Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro amplified via his Instagram that the county has decided to shift federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds away from the planned minimum of $11.6 million that was dedicated for a renovation to Dutchess Stadium, as reported by Times Union and Daily Freeman. Instead, the county changed its focus to allocate $9.5 million for housing, as reported by Times Union after an announcement by Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro at a recent county legislature meeting.
The County Executive received pushback from the allocation of the funds towards tourism instead of the current housing crisis in the Hudson Valley.
The Times Union reported that “Dutchess County Comptroller Robin Lois released an audit scrutinizing the county’s plan, finding ‘investment in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure surprisingly low at $1.7 million, particularly compared to the stadium spending.’”
In the article, Dutchess County Minority Leader Yvette Valdés Smith (D-Fishkill) told the Times Union: "This should have been the case from the get-go. Our county needs so much assistance. Our housing market has really boomed, but it has really hit us hard as communities. There are a lot of renters in my own district … trying to buy their first home and simply cannot. Prices have really gone up.”
This Week's City Council Workshop Meeting Agenda For 4/11/2022 has been posted to A Little Beacon Blog. The meeting starts at 7pm and can be listened to live via YouTube or Zoom. No public participation in this version. It is for brainstorming designated items only. When the video replay is available, it will be posted with this meeting here at A Little Beacon Blog for easy access to your government meetings.
Tonight’s meeting will include a Presentation by Mitchell Associates Architects Regarding the Tompkins Hose Firehouse Rehabilitation Capital Project.
Topics to be discussed include:
1. Discussion Regarding City of Beacon Ward Redistricting
2. Discussion of the New York State Build Public Renewables Act
3. Appointing Richard Figueroa to the Position of Heavy Motor Equipment Operator
4. Appointing Kate Stryker to the Tree Advisory Committee
5. Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute an Agreement with Architecture, Engineering, and Land Surveying Northeast, PLLC for Development of a Lake Management Plan for the City of Beacon Drinking Water Reservoirs
6. Preliminary Discussion Regarding Civic Participation Goals/Participatory Budgeting Process
We're constantly updating our Summer Camp Guide to make your summer planning easier! Better early than late... trust us! Some of them are already booking up! Use A Little Beacon Blog's Summer Day Camp Guide to mix and match for your family's schedule. To help, we created a Summer Camp Guide and a handy Downloadable Summer Camp List for you. Fill in the blanks for where you are going for camp and vacation. Print out the list to help you plan those weeks of summer for each child!
If you run a Summer Camp and want to add more details and photos, consider upgrading to a sponsored listing so that we can show those lovely photos and gush about the themed weeks you have planned! Learn more here >
Saturday is April 9th, which is the Second Saturday of the month! Readers and business owners alike have written in to us to ask if Second Saturday is still a thing in Beacon. With First Fridays starting up for shopping, Second Saturday for the arts is always here for galleries who want to be a little extra.
The galleries would love to see you any Saturday. A Little Beacon Blog still has our online Second Saturday Guide that lists all of the galleries with addresses and descriptions of the galleries themselves. Art Galleries are welcome to sponsor this guide with a subscription to have their exhibits listed any weekend, or just one!
The Ethan Cohen Gallery at the KuBe Art Center (aka The Old Beacon High School) has sponsored their event listing for this Second Saturday because they think this weekend is pretty special. Do take this opportunity to go inside of the KuBe Art Center to experience their exhibit! Details below.
Aleksandr Razin's Solo Exhibition:
Sawdust Bodies / The Zoo Day: Saturday, April 9, 2022 Time: 12pm-6pm Location: KuBe Art Center, 211 Fishkill Ave in Beacon, NY
Ethan Cohen Gallery at the KuBe Art Center is pleased to present the opening of Aleksandr Razin's solo exhibition Sawdust Bodies / The Zoo. Information >
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
2022 Household Hazardous Waste Disposal & Electronics Recycling Events
Day: April 9, 2022 Time: 8:00 am - 12:30 pm (no set appointment time) Location: 626 Dutchess Turnpike, Poughkeepsie, NY
Access off of Route 44 to Burnett Boulevard. Registration and $10 Prepayment Required. Do not exit your vehicle, event staff will unload your household chemicals and electronics. Register here >
Beacon Business Owner Meet-Up Day: Tuesday, April 12, 2022 Time: 6pm - 8pm Location: The Vinyl Room, Beacon, NY Information >
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.
Beer, food, music. What else do you need for a chill Friday night? Judith Tulloch tonight - A local favorite, performs beautiful shows with music described as world-pop-fusion with a jazzy edge. Joe Krzyzewksi tomorrow! Two Way is the place to be. Good drinks, good food, good people. PS Don't forget about Trivia on Thursday's! PPS Did you know you can rent Two Way's game room for private events?! Reach out and find out more! See Trivia Schedule here > See beers on tap here > 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
The Dumpling + Bun Pop Up from Eat Church was a huge hit and so they had another pop up! Pop ups go quick... all Eat Church goods go quick. They're fresh & they're delicious. Follow them on IG so you never miss out on special deliciousness again! You can grab-n-go Eat Church goodies from Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring and at the Beacon Pantry in Beacon! OR, because it's the weekend and you deserve to treat yo'self, find Eat Church at Industrial Arts Brewing on Fishkill Avenue/Route 52! Fridays from 3pm - 9pm & Saturdays from 12pm - 9pm. Keep up with all of the delicious pop-ups and events here > You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials > Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
Stop into BBC this weekend for a delicious cappuccino and an entire basket of croissants! Don't forget the SPRING TOAST! > - sourdough with house-pickled beets, sliced red onion over a creamy feta cheese spread topped with microgreens, + an extra virgin olive oil drizzle. BBC is open for brunch, coffees, pastries, + cocktails! OPEN:
Sunday-Thursday until 7 pm (Closed on Wednesday)
Friday + Saturday until 10 pm Happy Hour $7 ‘til 7 pm menu is available every day starting at 4 pm! Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Let MOD pour you a drink, make you a delicious burger, twice cooked fries, and bake you some dessert! Stop in this weekend to fill your belly & soul! PS: The new Cocktail menu is ready! Decide which house-made cocktail you want, like the Flower Power with Beefeater Gin, Creme De Violette, Lychee Liqueur, and Lemon. PPS: Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Reach out to 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
Fried Noodles with Braised Pork from Ciao Chow?! Yes please! Tossed with broccoli, peppers, edamame and carrots. Don't resist...you know you want some. Inside the HV Food Hall! 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
Looking for a sign to get calamari from Baja?! This is it! Made with Tequila-Tomato Jam, Pickled Red Onion, Scallions & Lime. Aside from Baja's delicious southwest cuisine, they offer over 130 top shelf tequilas. They pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients available for their cocktails and cuisine! Baja also has great vibes & we can't wait to dine with the garage doors open! 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.
