On October 14th, days after the observance of Indigenous People’s Day / Columbus Day, Beacon City School District Superintendent Matthew Landahl emailed district families and caregivers to let them know that the Board of Education was considering and discussing changing the name of the Columbus Day holiday.
This change would be discussed at the January 9, 2023 school board meeting. Public input was requested during the Public Comment portion of the meetings on 10/24/22, 11/7/22, 11/21/22 and 12/12/22. Input could also be emailed to BCSDBOE@beaconk12.org. During the 11/21/22, no public input was spoken. Public Comment is always first on the agenda, and the meetings start promptly at 7am. People can speak in person at the meetings at the Beacon High School or via Zoom. Comments are limited to 4 minutes per person, and the Comment Policy can be found here.
According to reporting at the Highlands Current, a district parent, Jamie Muligan, asked for the change during Public Comment of the September 27, 2022 meeting. Jamie is married to City Council Member Molly Rhodes. According to the article, Dr. Landahl surmised at that meeting “that studying the history of Indigenous people who lived in the Highlands could also be integrated into schools’ curriculum. That’s ‘the point of all this’ discussion, he said. “We do some things already, but there’s more to be done, for sure.”
Columbus Day Name Change Is A Nation-Wide Trend
In June 2021, A school in New Jersey in Randolf Township made national news when their school board voted to change the name to Indigenous People’s Day, according to an article at NPR. But the decision startled parents opposed to such a change. From the article: “Critics have derided the idea of celebrating the Italian explorer, who perpetrated violence on Native Americans when he arrived in the Americas. Boosters say it is critical to recognize the contributions of Christopher Columbus, and that Italian-Americans have historically faced discrimination.”
According to the NPR article, the Randolf Township School Board decided to drop all holiday names to avoid conflict, and called a special meeting to discuss. However, all holidays, including Columbus Day, are named in Randolf Township’s 2022/2023 academic calendar.
According to an article at Forbes, New York City public schools changed the name from Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day: “Columbus Day has been federally recognized for nearly 100 years, but the holiday is increasingly polarizing. Many critics argue it’s inappropriate to celebrate Columbus, whose 15th- and 16th-century campaigns through Central America and the Caribbean Sea resulted in the killing and enslavement of many Indigenous people. This history has spurred several cities and states, including Vermont and the District of Columbia, to change the holiday’s name to Indigenous People’s Day.”
However, the name change faced backlash from some people, including a Republican representing Staten Island, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, who said: “This is just another blatant attempt by City Hall to rewrite history while dishonoring so many of our citizens who are proud Italian Americans and cancel Christopher Columbus, who embodies the immigrant experience and discovery.”
It is unclear why a person defending that part of Italian heritage would want to include the socially acceptable atrocities that Columbus committed to a people who had already discovered themselves, and instead not focus on his skill as a sea faring business man who was employed by other nations in order to expand their Catholic or Christian empire with his voyages (warning: once you read this article at Vox, which includes descriptive letters from leaders on the voyages, you cannot un-read it).
National Proclamations Shift
There was a shift in Proclamations given by President Joe Biden regarding the declaration of Indigenous People’s Day for 2021 and 2022. In the 2021 Proclamation for Indigenous People’s Day, the focus was on Native Americans and their contributions to what is now called the United States of America. There was also a nod to the damage done to Native Americans, when President Biden wrote: “Our country was conceived on a promise of equality and opportunity for all people — a promise that, despite the extraordinary progress we have made through the years, we have never fully lived up to. That is especially true when it comes to upholding the rights and dignity of the Indigenous people who were here long before colonization of the Americas began.”
In 2022, the Proclamation language included new descriptions: “For centuries, Indigenous Peoples were forcibly removed from ancestral lands, displaced, assimilated, and banned from worshiping or performing many sacred ceremonies. Yet today, they remain some of our greatest environmental stewards. They maintain strong religious beliefs that still feed the soul of our Nation. And they have chosen to serve in the United States Armed Forces at a higher rate than any other group.”
However, some Italian communities were offended at the dismissal of the name Columbus, so President Biden created a separate Proclamation for Columbus Day that addressed discrimination faced by Italian Americans. It is unclear why genocide of Native Americans has been compared with racial or class discrimination of Italian Americans. Both are struggles, some physical and violent, but are different.
According to the New York Times, the second name of Italian Heritage Day is being introduced to replace Columbus Day because Columbus Day was created to appease discrimination done to Italian Americans. Says the New York Times: “Some Italian communities have called for a day separate from Columbus Day to celebrate their heritage, as Columbus Day originated partly as a response to anti-Italian sentiment. It was designated a national holiday in 1934, and in 1971 the government declared it a federal holiday to be celebrated the second Monday of each October.”
While there are several calendar days recognizing cultures of different origins, they don’t tend to become national holidays. Reversing Columbus Day, which was named after one man who contributed to a multitude of violent acts to Native Americans and Caribbean people, while employed by Ferdinand II and Isabella I, the Catholic Monarchs of Aragon, Castile, and Leon in Spain, according to Britannica, seems more logical, to name it for the majority of the people he committed to violent acts on, and is not a dismissal of Italian heritage, which has its own beauty and much to celebrate, and may not want to be associated with such horrors.
People who want to voice their opinions on the name change can do so at the 12/12/2022 meeting during Public Comment, or email BCSDBOE@beaconk12.org.
Beacon’s City Councilmember At Large, Paloma Wake, often uses her opportunity to deliver a Report on any topic during the publicly broadcast City Council Meetings every other week to shine awareness on Native American lands, including the land that Beacon is defined as today.
Councilmember Paloma’s full-time job is with Forge Project, a native-woman-led initiative focused on Indigenous art, decolonial education, and supporting native leaders in all fields. The drive of the Forge Project’s mission is to “acknowledge that we are situated on the unceded and ancestral homelands of the Muh-he-con-ne-ok, the Peoples of the Waters that Are Never Still, and to recognize that there is a history to this land that is older than we are and pay honor and respect to this history and to the Elders, past, present, and future.”
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness day
In the spirit of the federal holiday that is Thanksgiving, ALBB is publishing the awareness piece Councilmember Paloma delivered earlier in May 2022 to recognize the newly designated proclamation designating May 5 as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day.
