Vote For A Little Beacon Blog In The Eilmination Round For Best Of Hudson Valley 2023!

Thank You, Beacon and the Hudson Valley Community! You voted A Little Beacon Blog into the next level of the Best Of Hudson Valley 2023! The Elimination Round is now open. Keep us IN!

By casting your vote, you can help A Little Beacon Blog win Best Blog of the Hudson Valley 2023.

Here Are The Directions On How To Vote:

Visit the Best Of Hudson Valley 2023 home page.

Scroll down to “Select a Group” (scroll past the START button - don’t click that).

Click on People (even though ALBB is a blog - media publication - and not a person - though it is written by people).

Scroll to Categories and click Blog.

Select “A Little Beacon Blog” and click Vote.

The rules say you need to vote for 5 total. But you could vote for more if you wanted. The screen will advance you to a next Category. If you don’t know the people or entities, take a minute to Google a few that catch your eye and place a vote. For example, we learned about Girly Wolfpack and voted for them. And Nicole Harris for Tiny Green Farm for “Farmer.” Repeat this for 4 more categories.

This may be all you need to do. Your vote may be submitted at that point.

Thank you!

Please note that votes originating from identical email addresses or IP addresses will not be counted.

The Elimination Ballot for Best of the Hudson Valley is live from March 9th at 9am to April 6th at 5pm. 

A Little Beacon Blog is a local media news source with an eye for detail and discovery, which we deliver to a broad audience. We are a storyteller of the history of this area, and of the news and events happening here now. We help the people who live here, and the folks who are visiting, know about insider things to do, learn, shop and eat. We stop to smell the roses, enjoy a drink or snack, and do bouts of shopping. We dedicate time to researching developing stories about people and local news, and publish deep deep dive articles to keep all informed.

5th Annual Traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony - Thank You

Submitted and Written by: Rhonda Altonen

On Saturday November 26th, the City of Beacon held their 5th Annual Traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony with entertainment provided by our local area singers, musicians, and dancers for all ages with a big turnout.

The MC duties for the evening were shared by our very own Antonio and Ethan See from Beacon BSA Troop 41 and Olivia Reynolds from Beacon Girl Scout Troop 10459.

To begin the evening's entertainment, Ursula Seymour from School of Rock sang a beautiful rendition of the “The Star-Spangled Banner. Then the dancers from Yanarella School of Dance performed to a mix of Christmas songs. Max Goodhill sang, "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and "It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas". Ursula returned to the stage with our local BSA and Girl Scout Troops to sing a variety of Christmas songs including "Jingle Bells", "Rudolph", and "We Wish you a Merry Christmas". John Newhall from School of Rock played his guitar and sang wonderful renditions of "Blue Christmas", "Run Rudolph Run", and "White Christmas". Wrapping up the evening all of our entertainers joined Ursula, BHS chorus and our Scouts to welcome  Santa in with "Santa Claus is Coming to Town".

In between performances locally donated prizes were raffled off. Raffles were announced by Tree Lighting Committee Member Atilano (Jr) Rivera, who currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Beacon Elks Lodge #1493. All raffles are free and provided by local Beacon and surrounding businesses. In addition, we had a special booth set up by Simone Williams, owner of All You Knead, where the profits were matched and donated to Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) of Beacon. Ornament and S'mores kits were also given out to kids as a memory of the event.

This year, thanks to Mark Price and the City of Beacon Recreation Department we also had live trees as part of the raffle prizes. These trees would be delivered to the winner’s home, or winners could opt to donate their tree to one of our local parks. Winners who donated their trees are Patti Rock, John Soltish, Robert See, Louis Ballard, Andrea Corlis, Stephanie Gill, and our very own Mayor Lee Kyriacou.

To wrap up the evening, Santa Claus rode in on his big red fire truck driven by our own Lewis Tompkins Hose Co.1 with goodies for the kids and then he listened to all of their Christmas wishes and posed for photos. The audience helped count down and the beautiful tree in Polhill Park was lit, and kids from one to 92 (and even their furry friends) posed for holiday pictures in front of the enormous colorfully lit tree.

The Tree Lighting Committee Members want to thank all of the entertainers who volunteered their time and talents, Mark Price of Beacon Recreation and his team in adding lights to the tree and for setting up the tent, stage and electronics for the ceremony. The Lewis Tompkins Hose Co.1 for their assistance and support, BSA Troop 41 for providing hot chocolate and Beacon Recreation for sugar cookies to all attendees, and the one and only Santa Claus for always making time to come to Beacon. The Tree Lighting Committee Members are Atilano (JR) Rivera, Donna Idema, Rosemary Merhige, Jennifer See, Chris Bopp, Rhonda Altonen, Stephanie Soltish, Bobbie Zappala, Kat Caporale and Kathleen Plumer.