Some colorful, flavorful falafel rice bowl goodness from Ziatun! Ziatun is open all weekend with their most popular plant-based dishes! Including this one - made with seasoned basmati rice, cucumber + tomato salad, hummus, + baba ganoush glory! PS as the weather begins to warm up, enjoy a Halloumi Cheese Platter and their other delicious mezzes outside! > Menu > Order Online > HOURS
Monday + Thursday-Saturday 11 am-9pm
Tuesday + Wednesday 11 am-4pm
Sunday 11am-8pm Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
WITCH HAZEL Online Shop based in Beacon, NY!
Feeling like Spring with this Floral installation! Dried hydrangea, pampas grass, eucalyptus, celosia, wheat, nigella pods, palm spears, bunny tails, verticordia, and wallaby grass. At Witch Hazel, you’ll find flowers for local delivery around Beacon, New York, plus a selection of botanical-inspired beauty products, gifts and more. Need some Easter arrangements or gifts?! This is the place to get them from! Shop vintage, home goods, apparel, and beauty & wellness! Shop here > Order florals > Follow Witch Hazel on Instagram! >
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon Judith Hooper, “Of Moths and Men: Intrigue, Tragedy, and the Peppered Moth” / Aimee Nezhukumatathil, “World of Wonders: In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments” / Marie Winn “Red-tails in Love: Pale Male’s Story—A True Wildlife Drama in Central Park” available at Binnacle Books! Follow Binnacle on Instagram for descriptions and summaries of a lot of great reads! Stay tuned for their next book club with Matcha Thomas. Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
You're getting ready for it...the Lawn Chair Sit. Up your game with with this long lounge chair with pop-up shade! Grab a book from Binnacle and relax in the fresh air. Take an allergy pill if you need to. 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
Grab those sunglasses! Sunnier days are coming! Everyone needs a pair of prescription polarized sunglasses! Polarized lenses not only reduce glare but they make images appear sharper and clearer, increasing visual clarity and comfort! Check out how beautiful Michelle looks in her New Leisure Society Sunglasses from Luxe! Stop in & check out their latest Spring Collection! Schedule the eye exam that you've been putting off! You won't regret it.
Read more about the team here > PS: Appts required for exams. 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!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY New Website Alert!
Adult ballet classes are available at Yanarella! They have a comfortable space and vibe for all levels. Even if you haven't danced in a while. See their Schedule page for class times to get your body moving.
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Request a quote from Antalek & Moore! It's easy & the staff is beyond helpful and great. Head on over to Antalek & Moore's website to subscribe to their monthly newsletter! Never miss out on the latest company updates, industry news, and more.
Antalek & Moore is a full-service insurance agency and risk-management company based right here in Beacon! Says Katie of A Little Beacon Blog: "Honestly, I love them because they hold my hand. From Workmans Comp to Disabaility Insurance, I can call them, make an appointment, come to the office, and they walk me through what I need to do. As a business owner, I cannot imagine navigating insurance needs without them." They offer commercial and personal insurance solutions to customers in the Hudson Valley community, throughout New York State, and across the country. AND, with Spring right around the corner, it's the perfect time to review and update your insurance policies. Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle a training platform and community for businesses, artists and makers who are getting the word out about their business. Tin Shingle teaches PR, social media and content marketing tactics to regular people to help make their pitching and brand story telling smarter, engaging and more appropriate for the media to consider for article features. Tin Shingle produces weekly webinars called Training TuneUps, which offer free access to niche classes, as well as one-on-one training opportunities. Our Research Team is constantly updating our easy-to-use Media Contact Library and Editorial Calendar Collection, which serve as an inspiration center when discovering story angles and best people to connect with about where to pitch about your business. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
It's Spring! You know what that means... it's time to update your website & give it a refresh! Just like you do your closet. Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Find out more about Website Design services here > and see some of our latest website designs here: Homespun Foods > Barb's Butchery > Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Farm Stand Associate at Obercreek Farm Details >
HIRING: Full Time Receptionist At Antalek & Moore Details >
HIRING: Maintenance & Packaging Manager At Industrial Arts Brewing Details >
It is Budget Time for the Beacon City School District, which means that the Board of Education is dedicating the time to imagine and discuss what needs fixing, developing, enhancing in the district. As a tax-paying member of the public (renters and owners alike!) you are encouraged to submit your two-cents.
A Little Beacon Blog will be pushing for Bussing For All, which is the idea that all kids of all ages can be able to take a bus to school. Currently, kids who live within a radius cannot take the bus, and need to walk. For generations, this has been fine. But students are beginning to speak out for themselves, and on behalf of friends, that this option is not OK anymore. Read more about it in ALBB’s former column here.
You can submit your thoughts on the budget now, until April 8th! Don’t miss this deadline. The Board of Education does evaluate each entry, and takes feedback to heart. You can watch them discuss feedback during their Board of Education meetings. Should you have further thoughts, you could speak them during Public Comment of a Board of Education Meeting, to make sure your voice is heard.
According to a letter to the Beacon City School District (BCSD) community from Superintendent Landahl, a BCSD bus that services South Avenue Elementary was involved in an accident with a motor vehicle near Brockway Road and 9D at around 8:20am on Thursday, March 31, 2022. That intersection is near Vista Point Apartments and the Red Pepper Diner.
Dr. Landahl said that 13 students were on the bus, and after being checked by EMTs at the scene, all were OK. Upon arriving at school, the students were then checked out by nursing staff at South Avenue Elementary and were “reported to be OK again,” Dr. Landahl reported. he also reported that the bus monitor was taken to a hospital for further evaluation.
“All families of students involved were contacted earlier this morning,” Dr. Landahl stated. “Thanks to our staff for their handling of this and thanks to the first responders for helping so quickly this morning.” The email to the district community was sent just hours after the accident.
Students exploring at the last in-person Beacon City School District (BCSD) Career Fair in 2019 before the shutdown. The 2022 Career Fair will be in-person this year.
“I am very excited that we once again can plan for and run an in-person career fair,” said Michele R. Polhamus, School Counselor and Director of the Career Fair. “Any career is welcomed.”
In the past, presenters ranged from a variety of industries and included individuals like journalists, cinematographers, editors, podcasters, EMS professionals, land surveyors, local insurance agencies, barbers, hair stylists, and more.
