On the double-twos Tuesday 2/22/2022, the agenda for the City Council Meeting is packed. You can read the full agenda here, and when the video of the public meeting is posted the following day, the video is published with the agenda as well. You can find original and official agendas on the City of Beacon website.
Highlights include 2 Public Meetings where the public is invited to voice their opinion on a specific topic. This week, those are:
Good Cause Eviction Law for Beacon: While laws do exist in New York State that can protect the tenant, communities throughout New York State have been pursuing an additional protection and requirement of the landlord to show “good cause” for evicting a tenant when the landlord brings the tenant to court. Tenants should be reminded that they should not self-evict. There is a process the landlord must pursue. The outcry from the public to support this law resulted in the City of Beacon entering into an agreement with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (LSHV). While Legal Services of the Hudson Valley helps all in the Hudson Valley via their Housing Unit page, the agreement with Beacon gave Beaconties access to a paralegal. Regardless of if you have the phone number or not, contact the Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to get help if you are threatened with eviction. They can provide assistance. This Public Comment portion is on if Beacon should adopt Good Cause Eviction legislation crafted for Beacon or not. Please do read the 16 page proposed legislation before commenting. There are many details included in it that go beyond assumptions of what is fair for people from a philosophical level. It is 16 pages and you can read the latest draft here.
Residency Requirements for Career Firefighters and the Fire Chief: The City Council is pursuing enlarging the sphere of residency for Career Firefighters from 15 miles to 30 miles. For the Fire Chief, it is proposed that the Fire Chief live at a distance at the digression of the Mayor. The thought process is that the Fire Chief is not on as many active calls, and can live farther away. In 2022, the City of Beacon hired 3 Lieutenants, giving them a comfortable amount of leadership. As Beacon’s current Fire Chief approaches retirement, the City of Beacon is preparing for recruitment. Read the proposal here.
Sales Tax Agreement With Dutchess County Up For Renewal
One long term item on the Agenda is the Sales Tax for the City of Beacon. For the last few decades, Dutchess County has collected and kept the sales tax for Beacon and other municipalities, and paid back to Beacon and other municipalities in a negotiated guaranteed flat rate over a number of years. However, the total number of dollars acquired through Beacon’s Sales Tax has not been revealed to Beacon officials in the previous administration by Dutchess County nor by New York State. According to Beacon’s previous Mayor Randy Casale, Dutchess County Marcus Molinaro claimed to also not know knew the total Sales Tax number. Hard to believe? Seems like those numbers live somewhere. ALBB did extensive research to find it, but came up empty handed. The City of Beacon is about to enter a new agreement with Dutchess County to continue collecting Beacon’s Sales Tax in return for a flat rate of money paid on a regular basis. While this may be a good arrangement, how would one know, if one doesn’t have the Sales Tax number to consider when presented with a proposed flat rate? ALBB did a Deep Dive on this issue a few years back. Brush up on your Sales Tax knowledge here as Beacon enters into this negotiation.
The literary Open Mic night, “Lit Lit” is temporarily moving for its March location from the Howland Cultural Center to Happy Valley Bar, 296 Main St. in Beacon, on Thursday, March 3rd from 7-9pm. The event free, and proof of vaccination will be required at the door. People can buy drinks and snacks as they like. Normally “Lit Lit” is on the first Friday of the month at the Howland Cultural Center, but this month is different as the Howland undergoes planned renovations.
Founded by Donna Minkowitz, a writer of memoir, journalism and fantasy, “Lit Lit” has been a success. “We have a very warm and welcoming crowd, and we get a great turnout of local writers and readers!” Donna told A Little Beacon Blog.
How It Works
Anyone can sign up to read their own writing of any genre, for up to five minutes in length, “or until we run out of time,” says Donna. For info, people can contact Donna at litlitseries@gmail.com.
John Lewis was born in Troy, Alabama, and started working raising chickens on his family farm. He wanted to be a preacher, and began practicing in front of his chickens. He grew up to become the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) from 1963 to 1966. He was one of the organizers of the 1963 March on Washington. Lewis led the first of three marches from Selma to Montgomery in 1965, and was part of the incident at Edmund Pettus Bridge known as Bloody Sunday. He was a believer in non-violence based advocacy. He was elected to Congress to serve in the United States House of Representatives of Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 to 2020, when he died.
One of the ways he ensured his story and experience dismantling legalized segregation through Jim Crow laws was by co-writing a graphic comic novel, that he calls a comic book during this speech at a library when his book launched. The book is called “March,” and it comes in three parts.
In honor of Black History Month, the Howland Public Library is inviting Middle School and High School students to participate in a special Read and Respond project. The Beacon Public Library is giving away a limited number of copies beginning Monday, February 21, 2022 in hopes that students (and their adults) read it in this fun and engaging format, learn more about the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Congressman John Lewis, and answer a question posed by the library. Answers may be featured here at A Little Beacon Blog!
Inspiration For The Comic Book “March”
When Lewis was a student, he was inspired by the 1958 comic book “Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story.” Now, the March trilogy brings the history of the Civil Rights Movement to a whole new generation.
Extra Credit For Your Brain!
To learn more about John Lewis’ lifelong work for civil rights and social justice, students (and anyone with a library card) can also stream the documentary “Good Trouble” for free on Hoopla, the library’s free app that works with your Beacon library card number.