We would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to all the following individuals and businesses for donating raffle prizes for the event:

• Adams Fairacre Farms

• All You Knead

• Antalek & Moore

• Antonellas, Fishkill

• ARF

• Artisan Wines

• Baja 328

• Bath & Bubble

• Batts Florist

• Beacon Bagel Shoppe

• Beacon Boy Scouts

• Beacon Creamery

• Beacon d’Lites

• Beacon Dept of Public Works

• Beacon Falls Cafe

• Beacon Fire Department

• Beacon Girl Scouts

• Beacon Mayor and Council

• Beacon Recreation Department

• Big Vinny’s

• Brother's Trattoria

• Chris Bopp

• Hudson Beach Glass

• Key Food

• Leo’s

• Miss Haddie’s BBQ

• Mountain Laurel Florist

• Mountain Tops

• Peaceful Provisions

• Pedago

• Poughkeepsie Nissan

• Raven Rose

• Santa

• Scarborough Fair

• Schmucks

• Snookie’s

• The School of Rock

• The Yard

• Tito Santana Taqueria

• Utensil

• Veritech Wireless

• Waves by Diana

• Yankee Clipper

• Yanarella  School of Dance

The event had a great turnout with about 200 people attending. Thank you again to all the families and individuals that joined us for this event. 

New Businesses In Beacon Are Popping Up!

As you walk down Main Street, you’ll notice new businesses are popping up all the time! Like, Healthy In Color and Butterhead Salad Company (opening in April).

We try to keep up with new businesses as we notice them! Then we add them to our Shopping Guide, Restaurant Guide, or Beauty Guide. Main Street businesses get a free basic listing in these guides.

If you’re a new business or if you notice a new business and don’t see it listed in one of our guides, let us know. It’s not intentional — we’re just a small mighty team and sometime’s it’s hard to keep up.

If you’re a business who wants to sponsor one of these guides, be included in our weekly newsletter, and be featured weekly in our Instagram, you can find all of the details here > or reach out for more information!

UPDATE: Flag Pole To Remain - No Need To Repair At Veterans Memorial Building

Update 3/7/2023: After this article was published and in a response to a question from ALBB, Harold G. Delamater confirmed that the flag pole does not need repaired or removed, after further inspection.

Construction has begun on the Veteran’s Memorial Building at 413 Main Street. The Veterans announced last week via Harold G. Delamater of the Veterans Memorial Building Committee that the building was undergoing planned renovation to the front porch and landscaping on the grounds.

Now that digging has begun, Harold made another announcement to the media: “The large flag pole in front of Veterans Memorial Building will be taken down this week to repair or replace the base, which appears to be cracked. Upon repair, the pole will be reinstalled.”