At ALBB’s request, Councilmember Paloma’s submitted a lengthier version of her comments to be published here:
“This week holds a national day of awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Girls and Two Spirited Peoples. A 2018 report from Urban Indian Health Institute (UIHI) identifies murder as the the third leading cause of death among American Indian and Alaska Native women and girls aged 10-24. A 2016 study by the Native Institute of Justice demonstrated that more than four in five American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime. On some reservations, American Indian and Alaska Native women face murder rates that are more than 10 times the national average.
“On May 4th, 2021 President Biden issued a proclamation designating May 5th as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness day, calling on all Americans and levels of government to support Tribal governments and Tribal communities' efforts to increase awareness of the issue of Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska natives.
“While none of us alive today bear personal responsibility for the actions of our ancestors, I believe we have a greater duty to respect the lives of those whose ancestors stewarded this land that we live on today for thousands of years.
“The crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples deserves this national day of awareness.
“Along with sharing this information, I would like to acknowledge that the City of Beacon sits on the ancestral lands of Muh-he-con-ne-ok the Peoples Of The Waters That Are Never Still whose living descendants now reside on federal reservations in Wisconsin as the Stockbridge Munsee Band and in Oklahoma as the Delaware Nation and the Delaware Nation and the Delaware Tribe of Indians.”
Resources Supporting Reform And Recreation Of Laws Supporting Native American Women
Councilperson Paloma provided resources where one can learn more about why this issue exists, and why it is because of existing legislation that there is little accountability.
According to National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center: “The crisis of MMIW is a national crime pattern. The complete storyboard for this crime pattern is not two individuals and a crime scene but all of the above--the government, culture, and economics--layered upon the lives of Native women and Indian nations. Understanding the legal and social infrastructure that place Native women in harm’s way are essential to changing this crime story of the last 500 years.
“It also requires reeducation of mainstream America to understand both the past and present truths of American Indian Nations and the women of those Nations. This two-fold process of legal reform and cultural reeducation can direct the changes required at the national, state, and county levels.”
Councilperson Paloma is a fourth generation Japanese American with no ancestral ties to Native Americans.
Open Call To Beaconites To Address Land-Justice In Beacon
Councilmember Paloma is issuing an open-call to anyone in Beacon who would be interested in joining her in a working-group to address land-justice in Beacon. “The group would likely start with a Land Acknowledgement, and address our City welcome signs.” Councilperson Paloma continued: “I am looking to do focus on self-education, research and knowledge-sharing in the first half of the year, and then outreach and public information campaigns leading up to Native American Heritage Month, which is in November.”
For those interested, she can be reached at pwake@beaconny.gov or at 845-418-2452
Hopefully you did because it's all available in Beacon on Main Street. When we say you will come away from shopping in Beacon with the most unique style that people will ask you where you got, we are not exaggerating. If you think that shopping local in Beacon is a compromise, like you won't get cool stuff, then we can tell you right now with 100% certainty you are missing out.
Not sure where to start? Give yourself one goal, and then hunt for it in the shops using A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide, which names all shops and addresses with descriptions. Here's an example:
More ALBB Recommendations:
Hudson Valley Goldsmith is hosting a Trunk Show all weekend long (located near Homespun)! Name a better stocking stuffer?! Rings, pendants, bracelets, and earrings with natural diamonds in silver & gold will be available. More details are listed below!
We heard Witch Hazel will be having some refreshments upon arrival as well as some deals that you definitely don't want to miss out on! Clean beauty lovers on your list? Check!
Oh, and those eye/sunglasses that you've been meaning to replace? No better time than now! Luxe Optique is hosting a BoGo 40% off! (some exclusions apply)
More details below!
Forget about the rain. Grab a coffee or matcha (with oat milk) and go!
PS: It's the last month of the year to visit with Stony Kills Farm's livestock on the weekends. Copper the Bourbon Red turkey and the flock will be checking you out from their outdoor pen! Open Barn will resume again in February.
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
BeaconArts - 2022 Member Exhibition Days: Saturdays & Sundays - November 5-27 *last weekend!
Time: 12pm-6pm Location: KuBe Art Center, 3rd fl. Gallery, 211 Fishkill Ave. Beacon, New York
Hudson Valley Goldsmith: Trunk Show Days & Times: Friday, November, 25, 2022 from 11am-6pm Saturday, November 26, 2022 from 11am-6pm and Sunday, November 27, 2022 from 10am-4pm
Kick off your holiday shopping Thanksgiving weekend with a brand new line of stylish jewelry! These pieces make great gifts and stocking stuffers. Rings, pendants, bracelets & earrings with natural diamonds in silver & gold starting at $129. Sujan founded LuvMyJewelry with one mission in mind: to design jewelry that tells stories and gives us a renewed sense of purpose. "With each handcrafted design, I made a promise to craft a relatable, poetic story that builds a personal, intimate connection with you. I write the poetry myself :) Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you!
5th Annual Beacon Christmas Tree Lighting 2022
Day: Saturday, November 26, 2022 Time: 4pm Location: Polhill Park, Beacon, NY
Free entertainment featuring Alyssa Warner, Singing and leading, caroling with Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Scouts BSA 41 and B&G. Free raffle! Free ornament kit!
Holiday Kickoff with Santa
Day: Sunday, November 27, 2022 Time: 10am-1pm Location: 87 Haviland Road, Highland, NY 12528
Santa will arrive at the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park on Sunday, November 27. Bring your kids, your dogs—the whole family—for this fun photo opportunity with Santa. Photos taken with Santa will be available online at walkway.org, or visitors may take their own photos. Information >
SAVE THE DATE!
HOLIDAY PREP-LIST Hop and Shop is back for its 5th year in Beacon, which is when stores are open late on Thursday and Friday (12/8 and 12/9). Do your Black Friday shopping on Main Street after T-gifting (oops! typo haha), and then return for another special set of deal nights and shopping under the warm holiday glow.
A Little Beacon Blog is a proud sponsor this year, which enables all businesses to participate for free. View their map, and deals will be announced 12/5. We see that fellow sponsor and hair stylist Sullivan and Main has announced her special deal - 20% off on gift cards and product.
ALBB's Restaurant Guide to show you which restaurants are open on Mondays! See it here >
It's always a pleasure eating and drinking your way through Beacon, so we created this guide to help you know where to eat and drink as you explore the town. Feature your restaurant/eatery in the guide & be featured in this weekly newsletter! Promote your seasonal dishes/drinks, specials, events, etc. Click here for more details >
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
It's easy to dig into the leftovers and we're all for it at times but maybe you had enough?! And we get that. There is only so much turkey and stuffing you can eat (or not). Either way, you might as well pick up some Eat Church while you're out and about shopping! Grab-n-go at Marbled Meat Shop or take a break tonight and stop into Dogwood where Eat Church will be serving up deliciousness until 10pm! Maybe you swing by Industrial Arts Brewing for a refreshment and quick bite. Find Eat Church Almost Everywhere!