Each participant will get a table on which they can display any items that represent their career and can serve as talking pieces with the students. Set-up for the event will begin at 9am, and a light breakfast will be served. A light lunch will be available towards the middle of the event.
While there will be some access to power, it will be very limited. Extension cords are encouraged if power is needed.
Interested participants can sign up online here. There is no cost to participate.
It's April! Which means a lot more rain, a lot more flowers, a lot of ice cream, and a lot of Summer Camp planning for the kids! Because believe it or not, you must plan as early as now to make sure you get in where you want to get in! Luckily, there are a lot of different options and the good news is, you don't have to choose just one.
Use A Little Beacon Blog's Summer Day Camp Guide to mix and match for your family's schedule. To help, we created a Summer Camp Guide and a handy organization print-out list for you. Print out the list to help you plan those weeks of summer for each child!
If you run a Summer Camp and want to add more details and photos, consider upgrading to a sponsored listing so that we can show those lovely photos and gush about the themed weeks you have planned! Learn more here >
Looking for sports teams to sign up for? A Little Beacon Blog has that guide too! The Kids Sports Guide. We are updating it as we speak for all of those hard-to-find registration links.
Ramadan Mubarak! As the Crescent moon was spotted in Saudi Arabia today, Ramadan begins Saturday, April 2nd. It lasts the month, and those who recognize it will be fasting from sunrise to sundown until May 1st. You can learn more about it here, including what fasting means to Muslims, as well as how to great someone to wish them a blessed Ramadan.
This illustration was first shared by Izdihar Dabashi, who is a writer for A Little Beacon Blog and is celebrating Ramadan. The illustration was shared by @arabic.pop.art and was created by @rafikillustration.
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's First Friday SHOPPING Day: Friday, April 1 Time: "Late Night" in Beacon, maybe until 9sh pm Location: Main Street, Beacon, NY
Beacon's boutiques and shops are at it again! Thought you wanted to go to their late night shopping event, Hop And Shop, during the winter holidays? So did everyone else. The shops have banded together to stay open in the First Friday of every month. Rain or shine. Hot or cold. Shopping in Beacon on a Friday night is actually a sacred space - the weekend crowd has not arrived yet. The streets are peaceful yet relaxed as everyone is letting go from the week. Mark this in your calendar on Repeat, and take yourself on a stroll or roll down Main Street for evening shopping.
Lit Lit Day: Friday, April 1 Time: 7pm- 9pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
The first Lit Lit at the Howland! Poet Kristen Holt-Browning (originally scheduled for March) will be joining as a featured reader and reading from her newly-published chapbook, The Only Animal Awake in the House. “All our advance reading slots are now full. But we will have a bunch of spots available for you to sign up to read when you arrive, if you get there early! Everyone can read their own writing of any genre for a maximum of five minutes, until we run out of time! The Howland requires proof of full vaccination the door, along with a photo ID. They will also have soft drinks, wine, beer and snacks on hand to buy. We know that it is April Fools' Day, so we intend to be as foolish as possible.”
Book Club! Matcha Thomas & Binnacle Books Day: Friday, April 1, 2022
Hosted monthly at Matcha Thomas, they created space for connecting, expanding, & healing together through the power of books. First Spring session is Friday April 1st for an introductory pre-read discussion/meetup! Mark your calendar for future opportunities Information >
Easter Egg Hunt Day: Saturday, April 2, 2022 (Rain Date: Sunday April 3, 2022) Time: 12pm - 3pm Location: Maurer Geering Park, 1 Geering Way, Fishkill, NY
Fishkill Recreation in collaboration with the The Blodgett Memorial Library, Town of Fishkill Police Department, Town Hall and Village Hall is proud to announce our 2022 Easter Egg Hunt. This is a FREE event, however this event is full with a waiting list. Add yourself to the waiting list here! >
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.
It may still be a little chilly but you can never go wrong with a refreshing beer from Two Way! Our suggestion? The flight! Try a few and find your favorite(s) PS LIVE MUSIC tonight! 7:30 pm with Michael Leidig and tomorrow night at 9:00 pm with David Kraii. Don't forget about Trivia on Thursday's! PPS Did you know you can rent Two Way's game room for private events?! Reach out and find out more! See Trivia Schedule here > See beers on tap here > 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
If you missed out on the Dumpling Pop Up from Eat Church, we are so sorry! But, this is your sign to follow them on IG so you can never miss out on special deliciousness again! You can grab-n-go Eat Church goodies from Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring and at the Beacon Pantry in Beacon! OR, because it's the weekend and you deserve to treat yo'self, find Eat Church at Industrial Arts Brewing! Fridays from 3pm - 9pm & Saturdays from 12pm - 9pm. PS you DO NOT want to miss out on their specials! Trust us. Keep up with all of the delicious pop-ups and events here > You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials > Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
Happy Friday, and in the words of a passerby, “Spring has SPRUNG!” It's always warm & sunnday at Beacon Bread! Especially when you're enjoying this NY staple: BEC (SPK!) on a house-made brioche roll + a French toast latte (with their bakery-crafted syrup + extra shot of espresso). Stop in this weekend for all the goods! OPEN:
Sunday-Thursday until 7 pm (Closed on Wednesday)
Friday + Saturday until 10 pm Happy Hour $7 ‘til 7 pm menu is available every day starting at 4 pm! Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Can you really go into work on Monday & say you had a good weekend if you didn't stop at MOD for lunch??... Exactly! Stop in this weekend for fresh delicious burgers & twice cooked fries. PS: Rumor has it, MOD is about to drop a new Cocktail menu... PPS: Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Reach out to 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
Shmuck's ice cream is open year round, rain or shine, with great indoor seating if it's cold or rainy! So yeah, no excuse to not get ice cream! Inside the HV Food Hall! 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
Aside from Baja's delicious southwest cuisine, they offer over 130 top shelf tequilas. They pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients available for their cocktails and cuisine! Baja also has great vibes & we can't wait to dine with the garage doors open! 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.
If you didn't get a homemade chocolate chip tahini cookie from Ziatun to go with your lunch/dinner, did you even go to Ziatun??? Made with cardamom & pairs well with a pot of Arabic coffee pre or post dinner! Or as a substitute for lunch/dinner - no judging here! PS as the weather begins to warm up, enjoy a Halloumi Cheese Platter and their other delicious mezzes outside! > Menu > Order Online > HOURS
Monday + Thursday-Saturday 11 am-9pm
Tuesday + Wednesday 11 am-4pm
Sunday 11am-8pm Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
WITCH HAZEL Online Shop based in Beacon, NY!
