updates on some recent changes! *Hours:
Monday: 11am-9pm
Tuesday & Wednesday: 11am-4pm (open for lunch)
Thursday: 11am-9pm
Friday: 11am-9pm
Saturday: 11am-9pm
Sunday: 11am-8pm
*They close for an hour Thursday-Monday from 3-4 pm to reset for dinner service*
*Ziatun is no longer affiliated with Grubhub & Ubereats! You can conveniently order & pay through their website or the “Order Food” button in their bio
*Lastly! They are not taking reservations for lunch or dinner. Dining is first-come-first-served in the dining room as well as the outdoor patio. They welcome all room rentals and catering inquiries! Menu > Order Online > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
DIRTY BACCHUS
380 Main Street, Beacon
One should endure a night by drinking good French wine from Dirty Bacchus! They have lots of carefully curated French wines, from affordable daily drinkers to the ethereal and rare. Every wine on the shelves at Dirty Bacchus is low-intervention, organic or biodynamic, sustainably farmed, and vegan. Stop in! PS: Dirty Bacchus is hiring! HOURS:
Mon-Wed: 12-6pm
Thur- Sat: 11am-7pm
Sun: 12-5pm Dirty Bacchus is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon Thrilling! Stranger than fiction! Campfire tales for miles. And of course, happy customers at Binnacle Books always! Larry Kaniut, “Alaska Bear Tales”. Binnacle specializes in used and new literature, poetry, literary nonfiction, political history, art, drama, philosophy, graphic novels, and children's books. Is there a particular title you're interested in? Let Binnacle know. If they don't have it, they'd be happy to order it for you.
NOW *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Need a restock on your Mrs. Meyer’s products? Brett's has devoted a whole shelving section to the variety of aromas and purpose cleaners. From laundry detergent to dish soap to cleaning fluid you can dilute in the mop water, your cleaning closet will be well-stocked in no time. And no worries, if Mrs. Meyers isn’t your thing, Brett's has several other cleaning brands to choose from. Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Luxe Optique is all about bringing you the latest & greatest in eyewear from some of the best collections in the world. Just when you think they've done it... they do it again! Sometimes the frame selection is just that easy. We are obsessed with these & they look fabulous!
Luxe is a full-service optical store and an Optometrist is always on-site for eye exams. Stop in today to see their fabulous collections in store! HOURS:
Monday: 10am–5pm
Tues-Saturday:10am–6pm
Sunday: 11am-4pm Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon
Fresh arrivals at La Mere!! Always the best! Especially when some of the new arrivals include popular items that are back in stock like the black Cut Out Dress! Available now. Stop in.
New Arrivals Weekly / Free Shipping
Download their free app in the iTunes Store PS: Everything is under $100!! PPS: Men's clothing is available now!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Teacher Spotlight
Sue has been dancing since she was 5 years old. Her first dance lesson was at Yanarella School of Dance and that is where she spent all of her dancing years. She attended many dance conventions, NADAA, Dance Caravan, and was even a guest teacher at some of those conventions. She continued her dance education at Cortland State where she studied under Gus Giordano.
She studied all forms of dance; ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics and modern. She even did Tap Dancing on Pointe but her love and greatest accomplishment as a young dancer was Acrobatics! Sue had many solos throughout the years at Yanarella – using top hats, glasses of water, stairs – anything that the director could imagine.
She and her partner at that time, Eric Villani, entered the Dutchess County Fair Talent Show and won first place. This sent them to the Syracuse State Fair where they competed as well. This was back in 1969!!
Sue continues to teach and her love for tap dancing shines as she teaches the Adult Tap Classes. She enjoys the comradery of the adults and their eagerness to learn something new in their life. She is full of energy and it shows!
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Meet the terrific trio that does it all at Antalek & Moore!
- Partner Susan Pagones, CIC. (top left)
- Partner Vince Lemma (top right)
- Founding Partner Frederick N. Antalek, IIA. (bottom)
Personal Insurance, Business Insurance, Life Insurance, and more! Give Antalek & Moore a call today: 845-831-4300 and visit their website. Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
Getting publicity is an art, and anyone can do it using the right methods.
Business owners, artists and makers benefit from the fresh ideas and supportive approach Tin Shingle's Media Kit Membership offers. Designed for long or short term memberships, flexibility is built in to fit the goals and budgets go businesses small and large. Find out more > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Your website called... it wants a re-do! No worries... Katie James Inc. has you covered! The designer and lead producer, Katie Hellmuth Martin, can guide you through this process and design you or re-create a website that both looks stunning, and works well to help people do what you need them to at your website. New-season on the way... new website! Check out a recent project we did for Homespun Foods In Beacon > Find out more > Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Social Media Lead At The Hyacinth Group Details >
HIRING: Daycare Teacher & Assistant Wanted At Care 4 Me, Inc. Details >
HIRING: Beacon City School District Food Service Department Is Looking For Substitute Food Service Helpers Details >
HIRING: Sous-Chef Position At Homespun Foods Details >
HIRING: Part-Time Production Assistant At SallyeAnder Details >
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT :: Maple Street Studio
There is a new guitar studio in town! On Maple Street to be exact. Dan Garcia, who built a new studio there. He also developed an app to teach guitar, but lucky Beaconites (and other friends in neighboring towns), get to come to his studio! See A Little Beacon Blog’s Business Directory for details.