Read and Respond: Student’s Answers Featured At A Little Beacon Blog
After reading the book or watching the film, students are asked to write about what the concept of “good trouble” means to them. Lewis was always told to not get into trouble. Yet through his work with Dr. Martin Luther King and learning about Ghandi and Theroux, he said that he saw the need to get into good trouble and make some noise.
Their answers from students will be displayed at the library and may be featured here on A Little Beacon Blog. Responses are due by Friday, March 11th. Students who share their responses will also be entered in a drawing for a chance to win copies of Book Two & Three of the March Trilogy.
The books will be available on Monday, February 21st, for youth in grades 6 and up on a first come, first serve basis. One per household. “March: Book One” is also available as an eBook through the library’s app, Hoopla. For more information, contact Michelle Rivas, Young Adult Programs Coordinator, at community@beaconlibrary.org.
Excerpts of the winning MLK Jr. essays were published in the Highlands Current.
Six essays submitted by students celebrating the life and mission of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were announced for 2022. The essay contest was part of the annual programming from the Southern Dutchess Coalition and the Beacon Sloop Club, which includes a march in Beacon followed by a program, during which the essays are recognized. A prize of $50 is awarded to each winner by the essay sponsor, Rhinebeck Bank. The winning essays are selected by a committee of the Sloop Club members.
The march did not happen this year due to the pandemic, but the essays were recognized in published excerpts by the Highlands Current. The students needed to answer: “Are we keeping the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jur.’s dream alive?”
You thought Spring was coming? Just kidding! Pretty normal weather for Beacon, and this Saturday snowfall is pretty. Winter will try to dig in for as long as it can. Meanwhile, as we exit this week of Feb 14th love, enjoy this column in the Highlands Current from A Little Beacon Blog's publisher Katie Hellmuth Martin about the Power of Self-Love. It's inspired by a recent question from a parent about how to tap back into herself. A list of recommendations is in this article, plus a local Gift Guide on where to find some of these things (if purchase is necessary, but for most it's not). Read it here.
We are keeping this intro brief, as we are working on a longer article about Central Hudson's billing situation to publish for you shortly.
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Book an Event Promotion Advertising spot here.
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,
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
Beacon Spring Celebration Of Light
Day:Saturday, February 19, 2022
Time: 5:30 Gather, 6pm Walk, 6:30pm End at The Yard Location: Gather Pohill Park; Walk Sidewalks of Main Street; End at The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY Information > Howland Music - Charles Richard-Hamelin, piano
Day:Sunday, February 20, 2022 Time: 4:00 PM Location: Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, NY
Canadian pianist Charles Richard-Hamelin is the winner of the silver medal and the Krystian Zimerman prize at the 17th Frederic Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw.
$40/adults $10/students Information >
Pop-Up Vintage Boutique Days: Saturday, February 19, 2022 & Sunday, February 20, 2022 Time: 12-5pm Location: Holland Tunnel Newburgh, 46 Chambers St, Newburgh, NY Register Here >
SAVE THE DATES: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions Day: Wednesday, March 2, 2022 Time: 9:30-10:15am (PreK-Grade 4) Day: Tuesday, March 8, 2022 Time: 10:30-11:15am (Grade 5 - Grade 12) Day: Thursday, March 24, 2022 Time: 3:30-4:15pm (all grades) Location: Virtual
To register or express interest, visit poughkeepsieday.org and click inquire.
So many of you want to know which restaurants are open on Mondays!
So ALBB enhanced our Restaurant Guide to show you. See it here >
TWO WAY BREWING COMPANY
18 West Main St.
Name a better duo... we'll wait! It's the weekend & you deserve a refreshing drink with delicious bites! Two Way has both. Pints, flights, grab-n-go or stay and enjoy! Two Way brews all of their beers at their in house brewery located right next to the taproom. See Trivia Schedule here > See beers on tap here > PS: TMcCann Band will be performing every second Sunday of the month at the brewery from 4-7pm. OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 11:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 11:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm
Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Dreaming of CRISPY double-fried wings w/sweet & spicy sauce from Eat Church!
As well as these cold sesame noodles > Eat Church has all the goods that you need to try if you haven't yet! You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials >
Find Eat Church at more places:
Fri & Sat at Industrial Arts Brewing (foodtruck)
& ToGo at Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring & at Beacon Pantry! Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
You can now join BBC from 5-7pm for a very special $7 happy hour menu! Featuring their super delicious loaded tots & sage of enlightenment with gin, grapefruit, house sage-agave syrup & soda! Talk about a Happy Friday! PS you must check out these Harvest Grain Loaves > - all of their bread is made by hand every morning, using organic flours for the best flavor + quality. Harvest Grain is a seeded whole wheat bread that’s perfect for sandwiches and toast (try it with their avo toast!) Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
We're still drooling over THE Chicken Parm Meatball Sub from MOD. Built with a house-made tomato sauce, fresh ricotta and the perfect amount of parm and basil. This is dreamy! Don't miss out on chocolate cake ball specials like this! > because they go quick! PS Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Please reach out to us at brian@meyersoldedutch.com if you're interested. 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!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Head on into the HV Food Hall and check out Hudson Shawarma's top selling appetiziers!
Stop in & check out the amazing foodies! Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu! El Nica: Nicaraguan Food Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio! Shmuck's Sweet Stuff: Local Ice Cream, Hot Waffles, and Other Sweet Stuff Hudson Shawarma: Falafels, shawarma, baklava, and platters Ciao Chow - Hand made pasta and fried rice Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Delicious tacos with over 15 different flavors all made with fresh ingredients! Add on a delicious & refreshing drink! OR order pick-up/take-out. Baja also offers catering so you can order & stock up because why wouldn't you want to do that?! PS: Different specials every week! You don't wanna miss out. See some examples here > PPS: 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.