- Industrial Arts Brewing from Friday-Sunday
- Straight from the grocery case at Marbled Meat Shop - ready to go! Why cook lunch for the work week?!
- Dogwood Beacon on Tuesday-Sunday from 5pm-10pm Order Online > Keep up with all of the delicious pop-ups and events here > You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
If you haven't tried Dulce Cielo Mexico yet, this is your sign. DO IT! Pictured here is their delicous tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas y fajitas con espalda de puerco asada, pollo, pico de gallo, mole negro, rojo, guacamole y totopos de maiz y trigo! Nothing like a quick pick-me-up while out and about on Main St. this weekend!
Located 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 Dulce Cielo Mexico: authentic Mexican street food with vegetarian and vegan options. Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
And when all the shopping is done this weekend, and all of the delicious food has been eaten, you stop into Baja, for a late night snack (like their cheese nachos filled with fresh cotija, cheddar, NYS Local Cheese Blend, Crema, Guacamole ((Add Jalapeños)), Pickled Red Onions, Mushrooms, Corn Salsa, Tomatoes Bell Pepper, Caramelized Onion, Black Beans, and the option to add, Pico De Gall, Shrimp $6, NYS Plymouth Ground Beef, Murray’s Fajita Chicken, Hudson Valley Chorizo, or Carnitas! Did we mention a refreshing and festive cocktail or mocktail?! PS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials > BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
*SPONSORSHIP OPEN!*
Shopping! So fun, yet so strategic. With so many options to shop on Main Street, we compiled a Shopping Guide that includes every single shop in Beacon for your shopping and bookmarking pleasure! If you run a shop or boutique in Beacon and want to sponsor the shopping guide, be included in this Friday Feature newsletter, and get a nifty photo gallery in the guide, click here for more details >
WITCH HAZEL 176 Main Street, Beacon
Maybe you noticed... IT'S COLD! Like, January cold... And that means it's time for a very, very good moisturizer. The absolute most hydrating one is available at Witch Hazel! Ursa Major Golden Hour Recovery Cream. You just need a dime-sized dab (or even a little less) for your whole face and neck, and it feels like the coziest blanket for tired, dry, over-it skin. It also smells great, with a hint of aspen bark extract, rosemary leaf extract, sandalwood oil and citrus notes. Perfect for morning and night, or dab on a little extra for an overnight "mask" effect. PS* Holiday steals & deals happening this weekend! Do not miss out! OPEN
10-6 everyday EXCEPT Tuesday & Wednesday
Stay tuned for the next floral workshop & Follow Witch Hazel on Instagram! > Order florals >
HUDSON VALLEY GOLDSMITH
226 Main St Retail 2
(845) 255-5872
Kick off your holiday shopping and Thanksgiving weekend the right way with a brand new line of stylish jewelry! Hudson Valley Goldsmith's Trunk Show will happen right here at the Beacon shop! All weekend long - 25th, 26th & 27th at 226 Main St Beacon NY. These delicate and beautiful pieces make great gifts and stocking stuffers! Rings, pendants, bracelets & earrings with natural diamonds in silver & gold starting at $129 (a steal!) OPEN:
Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00am-5:00pm
Friday-Saturday: 10:00am-6:00pm Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Do you have mice in your cupboards? And need containers for the snacks? Brett’s has your bins! (Asking for a friend…and not a mouse friend) Okay, but truly, Brett's has all of your home needs! Including containers that we almost need for everything! And you know what's hard? Gifting for adults or college kids. But say no more, THIS is it. Containers and storage and organization because we all need it and we never seem to buy this for ourselves! Stop into Bretts for gifts, space heaters, snow essentials, winter car essentials, and so much more! 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
CALLING ALL JACQUES MARIE MAGE ENTHUSIASTS! The Luxe team works directly with their brands to curate the best possible selection of eyewear! They had such an amazing day working with their Jacque Marie Mage brand representative and cannot wait to show off the summer line for spring of 2023! Stay tuned for more! In the mean time, POP IN this weekend for 40% BoGo deals! TheirBuy One Get One 40% off Black Friday Sale is officially back by popular demand! TODAY, Friday November 25th & Saturday November 26th at both the Beacon & Hudson Locations. PS: Appointments required for exams. PPS Both Locations (Beacon & Hudson) are open from 10 AM - 6 PM Tuesday-Saturday & Beacon is only open on Mondays from 10 AM - 5 PM. PPPS*** You can now get a free eye exam in Hudson through Dec 31!
Kids Improv Workshop & Jam Day: Sunday, December 4, 2022 Time: 1:30pm-3:00pm Location: 22 Kent St., Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508 (Old Beacon High School)
The first half of the jam has lessons with warm-up games, foundational exercises while the second half is fun, silly, practice play with a break in between. Small groups will be broken out by age as needed. Absolutely zero experience is needed to attend any session! Information > Serious. Comedy Theatre is a Sponsor, thank you!
IMPROV 101- FALL 2022
Class meets: TUESDAYS from 7-10pm 6 sessions: October 25- December 6 Class Showcase: Sunday, December 11(time TBD) Teacher: Connor Classes meet at: 22 Kent St., Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508(Old Beacon High School) Information > Explore all classes > Serious. Comedy Theatre is a Sponsor, thank you!
*SPONSORSHIP OPEN!*
Beacon has a growing number of beauty salons and professional pampering to take advantage of - you can even book a transforming appointment at a lash bar! Be it a totally new hair style, or a facial, you have options in Beacon. Plus, one of the most enjoyable gifts you can give to someone is a gift certificate. So we have included links to where you can buy a gift certificate from any of these fine services that offers one. Check out ALBB's Beauty Guide here >
Special Message For Businesses: If you want to advertise in this Guide with a picture, logo and promotions, please click here.
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Did you know?! According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. Be especially careful when cooking, not just when frying your Thanksgiving turkey - and make sure your homeowner's insurance coverage is up to date! 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 is your support system as you're getting the word out about your business. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
INTRODUCING... Hand Painted Design Services now at Katie James, Inc.!