ALBB's Business Directory is a Deep Dive List of services you need right now in Beacon and the Hudson Valley. There is a lot of talent here in the 12508 and beyond and we want to highlight all of them. Check out the Business Directory HERE.
Dr. Anil Vaidian MD, Commissioner of Behavioral and Community Health (DBCH) for Dutchess County, is stepping down after 4 years of service. Dr. Vaidian made public appearances in the winter of the pandemic 2020, making himself available to communicative opportunities like “Current Conversations” with the Highlands Current in November, 2020. He made a few other appearances on the Dutchess County Facebook page via video.
In 2021, once the COVID-19 numbers decreased in Dutchess County, Dr. Vaidian was less in the public eye. For the latest COVID-19 increase due to the Delta varient, Dutchess County did not immediately make an public health alert, when Orange and Sullivan Counties did. Days later, Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro did make an COVID-19 update via the County’s Facebook page. Dr. Vaidian was not part of that announcement.
As a point of interest as it relates to Beacon, the City of Beacon’s former City Administrator, Anthony Ruggiero, left his Administrator position in Beacon to take the position of Assistant Commissioner of Administration with the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral and Community Health.
The press release from Dutchess County is below in full:
Dutchess County Commissioner of Behavioral and Community Health to Step Down
Poughkeepsie, NY… Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro announced today that Anil Vaidian MD, MPH will step down as the Commissioner of Behavioral and Community Health (DBCH) following a four year plus tenure dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Vaidian’s resignation is effective Friday, September 10th, 2021.
Dr. Vaidian’s decades of experience as an infectious disease specialist has been crucial as he has notably led the Department of Behavioral & Community Health team as they have continued to deal with the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, which has consumed public health professionals since January 2020. Dr. Vaidian has been at the forefront of the County’s efforts, providing public health guidance to the community from the initial press conference announcing the first positive case in March 2020, to hundreds of conference calls with community leaders, hospital and healthcare professionals, school district leaders, faith-based organizations as well as virtual town hall updates and videos for the public over the past 17 months.
Dr. Vaidian said, “It has been my blessed good fortune to work along with and besides such wonderful staff and colleagues dedicated to highest standards of public health and community service. I am grateful to County Executive Molinaro for the opportunity to work this talented team of people. I will miss the enthusiasm, perseverance, and unrelenting pursuit of DBCH’s mission: To protect, promote, and improve the physical, mental, and social well-being of our community. Despite the long hours and everchanging circumstances, their unwavering commitment to that mission has been evident each and every day during this battle against COVID-19 as we have sought to inform and protect our residents. I know the entire DBCH organization will continue to be successful in serving our community’s well-being.”
County Executive Molinaro said, “Dutchess County is a healthier community due to the four-plus years Dr. Vaidian served as our health commissioner. Faced with a pandemic the likes of which we’ve never seen in our lifetimes, Dr. Vaidian oversaw our county health department through its most challenging times in memory, using his infectious disease expertise to inform and educate our residents while formulating public health guidance to protect them. I thank Dr. Vaidian for his service to Dutchess County, and look forward to finding a similarly competent leader to guide the dedicated and talented DBCH staff for years to come.”
The County will begin an executive search for an individual with the necessary combination of management skill and clinical knowledge to serve as Commissioner. An Acting Commissioner from within the Department of Behavioral and Community Health will be appointed by County Executive Molinaro in September, pending approval by the New York State Department of Health.
Join The Poet Gold for a solo performance of spoken word and poetry that speaks to the hearts of humanity on issues of facing our fears, our truths, social justice, building bridges, and triumphing through hope and love.
When: Thursday, August 26, 2021 (rain date September 2) Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm Location: South Avenue Park, Beacon NY
Musical accompaniment by award-winning violinist Gwen Laster and Damon Banks on bass.
Poetry collage kits designed by Romina Robinson, using the words of Poet Gold will be available as a self-guided activity before the performance.
This is a BYOS event! Bring your own SCISSORS!
The kits will have everything to make a collage, including a glue stick, but we invite you to bring a pair of scissors in order to truly customize your piece.
We are bringing back the COVID-19 Tracking articles while we stay mindful of what is going on with transmission and positivity rates, and the possible waning efficacy of the vaccination that 55% of residents did take all doses of in Dutchess County. As the virus was declining, in June 2021, there were 56 Active Cases in Dutchess County. On August 18, 2021, there are 732 Active Cases in Dutchess County, according to Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro during an address he delivered via Facebook. Today, there are 30 Active Cases in Beacon. Dutchess County is considered to be in a “High Transmission Rate” according to the CDC.
“56 Active Cases in Dutchess County in June 2021 732 Active Cases in Dutchess County on August 18, 2021”
— Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro
As the Delta variant thrives in other states A Little Beacon Blog is starting to track the COVID-19 numbers again. You can track it 24/7 by visiting the Dutchess County Dashboard here. Readers have asked a few questions since the last time we were tracking this in May 2020. Those questions and answers are below:
What used to be the high Active Case Count in Beacon? At one point in mid May 2020, there were 146 Active Cases in Beacon. Active Cases hovered in the 130s for a bit, and then the gradual decline began.