Moody March :: Retail Therapy Guide 3/3/2023

Another day, another sunrise. We made it to Friday again. And was sunny for the moment! The moodiness of March weather is taking us all on an emotional roller-coaster. Keep the salt and shovels out, and you should be fine. Keep the faith. Keep the romance. PS: Keep March 11th and noon free on your calendar to attend Beacon's Parade of Green. Look for A Little Beacon Blog's car! We will be handing out stickers. Remember how this parade happened last year? In that blizzard?                            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, click here for more info > Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin Lit Lit Day: Friday, March 3, 2023 Time: 7pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, NY Beacon's own Maria Teresa Hart will be the featured author, reading from her new book Doll, a pop-culture feminist critique of doll culture and doll history from Bloomsbury Press's wonderful Object Lessons series. Arrive by 6:45 if you'd like to sign up for one hour remaining possible slots to read. Everyone gets up to five minutes. Masks are required. Drinks and snacks available! Maple Sugar Tours Day: Saturday, March 4, 2023 Time: 11am-1pm Location: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum's Outdoor Discovery Center, 100 Muser Dr, Cornwall, NY Learn how to identify and tap sugar maple trees, discover sugaring techniques used by Native Americans, pioneers and modern-day farmers, and see an evaporator in action. Information > Bird ID for Beginners with the Orange County Audubon Society Day: Saturday, March 4, 2023 Time: 11am-12:30pm Location: Newburgh Free Library, 124 Grand St, Newburgh, NY Do you enjoy watching birds and want to work on your identification skills? Information > Penny Social Fundraiser - Animal Rescue Foundation Day: Saturday, March 4, 2023 Time: Doors open at 1pm. Calling begins at 3pm. Location: VFW, Main St., Beacon, NY ARF is a 100% volunteer no kill shelter and rely on donations to care for their animals. They have gathered some great prizes from local businesses and volunteers which they will raffle on the day! Free admission. Food & Drink will be available for purchase. ADA Accessible. Children are Welcome. Information > Howland Chamber Music Circle Day: Sunday, March 5, 2023 Time: 4pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, NY Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!     HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY E Nica Spot's Picadillo (Ground Beef) comes with potatoes, carrots, peppers, a side of white rice, and delicious sweet plantains. Yum! Located inside the HV Food Hall. Check 'em out! 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 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. Elixxr Wellness: Wellness cafe offering drinks with adaptogens  Tara Fusion Cuisine: Fusion cuisine of Bangladeshi, Indian, Sri Lankan and Middle Eastern food Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY For only $13! Calamari from BAJA. A must starter choice! Made with tequila-tomato jam, pickled red onion, scallions, and fresh squeezed lime. Goes well with any of the entrees (obv). Other starters/bowls include Ahi Tuna Nachos, Clams & Mussels, Chicken Flautas, Seafood Ceviche, Loaded Fries, Mac & Cheese, and so much more! Takeout available! PS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm PPS: Check out Baja's specials! >  Check out their specialty drinks >  BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!     HUDSON VALLEY GOLDSMITH 226 Main St Retail 2 (845) 255-5872 Might need to add this Pisces ring to our stack, too! Hudson Valley Goldsmith offers fine custom jewelry and repair. All diamonds are hand selected from Antwerp and are obviously all unique and stunning! What's your sign? Want them to make your sign into a diamond band? Shoot them a message! Custom jewlery and expert repairs available! See here for CUSTOM details > Shop in-store or online here > OPEN: Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00am-5:00pm Friday-Saturday: 10:00am-6:00pm Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon Hello, newest arrivals of Leisure Society! Leisure Society offers the most unique eyewear out there and boy are they the definition of sexy! Minimal and sleek to say the leist. Annnd, they're available at Luxe! Luxe Optique is your one stop shop for all eyewear needs - including contact lenses, expert progressive lens fitting, and more! Just want a pair of really cool sunglasses? They’re your go-to for that too!  Need to make an appt ? Do that here! >  PS: Appointments required for exams. BEACON HOURS  Monday from 10AM–5PM Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM Sunday CLOSED  Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY Located on Main Street in Historic Beacon, the studio has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago!  Check out all of Yanarella's classes to find the best one(s) for you! >  See Kids Classes here > See Adults Classes here >  Register Online > Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you! Serious.Comedy Theatre 22 Kent Street Room 109, Beacon, New York 12508 Kids Improv Workshop & Jam Kids Improv Workshop + Jam is on pause indefinitely   Spring Session Registration Is Open! Improv 101 Improv 201 Improv 501 *Musical Improv 101 (new offering!) *Sketch Writing 201 (new offering!) Sign up! > Weekly Open Improv Jams every Friday at 6:30pm for $5 - drop in! "The Big Night" a Sketch and Improv show every 2nd Friday of the month! "Improv Night" featuring house performers every 4th Friday! All shows are listed here > Keep up with Serious.Comedy Theatre here! > Serious. Comedy Theatre is a Sponsor, thank you! 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. PS* NEW Advertising Packages available! See details >  BEACON DENTAL 1020 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon, NY (845) 838-3666 At Beacon Dental, they are dedicated to providing you and your family with quality dental care tailored to your individual needs. They welcome patients aged 4 and older and provide a full range of dental services to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health throughout your life. When you visit their dentists and team, you can be certain that your health, comfort and smile are always their highest priorities. Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you! ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 249 Main Street, Unit 108, Beacon The new office space at 249 Main Street is coming along nicely! Stop in & say hello! Speak with Antalek & Moore's knowledgeable agents to make your future self proud. Reach out to Antalek & Moore for all of your insurance needs! 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. Their Research Team is constantly updating their 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. Start with their free articles and classes by subscribing to their newsletter. Next, dig in to go bigger with your outreach with their Membership Program that gives you Media Contacts, Editorial Calendars, Templates for emailing the media as well as plotting out your PR and Marketing plan. Tin Shingle is your support system as you're getting the word out about your business. Tin Shingle Blog Posts > Become A Member! > Learn More About Tin Shingle > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!                             KATIE JAMES, INC. Do you need a website? Or a website upgrade? We got you! We've done a ton and we love working with new businesses and creating sites that share who they are! Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Social media accounts offer the emotional connection to your brand, and your website needs to reflect that energy. The designers and lead producer, Katie Hellmuth Martin, can guide you through this process and design you a website that both looks stunning, and works well to help people do what you need them to at your website. Learn More > RECENT WEBSITE PROJECTS Homespun Foods > Barb's Butchery > Sparrenberger Studio > WEBSITE IN THE WORKS Hudson Valley Food Hall Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you! BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES See them here > BRANDING  >  MARKETING & PR Tin Shingle Katie James, Inc. DENTAL Beacon Dental EVENT SPACE > CO-WORK SPACE The Main Office at Beacon Digital  EDUCATION > PRIVATE & INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Poughkeepsie Day School  HOME IMPROVEMENT > INTERIOR DESIGN Faust Design Build HOME IMPROVEMENT > LAWN SERVICES Blue Green Lawns INSURANCE > BUSINESS, HEALTH, LIFE, HOME Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency MUSIC Miss Vickies Music List Your Business In The Business Directory >  Read Our Latest Articles HIRING: MARKETING COORDINATOR AT CALICO WALLPAPER > List your job in ALBB's Job Listings >