Need a weekend pick-me-up? Ziatun always has your back & these Za’atar Fries with their spicy tahini is the exact way! Ziatun has all of the comfort foods you need to kick off your weekend (just the pair the fries to go with it all)... try the Tabbouleh salad, Addas soup, Falafel burgers and much more! Ziatun has plenty of Vegan & plant-based options too. Menu > Order Online > HOURS
Monday + Thursday-Saturday 11 am-9pm
Tuesday + Wednesday 11 am-4pm
Sunday 11am-8pm Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon 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 them know. If they don't have it, they'd be happy to order it for you! They're also always looking to acquire used books in excellent condition, especially in their core categories.The bookstore is a collaborative endeavor by four partners, who have collectively been writers, editors, musicians, producers, organizers, teachers, filmmakers, and booksellers. If you love books, they welcome you. If you don't, they'll do their best to convince you otherwise! Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Your car has been through a lot this season. The iced up windows. The blinding glare from the sun when your windshield is dirty because you ran out of washer fluid. That time your battery died (again) because someone left the back door open. You need new jumper cables, and new washer fluid, stat. Brett's has it! OPEN
Monday-Friday 7:30am - 7pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Tell all of your friends!
LUXE OPTIQUE IS EXPANDING!
They are so happy to announce their newest location on Warren Street in Hudson, NY! Opening in Spring 2022! Congrats Luxe! PS: Appts required for exams. PPS *NEW HOURS
Monday 10 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM
Closed on Sundays! They've gone shopping! Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon
Advice from La Mere: "They keep saying that beautiful is something a girl needs to be. But honestly? Don't be beautiful. Be angry, be intelligent, be witty, be klutzy, be interesting, be funny, be adventurous, be crazy, be talented. There are an eternity of other things to be other than beautiful." Stop in & check out all the goods including the new Ceramic Body Vase for only $32.90 available now! <3
*New Arrivals Weekly / Free Shipping
Download their free app in the iTunes Store PS: Everything is under $100!! PPS: MENS clothing now available!
OPEN THIS WEEKEND:
Friday 12-6pm
Saturday 11-6pm
Sunday 12-5pm
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY New Website Alert!
Yanarella has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago! Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been “every child should have the same opportunity to dance, regardless of talent or ability. There is no can’t in dance. There’s only a C-A-N.”
The classes are inclusive and wardrobe is flexible. Even if a a child doesn't have ballet slippers, they can still come. Chances are, if you felt compelled to sponsor a shoe, Yanarella could guide you in the right direction of what sizes might be needed!
Visit Yanarella Dance online. Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!
Newburgh Armory Unity Center Saturday Enrichment Program Spring Session Registration Opens 2/12/2022 Information >
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Antalek & Moore is a full-service insurance agency and risk-management company based right here in Beacon! They offer commercial and personal insurance solutions to customers in the Hudson Valley community, throughout New York State, and across the country. Antalek & Moore is also hiring a full-time receptionist to assist their clients and carry out administrative work. They're looking for someone with excellent communication skills, a positive attitude, and strong attention to detail. To apply, fax your resume at 845-831-5631 or email info@antalek-moore.com. Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
A Little Beacon Blog’s publisher, Katie Hellmuth Martin, has a monthly column in the Highlands Current. For February, the focus was on the Power of Self-Love, especially for parents of young-ish children, where one’s identity can easily get misplaced. These are suggestions on how to find you again, and fill your own cup. You can pick up this for one last day on newsstands! And then next week’s comes out. This column is also published online here. Here’s a little Gift Guide to go with these recommendations:
- Stretch/exercise by yourself (a mom asked if her kids should be with her. Go solo, and go to one of Beacon’s many parks. If you must bring the kids, go to South Avenue, Glenham or Sargent for a little BeastMaster Training simulation. Or find a gym with childcare if that’s a budget option, like All Sport in Fishkill.
- Wear perfume or cologne. A good way to remind you of you. Beacon Mercantile has several made in Beacon scents.
- Paint your nails. Rite Aid of course for Essie brand, and La Mere Clothing & Goods has special colors.
- Blow dry your hair. For real. The warm air makes for a warm brain and can pave the way for deep thoughts or revelations. For a blowout, try Campbell and Campbell
- Sit for extensions or a natural style. Enjoy a crochet style or treatment to nurture your natural look. Book a chair at Salon Dae near Dutchess Airport or Amy’s braids in Beacon in Mr. Bell’s salon.
-Sketch something for no reason. Enjoy the curve of a line or pressure of a pencil. Find art supplies at Supplies For Creative Living in Cold Spring.
- Embrace your curves and buy yourself clothes. We’re all going to go to many stores for this - from the mall to Main Street. Whatever fits and feels right on you. If it’s $$ but quality, do it. You’ll keep it in your collection! And it helps keep a boutique open.
- Write your kids a love letter. Tell them what they have meant for you.
More in the article, but here’s the abbreviated version with shopping recommendations!
What: Candlelight Vigil and Press Conference When: Thursday, February 17, 2022 6p.m. – 8p.m. Where: Health Alliance Hospital, Broadway Campus 396 Broadway, Kingston Who: 1199SEIU Healthcare Workers, State and Local Elected Officials, Community Supporters Special Guest Speaker: Pat Ryan, Ulster County Executive
A candlelight vigil will be held tonight Thursday, February 17, 2022, “to shine light on the risks to quality care caused by short staffing at HealthAlliance Hospital, as well as a lack of mental health beds in Ulster County,” according to a press release sent by Mindy Berman, a representative of the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East union, a fast-growing healthcare union.