A local online shop based in Beacon, NY that offers clean beauty products, exclusively designed home good from NY artists, custom floral design, and vintage/antiques! Plus, small-group floral design classes (ie, for birthday parties, bachelorette parties, book club events, "I haven't seen you in 2 years" moments! Whenever possible, Witch Hazel sources what they sell from local growers, small-batch brands and other eco-conscious companies that, you know, respect the planet where we live. Shop here > Follow Witch Hazel on Instagram! >
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon The coolest collab ever! A new book club in partnership with Matcha Thomas, the endeavor “book club!” and meetings will be hosted monthly at Matcha Thomas just up the road at 179 Main St.! They're creating space for connecting, expanding, and healing together through the power of books. Each month’s book will be available to book club! members at a discount. First Spring session is Friday April 1st for an introductory pre-read discussion / meetup! (this is sold out already but this is your sign to be on alert for the next book club!) The selection of reads will center topics such as mindfulness, creativity, radical love, connection, and self and community care. But they intend for book club! to be collaborative, so they may expand beyond these areas as the group feels inclined. Tea and vegan + gluten-free treats will be provided by Matcha Thomas for club members to enjoy. Join them! Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
And now for our moment of looking at these adorable stuffies, available now at Brett's Hardware. BUY EACH ONE! Omg. Brett's is always surprising us with their Kid Section throughout the store (Brett is a father of young kids!). When you need to buy some hardware, or paint, or a new toilet seat, you can also buy a panda or a pink...squid. 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
Walking out of Luxe with your new eyeglasses like.... Luxe Optique is so ready for Spring and already filling up the shop with Spring collections. Just when we think they can't get better... they do! Always do! Stop in & check out Their latest Spring Collection! Schedule the eye exam that you've been putting off! You won't regret it.
Read more about the team here > PS: Appts required for exams. 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!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY New Website Alert!
For over 60 years, Yanarella has been dedicated to providing an exceptional dance education to the Hudson Valley. Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been that “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”.
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Head on over to Antalek & Moore's website to subscribe to their monthly newsletter! Never miss out on the latest company updates, industry news, and more.
Antalek & Moore is a full-service insurance agency and risk-management company based right here in Beacon! Says Katie of A Little Beacon Blog: "Honestly, I love them because they hold my hand. From Workmans Comp to Disabaility Insurance, I can call them, make an appointment, come to the office, and they walk me through what I need to do. As a business owner, I cannot imagine navigating insurance needs without them." They offer commercial and personal insurance solutions to customers in the Hudson Valley community, throughout New York State, and across the country. AND, with Spring right around the corner, it's the perfect time to review and update your insurance policies. Contact their office and let one of their experienced agents assist you! Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle a training platform and community for businesses, artists and makers who are getting the word out about their business. Tin Shingle teaches PR, social media and content marketing tactics to regular people to help make their pitching and brand story telling smarter, engaging and more appropriate for the media to consider for article features. Tin Shingle produces weekly webinars called Training TuneUps, which offer free access to niche classes, as well as one-on-one training opportunities. Our Research Team is constantly updating our easy-to-use Media Contact Library and Editorial Calendar Collection, which serve as an inspiration center when discovering story angles and best people to connect with about where to pitch about your business. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
It's Spring! You know what that means... it's time to update your website & give it a refresh! Just like you do your closet. Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Find out more about Website Design services here > Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Full Time Receptionist At Antalek & Moore Details >
HIRING: Maintenance & Packaging Manager At Industrial Arts Brewing Details >
HIRING: Beacon City School District Food Service Department Is Looking For Substitute Food Service Helpers Details >
We are honoring our friends Ziatun by reposting this post they did on March 30. After interviewing the owner, Jamel Kamal at our sister podcast Wait What Is That with co-host Brandon Lillard , we learned how emotionally difficult it is for Jamel and his wife Lena to stay open on heavy days like this one.
"Land Day (Arabic: يوم الأرض, Yawm al-ʾArḍ; Hebrew: יוֹם הַאֲדָמָה, Yom HaAdama), March 30, is a day of commemoration for Arab citizens of Israel and Palestinians of the events of that date in 1976 in Israel.
"In 1976, in response to the Israeli government's announcement of a plan to expropriate thousands of dunams of land for state purposes, a general strike and marches were organized in Arab towns from the Galilee to the Negev. In the ensuing confrontations with the Israeli army and police, six unarmed[3] Arab citizens were killed, about one hundred were wounded, and hundreds of others arrested.
"Scholarship on the Israeli–Palestinian conflict recognizes Land Day as a pivotal event in the struggle over land and in the relationship of Arab citizens to the Israeli state and body politic. It is significant in that it was the first time since 1948 that Arabs in Israel organized a response to Israeli policies as a Palestinian national collective.[1] An important annual day of commemoration in the Palestinian national political calendar ever since, it is marked not only by Arab citizens of Israel, but also by Palestinians all over the world.” Source
The tip came in on the Beacon Moms Facebook Group - Ron’s Ice Cream on Fishkill Avenue announced their opening day - March 25, 2022 - and are open! Readers and little kids alike have been asking: “When’s Ron’s opening!?!” as Beacon’s most visible ice cream hut, painted yellow and located across from a kid-busy Memorial Park, is the mile-marker to the official arrival of Spring.
Despite it being in the 50s today. Totally normal, by the way. Beaonites know that at least one more snow dump on pink and white magnolia blossoms is possible. For the sake of time, we re-published 2021’s Ice Cream Roundup, with the addition of Lick The Vegan’s Stuff’s new location - and is open now!
Lick The Vegan Stuff at Végétalien
A Beacon favorite, and honestly, quite possibly a world-wide-vegan-ice-cream treasure. Located currently in the Vegetarian. This picture is credited to another Beacon gem, the vegan donut shop, Peaceful Provisions. Their description of this banana split: “We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming to bring you BANANA SPLIT news from @licktheveganstuff (yesss she’s back open)! We just had this and it was TOO GOOD not to share will y’all. Your choice of three ice cream scoops (we chose Strawberry, Cereal Milk and Death by Chocolate), organic banana, organic strawberries and your choice of oat or coconut whipped cream. Get it done right and make sure to order this with sundae toppings (chocolate sauce, pecans and sprinkles)🤤.”