The picture above is a special delivery for All You Knead. The assignment was to paint her existed logo onto the sign her carpenter husband made. Let us do yours... let us do the work... hand made with love, of course. See information here >
PS - stop thinking about whether you need a new/updated website or not, you do! And we can do it all. RECENT WEBSITE PROJECTS Homespun Foods > Barb's Butchery > Sparrenberger Studio > Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: BOOKKEEPER / ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT - AT INDUSTRIAL ARTS BREWING Apply here >
HIRING: ALL POSITIONS AT THE DUTCHESS INN AND SPA AT BEACON Apply here >
HIRING: PART-TIME SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR / OFFICE MANAGER / EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT - AT THE MAIN OFFICE AT BEACON DIGITAL Apply here >
Stunning, right? 😍 These Thanksgiving table arrangements are no accident and were custom made by yours truly Katie James Inc. Design with the loving guidance from Jill owner of Witch Hazel (near Artisan Wine Shop), the store that is quickly joining the league of amazing smelling stores on Beacon’s Main Street.
I brought in the vases (but she has beautiful little and big vases you can buy there), and we picked the flowers that would stand as centerpieces during my Thanksgiving Dinner for my visiting family. The big maroon center flower is a mushroom. A mushroom! The texture of front and back are different from each other and fascinating. It can be intimating to design a floral arrangement, but you’re in a safe space there. Jill gives you permission to keep going. See this shop and more in A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide. Watch the design process in ALBB’s Instagram.
For a request for “pudding in fancy glasses," went in search of “fancy cocoa powder” in order to homemake such pudding (turns out, an unsweetened dark chocolate bar or chips were called for), but found all of this goodness instead:
The homemade apple pie at Stella’s Fine Market, and the make-your-own version in a jar.
The stacked rack at Utensil Shops that we didn’t know we needed but there it is solving the counter problems, as well as the popcorn 🍿 bucket. “Everything you didn’t know you needed and more on Main Street! I love that Yamazaki Home - got one in my kitchen too! Happy Thanksgiving!
You could fret about cooking a turkey and finding a gravy recipe, or you could put that stress aside to instead apply in time for the possible $1,000 you could be granted from the Clara Lou Gould Fund For The Arts, managed by BeaconArts.
According the BeaconArts: “The Clara Lou Gould Fund for the Arts funds arts projects in Beacon including individual artist’s projects, unique exhibition, performance or public art projects, arts education programs, and community programs that promote area artists and arts activities, drawing attention to the valuable role of arts and culture in our community.”
Clara Lou Gould was Beacon’s Mayor for 18 years. “BeaconArts created this special Fund for the Arts named for Beacon’s former Mayor, Clara Lou Gould in honor of her 18 years of service as Beacon’s Mayor, and in recognition of her support of arts and culture in Beacon.”
Applications for grants are being accepted until November 28th, 2022, and the application doesn’t look too complicated. “While this fund is directly administered by the Community Foundation of Dutchess County, a committee of representatives from BeaconArts makes funding recommendations based on its knowledge of community need and offerings,” says their website.
“We believe in the fluidity of the Hudson Valley arts community and as such this fund is designed to support projects and activities in the Greater Beacon community, including those that may be initiated beyond city limits.”
Apply now, and/or email Suzanne Ball Suzanne@beaconarts.org with questions.
The season has started. Beacon’s Highway Department (and maybe some of the Water Department if needed?) has hung the wreaths and stars on Beacon’s Main Street. As for some Beacon trivia, according to Beacon’s one time Highway Superintendent, Reuben Simmons who now drives the street sweeper: “There are electrical outlets in each of the lamposts that were part of the LED project when we switched out all of the lights.” That is helpful for more flexibility for the holiday stars to plug into, and help during the Spirit of Beacon Day for table vendors to plug into outlets if needed.
It’s go time for your list and holiday that will go very fast, yet take a lot of time. “Yay! Love this time of year, and seeing all the wreaths and pretty shop windows on Main Street,” said Stephanie Jones, owner of The Blushery on the far east end of Main Street. Get your brows, makeup, and laser hair removal done there.
Remember to slow down in some moments to enjoy them, and know that others of them too shall pass into the next good one again. Here we go!
How did Thanksgiving become less than a week away?! A big, yet much missed rush of Holiday busy-ness is about to happen. But before we descend into the holiday happiness that is December (it's OK to not be happy and to be filled with mixed up feelings...we just like alliteration), here is a slowed down Thanksgiving message from ALBB:
Time is just flying but we hope you can take some time this week to think about gratitude and what it means to you. It's easy to go through the motions and get caught up in our life of routines. Our goal for you this week (and maybe every week) is to slow down, write something down (or to someone) for what you're grateful for, and to simply take some deep breaths. Focus on what makes you feel alive. Discover awareness and intention.
HOLIDAY PREP-LIST Hop and Shop is back for its 5th year in Beacon, which is when stores are open late on Thursday and Friday (12/8 and 12/9). Do your Black Friday shopping on Main Street after T-gifting (oops! typo haha), and then return for another special set of deal nights and shopping under the warm holiday glow.
A Little Beacon Blog is a proud sponsor this year, which enables all businesses to participate for free. View their map, and deals will be announced 12/5. We see that fellow sponsor and hair stylist Sullivan and Main has announced her special deal - 20% off on gift cards and product.
NEW SUSTAINING SPONSOR! WELCOME Hudson Valley Goldsmith as a Sponsor for ALBB's Shopping Guide!
*throws confetti*
This high end and accessible jeweler opened their second store in Beacon near Homespun. Their support makes it possible to include all shops in A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide. See below for their upcoming soiree that you're invited to.
NOTE: Shops interested in having weekly promotion on ALBB, especially during this holiday time all the way through Valentine's Day, can sign on as a Sustaining Sponsor here, and we got you in our editorial lineup each week! Such a deal. Click here for more info.
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
BeaconArts - 2022 Member Exhibition Days: Saturdays & Sundays - November 5-27
Time: 12pm-6pm Location: KuBe Art Center, 3rd fl. Gallery, 211 Fishkill Ave. Beacon, New York
A Turkey On Every Table: Thanksgiving Food Drive
Day: LAST DAY IS TODAY!
Location: 268 Main St, Beacon, NY
Sponsor a family meal for $50. Now accepting: peanut butter jars, jelly jars, canned yams, 10-pack hot chocolate, mixes, mac & cheese boxes, stuffing boxes, 1lb rice bags, 14oz canned vegetables, 3lb apple bag, bakes pies, reusable grocery bags. Cash & credit card donations accepted at checkout. Checks payable to Salem Tabernacle.