“Healthcare workers, members of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, elected officials and concerned citizens say that Westchester Medical Center must step up and provide the care and services that the residents of Kingston and surrounding communities need,” the press release said. Ultster County Executive Pat Ryan will be speaking at the vigil.
“Healthcare workers who are members of the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East union have been trying to negotiate a fair first contract with WMC/HealthAlliance for more than a year, without success,” said Mindy. Union members have been holding different demonstrations throughout the year to raise awareness of their needs. “In the meantime,” the press release says, “the challenges and drama of the COVID pandemic persist, and dedicated healthcare workers are leaving their jobs under great stress.”
Says Lindsey Bradford, a Cardiac Care Monitor: “I work in health care and I can’t even afford health care. I’ve been working at this hospital for ten years and I work without a lunch break or bathroom breaks due to shortages on staff. We can’t get new people in the door because they can work for more money elsewhere. I work 12-hr. nights/four nights a week and I still can’t afford health care or braces for my kids. The hospital needs to stop stalling on this contract. Now.”
The purpose of the vigil is to call attention to several critical issues, as outlined in the press release:
Contract Proposals: “First, the members’ contract proposals are more than reasonable—fair market wages and affordable benefits will attract and retain healthcare workers, thereby helping address severe short staffing issues. A fair contract must also give workers the resources to take care of their own families, so they can devote 100% to caring for others.”
Invested in the Community: “1199SEIU members at HealthAlliance don’t only work at the hospital—they are also part of the Ulster/ Dutchess community. With their own families living, working, and going to school in the area, their commitment to providing quality care at the hospital is personal.”
Mental Health Beds: “The members are also urging WMC to bring back to Kingston much-needed mental health beds.”
Says Gabriel "Gabe" Valles, a Clinical Tech, Psychiatric Emergency: “We’re holding this vigil because we can’t afford to visit the hospital we work at; our pay doesn’t allow us to work just one job or focus on our patients. Our staffing situation is a direct result of our pay. It’s reasonable to be able to care for our families and continue to care for our patients. We don’t want to make money – we want to make people healthy.“
About 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East
1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East is the largest and fastest-growing healthcare union in America. They represent over 450,000 nurses and caregivers throughout Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Florida. Their mission is to achieve quality care and good jobs for all.
Pick a day, any day, and Beacon local Kamel Jamal, owner of more than one restaurant in town (Ziatun, Beacon Bread, WTF, creator of Tito Santana Taqueria, and Végétalien, both he since sold), wears his heart on his sleeve for his home country of Palestine.
Every day for him is a day of love he shows for a free Palestine. From the food he plates, the restaurants he decorates, the merch he makes, most centering back to somehow to empower those still living in Palestine.
In this podcast, Kamel discusses how his parents left Palestine when he was a toddler with some of his family thanks to a family friend who sponsored them.
Co-hosts Brandon Lillard and Katie Hellmuth Martin sat down with Kamel on A Little Beacon Blog's sister podcast,"Wait, What Is That?" for an at times emotional interview about his view of how the people of Palestine are living now. The time was May 2021 during the escalation of protesting by residents in Palestine in the neighborhood Sheikh Jarrah. Their homes were scheduled to be demolished, and Muslim neighbors in the Hudson Valley as well as the world were sounding alarms.
In this podcast, Kamel describes his Palestine. He discusses how his parents left Palestine when he was a toddler with some of his family thanks to a family friend who sponsored them. He describes why he continues advocating from America for Palestine's liberation, so that people can live without fear of their homes and businesses being demolished by occupiers. He discusses the lack to basic rights, like clean water, receiving mail, and having to pass through armed checkpoints to get to a job or part of town.
In 2021, a protest march in Newburgh was organized with Next Step Hudson Valley where the Palestinian community came out, consisting of people young and old, with roots in Palestine, Pakistan, and other communities. Speeches were held on the lawn of Representative Sean Maloney's Newburgh's office.
Beaconites normally quiet about their cultural origins brought pages of prepared speeches, to express to an engaged audience about how their parents, siblings, cousins and/or friends felt about the global response to this little neighborhood protest in Palestine that spring. A Little Beacon Blog covered that march, which you can read about here and listen to some speeches.
Kamel Jamal, speaking at the Free Palestine protest march in Newburgh on the steps of Representative Sean Maloney’s office. Several other speakers participated. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
Khitam Jamal Nakhleh’s Starbucks order, where her name is “FreeGaza,” which results in the barista shouting the demand to the room. Khitam is Kamel’s sister. Photo Credit: Khitam Jamal Nakhleh
Since then, a lot has happened. Kamel's sister, who many know as Kate, champions the Free Palestine movement with every step she takes. Recently, she declared she was going by her birth name: Khitam Jamal Nakhleh. She is known to use subtle tactics like ordering a Starbucks under the name of "Free Gaza" so that the demand has to be called out to the room full of customers.
Every now and then, something pro-Palestinian will make the news in the US, like when Emma Watson (Hermione Granger from Harry Potter), and a UN Women's Goodwill Ambassador, voiced her support for Palestine. Or the feature story in Vanity Fair's February 2022 issue, "Generation Gaza" by veteran war correspondent Janine di Giovanni who revisited Gaza "and found resilience and hope among its 2 million Palestinian residents, two thirds of whom are under the age of 25," according to the lead-in for the article.