SIGN UP FOR THIS NEWSLETTER JOIN THESE ADVERTISERS: We create ad packages that work for different types of businesses. Click here for ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog and accomplish your goals. We look forward to highlighting your business and show your support!

Beacon's Parade Of Green Is On - Remember Last Year's Blizzard? Look For ALBB Again!

Do you remember that blizzard last March 2022? Beacon’s Parade of Green was the first parade out the gate down Main Street after the cancellation of all events due to COVID. The Committee was so excited to be back, that they did not call a weather delay, and marched on.

In fact, it was the Parade of Green in 2020 that was at the root of all parade cancellations back when the pandemic was referred to as “coronavirus,” before even the health crisis was labeled a pandemic. Waiting to hear if the Parade of Green 2020 was canceled or not was one of the first memories of that chaotic time.

Here we are in 2023, and the annual parade will roll again. Pictures are below from 2022.

See you next weekend, Saturday, March 11, 2023! A Little Beacon Blog will be driving in the parade again, handing out stickers.

The Malouf’s Mountain camping bus was front and center. Prepared.

The Parade of Green Committee, staying warm and dry in the Visitor’s Center while organizing people.

The Parade of Green’s Grand Marshall, Tony Lassiter. Tony was also honored for the Beacon of History event later in the year.

Howland Public Library Announces March Exhibit In Honor Of Women’s History Month

To celebrate Women's History Month, The Howland Public Library presents Balance, a group show. The exhibit will be on view in The Community Room Exhibit Space from March 11th - April 1st, 2023. An Artists' Reception will be held on Saturday, March 11th, from 5pm - 7 pm.

The show is the seventh annual exhibit from the group CoMFY, a collective of women artists from the Beacon area. For this show the group chose the theme of Balance. The notion of balance was one of the founding principles when Kat Stoutenborough and Jennifer Blakeslee founded the women’s group back in 2011. Blakeslee recalls that the initial discussion focused on: “How do we, as women artists, balance everyday responsibilities (jobs, parenting, families, etc.) with being an artist? How can we create a space for ourselves where making art can exist alongside those other needs demanding our attention?”

The women came together to share strategies, bounce ideas, and encourage each other. Their one rule was that they could only talk about those other competing priorities in the context of how they impacted their artistic endeavors. “That focus made it possible for us not just to seek that balance, but find it and put it into practice.”

New members are always welcome to join this informal group. Stop by the exhibit to learn more. 

The Howland Public Library is located at 313 Main Street, Beacon NY 12508. The Community Room Exhibit Space is open during regular library hours. Please note the gallery may not be accessible during some library programs.

Jean Noack

COMFY stephanie fogarty

COMFY Jennifer Blakeslee

Donna Mikkelsen

Erica Hauser

COMFY Anna West

Everyone Is Concerned About the Fencing At The Memorial Building - The Veterans Commenced Upon Repairs

When the fencing went up at the Veteran’s Memorial Building at 413 Main Street, people had questions. Were they getting a new fence? Was something big happening that would impact access to the Memorial Building and the events the Veterans host there?