The Beacon Creamery is located at 134 Main St in Beacon, NY and they have mouth-watering flavors that you need to try now! Some include, “New York, New York” which includes cappuccino Kahlua, hot fudge, whipped cream, and raspberry sauce. They also have floats, ice cream sundaes, specialties, tipsy shakes, and regular ice cream with an option to add WINE ice cream for $2.00!
Pictured: Blue Panda
Ron’s Ice Cream
Ron’s Ice Cream is located at 298 Fishkill Ave in Beacon, NY and they have all of the fun flavors you want like Birthday Cake or Cookies and Cream. And always sprinkles. Some special flavors include Chocolate Moose Tracks, Graham Central Station, Crazy Vanilla, Cookies n Cream, and many more! They also carry sundaes, specialty sundaes, flurries, milkshakes, slushies, and more. Oh, plus, they have hotdogs, burgers, snacks, sandwiches, and sides!
The parking lot is small for line crowding during a pandemic. Last year, Ron’s initiated a call-in service with no walk-up service. ALBB does not have word yet on how they will do it this year. Stay tuned!
Zora Dora’s
NOTE: Checking on their 2022 open status! Zora Dora’s Micro Batch Ice Cream And Paletas is located at 201 Main St in Beacon, NY, and makes ice creams and sorbets in the form of paletas! If you don’t know what a paleta is, it’s a frozen treat on a stick! Their handmade products are produced in small batches every day and they source and handpick the freshest seasonal ingredients available. They also offer catering and cart rentals!
Pictured: Vegan Chocolate Orange
The Chocolate Studio
The Chocolate Studio doesn’t only have delicious chocolates and signature treats, but they also have ice cream! Vegan flavors too. You can pick-up vegan and gluten-free treats (or nonvegan/gluten-free) OR they ship nationwide! Sadly, ice-cream is excluded from the shipping part so you will have to stop in the store for that! But you’ll want to! So many flavors, you might have to get a few.
Yankee Clipper Diner
You can also stop in the Yankee Clipper Diner for ice-cream! They have a few sundaes on their menu, including the Waffle Sundae, which is a freshly baked Belgian waffle with 2 scoops of ice cream, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, sprinkles, walnuts, and a cherry on top! I mean, this could be your breakfast! Add additional toppings for only $1.
Shmuck’s Sweet Stuff
Shmuck’s is located inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall and offers delicious homemade ice cream, fresh cones, hot waffles, and other sweet stuff! They’re open year round, rain or shine, with great indoor seating if it’s cold or rainy!
In December of the school year, amidst holiday choral concerts and shopping, all of the Elks Club all over the nation hold a Hoop Shoot contest. Kids compete in their age and gender bracket to see who can swish the most baskets. Winners advance to next states, and the final tournament is held in Chicago, where the competing children and their families are put up in a hotel for the final round. Winners names go into the National Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield Mass.
Required to enter was a birth certificate for proof of age, which hinders a number of kids from entering who do not have easy access to their birth certificates, or if their birth certificates are not current with their names or genders. The Beacon Elk’s Lodge was questioned about the routine practice by a parent (me). After giving it a second thought, the Beacon Elk’s Lodge Hoops Director Nicole Moreno agreed that the policy was restrictive, and took it all the way to the State and National Directors of the Elks Lodge to advocate for the requirement’s removal. The top directors agreed, and the birth certificate is no longer required.
About The Hoop Shoot Contest
In Beacon and in other communities where there is an Elks Club Lodge membership hosting the contest, parents receive a simple flyer with the date and location of the tryout: a Friday evening at Rombout Middle School. Participating kids must bring their birth certificates in order to prove their age. Being that the kids are receiving these flyers in school the need for proof of age seems redundant, and overly cautious.
The Restrictive Problem With The Birth Certificate Requirement
This seemingly simple requirement is a barrier to several different types of children, including those who are:
Unable to locate their birth certificate. Sometimes they get lost.
Living with a parent or caregiver in more than one household where communication between parents is strained, and only one parent has the original birth certificate to make the copy. Getting a document like this for an activity that both parents agree on can become a problem.
Difficult for those with different immigration statuses who may not have a birth certificate.
Limiting for those in foster care who also may not have easy access to a birth certificate.
Uncomfortable for kids recognizing gender identification, and are going through Beacon schools with a different gender and name than what they were identified with at birth. Revealing a birth certificate may “out” them in a way they don’t intend.
When asked why the birth certificate was needed if the kids are being recruited from Rombout Middle School, Principal Brian Soltish referred questions to Carl Oken, an organizer with the Elks Club. Carl explained that the birth certificate was needed for proof of age should the child advance to next rounds, as the school does not share records with the club. Carl stated that “birth certificates can have all data redacted other than name, birth date and sex.”
When questioning of the practice persisted, Carl referred the questions onto the contest director, Nicole Moreno. While at first she was comfortable with the practice, she gave it a think over a weekend, and changed her mind: “Our conversations had my wheels turning. I have addressed this issue with both the State and National Directors and effective immediately, birth certificates are no longer a requirement.”
A Beaconite who is a parent in the district and is a bilingual lead advocate for domestic violence victims, Ella Mar, was supportive of the decision. “That type of requirement excludes undocumented students, and potentially exposes their undocumented status. It also excludes queer children and teenagers who have been kicked out of their home and doesn't have access to their birth certificate,” they reflected.
“A proof of birth certificate requirement especially targets trans kids, who would have to expose their dead name and assigned gender at birth, which could potentially out any child whose current sex, gender or name isn't reflected on their birth record. This type of requirement could also exclude children in the foster care system, or any youth where it is not safe for them to produce their birth record. Or they just don't have it."
Months after the decision was made, Nicole remains supportive of the decision to make community-based events produced by the Elks more inclusive, stating: “For a long time, the Elks Club was not so inclusive. You had to be a white Christian male to be a member. There are still Lodges to this day that are still segregated by sex and color. Even a neighboring community still doesn't allow female members. Beacon, however, was one of the first to allow female members, and the first to elect a Woman Exalted Ruler. We just elected the 3rd this year 2022. We love our vets. We love our kids and we love our community.”
This month finishes Nicole’s four years as chair of the Hoop Shoot committee, to be followed by Joe Green. Barbra Farber was Exalted Ruler twice, and Jennifer Velez is the newly elected Exalted Ruler, to begin serving the term in April 2022.
The Beacon Elks Lodge is located at 900 Wolcott Avenue. Keep up the the many events and opportunities they offer, including rental of their space.
Join the Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps (BVAC) for the 6th Annual Community Education Safety Day & EMS Week Celebration on May 15th, 2022 at the Beacon Elks Lodge from 12-4pm. Several safety opportunities are in store for you.