What was happening by May 2020? Well, as of March 2020, restaurants had been shut down. They began selling booze-to-go on March 17, 2020, according to Eater NY. By May, there were calls to open outdoor dining. By June, outdoor dining was approved in New York, and Beacon introduced “parklets” for people to dine in parking spots. Also according to Eater NY, on March 25, 2020: “The pioneering, Mumbai-born Chef Floyd Cardoz dies. He was one of the first major figures in the NYC food world to die from complications related to COVID-19. In the months that followed, the staggering toll the virus took on the city included the deaths of dozens of hospitality industry workers, chefs, and restaurant owners.”
Are Active COVID-19 Hospital Cases separated by Vaccinated or Non-Vaccinated? According to Dutchess County Communication Director Colleen T. Pillus in response to ALBB’s question: “Our dashboard does not separate out vaccinated/non-vaccinated in the hospital count at this time.” However, Dutchess County does have the information, as noted in a 8/18/2021 address to residents by Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro.
Do we know the number of people who have died due to COVID-19 complications in Beacon?
According to Dutchess County Communication Director Colleen T. Pillus in response to ALBB’s question: “We do not publish mortality numbers by municipality.”
“Long-Haul COVID” is not tracked in the Dutchess County Dashboard. ”Long-Haul COVID” is a condition that develops in some people after they first contract the virus. People who have it speak of fatigue lasting for months, pain, and other compromising symptoms. Beacon’s Councilperson Air Nonken Rhodes began speaking openly about their own life with long-haul symptoms, which you can read about here.
COVID-19 Case Numbers
8/18/2021 Dutchess County Active Cases: 732 Dutchess County Deaths: 458 Dutchess County Hospitalized: 28 Beacon Active Cases: 31 Fishkill Active Cases: 63 Fishkill Village Active Cases: <5 Poughkeepsie Active Cases: 106 Poughkeepsie City Active Cases: 140 Wappinger Active Cases: 59 Wappingers Falls Village: 20 Hyde Park Active Cases: 49
8/19/2021 Dutchess County Active Cases: 739 Dutchess County Deaths: 460 Dutchess County Hospitalized: 32 Beacon Active Cases: 30 Fishkill Active Cases: 64 Fishkill Village Active Cases: <5 Poughkeepsie Active Cases: 101 Poughkeepsie City Active Cases: 133 Wappinger Active Cases: 61 Wappingers Falls Village: 21 Hyde Park Active Cases: 50
8/20/2021 Dutchess County Active Cases: 725 Dutchess County Deaths: 461 Dutchess County Hospitalized: 28 Beacon Active Cases: 30 East Fishkill Active Cases: 64 Fishkill Active Cases: 56 Fishkill Village Active Cases: 6 Poughkeepsie Active Cases: 103 Poughkeepsie City Active Cases: 131 Wappinger Active Cases: 56 Wappingers Falls Village: 19 Hyde Park Active Cases: 46
As the last days of summer are here, you are wanting to enjoy them at fairs, festivals, movie nights under a pavilion, and more. When you do, we are recommending you be mindful of the high positivity rate of COVID-19 right now in Dutchess County. During the decline in June 2021, there were 56 Active Cases in Dutchess County, according to Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro during an address this week. As of August 18, 2021, there are 732 Active Cases. As of today, there are 30 Active Cases in Beacon.
To help you track it, ALBB has revived our publishing of local Active Case and Hospitalization Numbers. You can read today's here.
When you go out, try to create social distancing for yourself, even if it is not being provided for you. Like at a fairground or amusement park. Use your body language to make your space big. Only 55% of residents in Dutchess County have been fully vaccinated with all of the recommended doses of their brand (meaning, a good handful did not get their second shot).
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
You can sponsor this Event Guide with your event, for extra promotion of it! If you'd like to guarantee to see your entertainment event listed here, book an Event Promotion Advertising spot here.
Stony Kill Butterflies & Blooms
Day: August 14-21, 2021 Location: 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY) Information >
51st Riverside Craft Fair Day: Saturday, August 21, 2021, & Sunday, August 22, 2021 Time: 10am-5pm (Rain or Shine!) Location: Garrison Art Center, 23 Garrison's Landing, Garrison, NY
Rain or Shine! Over 60+ vendors, artists, craft persons, new gourmet food items and more. Information >
Back2School Block Party from I Am Beacon Day: August 21, 2021 Time: 12pm - 4pm Location: South Avenue Park (by Loopers Basketball Court)
I Am Beacon and Key Food Marketplace announce the return of the “Back 2 School Block Party” on Saturday, August 21st at South Avenue Park in Beacon.
Organizers say the purpose of the event is to support students as they head into the 2021-2022 school year by connecting families to local organizations, youth services and resources. President of I Am Beacon, Reuben Simmons, shares his sentiment for youth activities - “My Mom had me in many different programs growing up that helped shaped me into the person I am today. From playing sports to joining Boy Scouts and even being a part of Yanerella School of Dance. I believe it is important to keep our kids busy and active.”
The free event will also provide people with an opportunity to donate school supplies to local children in need. The Back 2 School Block Party will have a free giveaway of drawstring backpack to the first 100 students, which include informational material and a starter kit of supplies provided by Staples. The event will also have airbrush tattoos, activities, and music by DJ King Cyrus. There will be live performances throughout the day put on by The Beacon Players Club, Cub Scouts Pack 1, and Howland Chamber Music Circle.
Additionally, a friendly basketball game between Beacon Hoops Coaches vs. City of Beacon Police Department and Dutchess County Sheriff’s Department followed by the Beacon Hoops All Star game is scheduled to begin at 12:30PM.