Harold G. Delamater of the Veterans Memorial Building Committee was quick to send an email out to the media providing answers. He stated: “Folks have been questioning the recently installed construction fencing in front of the Veterans Memorial Bldg. The Veterans Memorial Building is currently under-going renovations to the front porch and landscaping to the grounds. The bricks from the Carmen Ramputi Detachment Marine Corps League monument will be stored for later placement in front of the Veterans Memorial Building. The project is expected to be completed in late Spring 2023.”

In a followup question from A Little Beacon Blog regarding who was financing this project, Harold answered that the project is being financed by a small grant they anticipate receiving from Senator Skoufis's office. There has been no financial assistance from the City of Beacon. Years ago, the Veterans appealed to the City under Randy Casale’s administration to receive funding for improvements to their building. At that time, some financing was released under then City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero.

Herold said that at this time, the City of Beacon has been supportive of the project, but not financially.

The Veterans will be starting a donation campaign to supplement the grant. They will be releasing more information via press release in the following week.

Beacon City Schools On Lock Out After Threat Called In - All Is Well After Investigation

Friday morning, after students left their homes for their walking or bus commute to Beacon’s High School and Middle Schools, but just before Elementary School students began their journey to school, a robo-call went out from Beacon’s Superintendent Matthew Landahl explaining that a threat had been made to Beacon’s Rombout Middle School, and that students of all schools would be on a “lock out” status with the protection of the Beacon Police.

Said Dr. Landahl: “I am communicating with an important safety message. The Beacon Police Department is working with us to evaluate a threat to Rombout Middle School that was called in. Beacon High School and Rombout Middle School are currently in a lock out which means students are safe in their classes and can move between classes during class changes. Our elementary schools will be operating under the same procedures when they start. There will be law enforcement at each of our buildings for arrival and throughout the day. Our initial evaluation of this is that it is a false threat and we will update you when we know more.”

This is not the first false threat that the Beacon City School District has received. Dr. Landahl is quick to update the district community when threats like this are made. However, it is one of the only ones where the students were in an active lock out that was not a drill.

One parent, when texting their child to find out where exactly they were in the building, was corrected by their child, when they asked the status: “Are you still in the lock down?” the parent asked. “We are in a lock out, Mommy.” Oh.

As Dr. Landahl stated, the students were able to move throughout their class schedule, attending classes. ALBB was told that some students spent part of their class time, in between iReady reading sessions, whispering how they would get out, before being quieted by their teacher for chatting too much and to focus on their classwork. Some sharpened their pencils, to feel safe. Others decided who would throw the class microwave at anyone deemed suspicious and unsafe entering their room.

At South Avenue Elementary, a Beacon Police Officer let in the students, instead of Security Guard Pat Cooper (pictured above). Parents who were late were hopeful that tardy slips would not be given this time. The Police Officer on Front Door duty was not sure on the day’s procedure for tardy slips.

In the case of South Avenue, Police Officer Donovan (pictured above) was stationed there for the entire day. ALBB asked about how he got his lunch, and he said he thankfully had packed, although admin staff offered him take-out. Teachers were noticeably stressed at the release of the children at the end of the day, making sure to get each child to their parent waiting outside. Lots of hugs were received, and the day continued.

All is well thank goodness.