Also according to the February Vanity Fair feature: "Gaza's 20 and 30 somethings, it so happens, tend to be highly educated, multilingual - and jobless. 64% of the youth labor force is unemployed, largely due to the occupation. Nonetheless, year after year, they have proved indefatigable." Running a business there is virtually impossible, due to actions taken against business owners. But some continue to try, as this designer does, which was featured in Vogue.
In May 2021, neighbors came out to show their support of Palestine by creating a chalk art message on the sidewalk outside of Beacon Bread, owned by Kamel.
Circling back to the first line of this article - pick a day, any day - in the publishing world, an article usually needs to be published in a timely way. Like, back in May or June 2021 after we recorded this podcast episode and covered protest march. In Palestine, their inability to live free lives is every day, with different demolitions of family homes scheduled, like this one at the end of January 2022 or this one where the family had to self-demolish their own home.
But timing gets tricky. During the "Wait, What Is That?" episode, the silence of friends was discussed, acknowledging that talking openly about this topic can be difficult leading to unexpected responses. There is a moment where Kamel's emotions overcome him. You'll need to listen closely to the interview to hear where.
Peek Inside Ziatun
If you haven't been inside of Ziatun yet, here is a peek. Kamel admits this is one of his favorite places to be, and you can tell in the flavor of the food. The hummus is unlike any you have had, being extra smooth. There are plenty of warm soups to choose from, like the Addas soup. View the merch and buy a bag or two. Don't miss the watermelon t-shirt, designed to show resistance through food.
In other news, Beacon is warming up to events as the indoor mask mandate in business comes down (for now) and the ice melts (before another snowfall?), with the introduction of a new lantern celebration concept is introduced from a group calling themselves the Beacon Spring. It's an organized walk down the sidewalks of Main Street with lanterns and lights to celebrate spring coming. You could duck into a shop real quick to pick up something cute and hop back in the parade! Read all about it here.
Traffic remains an issue, but it seems some people are trying harder to stop at crosswalks and drive the speed limit. Sadly, a 2 car collision resulted in death on Fishkill Avenue, followed hours later by a drunk driver hitting a parked police officer's car who had his emergency lights on while the earlier accident was being investigated. Read about it here.
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Book an Event Promotion Advertising spot here.
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,
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
Pop-Up Vintage Boutique Days: Sat/Sun February 12/13 & Sat/Sun February 19/20 Time: 12-5pm Location: Holland Tunnel Newburgh, 46 Chambers St, Newburgh, NY
Lantern Making Event Days: Sunday, February 13, 2022 Time: 10am-2pm Location: Beacon Farmer's Market, 223 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Everyone is invited to make lanterns to be used the following week during the "Beacon Spring Celebration Of Light," the first sidewalk walk/parade happening in Beacon. Information >
Climate Policy Prep From Scenic Hudson Day: Saturday, February 12, 2022 Time: 5:00-6:00pm Location: Online— Register here.
New York has one of the most ambitious climate laws in the nation — but what will it take to achieve its goals? Find out by joining climate policy expert Jen Metzger at a special Zoom presentation and Q&A.
This presentation will include an overview of:
actions that local governments must start taking now to meet emissions goals.
the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA).
recommendations proposed by the state’s Climate Action Council.
So many of you want to know which restaurants are open on Mondays!
So ALBB enhanced our Restaurant Guide to show you. See it here >
TWO WAY BREWING COMPANY
18 West Main St.
Every day is game day at the brewery. The game room is full of different ways to play, from pool, darts, and foosball to board games, chess, and giant jenga. Have fun! Stop in this weekend and grab a Highlands Haze pack to-go - New England style IPA with fruity, tropical notes, a perfect pick-me-up! See Trivia Schedule here > See beers on tap here > PS: TMcCann Band will be performing every second Sunday of the month at the brewery from 4-7pm. OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 11:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 11:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm
Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Banh Xeo is a crispy, stuffed rice pancake popular in Vietnam. Banh means cake while xeo means sizzle. The name refers to the loud sound the rice batter makes when it is poured into the hot skillet. It is a savory fried pancake made of rice flour, water, and turmeric powder. Take a lettuce leaf in your hand, add some herbs and a torn piece of the stuffed pancake, then roll up the leaf as if it were a spring roll and dip it in the dipping sauce. Eat and repeat! You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials >
Find Eat Church at more places (please note, for the month of January, Eat Church is operating with limited hours).
Fridays 3pm - 9pm
Saturdays 12pm - 9pm
at Industrial Arts Brewing
DAILY GrabnGo at Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
It’s Valentines Weekend! Beacon Bread has you covered with STRAWBERRY RICOTTA PANCAKES! Looking for a vegan option? No problem! Just ask for this delightful homemade strawberry syrup over a stack of their Vegan Pancakes instead of ricotta. Full-service and quick-order seating is available! Skip the line and order to-go or delivery via their website! Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
There’s something about a hotdog with coleslaw that warms our belly - especially from MOD! Go on in and try one for yourself. PS Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Please reach out to us at brian@meyersoldedutch.com if you're interested. 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!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Ciao Chow's Tagliatelle with clams, mussels and shrimp... they rotate their seafood based on availability! Always fresh.