TWO WAY BREWING COMPANY
18 West Main St.
Serving up cold beer, tasty dishes, and live music tonight at Two Way! Music starts at 7:30 with Mike Oleary, and The Flying Jib offers their delicious menu all night long. See beers on tap here > PS: Don't forget about Trivia Thursdays! PPS: More live music coming up! Stay tuned OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 9:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm
Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
MISSION-STYLE BURRITO from Eat Church! Black beans, yellow rice, queso, avocado, salsa, crema, hots. Old school vegetarian! Looks delicious and we want to get our hands/mouth on this.
Find Eat Church in the wild!
Thur-Sun at Industrial Arts Brewing
DAILY GrabnGo at Marbled Meat Shop
Sunday at the Beacon Farmers Market Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
We love drink specials! Especially from BBC! Hibiscus Iced Tea - refreshing cold-brewed iced tea makes the PERFECT Arnold Palmer when mixed with their homemade lemonade.
Flower Power Latte *hot or iced* made with house lavender - rose - vanilla syrup
Tres Leche Latte *hot or iced* REALLY does taste like a slice of tres leches cake!
French Toast Latte *hot or iced* made with house brown sugar - cinnamon syrup
Open this weekend 8am - 5pm! Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Who needs a Double Dutch to kick off their weekend?! 2 1/4 lb. beef patties, cheddar, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, & fry sauce! We'll take one with a side of Fries topped with beef chili, pimento cheese & coleslaw (Dirty Fries). Open Sunday thru Thursday for Food 11:30am - 9pm; Bar until 10pm Friday and Saturday Food 11:30am - 11:00pm; Bar until midnight. Order Now > Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!
TITO SANTANA TAQUERIA 142 Main St.
Some extra cheeeesy quesadilla deliciousness served with the freshest pico & sweet créme for your weekend needs! Always made just the way your tastebuds crave with the best selection of fillings! Skip the line! Order ahead on Tito's website. PS: Vegan options available (tacos, bowls, salads, & soups. PPS: Dinner takeout special available Monday-Friday from 4pm - 9pm: 4 tacos, + 2 street corn, + 1 chip & salsa, + 1 rice & beans for only $24! PPPS: Catering available! Menu > Catering > Tito Santana Taqueria is a Sponsor, thank you!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Gift Cards are available in-store at Homespun! Letter-pressed card stock from Raghaus Studios in Newburgh, printed on their very old, very special Heidelburg Windmill letterpress. A gift for you or someone special! PS: Order cutoff for Farm Kits is Tuesday at 5pm, and pick up will be at Homespun on Friday, anytime between 10am-7pm. Find more Farm Kit Info Here > OPEN HOURS:
Thursday - Monday, 10am - 7pm Order Food > Homespun is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
OMG the choices of fries you can get from Barbs Fry Works located inside of the HV Food Hall are so creative! Naked fried, loaded fries, anti fries - all gluten-free! With your choice of sauce(s): Cheddar, Garlic Aioli, Ranch, Mustard Aioli, Cilantro Aioli, Bleu Cheese, Buffalo, Malt Vinegar, Sausage Gravy. Stop in & give them a try!
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu! Momo Valley: Himalayan Spiced Hand-Crafted MoMo & More Barb's Fry Works: Gourmet, small-batch-loaded fries. And salads. El Nica: Nicaraguan Food Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio! Schmuck's Sweet Stuff: Local Ice Cream, Hot Waffles, and Other Sweet Stuff Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
YUM! Calamari from Baja - Made with Tequila-Tomato Jam / Pickled Red Onion / Scallions / Lime. This is definitely what we want for an appetizer! Also check out Baja's tacos, quesadillas, main plates, sides, and kids menu! Delish and made with fine fresh ingredients! PS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
ZIATUN
244 Main St.
Ziatun is reopening this Sunday, the 22! Regular hours are from 11am-8pm. Go on in and enjoy a Shawarma Wrap on the patio or in their air-conditioned dining room, paired PERFECTLY with the Za’atar Fries and fresh Rose Lemonade.
Ziatun also has new hours for this month!
Monday 11am-9pm
Tues & Wed 11am-4pm (open for lunch)
Thurs- Sat 11am-9pm
Sunday 11am-8pm Menu > Order Online > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
DIRTY BACCHUS
380 Main Street, Beacon
Gregoire & Judicaëlle Perron / La Combe Aux Reves / 100% Jacquère / Jack Erre Dans Les Abimes 2019 - Jack Erre “in the depths” offers a stunning example of that mouthwatering Alpine acidity that can transform a wine from very good to truly great by way of a kind of earthy transubstantiation that arises when grapes from generous mountainside soils are tended by committed, scrupulous vignerons. Here, that acid functions as a fine mesh purse to hold the rest of the experience - citrus and other tree fruits, a hint of dried banana chips, a rock dust minerality that has the sharpness of fresh early morning mountain air - together in thrilling harmony. $33. Such a beautiful bottle! Might buy - might save and use as a flower vase. PS: Dirty Bacchus is hiring! HOURS:
Mon-Wed: 12-6pm
Thur- Sat: 11am-7pm
Sun: 12-5pm Dirty Bacchus is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon Michelle Zauner, “Cryinh in H Mart”
Binnacle has copies, go on in and get it!
“From the indie rockstar of Japanese Breakfast fame, and author of the viral 2018 New Yorker essay that shares the title of this book, an unflinching, powerful memoir about growing up Korean American, losing her mother, and forging her own identity.”