Sunny With A Chance Of Light :: Retail Therapy Guide 2/24/2021

The parades in Beacon are beginning....Kicking it off is the Beacon Spring Celebration of light this weekend. Followed by the Parade of Green next. Both happened last year in weather. The Beacon Spring Celebration of Light is a parade in the night, giving us a bit of hope for light and spring right around the corner. Saturday's weather is looking perfectly cold, so bundle up!                            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, click here for more info > Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin Serious.Comedy Theatre Presents: Improv Night Day: Friday, February 24, 2023 Time: Show at 8pm (Doors at 7:45) OR head on in early for the Weekly Open Jam at 6:30pm Location: 22 Kent Street Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508 (Old Beacon High School) $12 for the show. $5 for the Weekly Open Jam. Ages 18+. Beer, seltzer and water available at the show. Information > Serious.Comedy Theatre Is A Sustaining Sponsor Of ALBB RuPaul's Drag Race Viewing Party Day: Friday, February 24, 2023 (and every Friday!) Time: 8pm Location: The Roosevelt Bar (located inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall), Beacon, NY Every Friday, enjoy a viewing party at the Roosevelt Bar inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall featuring local drag performer Andramada alongside a special guest. Attendees can look forward to live performances after each episode. Best of all, there’s no cover charge! The Hudson Valley Food Hall Is A Sustaining Sponsor Of ALBB Beacon Celebration Of Light Parade and Festival Day: Saturday, February 25, 2023 Time: 5:30pm-9:00pm Location: Polhill Park, Beacon, NY Bring your homemade lanterns, or just yourselves, and join the walk down the length of Beacon Main Street accompanied by the Street Beat Brass Band. At the end of the walk, display your lanterns and have tea and treats by the fire.  Information > Wanderlux Formal Day: Sunday, February 26, 2023 Time: 1pm-3pm (Live Fashion Show from 1pm-2pm) Location: Wanderlux, 475 Main St, Beacon, NY Over 40 New Formal Dress Arrivals Will Be Presented In Every Size, Color And Style. Looking For A Prom, Gala, Wedding ,Or Just a Fun Dress To Wear On Spring Break, Vacay, Or A Night Out? Then You Won’t Want To Miss This Event With A Special Guest Appearance By Head Designer @valedafneny And Featuring @dafneitaly Bags And Accessories. Complimentary Glitter Champagne and Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Glitter Cider + Sweet Treats, Raffle and Exclusive Discounts. Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!     HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Ciao Chow makes delicious & fresh hand made pasta + fried rice! They also offer delivery! Located inside the HV Food Hall. Check 'em out! 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 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. Elixxr Wellness: Wellness cafe offering drinks with adaptogens  Tara Fusion Cuisine: Fusion cuisine of Bangladeshi, Indian, Sri Lankan and Middle Eastern food Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY We love the Big Baja Burrito from Baja! Filled with your choice of Murray’s Chicken or steak, authentic Spanish rice, black beans, lettuce, frsh guacamole, pico de gallo, NYS local cheese blend  and crema. A very satisfying lunch or dinner! Tons of other Main Plates available as well as Tacos, Quesadillas, Starters, Bowls, and Sides. Oh, and a Kids Menu! New specials always. PS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm PPS: Check out Baja's specials! >  Check out their specialty drinks >  BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!     HUDSON VALLEY GOLDSMITH 226 Main St Retail 2 (845) 255-5872 Sparkles! That's what we needed this weekend. Walk into Hudson Valley Goldsmith (located next to Homespun) and let the light catch your eye. Prices range, as do stone sizes. Look for earrings, threaded earrings, necklaces, rings for men and women, and more. Recycled gold, silver and platinum and conflict free diamonds are used for every custom piece & repair. Hudson Valley Goldsmith seeks out suppliers who do the same. See here for CUSTOM details > Shop in-store or online here > OPEN: Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00am-5:00pm Friday-Saturday: 10:00am-6:00pm Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon Rain or shine, Luxe Optique truly does always ‘look’ this good! Luxe Optique is T H E  one stop shop for all eyewear needs - including contact lenses, expert progressive lens fitting, and more! Just want a pair of really cool sunglasses? They’re your go-to for that too!  Need to make an appt ? Do that here! >  PS: Appointments required for exams. BEACON HOURS  Monday from 10AM–5PM Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM Sunday CLOSED  Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY Located on Main Street in Historic Beacon, the studio has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago!  Check out all of Yanarella's classes to find the best one(s) for you! >  See Kids Classes here > See Adults Classes here >  Register Online > Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you! Serious.Comedy Theatre 22 Kent Street Room 109, Beacon, New York 12508 Kids Improv Workshop & Jam Kids Improv Workshop + Jam is on pause indefinitely   Spring Session Registration Is Open! Improv 101 Improv 201 Improv 501 *Musical Improv 101 (new offering!) *Sketch Writing 201 (new offering!) Sign up! > Weekly Open Improv Jams every Friday at 6:30pm for $5 - drop in! "The Big Night" a Sketch and Improv show every 2nd Friday of the month! "Improv Night" featuring house performers every 4th Friday! All shows are listed here > Keep up with Serious.Comedy Theatre here! > Serious. Comedy Theatre is a Sponsor, thank you! Build Your Own Joiner's Mallet & Bench Hook Day: Saturday, February 25, 2023 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 17, 2023 Time: 9:00am-5:00pm Location: Hudson River Maritime Museum, Wooden Boat School, 86 Rondout Landing, Kingston, NY 12401 Information > Pen Turning Day: Sunday, February 26, 2023 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 19, 2023 Time: 10:00am-5:00pm Location: Hudson River Maritime Museum, Wooden Boat School, 86 Rondout Landing, Kingston, NY 12401 Information > 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. PS* NEW Advertising Packages available! See details >  BEACON DENTAL 1020 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon, NY (845) 838-3666 Be honest... when is the last time you made a dentist appt for a cleaning?! At Beacon Dental, they are dedicated to providing you and your family with quality dental care tailored to your individual needs. They welcome patients aged 4 and older and provide a full range of dental services to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health throughout your life. When you visit their dentists and team, you can be certain that your health, comfort and smile are always their highest priorities. Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you! ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 249 Main Street, Unit 108, Beacon Getting life insurance is an expression of love that goes beyond words. Antalek & Moore's agents are there to listen to you and make personalized recommendations for a policy that will allow you to enjoy your life now. Reach out to Antalek & Moore for all of your insurance needs! 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. Their Research Team is constantly updating their 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. Start with their free articles and classes by subscribing to their newsletter. Next, dig in to go bigger with your outreach with their Membership Program that gives you Media Contacts, Editorial Calendars, Templates for emailing the media as well as plotting out your PR and Marketing plan. Tin Shingle is your support system as you're getting the word out about your business. Tin Shingle Blog Posts > Become A Member! > Learn More About Tin Shingle > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!                             KATIE JAMES, INC. Do you need a website? Or a website upgrade? We got you! We've done a ton and we love working with new businesses and creating sites that share who they are! Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Social media accounts offer the emotional connection to your brand, and your website needs to reflect that energy. The designers and lead producer, Katie Hellmuth Martin, can guide you through this process and design you a website that both looks stunning, and works well to help people do what you need them to at your website. Learn More > RECENT WEBSITE PROJECTS Homespun Foods > Barb's Butchery > Sparrenberger Studio > WEBSITE IN THE WORKS Hudson Valley Food Hall Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you! BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES See them here > BRANDING  >  MARKETING & PR Tin Shingle Katie James, Inc. DENTAL Beacon Dental EVENT SPACE > CO-WORK SPACE The Main Office at Beacon Digital  EDUCATION > PRIVATE & INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Poughkeepsie Day School  HOME IMPROVEMENT > INTERIOR DESIGN Faust Design Build HOME IMPROVEMENT > LAWN SERVICES Blue Green Lawns INSURANCE > BUSINESS, HEALTH, LIFE, HOME Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency MUSIC Miss Vickies Music List Your Business In The Business Directory >  Read Our Latest Articles HIRING: MARKETING COORDINATOR AT CALICO WALLPAPER > List your job in ALBB's Job Listings >