Says Deborah CortesEMT-B and Vice President of BVAC, “This event was created to help educate the community on emergencies and get the opportunity to meet community members as well as they get to know us and other first responders around the county. Another goal is to make them aware of numerous resources that are out there and available for them in the county. We hold this event on the week of May 15th specifically each year because it’s EMS Week! We do take donations if somebody does want to donate. This event is free for persons of all ages and we’re hoping to see everyone out there!”
While there, if you are thinking of getting involved with BVAC, on-site interviews for career and volunteer opportunities will be available as well as free giveaways and activities!
Activities Included In BVAC’s Community Safety Day
Free face painting
Free balloons
Free bicycle helmets & fitting for kids
Free car seat inspections (replacement if necessary)
CME
Teddy bear clinic
Seat belt rollover demo
Animal ambulance
Opioid crisis education
Heart/stroke awareness
Smoke trailer demo
Train track safety
David Garcia- human trafficking
ATV’s, K-9 Unit, Drone, Rescue boat and Crime scene truck
And MORE!
The event will take place on May 15th 2022 from 12pm - 4pm at the Beacon Elks Lodge in Beacon, NY. Find more information here >
This week in your City Hall, the City Council, the Mayor and the City Administrator will meet on the following items that are officially on the meeting’s agenda for 3/21/2022:
- Appointing (hiring) a new HR Director, Sara Morris.
- Appointing Esther Jackson to the Conservation Advisory Committee (a busy committee that keeps the City on track with environmental goals)
- Re-hiring a cleaning service to clean the City of Beacon’s public bathrooms. Miller’s Touch Cleaning Service, a Black owned business won the bid.
- Hiring of VAD Contractors to replace the roof on the Municipal Building (aka Town Hall)
- Authorizing permission to remove and replace the solar panels on the roof.
- Amending the Rules and Procedures for how the public can address the City Council, Mayor, City Council, and employees of the City of Beacon during Public Comment sessions every other week. While Beacon’s administrations have usually been publicly criticized or questioned, this administration has come into power after a time of regular protests in the racial justice reawakening period, emboldening more people to speak more strongly on many topics. The Mayor and City Administrator have thoughts to curb the enthusiasm, and the City Council responded with edits.
Tonight’s meeting has 2 Public Comment sessions, where anyone can speak on any topic, and no Public Hearings (official discussions from the public on a determined topic).
Hey Hey, what a beautiful day! As you walked around Main Street, you may have asked yourself: "Are the parklets coming back?" Some restaurants asked themselves the same thing, as they prepare for spring. They inquired and got their answer: Beacon has no plans as of yet for parklets. ALBB reached out to some restaurants to get their feelings on that. Read all 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
Supplies For Ukraine Collected By Dutchess County Via Afya
Days & Times:
Friday, March 18th from 1pm-5-pm
Saturday March 19th from 9am-1pm Location: Former JC Penney site (lower level) 2001 South Road (Route 9) in Poughkeepsie Information >
SAVE THE DATE: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions 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.
Did you know you can rent Two Way's game room for private events, birthdays, wedding celebrations, baby showers, retirements - anything worth celebrating with fantastic beer and friends?! YUP! It's true. Call & schedule now! But until then...
Two Way will have live music on Fridays and Saturdays in March and Trivia every Thursday. Weekend plans? Check! See Trivia Schedule here > See beers on tap here > 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
Have you checked out the coolest food truck yet?! "Chef Mark explains that Eat Church is both a noun (place), an eat church; as well as a verb (command), as in eat the church. " You can grab-n-go Eat Church goodies from Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring and at the Beacon Pantry in Beacon! OR, because it's the weekend and you deserve to treat yo'self, find Eat Church at Industrial Arts Brewing! Fridays from 3pm - 9pm & Saturdays from 12pm - 9pm. Keep up with all of the delicious pop-ups and events here > You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials > Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
It’s a happy weekend with all the beet-cured lox and cream cheesy goodness on BBC's Ultimate Bagel Sandwich!! Loaded with arugula, capers, tomato, red onion, + fresh dill on a house-made toasted bagel, this sandwich is definitely something to try next time you stop by! (hint hint* this weekend!) New Hours! OPEN:
Sunday-Thursday until 7 pm (Closed on Wednesday)
Friday + Saturday until 10 pm
Happy Hour $7 ‘til 7 pm menu is available every day starting at 4 pm! Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
New cocktail alert!!!! Welcome the Orange Mai Tai, thanks in part to Bartender Emily. Featuring such deliciousness as......Appleton Rum, Smith and Cross Over-Proofed Rum, Dry Curaçao, Orgeat, Lime, Orange, Housemade Soaked Raisins. PS: Rumor has it, MOD is about to drop a new Cocktail menu... PPS: Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Reach out to 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
Quien Quiere QUESILLOS from El Nica Spot!? Handmade Tortillas (Gluten Free), Cheese, Crema, & Pickled Red Onions. Stop in & give it a try if you haven't yet! 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
Aside from Baja's delicious southwest cuisine, they offer over 130 top shelf tequilas. They pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients available for their cocktails and cuisine! Baja also has great vibes & we can't wait to dine with the garage doors open! 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.
The best mezzes platter around includes hummus, baba ghanoush, za’atar, and more... and you can find it all at Ziatun! But also, a meal isn't complete without a basket of Za’atar Fries > ! Stop in this weekend and enjoy authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with vegan options! 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
Did you hear?! The birds are back! Early with the rising sun, which is getting earlier and earlier, more morning birds have joined the chorus of wake-up calls. Brett's has the cutest bird feeders to attract different feathers! But they also have the cutest bird baths EVER! We'd take all 3 and scatter them around our yard! 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
Looking to donate your old glasses?! Look no further! Lions have recognized the urgent need for corrective lenses and collect usable glasses in their communities to support the Lions Recycle For Sight Program. Luxe Optique accepts all new, used, prescription, nonprescription, eyeglasses, safety glasses, and sunglasses & donate them to the Local Lions Club! Stop in & drop off glasses anytime! Might as well make an appt for the same day to get your eyes checked and to get some new eyewear!
Open Monday 10-5 & Tuesday-Saturday 10-6
Read more about the team here > PS: Appts required for exams. 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!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY New Website Alert!
For over 60 years, Yanarella has been dedicated to providing an exceptional dance education to the Hudson Valley. Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been that “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”.