Find books like these and many other genres at Binnacle! NOW *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Keeping it cool over at Bretts! Go on in and get your ACs - it's still hot and there is still a month or more left of hotness! Plus, better to buy now than next year when you really need it! Also, outdoor activity supplies & swimming goggles from Bretts is still available! Stop in. Get yours. Get ahead of the game! That's really the way to do it... Look for Clearance pricing! Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Luxe Optique is all about bringing you the latest & greatest in eyewear from some of the best collections in the world. And they've been a little busy this month getting some WONDERFUL new collections in! Check out the Masunaga collection, hand-crafted eyewear made in Japan. We are obsessed! Simple & chic. Classy & sexy.
There are as many as 200 manual processes involved in making an optical frame, and Masunaga is the only eyewear in Japan that manufactures each step in-house. The company’s mission statement is “We manufacture excellent eyeglasses. We want to make a profit if we can, but we don’t hesitate to take a loss." Who else could see themselves in this "Audrey" frame? We sure can!
Luxe is a full-service optical store and an Optometrist is always on-site for eye exams. Stop in today to see their fabulous collections in store!
Monday: 10am–5pm
Tues-Saturday:10am–6pm
Sunday: 11am-4pm Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon
Sneak peek of fall over at La Mere! We heard the Magic Show had so many great vendors and showed all the great Fall trends. New items will start trickling in! You don't want to miss it! This boucle vest comes in TWO colors! Let’s get this party started. Can't wait to see the mens fall line too! PS: Everything is under $100!! PPS: Men's clothing is available now!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Teacher Spotlight
Native Beaconite and award-winning choreographer Kayla Romine began her dance education at Yanarella when she was just two years old. She took lessons in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Moden, Acrobatics, and Baton- even taking multiples of the same classes because she just loved to dance! Awards at various competitions throughout her dance career. She also has had the opportunity of competing and performing in Walt Disney World (Including dancing in their parade down Main Street USA), Hershey Park, and Universal Studios Florida.
Aside from her lessons at the studio, Kayla has studied at Broadway Dance Center and has attended many dance conventions throughout the country. She has had the honor of attending classes with dance legends such as Frank Hatchett, Bob Rizzo, Mandy Moore, Sheila Barker, Twyla Tharpe, and "So You Think You Can Dance" choreographers Mia Michaels and Sonya Tayeh, just to name a few. She has continued her education and love of dance, studying dance at Manhattanville College and attending teacher workshops and summits every year, keeping up with the latest trends and innovations in dance education and artistry. She currently serves as Chapter Vice President and Social Media Coordinator of the National Association of Dance and Affiliated Arts and has been on faculty for their one-day and three-day workshops for over ten years.
Currently, in her thirteenth year of teaching, Kayla is a very dedicated and passionate instructor & Choreographer. A jack-of-all-trades, Kayla teaches classes for all ages and skill levels. She is also currently the assistant creative director of the ballet program at Yanarella. Combining dance techniques with a positive upbeat outlook, Kayla strives to create a fun and stress-free environment in her classroom. She firmly believes that sparkles aren't just for costumes and tried to spread a little sparkle wherever she goes!
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
This is what customer reviews look like from Antalek & Moore because Antalek makes their customers their families! They are always beyond happy to do everything they can to make their lives easier. Personal Insurance, Business Insurance, Life Insurance, and more! Give Antalek & Moore a call today: 845-831-4300 and visit their website. Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
When we are not broadcasting a live TuneUp, we will host an Office Hours session.
The Office Hours is a Private, Small-Group Session for Media Members of Tin Shingle. We are able to connect together in person via video conference call. Both Thanksgiving and Christmas happen during this Pitch Whisperer session, so the 4 session dates are set to accommodate those vacation days. If you want to join in on these Office Hours, activate your membership so that you can access the secret link: www.tinshingle.com/membership Find out more > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Social media accounts offer an emotional connection to your brand, and your website needs to reflect that energy. The designer's and lead producer, Katie Hellmuth Martin, can guide you through this process and design you a website that both looks stunning, and works well to help people do what you need them to at your website. Check out a recent project we did for Barb's Butchery in Beacon! > Find out more > Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Social Media Leaf At The Hyacinth Group Details >
HIRING: Daycare Teacher & Assistant Wanted At Care 4 Me, Inc. Details >
HIRING: Beacon City School District Food Service Department Is Looking For Substitute Food Service Helpers Details >
HIRING: Sous-Chef Position At Homespun Foods Details >
HIRING: Part-Time Production Assistant At SallyeAnder Details >
SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT: Malouf's Mountain featured on Good Morning America!
Malouf’s Mountain Sunset Campground is nestled on the foothills of the Fishkill Ridge. The trails that lead to the campground are owned and operated by the NY-NJ Trail Conference who maintain the trails and trailheads.
You can find Malouf’s Mountain on the NY-NJ trail map, East Hudson Trails, Map 102.
When you reach the campground, you will notice how close to nature it is. You will find your campsite nestled into the mountain terrain and the sites are well spaced for your privacy.
ALBB's Business Directory is a Deep Dive List of services you need right now in Beacon and the Hudson Valley. There is a lot of talent here in the 12508 and beyond and we want to highlight all of them. Check out the Business Directory HERE.