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Local Woman Stabbed In Her Home On Wolcott; Neighbors Say Domestic

During the news coverage of the arson fire on Wolcott Avenue, and the man found dead in the stream along Teller Avenue near Wolcott (he lived in an apartment house across the street from house that was set on fire on Wolcott), a stabbing injury of a woman in her home also in that area occurred on January 27, 2023. Neighbors familiar with the situation said it was by a man who was known to her, who was possibly emotionally out of balance. The Beacon Police have not confirmed this.

The woman was saved by the Beacon Police and EMS personnel who arrived to treat her. She was taken to a hospital for further treatment and released.

Three days later on January 30, 2023, the Beacon Police Department issued a Press Release stating the condition of the woman, identifying the man, and listing his charges. Sometimes these Press Releases are signed by the publishing officer. This one was not.

The Press Release reads as follows:

“On January 27, 2023, the Beacon Police Department received a call from a female who reported that she had been stabbed in her home on Wolcott Avenue. Officers quickly responded to the scene and located the suspect still inside the home with blood on his clothes. They immediately took him into custody and proceeded inside where they located the victim upstairs.

“She was conscious and alert but bleeding heavily from multiple wouds to her neck area. Officers began rendering aid and called for EMS to respond to the scene. The victim was transported to the hospital by EMS where she was treated and later released in stable condition.

“The suspect was … charged with:

• Assault in the First Degree (Class B Felony),

• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree,

• Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree,

• Menacing in the Second Degree and

• Criminal Obstruction of Creating (All Class A Misdemeanors).

“Max was arraigned in Beacon City Court and remanded to the Dutchess County Jail.”

While some have asked if crime is up in Beacon, it is important to notice that these stories that are published seem to be connected to each other in terms of timing and location. There is a Police Blotter that has had numerous indications of crime and discomfort, but not all of those items get reported on by local media. Also, not all of the items that go reported in the Police Blotter are released to media outlets who publish them, as A Little Beacon Blog discovered last year while researching the murder of Rene Vivo aka Scout.