Stop in & check out the amazing foodies! Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu! El Nica: Nicaraguan Food Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio! Shmuck's Sweet Stuff: Local Ice Cream, Hot Waffles, and Other Sweet Stuff Hudson Shawarma: Falafels, shawarma, baklava, and platters Ciao Chow - Hand made pasta and fried rice Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Delicious tacos with over 15 different flavors all made with fresh ingredients! Add on a delicious & refreshing drink! OR order pick-up/take-out. Baja also offers catering so you can order & stock up because why wouldn't you want to do that?! PS: Different specials every week! You don't wanna miss out. See some examples here > PPS: 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.
Sunday's are for SHAWARMA at Ziatun! Beef & lamb, chicken or vegan, they’ve got it all!
Dine-in or take-out is available all weekend! Stop by while you’re out enjoying the sunshine or have this goodness delivered straight to you via our website! You'll also want to grab a plant-powered lunch (topped with feta chunks) & a mojito on the side! Check it out here > SO GOOD! Menu > Order Online > HOURS
Monday + Thursday-Saturday 11 am-9pm
Tuesday + Wednesday 11 am-4pm
Sunday 11am-8pm Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon “Black Futures” ed. Kimberly Drew, Jenna Wortham available at Binnacle!
“Kimberly Drew and Jenna Wortham have brought together this collection of work—images, photos, essays, memes, dialogues, recipes, tweets, poetry, and more—to tell the story of the radical, imaginative, provocative, and gorgeous world that Black creators are bringing forth today. The book presents a succession of startling and beautiful pieces that generate an entrancing rhythm: Readers will go from conversations with activists and academics to memes and Instagram posts, from powerful essays to dazzling paintings and insightful infographics.” Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
You grilling this weekend for the Superbowl? A stretch, but maybe you're feeling ambitious, or maybe you're feeling like cooking in the fresh air if people are coming over. Brett's is ready with wood chips and seasoning! OPEN
Monday-Friday 7:30am - 7pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon
Stop into La Mere this weekend for the latest arrivals of clothing + goods! Here's a February Essentials Checklist:
- Sexy Henley Tee
- Perfectly Distressed Denim
- Removable Pom Beanie
Treat yourself or someone you love with these goods!
*New Arrivals Weekly / Free Shipping
Download their free app in the iTunes Store PS: Everything is under $100!! PPS: MENS clothing now available!
OPEN THIS WEEKEND:
Friday 12-6pm
Saturday 11-6pm
Sunday 12-5pm
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY New Website Alert!
Yanarella has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago! Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been “every child should have the same opportunity to dance, regardless of talent or ability. There is no can’t in dance. There’s only a C-A-N.”
The classes are inclusive and wardrobe is flexible. Even if a a child doesn't have ballet slippers, they can still come. Chances are, if you felt compelled to sponsor a shoe, Yanarella could guide you in the right direction of what sizes might be needed!
Visit Yanarella Dance online. Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!
Newburgh Armory Unity Center Saturday Enrichment Program Spring Session Registration Opens 2/12/2022 Information >
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Antalek & Moore is a full-service insurance agency and risk-management company based right here in Beacon! They offer commercial and personal insurance solutions to customers in the Hudson Valley community, throughout New York State, and across the country. Antalek & Moore is also hiring a full-time receptionist to assist their clients and carry out administrative work. They're looking for someone with excellent communication skills, a positive attitude, and strong attention to detail. To apply, fax your resume at 845-831-5631 or email info@antalek-moore.com. Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
It's here! A Little Beacon Blog's first Gift Guide in quite some time. For Valentine's Day, this one focuses on some shops on Beacon's East End near the mountain. There is some very serious shopping down there, from high end to vintage, to world famous chocolate to marshmallows to even rentable fashion.
Shop Hyperbole
484 Main Street These shiny bags are silky scrunchie bags. They are shoulder bags with a lot of elastic. Moments before this photo was taken, there were 3 bags. Popular.
Solstad House
488 Main Street Cutest! Tea cups with a tea bag holder off the side. Or however you want to use it.
Chocolate Studio
494 Main Street These sprinkled chocolate drops will delight your person! Lots of other goodies to be found in this shop.
Shop Berte
500 Main Street A tightly curated collection, Shop Berte has all independent designers in her shop, and can tell you the story behind each of them. From jewelry to wine decanters.
The Snookie Shop
508 Main Street Inside of The Snookie Shop are lots of sexy dresses, sporty sweats, and tops. But what is flying off the shelf is the Snookie makeup bag put together for Valentine’s Day! Red pom-pom hat not included, but you can add it!
Hudson Valley Marshmallow Co.
510 Main Street Of course you must go to a marshmallow shop for Valentine’s Day! The S’Mores Baskets are put together and ready to go for you. Plus these squish ‘mallows!
Kaight Shop Beacon
512 Main Street No matter what you find in Kaight, the piece is very special. A story behind every brand that is selected to display on the shelves, these styles won’t last long. People travel far to shop from Kaight’s collection.
The Village Jerk
494 Main Street …but did you know that there are leather-goods in The Village Jerk, the beef jerky shop next to the Chocolate Studio? Oh yes…check out their bracelets and gold painted wallets.
Refill.Restore.Beacon
480 Main Street The razor you’ve been dreaming of! Replace the blades, keep the body. You can stop throwing away plastic ones now. Comes in other colors including a rainbow hombre.
Vintage Beacon
478 Main Street A stylist-edited vintage and designer consignment boutique curated with love. Always changing it up inside, this shoe shelf offers a variety of styles.