We are reaching a temperature in the world where patience is running thin, for many numbers of reasons. As A Little Beacon Blog covers COVID news, the articles that present facts may generate emotions - from all people. Hearing from each other and learning from each other is very important. As important as it is reading multiple media outlets and scientific studies to educate yourself to make informed decisions. We are taking this time to revisit the Comment Policy at A Little Beacon Blog, and add to it.
Comments that are wildly inappropriate will be deleted from social media platforms (Instagram and Facebook), and may not be published here at the blog. All comments here at the blog require our approval first before showing up. Just like how Letters to the Editor require approval from a newspaper before being published in print.
Comment Policy For COVID Times
Critical Comments: While an audience may follow and support a publication or shop at a store, a person from the audience may disagree with that publication or store on some matters. Speaking about this is healthy and at times, helpful. It can encourage a useful debate that can impact change. While it is hard to take criticism, it sometimes needs to be said. Do be mindful of how you are saying it in public. Consider if it is best said directly to the company or person you are trying to influence.
Name Calling etc. “libtard”: During these times, the term “libtard” has been used a lot. This term is insulting to people who are developmentally different, and are able to think in more beautiful ways than many people can think. If the term “libtard” is used, the comment will be deleted without question. No matter if a good point was made in it.
Throwing Spite, “Hate”: If comments include sentences like “you are showing your hateful face,” they will be deleted. There are better, more effective ways you can say this.
Misinformation: If you are stating a theory, and if you are stating it as fact, it might be deleted. Providing a URL link is useful so that people can follow what you are talking about. If this is your own idea that has never been published, then please indicate that. One never knows where the next great idea comes from.
Comments With Misinformation That Are Kept: There are times where a comment that is smearing something or someone, or casting doubt on something or someone, is kept and not deleted. This may be for a variety of reasons:
The person is aggressive, and deleting them will only make it worse and cause them to post more.
The person is semi-right, even if others don’t want to believe that.
Especially during COVID, there are different theories and studies being cited. There may be a study that is driving the thought process of a group of people. If another person has an answer that disagrees with that study, or reveals that the authors of the study, for instance, found problems with their own study, it is useful for other readers to know about that. Out in real life and on other platforms with comments, as these things are being discussed, it is useful to know what others found regarding disproving a theory, or proving a theory.
Comments Used In Quotes: If you say something in Comments, either as your business account, or as your personal account, your comment may be used in an article. This may surprise you if you leave a sarcastic comment, where, for instance, when people are complaining about traffic, and you want to make a point about how people get upset about police enforcement and instead you think that the police should hand out lollipops and hold balloons, we may quote you on that as an actual good idea. While you may have said it with sarcasm, we may use it, and attribute it to your business and name. Any comment left on an ALBB space, which are public and not private groups, is eligible for being used in an article elsewhere with attribution to your name and business.
Life: We are at a point now in the pandemic, where we need people to live a healthy life. That is the end goal. We want to live happy lives, and we can do so while armed with information so that we can make safe choices that maintain and allow for our happiness. Please remember that in your tone. Even if you are upset at a group of people who have made a choice that can negatively impact your life. If that is the case, a different tact needs to be taken in order to change their minds.
Repeating Yourself: If you repeat yourself to one person, or several people, too many times, as in, you made your point now move along, your subsequent comments may be deleted.
Wishing Ill-Will: If you wish someone ill-will, like by saying that a group of people should not go to the hospital, your comment very well may be deleted. There are times when nurses and other medical professionals respond to comments like that with useful, supportive statements, saying how they value all lives. That would be an example of why a comment like that is left. If you repeat yourself after saying it once, your comment may be deleted.
No Notice Of Deletion: If your comment is deleted, you will not be notified by ALBB. If you notice that your comment disappeared, and you want to ask us about it, you can, and we will tell you that it was deleted.
We Can All Be “Got”: Every single one of us, myself included, can have the best of us gotten. We can snap, lose our temper, and let out our harshest, sharpest tongue. Sometimes it’s needed. Sometimes we can take a moment to walk away, step outside, touch a tree to feel nature, and re-calibrate perspective.
Turning Comments Off: Comments will only be turned off for a post when it goes on for so long; no more good points are being made; only slingshots of mud, ill-will or unease. It takes time to moderate comments. If we lack this time, because we are researching other articles or being with our family, then the comments will be shut off.
Honestly, very few comments are deleted on ALBB. People generally are considerate to each other in this space. Thank you so much for creating and honoring that type of space. This publication does not benefit from comments. We don’t seek them out. We don’t play comment contest games, none of that. We do know the value of comments in algorithms, and honestly believe that it’s a shame that algorithms work that way. We just want to get you information.
Summer is over. COVID is here. Delta is driving it (like in India, and 99% in the UK), and that variant is only the current variant. Like a hurricane, COVID mutates and spins off different variants that scientists may or may not have seen under their microscopes as they look for predictions as to what comes next in this pandemic. Delta is breaking through the vaccinations, but the vaccinations seem to be holding it at bay for the most part for the people who vaxed. If you were hitting the snooze button on COVID, this is your wake-up alarm bell.
The Director of the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Francis Collins, told Fox News Sunday (8/15/2021) as quoted by CNN: "That was January, February, that shouldn't be August. But here we are with the Delta variant, which is so contagious, and this heartbreaking situation where 90 million people are still unvaccinated, who are sitting ducks for this virus, and that's the mess we're in."