For more information, email here >
Serious. Comedy Theatre Presents Improv Open Jam
Day: Friday, November 18, 2022 Time: 7:30pm Doors / 8:00pm Show Location: 22 Kent Street, Beacon, NY 12508, Room #109 Information >
Interested in improv classes? CLICK HERE Serious. Comedy Theatre is a sponsor of ALBB! Thank you!
Hudson Valley Restaurant Week
Days: November 7, 2022 - November 20, 2022 The Valley Table magazine officially kicks off the beginning of fall 2022 Hudson Valley Restaurant Week (HVRW), revealing the all participating restaurants. Running from November 7-November 20, participating restaurants can choose between four price points: $24.95 or $39.95 at lunch and $29.95 or $44.95 at dinner. Prix fixe menus may also be offered for both dine-in and takeout. The complete list of participating restaurants is available here > Reservations are recommended at all Hudson Valley Restaurant Week restaurants. Information >
SAVE THE DATE
Hudson Valley Goldsmith: Trunk Show Days & Times:
Friday, November, 25, 2022 from 11am-6pm
Saturday, November 26, 2022 from 11am-6pm and
Sunday, November 27, 2022 from 10am-4pm
Kick off your holiday shopping Thanksgiving weekend with a brand new line of stylish jewelry! These pieces make great gifts and stocking stuffers. Rings, pendants, bracelets & earrings with natural diamonds in silver & gold starting at $129. Sujan founded LuvMyJewelry with one mission in mind: to design jewelry that tells stories and gives us a renewed sense of purpose. "With each handcrafted design, I made a promise to craft a relatable, poetic story that builds a personal, intimate connection with you. I write the poetry myself :) Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you!
ALBB's Restaurant Guide to show you which restaurants are open on Mondays! See it here >
*SPONSORSHIP OPEN!*
It's always a pleasure eating and drinking your way through Beacon, so we created this guide to help you know where to eat and drink as you explore the town. Feature your restaurant/eatery in the guide & be featured in this weekly newsletter! Promote your seasonal dishes/drinks, specials, events, etc. Click here for more details >
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Not sure what to eat tonight? Look no further... Eat Church! At Dogwood! New features weekly with fresh ingredients that'll fill your heart and soul! Find Eat Church!
- Industrial Arts Brewing from Friday-Sunday
- Straight from the grocery case at Marbled Meat Shop - ready to go! Why cook lunch for the work week?!
- Dogwood Beacon on Tuesday-Sunday from 5pm-10pm Order Online > Keep up with all of the delicious pop-ups and events here > You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
New Dish Alert from El Nica! Picadillo (Ground Beef) with Potatoes, Carrots, Peppers, Side of white Rice, and Sweet Plantains. YUM!
Located 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 Dulce Cielo Mexico: authentic Mexican street food with vegetarian and vegan options. Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Ahi Tuna Noodle Bowl from Baja! W/fresh seared ahi tuna, cold sobs noodles, bean sprouts, carrots & red cabbage with homemade sesame dressing! Head on over and enjoy - perhaps with a delicious refreshment (cocktail or mocktail), maybe some tacos! Both voted best in the Hudson Valley by Hudson Valley magazine! PS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials > BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
*SPONSORSHIP OPEN!*
Shopping! So fun, yet so strategic. With so many options to shop on Main Street, we compiled a Shopping Guide that includes every single shop in Beacon for your shopping and bookmarking pleasure! If you run a shop or boutique in Beacon and want to sponsor the shopping guide, be included in this Friday Feature newsletter, and get a nifty photo gallery in the guide, click here for more details >
WITCH HAZEL 176 Main Street, Beacon
You asked for body wash, and body wash you shall have! Can always count on Witch Hazel to have your beautu (CLEAN beauty) needs! These cleansers from fablerune are preeeeetttttty delightful. The scents Witch Hazel has are: Salted Grapefruit, Smoked Vanilla and Redwood & Yarrow and Santal.
Nice and sudsy, castile-based, and infused with a bit of sunflower oil. (Sunflower oil is super-nourishing, especially light and non-greasy, plus absorbs easily without clogging the ol' pores.) The body washes are made by hand in small batches in California, using ethically sourced ingredients. As with all our products, they're also cruelty-free. Buy as a gift? Don't forget to buy one for you! OPEN
10-6 everyday EXCEPT Tuesday & Wednesday
Stay tuned for the next floral workshop & Follow Witch Hazel on Instagram! > Order florals >
HUDSON VALLEY GOLDSMITH
226 Main St Retail 2
(845) 255-5872
WELCOME Hudson Valley Goldsmith to ALBB's Shopping Guide! Voted Best of The Hudson Valley, Hudson Valley Goldsmith has been in New Paltz for the last 10 years and has now opened a 2nd location in Beacon. We are a full-Service Jewelry Store Specializing in Custom and Repairs. They create custom one of a kind fine jewelry including engagement and wedding rings using recycled precious metals, conflict free diamonds and unique gemstones. Their workshop is headed by David who started making fine jewelry as a teenager. He is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz, receiving his BFA in Metals. He also worked as a stone setter and fabricator making high end jewelry for Tiffany and Co. They have been working hard to make sure their new Beacon boutique is well stocked with silver and gold jewelry, both with and without diamond and colored gemstones. You can see many of their original designs in their storefront where they also carry the work of several other designers. Hudson Valley Goldsmith prides themselves on having a range of styles from classic and trendy to totally unique, and at a wide range of prices. OPEN:
Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00am-5:00pm
Friday-Saturday: 10:00am-6:00pm Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
First snow already in the books! It was light but more is coming! Head on into Brett's for your snow cleaners, shovels, brooms, etc. Stay ahead and be prepared for when it really comes down! You can also count on Brett's for your space heater needs and much more to keep you prepared, safe, and cozy warm! 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
Yes, at Luxe Optique you can also shop petites! Luxe has something for everyone. It begins with a personalized consultation by an expert optician. Make an appt today & browse Luxe Optiques very own collection > Your old glasses are begging you for the upgrade! What better time than now? PS: Appointments required for exams. PPS Both Locations (Beacon & Hudson) are open from 10 AM - 6 PM Tuesday-Saturday & Beacon is only open on Mondays from 10 AM - 5 PM. PPPS*** You can now get a free eye exam in Hudson through Dec 31!