Raven Rose
474 Main Street Always here for your love, Raven Rose has the Valentine’s table ready for you. Make your own dried flower arrangement while you’re in. Makes a great little gift.
La Mere Clothing and Goods
470 Main Street Valentines essentials. Don’t wait for anyone to buy these for you. Treat yourself! Many treats to choose from if you’re buying a gift, and new inventory is always arriving. Don’t hit snooze. Enjoy!
Tibet Tree Of Life
460 Main Street Crystals, rocks, everything you need to channel the right energy. Blankets, tops, candles, so many things that will make a home happy.
Violet Reserve
468 Main Street Have you been inside of this antique/vintage shop yet? Lots of special things. And do enjoy the mural on the back wall! Located near La Mere and Tibet Tree Of Life.
Hakan Chocolatier
462 Main Street So shiny! Just look at this world famous chocolate, located right here in Beacon, NY. The delicacies are delicious. Pick more than one.
Wanderlux Style
473 Main Street Beacon’s first (and only?) rentable fashion. That’s right. You can rent a dress, jacket, shoe, etc. Normally available online, Beaconties have access to this shop in-person and online. Located behind the architect’s office near the Howland Cultural Center.
In the blink of a pandemic minute, as Beacon was brimming over with parades and outdoor events, all them went poof and ended, starting with the St. Paddy’s Day Parade 2020. Last year, 2021, during the first “mask down” transition, before the Delta variant take-over, there were hopes of outdoor events, but Delta dictated caution. Beacon’s City Council at the time was hesitant to approve even an outdoor market at Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, which they ultimately approved. Later in September, the Spirit of Beacon Day committee made the tough decision to not congregate tables of nonprofit, artistic and community groups for a second year.
Now in 2022, during this week’s City Council Meeting, a Beacon resident, Dennis Pavlov, approached the podium during Public Comment to encourage a reboot of outdoor events and parades. A first event was then promoted by Councilmember Dan Aymar-Blair during his Community Report, describing a lantern event celebrating with lights for the coming spring. Like most events in Beacon, this one is volunteer based, organized by the people of Beacon Spring. The parade will be on Saturday, February 19th, “for an evening walk celebrating the coming spring, lunar new year, light, hope, warmth, renewal and kids! Everyone is welcome!” according to the event’s press release.
Beacon Spring went on to explain: “So many cultures around the world celebrate the end of winter with light! Thousands of lanterns are released in the sky during Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, fires and candles lit in honor of fertility goddess Brigid in Ireland, bonfires in Switzerland and Germany for Walpurgis Night, lighting candles for Passover, a 5 day fire fiesta in Valencia Spain to name a few. We want to make our own big town/small city festival to celebrate light in Hudson Valley. “
LANTERN MAKING: 2/13/2022 Prior to the lantern walk, there will be a lantern-making event on Sunday, February 13, 2022 from 10am-2pm at the Beacon Farmers Market, 223 Main Street Beacon NY. Materials will be provided.
PARADE AGENDA: 2/19/2022 Rain date 2/20/2022 5:30pm - Gather at Polhill Park - Main Street & South Ave. Bring lanterns, illuminate our light, line up and kick off the walk.
6:00pm - Parade Starts up the sidewalks of Main Street, bringing light, music and cheer.
6:30pm - Celebrate at The Yard, the building at 4 Hanna Lane. Display our lanterns. Drink tea and eat tasty morsels around the fire. Dress warm but be ready to dance to the music!
Businesses are sponsoring A Little Beacon Blog’s Business Directory because they value you - our readers - and want to reach you! This is a great way to find out about businesses you know you need, but didn’t know how to find - like doula services and evidence based care childbirth classes from Juniper Birth!
Jennifer Polk is a Birth RN, Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor and Evidence Based Birth Instructor. That’s an empowering combo! She also has experience in and offers Single Parent By Choice classes. Recommend her to your friends today!
The Newburgh Armory Unity Center’s heralded Saturday Enrichment Program’s winter session ends February 19th, 2022. Now’s the time to spring into action; the next session starts soon! Classes like Scholars in Scrubs, Money Masters, and Drones at NAUC are some student favorites; space is limited, and these classes fill up quickly. NAUC recently upgraded its dance studio and offers two different classes to choose from: Cultural Dance Explorers and Music and Movement, along with other large capacity classes, like Basketball and Soccer Skills and Lego Space. Family programs include a Pilates Mat Class and Play, Learn, and Grow for preschoolers and kindergarteners. The Spring session commences Saturday, the 26th of February, 2022.
Newburgh Armory Unity Center Founder and Chairman of the Board William Kaplan said, “I’m looking forward to seeing new and returning students taking classes that they know will help them grow. We have a great group of committed instructors and volunteers! We welcome new volunteers and ideas for classes that positively impact the lives of our students.”
Registration opens Saturday 2/12/22 at 8 am. Visit newburgharmory.org or call or email Diana Bernal, dbernal@newburgharmory.org, 845-245-4035, x112, Newburgh Armory Unity Center Saturday Enrichment Program Registrar, to set up an appointment or for more information.
The Newburgh Armory Unity Center (NAUC) has been changing young lives since 2010. Using the concept of learning through play, the NAUC provides free educational programming from literacy classes to career path exploration, all aimed at ending poverty and eliminating the need for educational remediation. During the Unity Center’s signature Saturday Morning Enrichment Program, children in pre-k through sixth grade participate in reading, writing, math, engineering, natural science, computer science, and the arts with the goal of developing scholastic ability, life skills, and emotional intelligence. After school programs offer additional opportunities for education enrichment. The NAUC also offers sports programming to provide skills and increase development, as well as to introduce leadership skills and team building. NAUC operates 52 weeks per year, to ensure that children and their families always have a place to learn, enjoy themselves, and be a part of a community.