According to that CNN article on 8/15/2021, “the rate of new hospitalizations among people in their 30s increased by nearly 300% over the past month, according to an analysis of data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New Covid-19 hospital admissions among people in their 30s are now the highest since the pandemic began, according to the data.”
On a personal note, in this week alone, every time I call my mom to ask her a question about the weather, she informs me of a new friend of hers who is infected or in the ICU. There are 10 in her acquaintance sphere alone, 3 of whom are in the ICU.
The CDC’s Evolving Guidance
On July 27, 2021, the CDC updated their information to include mask guidance for what to do indoors. In the olden days (June 2021), the guidance was the reward of taking the mask off if you were vaccinated. Turns out that was bad advice, or advice that is bad if only 50% of this country is vaccinated, while most of the world is also not vaccinated, and the virus mutates and essentially causes another tsunami of active cases.
Plus, of those vaccinated, how long the vaccination efficacy lasts before a booster is needed. Which was just announced today, that 3rd shots would be approved 8 months after for those already vaccinated.
Perhaps this vaccination is like an allergy pill? Or cortisone shot? Works for limited time, and then you get it again? The Whooping Cough vaccination works that way, although years are between its doses.
COVID In Dutchess County; Definition of “High Transmission”
Today is August 17, 2021, and on August 14, 2021, ALBB posted a picture in Instagram of what may now be an outdated sign in a business storefront window. The sign read that all employees were vaccinated, and that if you were too, you could be mask-off. This was a positive sign for getting vaccinated, as not all business owners in Beacon are vaccinated, but was a discouraging sign for masks, during a time when Delta is now officially raging.
A reader saw the post, and sounded the alarm. They directed us to this CDC link, which says this about masking: “If you are fully vaccinated, to maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others, wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission.”
The words “substantial or high transmission” are linked to in the definition, and seem to be key words here. People who think very literally may interpret “high transmission” to mean: “a small room with lots of people where the virus could spread shoulder to shoulder.” Turns out, “high transmission” is the equivelent to “Active Cases” on the old-not-old COVID trackers. It means, if a lot of people in your area are infected with new cases of COVID. Dutchess County is one such county that is “high transmission.”
Red indicates areas where there are a lot of Active Cases, aka “High Transmission.” This illustration, from 8/14/2021 show that it is the entire country, minus those little blue dots. Photo Credit: CDC
You’ve seen the memes and illustrations of the United States being all red, for “high transmission.” It means the country is on fire with new Active Cases. According to the Dutchess County Tracker, as of today, there are 732 Active Cases in Dutchess County, and 31 in Beacon. In the original raging days of COVID-19, 31 in Beacon was kind of a high number. Yesterday it was 27.
The Dashboard does not indicate if these are breakthrough cases, cases with the unvaccinated, or children under 12 years who cannot vaccinate yet.
Dutchess County has not issued a warning or alert. ALBB reached out to the Dutchess County Executive’s Office yesterday for comment, after Sullivan and Orange Counties issued strong mask advisories, but Dutchess County has not responded yet.
Vaccination rates in Dutchess County are 55% for fully vaccinated people, which means, people who have completed the required amount of shots for their vaccine brand. While the county does tout a more impressive rate of 71%, that is for people who have taken at least one dose. Time will tell how these percentages will change once the Boosters become the norm, and dashboards will need to track when people get their 3rd (and 4th, and 5th?) shots.
Representative Sean Maloney issued a statement regarding Afghanistan. It has been published in full below:
Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18), a member of the House Intelligence Committee, released the following statement on the developing situation in Afghanistan.
“No one watching the heartbreaking images out of Afghanistan should deny that mistakes have been made, which require immediate correction, but I continue to believe the President has made the right decision in bringing our troops home from Afghanistan and I applaud him for tackling this difficult but necessary project.
“For 20 years, thousands of U.S. troops have fought and sacrificed to bring the perpetrators of the 9/11 terror attacks to justice. We successfully killed the mastermind of that attack and destabilized Al Qaeda’s operations across the middle east.
“The last two decades of war have come at a great cost to our U.S. service members and their families. It is harrowing to see the Afghan government fall after countless Americans sacrificed so much to help the Afghan people and to provide the government the resources and training necessary to take control of their country and build a better future.
“There has been clear, bipartisan agreement that we could not stay in Afghanistan indefinitely. Right now, our top priority must be the safe return of U.S. civilians, service members, diplomats, and Afghan allies. The Biden administration must put forth the resources necessary to complete this effort.
"I will continue to monitor this developing situation and will be briefed as a member of the House Intelligence Committee in the near future.”
If you or a loved one needs assistance leaving Afghanistan, please contact my office at 845-561-1259 or complete this form.
Volunteers Needed To Help Take The Rainbow Pool Out Of The River
When: Thursday, August 19, 2021 - Saturday, August 21, 2021 Time: 9am Who: Thursday - Friday involves the disassembly lighter-duty work whereas Saturday involves the wet, in the river, heavy extraction work. Individuals with mandated volunteer service hours accepted!
The City of Beacon has moved from digital-only City Council Meetings to in-person meetings weeks ago. The Council stated that they missed each other, and even welcomed their most staunched and harshest citizen critics when citizens stepped up to the podium during regular Public Comment session to deliver their thoughts, which usually results in the Council being a punching bag. Those who show up to deliver verbal thoughts, however, usually move a needle in the direction that they are advocating for.