Kids Improv Workshop & Jam Day: Sunday, November 20, 2022 Time: 1:30pm-3:00pm Location: 22 Kent St., Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508 (Old Beacon High School)
The first half of the jam has lessons with warm-up games, foundational exercises while the second half is fun, silly, practice play with a break in between. Small groups will be broken out by age as needed. Absolutely zero experience is needed to attend any session! Information > Serious. Comedy Theatre is a Sponsor, thank you!
IMPROV 101- FALL 2022
Class meets: TUESDAYS from 7-10pm 6 sessions: October 25- December 6 Class Showcase: Sunday, December 11(time TBD) Teacher: Connor Classes meet at: 22 Kent St., Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508(Old Beacon High School) Information > Explore all classes > Serious. Comedy Theatre is a Sponsor, thank you!
*SPONSORSHIP OPEN!*
Beacon has a growing number of beauty salons and professional pampering to take advantage of - you can even book a transforming appointment at a lash bar! Be it a totally new hair style, or a facial, you have options in Beacon. Plus, one of the most enjoyable gifts you can give to someone is a gift certificate. So we have included links to where you can buy a gift certificate from any of these fine services that offers one. Check out ALBB's Beauty Guide here >
Special Message For Businesses: If you want to advertise in this Guide with a picture, logo and promotions, please click here.
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
With the busy travel season (and Thanksgiving dinner) approaching, it's time to make sure your vehicle is in good working order before you hit the road for the holiday. Schedule appointments to have your brakes, tires, and auto insurance policy checked to ensure you're protected. 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 is your support system as you're getting the word out about your business. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
INTRODUCING... Hand Painted Design Services now at Katie James, Inc.!
The picture above is a special delivery for All You Knead. The assignment was to paint her existed logo onto the sign her carpenter husband made. Let us do yours... let us do the work... hand made with love, of course. See information here >
PS - stop thinking about whether you need a new/updated website or not, you do! And we can do it all. RECENT WEBSITE PROJECTS Homespun Foods > Barb's Butchery > Sparrenberger Studio > Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: BOOKKEEPER / ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT - AT INDUSTRIAL ARTS BREWING Apply here >
HIRING: ALL POSITIONS AT THE DUTCHESS INN AND SPA AT BEACON Apply here >
HIRING: PART-TIME SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR / OFFICE MANAGER / EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT - AT THE MAIN OFFICE AT BEACON DIGITAL Apply here >
Voted Best of The Hudson Valley, Hudson Valley Goldsmith has been in New Paltz for the last 10 years and has now opened a 2nd location in Beacon!!!
They are a full-Service Jewelry Store Specializing in Custom and Repairs. They create custom one of a kind fine jewelry including engagement and wedding rings using recycled precious metals, conflict free diamonds and unique gemstones.
Their workshop is headed by David who started making fine jewelry as a teenager. He is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz, receiving his BFA in Metals. He also worked as a stone setter and fabricator making high end jewelry for Tiffany and Co. They have been working hard to make sure their new Beacon boutique is well stocked with silver and gold jewelry, both with and without diamond and colored gemstones. You can see many of their original designs in their storefront where they also carry the work of several other designers. They pride themselves on having a range of styles from classic and trendy to totally unique, and at a wide range of prices!
PS* We compiled a Shopping Guide that includes every single shop in Beacon for your shopping and bookmarking pleasure! If you run a shop or boutique in Beacon and want to sponsor this guide, See here about how to be a regular sponsor and supporter of this publication!
Level 2 Includes the following:
Storefront Photo: A square photo (your choice) of your business placed in the shopping guide + Logo.
Photo Gallery: A few pictures of your establishment.
Event Listings: List any and all of your events.
Newsletter Weekend Feature: Guaranteed placement in our weekend newsletter, known as the “Happening This Weekend Guide,” but during the pandemic, has been renamed to the “Retail Therapy Guide”
Weekly Instagram Post: We will pull a photo from your Instagram every week & re-share it to our Instagram! Sometimes, we will come in & take photos of things we love in your shop & share them with our readers as well. *If you have a photo & specific writing that you want us to share, please email it to us by Wednesday of each week.*
Beacon Lions Club Food Drive Collection at Key Food. PHoto Credit: Beacon Lions CLub
Beacon Lions Club at the 2022 Spirit of Beacon Day. PHoto Credit: Beacon Lions CLub
The Lions Club helps provide needed services to the Southern Dutchess County area including, sight/vision, hearing, hunger, childhood cancer, diabetes and others. Lions Clubs International is an American secular, non-political service organization founded by Melvin Jones in 1917. As of April 2020, it had over 46,000 local clubs and more than 1.4 million members in over 207 countries around the world.
Here in Beacon, the Lions Club just completed a food drive collection for Veterans at Key Food. Says the Beacon Lion's Club: "Our motto at Beacon Community Lions Club is: 'We Serve'. If you ever dreamt of being great in your life, be of service to others." If you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer or by donating, visit their Facebook page.
You may have also seen them at the Spirit of Beacon Day, or the Beacon Back To School event from I Am Beacon, and several other mission-driven services.
Photo Credit: Screenshot from video taken for A Little Beacon Blog. Watch the full video below.
On a Monday morning for Memorial Day 2022, outside of The Memorial Building on Main Street in Beacon, a tiny woman with short white hair, wearing a pale blue dress, took steps to the podium to deliver a speech for the 2022 Memorial Day ceremony hosted by the American Legion Post 203. She had been sitting next to a Veteran to the on the right side of the stage, engaged in what looked like a captured conversation. When it was time for her to speak, she barely made the top of the podium. But her story and shared memories of her services as a nurse in Vietnam were so big. They were memories, we learned through her speech, that she did not share often. A video of her speech has been placed at the bottom of this article so that you may hear it.
Edie Meeks was the main speaker for the Memorial Day service in Beacon, NY. She said she decided to enlist because her brother Tom was drafted. He was in the Marine Corps. She thought: “If something happened to him, I would want to be there. Someone who really cared, and wanted to take care of him."
Edie went through basic training, were enlistees were “taught everything we needed to know in case things ‘escalated’ in Vietnam.” She flew to Saigon [Editor’s Note: now known as Ho Chi Minh City] where she said the nurses received everyone, because soldiers were flown to her station from other places. “There were mines all around us, and people shooting.”
Edie shared her first big memory that follows her with the audience, and it is based on the memory of another nurse: it was during a situation where the nurse was working in a shift where they had to triage, and decide who would be worked on. Edie’s friend said that one severely injured lieutenant who was lying on a stretcher would ask her every time she walked by if he was next. She walked by him several times, and each time he asked: “Am I next? Am I next?” And every time she walked by, she answered "Yes, you are next."