Join teacher Samantha Cuello in Yanarella's new Mommy and Me class at 11:45am. Dance with Me is a caregiver/child class, introducing children to creative movement, enhancing the development of motor skills for children as they run, skip, leap, stretch, and dance to the music- all with mom or dad! Basic skills are developed as students interact in new environments and learn to listen, follow and express.
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. AND, with Spring right around the corner, it's the perfect time to review and update your insurance policies. Contact their office and let one of their experienced agents assist you! Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
Meet Teslie Andrade of Tin Shingle, A Little Beacon Blog and Katie James, Inc.! Teslie is behind the scenes curing Instagrams, and can curate yours as well. You need an Instagram if you want visibility, and Teslie can help via Private Services via Tin Shingle. Learn 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. Find out more about Website Design services here > Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Full Time Receptionist At Antalek & Moore Details >
HIRING: Maintenance & Packaging Manager At Industrial Arts Brewing Details >
HIRING: Beacon City School District Food Service Department Is Looking For Substitute Food Service Helpers Details >
Pictured here are diners outside of Homespun, which has sidewalk seating in front, and a patio in the back. For two springs and summers, it also had a parklet in front. Photo Credit: Heather Barr
Last year at this time, the Delta variant of COVID-19 was brewing, and in May 2021, it became official. People were used to eating outside in parking spots called “parklets,” which were created by using orange water-filled “jersey barriers” to surround tables and chairs for diners to eat outside of a restaurant. The water made the barriers heavy, so they were not moved by casual pushing.
Most of Beacon’s restaurants opted into the parklets, and Mayor Kyriacou waved any fee for having them. They were purchased by the City in part with money the City of Beacon earned through some film permits, as stated by City Administrator Chris White during some City Council Meetings.
The people who were comfortable eating in the street filled up the parklets most weekends. While Beacon citizens were mixed on if they would park their bodies in a parklet, those who wanted to eat outside to feel safer than eating indoors appreciated the choice. Restaurants appreciated the additional seating and additional revenue the parklet seating could provide.
Abruptly In September 2021, the City of Beacon told restaurant owners they had to pull the parklets in a matter of days in order to prepare for the paving of Main Street. Joe Robitaille, owner of Homespun, remembers working on a Sunday to dismantle his shaded structure he had designed to beautify the parklet, recalling: “The City told us we had to remove the parklet by Monday, and we had one weekend to do this. Sunday is a busy day for us on the weekend, but to comply, I dedicated myself to taking down the parklet and not helping my staff serve customers.”
Homespun was not the only one who invested in upgraded porches and designs for the parklets. Neighbor Ziatun had a patio, and Sukhothai also built out a structure. Several other restaurants adorned their plastic barriers with flowers. September in Beacon usually brings beautiful weather, with a boom in sales for the Columbus Day Weekend in October (now known as Indigenous People’s Day). Seating was lost for the weeks leading up to that October holiday weekend, including that weekend itself. And then the paving of Beacon’s Main Street was canceled, putting in question the early pulling of the parklets. The previous year, the parklets were pulled in November.
A Little Beacon Blog reached out to the City Administrator Chris White, Mayor Lee Kyriacou as well as Councilmember George Mansfield, who is a restaurant owner, to gain insight on if the City Council had discussed the parklets with themselves, the public or business owners. Councilmember George responded: “There has been no discussion at Council regarding the parklets. I assume they will not be back due to scheduled repaving of Main Street and the fact that there is no longer any state mandates limiting indoor occupancy for the hospitality industry.”
City Administrator Chris did indicate in a recent City Council meeting that paving would begin on Main Street soon. When ALBB asked about a start date, Councilmember George did not know, stating that there were several “moving parts” to organizing paving. City Administrator White and Mayor Kyriacou did not respond by publishing time.
Safety Of Parklets
The public was mixed on the safety of parklets, yet the seats remained full. Traffic and speeding in Beacon is a known issue. On Mother’s Day, two cars collided in the middle of Main Street, avoiding the parklets but jumping the curb to land on the sidewalk to hit a grandmother and pin a child. Months later, another grandmother was hit and killed by a local driver in the crosswalk while the grandmother correctly crossed the street at Teller and Main Street because the driver was blinded by the afternoon sun, according to the police report. An 11 year old girl was hit in the crosswalk at Verplanck Avenue and Matteawan after school let out while correctly crossing the street on her bike because the driver “thought she had passed already,” the child told A Little Beacon Blog (interview to come).
After the parklets were pulled, some readers wrote into A Little Beacon Blog, asking if the parklets were returning, as they preferred eating outdoors and did not mind the location of the parklet. Some people who are in favor of a “walkable Main Street” are in favor of the parklets to naturally slow down traffic. Unless the police chime in after the publishing of this article, there have been no reports of people in parklets being hit. However, there have been several reports of people in crosswalks and walking on Main Street being hit.
Restaurants Respond
After being told by the City of Beacon that there was no plan as of yet for the parklets, Joe of Homespun had this to say about the loss of parklets, despite him having sidewalk seating in front and patio seating in back: “I think it will make it tough on restaurants in town. For us with the garden backyard, it was always over-flow seating anyways, and would fill up after the garden was fully seated. But for smaller places with tinier dining rooms, it provided a big shot in the arm. Hopefully the public is really ready to dine inside again.”
Marko Guzijan, owner of the Hudson Valley Food Hall, which has several food vendors stationed inside with plenty of seating including an outdoor patio had this to say about the parklets: “It’s not surprising. In truth, it won’t effect our business much. It may actually help as we already have private outdoor seating and now people who aren’t comfortable sitting inside will have less options in Beacon (this is especially true for families of young kids who can’t get a vaccine). But we don’t want to see our business improve beacuse other Beacon businesses are hindered.
“No parklet seating, plus the increase in energy bills is going to hurt many Main Street business. Again, the chefs in the Food Hall will probably make more money, but that doesn’t mean I think it’s the right decision. I’m curious as to why the City Council of Beacon thinks this is a good idea, while New York City continues to have outdoor seating to try to help their food and beverage businesses? As of yet, they haven’t communicated with any of the businesses in the Food Hall to explain their decision.”
As of now, there have been no public discussions during City Council Meetings about the parklets. Peekskill recently indicated they are considering removing some of their parklets, and some members of the Peekskill public have started a petition to keep them. This report at News12 quotes some business owners who benefited from the parklets.
Editorial Disclaimer: Homespun was a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog and is a website client, and Hudson Valley Food Hall is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog. Their views do not influence content, but our relationship does make understanding their issues easier.