Party 4 Human Rights | Come Out to Support Tara’s Mission Cross-Country
On Saturday, February 19th, Tara Simmons, a Beaconite who has been running cross-country to raise awareness of issues of importance to her, will be hosting a fundraising event at District Social Beacon in support of Human Rights. In August 2020, Tara completed a 100 mile run from Albany to Beacon, with her sights set on Death Valley, CA for Summer 2022.
A fundraiser to help get her there is happening Saturday, February 19, 2022 at District Social (up where Industrial Arts is, with a fantastic view of Mount Beacon). Tickets are $40 and include 2 drink tickets, a game card, and 1 raffle ticket.
Born and raised in Beacon, Tara is a mother, teacher and athlete. She is on a mission to spread love through awareness and education of Human Rights. Tara's Mission is centered on folks knowing their Human Rights - and understanding that they are inherent, not earned. She tells A Little Beacon Blog:
"My hope is to reach those sitting in pain and fear to let them know that they are inherently deserving of love, respect and care. It is their Human Right. Everyone has the right to life, freedom, and safety but it is up to us to know our Human Rights so that we can protect ourselves and each other."
Tara went on to observe: "I see a lot of blaming and shaming around issues such as workplace discrimination, affordable housing or food security, but when we look to our Human Rights we must recognize a common understanding of dignity and equality for all. We must start from the premise of Human Rights to address the issues impacting our lives and those around us."
This Summer, Tara will bike and run more than 2,600 miles from Death Valley, CA to Beacon, NY. She will also take time to speak out on the importance of knowing our Human Rights and how each of us can play a role in empowering ourselves and other to protect its core values such as fairness, dignity, equality and respect.
About FlipIt4Life
Tara launched her initiative, Flipit4Life. The mission of FL!P IT 4 LIFE is to increase love and to conquer fear. Through engaging others, Tara works to bring the community along the journey of knowing, modeling and protecting our Human Rights.
At approximately 9:51pm on Saturday, February 5, 2022, two cars collided on Fishkill Avenue (aka Rte. 52) near Industrial Arts and the John Deere tractor lot. One driver was killed almost instantly, and the other driver suffered body pain and was transported to a hospital. After the accident, police closed the road and remained there to reconstruct the scene.
Fishkill Avenue moments after the car accident when emergency responders had arrived.
Hours later, a Beacon Police Officer was assigned to the road closure detail and was sitting in his car with his emergency lights activated when a third car driving from Beacon to Fishkill rear-ended him, kept on driving, and then collided into an unoccupied tow truck, upon which it came to a stop. That driver was arrested for DWI, resisting a breath test, and issued various other traffic violations, according to the press release issued by Beacon’s Police Department the day after. The Police Officer was taken to the hospital where he was evaluated and released.
Said one Beaconite who lives near the scene of the accident:I had just been driving past there 10 minutes before. We had space heaters on in the house that muffles the street noise, so we didn’t hear it. I went outside to grab something from my car and saw all the lights. This stretch of Fishkill Avenue is terrifying. So many near accidents happen outside of our house. I’ve written the Fishkill Town Board about it multiple times. I love my house and neighbors, but living here comes at a price!”
This story was reported earlier by the Highlands Current and MidHudson News. The press release is below in full:
On 2/5/22 at approximately 2151hrs (9:51pm), the City of Beacon Police responded to the area of 511 Fishkill Avenue for a two car head on motor vehicle accident involving a Subaru Outback and a Jeep Grand Cherokee. The male driver, and sole occupant of the red Subaru, was later identified as Derron E. Holmes, a 49-year-old Beacon resident. Holmes was not breathing and did not have a pulse; therefore, he was removed from the vehicle and resuscitation efforts were administered. Holmes was transported to St. Luke's Hospital via Ambulanz where he was later pronounced deceased.
The second operator, and single male occupant of the Jeep, suffered from pain in multiple areas of his body. He was transported to Vassar Brothers Medical Center by Beacon Volunteer Ambulance and later released. The roadway was closed for traffic in order to reconstruct the accident which was being completed by the New York State Police Accident Reconstruction Team.
At approximately 0113hrs (1:13am) on 2/6/2022, a City of Beacon Police Officer assigned to the road closure was seated in the driver seat of his marked patrol vehicle with the emergency lights activated when he was rear ended by a Ford Bronco. The Bronco continued traveling North on Fishkill Avenue and struck the rear of an unoccupied tow truck where it finally came to rest. The lone occupant of the Bronco was identified as 49-year-old Joseph M. Jarossy of Glenham. Jarossy declined medical attention and was arrested by the New York State Police where he was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, refusal to submit to a breath test, as well as miscellaneous vehicle and traffic citations related to the accident. He is scheduled to appear in the City of Beacon Court at a future date.
The Beacon Police Officer was transported to St. Luke's Hospital by Ambulanz where he was evaluated and released. The fatal accident is still under investigation and no further details are available at this time.
Support for this publication comes in part from these businesses. We have highlighted what makes them special on their own dedicated pages. Want your business listed here? See the "Sponsor Spotlight" or "Event Promotion" option in our Advertising Page.
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.
SAVE THE DATES: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
SAVE THE DATES: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