Finally, he died before he was treated. Edie’s friend the nurse revealed her secret thought to Edie: "I always wondered, if I hadn't told him yes, would he have died earlier, and not suffered?"
Edie answered her with certainty: "I am a mother today, and I'm telling you, I would have wanted you recognize my son, and to speak to him, and to comfort him. So I think you did absolutely the right thing."
Edie observed that when she worked in the Emergency Room in the United States, everything made sense. Kid fell out of a tree, and broke their leg. Over there, she said, nothing made sense. All of the patients were healthy, but blown up.
Eventually, working there became harder. She became so filled with rage. "Young men were coming in saying: 'Lieutenant, they aren't letting us win.'"
Edie appreciated the Corpsmen who helped her, often passing by after working a 12 hour day. They'd casually ask her, "What's going on, Lieutenant," and then lend themselves to wounded soldiers who were coming in. Described by Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund: “Corpsmen were enlisted ‘first responders’ of the Vietnam War, saving countless lives, often at great risk to themselves. Besides providing trauma care on the battlefield, they were responsible for the day-to-day prevention and treatment of a wide range of injuries and diseases among the troops.”
One of the final soldiers she saw there nearly broke her. A young man who came from Kansas, who was 19 years old and came from a farm. “He had a terrible abnormal wound,” Edie recalled, and was holding a letter from his mother that he asked Edie to read to him. “It was all of the little news from the people around town. Talked about his dad coming in with the dog, hunting pheasants. At the very end, she said: ‘We are so proud of you, son.’"
Three days later, he died.
By that October, Edie said she really had to shut down. “I can't feel another thing here." She asked for a change of venue, which ended up being no less violent or heartbreaking. She said she made lifelong friends there. "You needed to. You needed the backup."
She often wondered if she impacted someone's life for the better - who was really suffering - when she saved them. She asked herself: "Did I do him a favor by working on him?" She didn't know how they turned out. They were sent home. They were stabilized, and usually sent to Japan, she said. "We supported each other, because we supported the fellas who came in."
Edie continued with what made her service difficult for her. "That was another thing I felt difficult: to not be able to tell the parents how brave their sons had been. I saw this one patient. He fought and fought and fought to stay alive. And finally, because of an infection, he died. And I couldn't write to his mother to say 'He was so brave. He tried so hard.'"
Edie wanted to write, but was advised not to, in case her letter reached his mother before the official military letter did.
Edie said that one thing she noticed was how the soldiers kidded each other. Poked jabs at each other, like "Come on, get up." Edie knew: "The laughter kept them going."
Most of Edie's memories were dark with sorrow. And she noted that she did not remember the bright moments so well. "As a nurse, you remembered the ones who died. But you didn't remember the ones that you helped to get better."
At the 5th anniversary of the Vietnam's Women's Memorial, she was at the statue, and heard her name called from behind her. She turned around, and saw a lieutenant who she worked with. She asked "Gary, what are you doing here?" Gary said: "I came to see you."
Gary went on to describe what he remembered about Edie: "One of the things I remember about you is, you'd come in in the morning, and you'd start cracking jokes." Edie said that a lot of their patients at that time had chest wounds, so they had tubes that went to the bubbly bottle because the soldiers were taking a breath. "All of them were bubbling like crazy because they were laughing."
But Edie was stunned at herself. "I never remembered any of that. I just remembered the sorrow."
Coming Home A Veteran
“Whatever you do, don’t just sit on the sidelines. Participate in what’s going on. That’s what we did as soldiers. We participated in life. We didn’t just complain.”
— Edie Meeks, A Nurse and Vietnam Veteran
When it was time for Edie to come home, she was told by the incoming nurses "'As soon as you get stateside, take your uniform off. You will not be welcomed.' And so we did."
Going home, Edie said, you couldn't talk about it. She said she didn't want to talk about it, because she thought no one would understand.
An old acquaintance saw her and asked asked her: "Oh Edie, I heard you were in Vietnam. What was it like?"
Edie said she turned around and walked out. "There was no soundbite," she said.
Edie spoke of veterans spiritually and mentally wounded by that war. When Edie went to the dedication of the Vietnam Women's Memorial, she found out how many nurses died of suicide after that war. "There were an awful lot of guys that did too. And a lot of guys who disappeared into the woodwork. Because how do you describe how you feel? You don't."
Edie said that she read a study that determined that the nurses' brains changed after being under that much stress.
"To me, if we are going to ask people to serve for us, we should give them everything they need. Without having to beg. Because if you go to the VA, you have to beg."
Edie’s parting words for the audience were: Whatever you do, don't just sit on the sidelines. Participate in what's going on. That's what we did as soldiers. We participated in life. We didn't just complain. I'm proud to say that I'm a Vietnam Veteran, and that these are my brothers. And I'm so proud that I'm an American.”
A Little Beacon Blog was able to be a sponsor this year, with our ad projecting onto the screen with other sponsors. Without the work of the dedicated volunteers maintaining Beacon’s history, research that media publications like A Little Beacon Blog conduct would not be possible for deep dive articles. We would not have the visions of what Beacon has looked like over the decades. Beacon’s history is so vast, part of ALBB’s mission is to preserve it, as it explains why things are the way they are in a moment.
Here at ALBB, we focus on “Beacon now,” and what Beacon becomes tomorrow or in the next few hours. Knowing where Beacon came from up until this minute is vital in understanding each other in this community, as the lines between families and intersections between communities is what made Beacon’s history and where we are today living in it.
A Little Beacon Blog’s sponsorship is only possible thanks to the ongoing support of our sustaining sponsors (and reader contributions, job listings, event promotions, and advertorials!). For the “Beacons Of History” event, ALBB dedicated our advertisement to our sponsors:
From A Little Beacon Blog'’s Business Directory, thank you Antalek and Moore Insurance Agency, Main Office (co-work space inside of Beacon Digital), Poughkeepsie Day School, Faust Design Build, and Gold Tax Standard.
From A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide: Luxe Optique, Witch Hazel, and Brett’s Hardware.
Denise VanBuren, well known in Beacon for her deep community involvement as the former President of the Beacon Historical Society, and Melzingah Daughter and former President General of the National Society Of The Daughters Of The American Revolution, commissioned the local podcast production studio partnership Tha’Max and Tin Shingle to produce 65 episodes of DAR’s breakout podcast, “Our Patriots.”