We know where you're going to be this weekend...The Parade of Green in Beacon, obviously! Do be safe out there - Dutchess County is starting their DWI Enforcement week soon, as they know St. Patrick's Day inspires a drink. Lucky for you, Beacon has plenty of walkable options to get what you want. Like "The Shamrock" cocktail from Meyers Olde Dutch - created especially for this weekend! See below for more ideas...
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
Supplies For Ukraine Collected By Dutchess County Via Afya
Days & Times:
Saturday, March 12th from 9am-1pm
Friday, March 18th from 1pm-5-pm
Saturday March 19th from 9am-1pm Location: Former JC Penney site (lower level) 2001 South Road (Route 9) in Poughkeepsie Information >
Beacon's St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Green
Day: March 12, 2022 Time: 12pm Location: 398 Main Street, Beacon, NY
The parade that marked the end of public events for almost 2 years of the pandemic will march on this Saturday! Read all about the honorary Grand Marshall Anthony Lassiter. Information >
Good Cause Eviction Info Session Day: Saturday, March 12, 2022 Time: 10:00 am Location: Virtual
Hosted by two members of Beacon's City Council: Paloma Wake and Justice McCray. "Learn what the new Good Cause Eviction Law in Beacon means for you - what this can mean for the future of affordable housing here." Information > PS:Read about the passage of this law here, which includes a link to the draft of the law.
Analog Jazz Orchestra
Day: Sunday, March 13, 2022 Time: 7pm Location: Towne Crier Cafe, Beacon, NY
the Analog Jazz Orchestra is a 17-piece big band comprised of active-duty servicemen of the West Point Band and former, retired members of the West Point Jazz Knights. In addition to these world-class soldier-musicians, the band is filled out with only the most talented jazz musicians the Hudson Valley has to offer. The band performs classic big band repertoire from groups such as Count Basie and Thad Jones in addition to performing original compositions and arrangements by the members of the group. Members of the AJO have performed and toured with the Count Basie Orchestra, the Artie Shaw Orchestra, Arturo O’Farrill’s Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra just to name a few.
The Hudson River Maritime Museum - “Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend and Elizabeth” Day: Wednesday, March 16, 2022 Time: 7:00pm Location: Virtual Information >
SAVE THE DATE: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions 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.
This weekend Judith Tulloch will be performing at Two Way on Friday starting at 7:30pm, and TMcCann Band will be performing on Saturday starting at 7pm!
Two Way will have live music on Fridays and Saturdays in March and Trivia every Thursday. Weekend plans? Check! See Trivia Schedule here > See beers on tap here > 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
Have you checked out the coolest food truck yet?! "Chef Mark explains that Eat Church is both a noun (place), an eat church; as well as a verb (command), as in eat the church. " You can grab-n-go Eat Church goodies from Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring and at the Beacon Pantry in Beacon! OR, because it's the weekend and you deserve to treat yo'self, find Eat Church at Industrial Arts Brewing! Fridays from 3pm - 9pm & Saturdays from 12pm - 9pm. Keep up with all of the delicious pop-ups and events here > You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials > Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193 Main St.
Chocolate ganache on a chocolate bundt with rainbow sprinkles to start your weekend! Stop by this weekend to grab a slice of this deliciousness! BBC is open for more yummy treats, artisan loaves, coffees, cocktails, + BRUNCH! [Happy Hour 4-7!] New Hours! OPEN:
Sunday-Thursday until 7 pm (Closed on Wednesday)
Friday + Saturday until 10 pm
Happy Hour $7 ‘til 7 pm menu is available every day starting at 4 pm! Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
“The Shamrock” from MOD! It’s made with white rum, lime , Yellow chartreuse, simple syrup and blue curaçao! It’s live now and will be available all week. Start your St. Patty's Day early! 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 is ready for St. Patty's Day! Stop in this weekend for some goodies! 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!
ZIATUN
244 Main St.
Need a lunch spot this weekend?! Ziatun!!! And you'll want to choose the FALAFEL BURGER! It’s a plant-based delight loaded up with tahini, lettuce, tomato, pickled turnips & a side of their (almost) famous Za’atar Fries! 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 “Technicians of the Sacred,” ed. Jerome Rothenberg available at Binnacle!
Looking for the perfect gift for the poets, seekers, deep feeling beings in your many lives? Yes you are and yes, you’re welcome. Binnacle found it! “Hailed by Robert Creeley as ‘both a deeply useful book and an unequivocal delight’ and by the LA Times Book Review as one of the hundred most recommended American books of the late 20th century, Jerome Rothenberg’s landmark anthology ‘Technicians of the Sacred’ has educated and inspired generations of poets, artists, musicians, and other readers, exposing them to the multiple possibilities of poetry throughout the world. Juxtaposing ‘primitive’ and archaic works of art from many cultures with each other and with avant-garde and experimental poetry, Jerome Rothenberg contends that literature extends beyond specific temporal and geographic boundaries, while acting as a retort to those who would call that larger humanity into question. A half-century since its original publication, this revised and expanded third edition provides readers with a wealth of newly gathered and translated texts from recently reinvigorated indigenous cultures, bringing the volume into the present and further extending the range and depth of what we recognize and read as poetry.” Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Greenhouses freshly stocked at Bretts! Used for protecting plants from harsh temperatures, wind, pests, and other critters. PLUS, the birds are back! Early with the rising sun, which is getting earlier and earlier, more morning birds have joined the chorus of wake-up calls. Brett's has the cutest bird feeders to attract different feathers! Oh & plenty of seeds to reallllly get you ready for the spring! 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
Knowing the importance of good eye health, Luxe Optique has professional doctors of optometry on staff and works out of network with all insurance companies. Luxe is also a DMV approved location for convenient motor vehicle eye exams!
Read more about the team here > 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!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY New Website Alert!
For over 60 years, Yanarella has been dedicated to providing an exceptional dance education to the Hudson Valley. Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been that “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”.
Join teacher Samantha Cuello in Yanarella's new Mommy and Me class at 11:45am. Dance with Me is a caregiver/child class, introducing children to creative movement, enhancing the development of motor skills for children as they run, skip, leap, stretch, and dance to the music- all with mom or dad! Basic skills are developed as students interact in new environments and learn to listen, follow and express.
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!
TIN SHINGLE
Getting PR in glossy magazines is ideal, but so is getting featured on a business or economy media outlet like Marketplace from American Public Media (APM). The hosts of the variety of shows in the Marketplace family look for stories from small towns in order to highlight the broader economy. Here is how you can pitch your story > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
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.
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
SAVE THE DATE: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
The Hudson River Maritime Museum - “Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend and Elizabeth”
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