When the City Council resumed in-person meetings several meetings ago, the national media said that COVID was on the run. Some people were getting vaccinated, Governor Cuomo hadn’t resigned yet, his nightly emails were pretty upbeat, and Beacon’s COVID numbers were on the lower end. Until the Delta variant.
For the first time since their in-person meetings, the City of Beacon masked up for the in-person meeting this Monday night, as did several attendees in the audience. Neither the City of Beacon nor Dutchess County has issued a statement or guidance about masking up in public indoor spaces. ALBB reached out to Dutchess County on Monday morning, but has not heard back yet.
Meanwhile, the Council covered a lot of ground in the double Workshop/Regular Public Meeting combo this evening for the summer schedule, including:
Money transferred in the City of Beacon’s General Fund, including $66,418 transferred for “Employee Discipline.“
Promotion of Police Officer Kelvin Grey to the Position of Detective and the Appointment of Stephen Donovan to the Position of Police Officer.
Award of lifesaving action preformed by Beacon’s Fire Fighting crew.
Continued Affordable Housing Discussion.
Continued Employment Discussion about how the City Administrator could or should present potential hires to the Council. Councilperson Jodi McCredo has been asking for more information for the council to make more informed decisions about who they are hiring across all departments and positions, but the City Administrator Chris White is hesitant of “wasting the Council’s time” with hiring information, and is leaning toward only presenting the Council with detailed information about Department Heads, and not lower level positions. The Council needs to vote on any hire, regardless of how high or low the position is, and at times, is presented with a minimal amount of information on a new hire, or a promotion of an existing employee.
Money transferred in the General Fund, including $66,418 transfered for “Employee Discipline.“ There is at least one Employee Disciplinary hearing going on now involving Highway Department Employee (and former Highway Superintendent) Reuben Simmons, who is currently on both paid and unpaid leave with the City of Beacon, during a labor shortage when the City of Beacon cannot fill all of their open positions, including Summer Help. The City of Beacon’s Labor Attorney, Lance Klein with Keane and Beane, has been representing the City for years on the case against Reuben. From when Reuben was stripped of his job title of Highway Superintendent in 2018, to now where he is on paid and unpaid leave as a Maintenance Worker since January 2021. Reuben is one of the few Black (mixed-race) employees for the Highway Department. Hearings to push him out of employment, during a national labor shortage, do cost the city money.
The Times Herald-Record has reported that Orange County issued a public health alert on Thursday, August 12th, 2021 that all residents should wear masks indoors when in public spaces, regardless of vaccination status. This, as Sullivan County announced the following day that masks were required to be worn inside of all County buildings. Dutchess County has not issued guidance thus far. ALBB has reached out to Dutchess County today for comment (Monday August 16, 2021) and will update this article if a response comes. Orange County is across the Hudson River from Beacon, and is home to Newburgh and many other communities.
Before issuing a mask requirement, Dr. Irina Gelman, DPM, MPH, PHDc, the Commissioner of Health for Orange County, said that she is waiting to see what if anything will be done at the state level, as Kathy Hochul moves to become governor on Aug. 24 after Andrew Cuomo's formal resignation.
According to the CDC, Orange County, Sullivan County, and Dutchess County are all in “high transmission” areas, which to the CDC means a rise in Active Cases. See the CDC’s tool here. Areas in “high transmission” areas are strongly recommended by the CDC to mask up indoors in public spaces regardless of vaccination status.
Announced on Friday, August 13th, and first reported by the Times Herald-Record, Sullivan County reinstated its required mask policy for all County buildings. Sullivan County Manager Joshua Potosek issued an Emergency Order reinstating the facial mask-wearing requirement for employees and visitors to all County buildings.
In a press release, County Manager Joshua explained: “This measure is designed to limit the spread of coronavirus, the Delta variant of which appears to be significantly driving up infections. Due to the limited capacity of our local health systems and our obligation to provide a safe workplace, this Order is necessary.”
Orange County issued last week a recommendation that all residents wear masks inside of public places regardless of vaccination status, as reported by the Times Herold-Record. The article reported that Orange County is waiting for the new governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, before they decide to make a recommendation on a requirement.
Dutchess County has not made an announcement yet that ALBB is aware of. Should they, this article will be updated.
The CDC Recommendation
As of July 27, 2021 until today, the CDC recommends that fully vaccinated people wear a mask when in a public indoor setting with “substantial or high transmission.” The CDC defines “substantial or high transmission” as the number of Active Cases in a county. All 3 counties - Dutchess, Sullivan and Orange - are considered “High” transmission by the CDC.
As of today 8/16/2021, the Active Case numbers for Sullivan and Dutchess Counties are as follows:
Sullivan County 143 Active Cases Area: 997 mi² Population: 75,116 (2019) .0019 (active cases / population)
Dutchess County 721 Active Cases Area: 825 mi² Population: 294,218 (2019) .0024 (active cases / population)
Inside Of Beacon City Schools
According to the Beacon City School District during their re-opening announcement, New York State has not provided guidance, and the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Education Department is deferring to the CDC for guidance. The Beacon City School District is requiring wearing masks for all students, staff and administrators regardless of vaccination status in indoor settings, but not outdoors. It is also providing for frequent mask breaks.
The Emergency Order takes effect at 8 a.m. this Monday, August 16 and will remain in place until further notice. It applies to everyone, whether vaccinated or not against COVID-19.
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A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