Denise is Vice President of Central Hudson, and in her marketing role, can be heard delivering soothing yet important safety messages about gas and electric during storm or unexpected situations. Denise served as the reader for all of the episodes, which were first published in DAR’s magazine, American Spirit Magazine.
Features include John Stark, Horatio Gates, Joseph Plumb Martin, Margaret Cochran Corbin, Nancy Hart, Frances Wright, and others.
“Brandon is gifted with bringing out special qualities in people,” said Katie Hellmuth, owner of Tin Shingle and publisher of A Little Beacon Blog. “Under his direction, Denise’s voice lifted the words from the page into our ears with the committed and loyal energy she is known for.”
Brandon Lillard, owner of Tha’Max Studio, observed: “Working with Denise was a pleasure! Her patience and professionalism made this project both special and easy.”
Listen to all of the episodes here on DAR’s website, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Learn more about producing your own podcast with Brandon and Katie’s help here at Tin Shingle. Katie and Brandon are the co-hosts for the super Beacon podcast, “Wait, What Is That?”
As first reported by the Beacon Free Press, the “Hometown Heroes” banner campaign in Poughkeepsie has honored the first woman to be featured in the series: Helen Murphy. As reported by Kristine Coulter, Helen joined the Women’s Army Corp (WAC) in the U.S. Army in 1942 when she was 20 years old. According to one of Helen’s five daughters, Patricia Maio, Helen “worked for the NY State Army Ordinance Division with an office at IBM. In 1942, she joined the Women’s Army Corps in the US Army. She was an Air WAC.”
“I was aware of the Town of Poughkeepsie’s Hometown Hero banners and noticed that all of the banners hung in the Arlington were of men.”
— Anne Shershin
As another first, while at Boot Camp, Helen was the first woman to be selected to be in the first contingent of WAC’s to go out west. While stationed in California at the Santa Ana Air Force Base, she was then selected to model the uniforms in Hollywood. According to her daughter, Helen was in a recruiting film starring Eleanor Parker, Faye Emerson, and Nina Foch. She also made recruiting appearances on the radio show “Queen for a Day,” and was on stage with Frank Sinatra.
More of Helen’s story is published in the Beacon Free Press, which you can pick up now. She was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sargent in 1945 and worked for the U.S. Veterans Administration in Poughkeepsie until 1947. She married Lt. Warren Murphy, who was from Fishkill, and began life traveling and moving her family every 2 years, which her daughter said was hard on her, yet she loved the service and being a service wife, her daughter Patricia said.
Patricia noted that Helen loved working at the American Legion Post. She eventually ran for Commander of the Arlington American Legion Post 1302, and was the first Female Commander of that Post. “She was very proud of that,” Patricia told the Beacon Free Press. Helen was involved in the Legion until her 90s. Helen died in 2016.
How The Honor Came To Be
Second page of the article on Helen Murphy, the veteran and first woman to be honored in the “Hometown Heroes” banner campaign in Poughkeepsie. Anne Shershin initiated the vision and effort to get Helen honored.
Another woman with the Post, Anne Shershin, had the idea to honor Helen in the “Hometown Heroes” banner campaign. “I was aware of the Town of Poughkeepsie’s Hometown Hero banners and noticed that all of the banners hung in the Arlington were of men. I knew Helen Murphy from the American Legion Auxiliary Post 1302,” Anne told the paper.
“I thought it would be lovely for Helen to be remembered with a hometown hero banner. My Auxiliary unit agreed to sponsor the banner. I contacted Helen’s daughter, Patricia Maio, and the Dutchess County Veterans Affairs, and they helped to get Helen’s discharge papers. The American Legion supplied the picture of Helen. We put everything together and submitted the application to the Town of Poughkeepsie. It took a whole community to make the banner happen.”
Read the full story in the November 9th issue of the Beacon Free Press, which dedicated most of its coverage to Veterans on Veterans Day.
On a quiet Tuesday or Wednesday evening at 10:30pm in Beacon (10/25/2022 or 10/26/2022), just before Halloween night, a driver stopped their car after they said they saw a bear crossing Main Street from Binnacle Books to the Flowers ‘N Gifts near Happy Valley Arcade. Apparently a second driver also stopped as the bear crossed. This hour is generally considered late late night in Beacon.
The driver called the Beacon Police, who the driver felt may not have believed them. Then the driver called their friend, who often walks at all hours of the day and night,. The driver was concerned for their friend as they wanted the friend to be aware of a bear at night in town. The friend is a reader of A Little Beacon Blog, and told us the story.
Reportedly, the driver did not know the color of the bear, or the size, but was certain that it was a bear, and not a overly large NYC size racoon. The driver did not indicate any signs of aggression, or that the bear had anything in its mouth or paws.
A Little Beacon Blog followed up with Happy Valley and with Binnacle Books, who both said they had not heard anything. ALBB did not yet file a FOIL to see if there was a Police Report filed for the call.
What Does Beacon’s Mountain Scout Say About The Bear?
ALBB reached out to Shane Hobel, founder of The Mountain Scout Survival School, to check in on his thoughts about a bear sighting in an urban area. Shane has provided expertise for media outlets including The New York Times, Urban Daddy, Fox News, and others.
“I’ve heard some people see a black bear around. It’s to be expected. If you look at the town from an eagle's perspective, is a big open plain between a mountain and a river. What used to be that corridor is now filled with city. It still has an avenue going from the mountain to the river. We are surrounded by woods, in Beacon. So, we're going to have a visitor."
Shane continued: “It's also a little bit of a confusing time with unseasonably warm temperatures. As people prepare for winter, bears are doing ther same. If there is a trail of smells, of course, the bear will follow.”
Shane answered a few more questions from ALBB:
Do people need to be afraid if they see a bear on Main Street? Or in a grassy area near their home or school? “Black bears are pretty timid. Very shy. Docile. Easily scared if shooed off. Like a big raccoon looking for food. It’s Mama you need to be a little concerned about when near her cubs.”
What should one do if they see a bear crossing the street? ”Let the bear cross first.”
What if you are carrying a lunch box, and you see a black bear? What should you do? ”If you are that close and you are holding food, best thing to do is to put the food down and walk away slowly.”
“When you look at bear shit, here on the east coast, they eat nuts and berries. When you go out west, it’s the grizzly bear. You look at the bear shit there, you see bells and whistles.”
As in…they will eat you? ”Yes. Out west, they don't care what you are trying to scare them with. They will eat you anyway. Out here, no. The black bears here are shy.”
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