In transparency, for the man found dead in the stream, neither A Little Beacon Blog, the Beacon Free Press nor the Highlands Current reported on that until after the raging house fire that happened two days later, when the community waged an outcry for details of his death - which has so far been deemed unrelated to the fire.

But Where Did That Vegan Ice-Cream "Lick The Vegan Stuff" Go?

Since the announcement of the closing of Végétalien, people have asked: “What happened to that amazing vegan ice-cream that was sold inside of the store?”

That vegan ice-cream was Made In Beacon, in various locations, by the company called Lick The Vegan Stuff. At one point, Lick The Vegan Stuff was inside of The Chocolate Studio, a shop also known for partnering with other businesses to rent a bit of space (ex: Denise Gianna Designs and The Village Jerk - who each graduated and moved into their own Main Street storefronts since).

Lick The Vegan Stuff at one point moved to Végétalien, where they remained until November 2022 (remember that time someone opened her freezer and all of her ice-cream melted and she had to do a mega-come-back in like 4 days of making?).

Now, you can find Lick The Vegan Stuff in her soon to be trailer (!!), in Manhattan, and various other locations like at Obercreek Farm.

Keep up with Lick The Vegan Stuff in her Instagram as she works to secure her trailer licensed. Which would really put this vegan ice-cream on the map if she could drive all over the place. Just think of all of the pop-up events she could do. Maybe delivery to you! Or not. Maybe just dry-ice in a box delivered by a carrier to your door.

If you’re a restaurant in town, order from her now please! So we can enjoy her in Beacon easily as well.

Végétalien Closes. Plant-Based Foodies Are Sad. Remains To Be Seen If Food Stays In That Location

Vegan options are very popular in Beacon. Most eateries from pizza to burgers to tacos are incorporating both gluten-free and vegan options into their menus. Nevertheless, running a restaurant is hard. Végétalien, the plant-based eatery on the east end of town near the mountain, announced two weeks ago that they are closing.

As explained in their Instagram post: “It is with mixed emotions that we write to post to notify you that Végétalien will be closing its doors permanently. Our last day of business was January 29th, 2023. We have various store equipment, shelving and fixtures that will be available for purchase as well. If you are interested in any of these items, pease email us at vegetalienbeacon@gmail.com. Lastly, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported our small business throughout the years. We know that there are many stores in the area to choose from and we are honored that you chose Végétalien above the others. We appreciate all of our loyal customers who have helped our store thrive for the past years! Until we meet again!”

Végétalien was started by restaurateur, Kamel Jamal (currently Beacon Bread, Ziatun, formerly Angelino’s in Cold Spring and Titos in Beacon) whose daughter named it after the french name for vegetarian. Végétalien’s current owner Moises purchased the eatery from Kamel and Lena in 2018.

Over time, the famed Beacon-based vegan ice-cream company, Lick The Vegan Stuff, was also based out of Végétalien. Lick The Vegan Stuff left that location in November 2022.

Prior to Végétalien being in that location, the eatery called Raddish with memorable salads was there. It remains to be seen if a food-based business will remain in that location.

Did You Get Caught In The Rain? | Retail Therapy Edition 2/17/2023

Maple sugar season has arrived (along with random wind and rain storms like the one Beacon experienced this afternoon). We're not done yet with this winter season, so stay buckled up! This edition has a new woodworking class, as well as a reminder to bring in menstruation products and gently used bras for a collection one of the stores on Main Street is hosting. Have great weekends!                            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, click here for more info > Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin RuPaul's Drag Race Viewing Party Day: Friday, February 17, 2023 (and every Friday!) Time: 8pm Location: The Roosevelt Bar (located inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall), Beacon, NY Every Friday, enjoy a viewing party at the Roosevelt Bar inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall featuring local drag performer Andramada alongside a special guest. Attendees can look forward to live performances after each episode. Best of all, there’s no cover charge! 25th Annual Fishkill Polar Plunge Day: Saturday. February 18, 2023 Time: 8am-5pm Location: Sharpe Reservation, Camp Mariah, 436 Van Wyck Lake Road, Fishkill, NY Information > Howland Chamber Music Circle - Drew Petersen, piano Day: Saturday. February 18, 2023 Time: 4pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, NY Information > The Academy: 90's Party Day: Saturday, February 18, 2023 Time: 8pm-1am Location: The Academy, 33 Academy Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Entertainment by Grand Finale - The Party Never Stops. Tickets $10. Free admission for first 50 persons.  Information >  Beacon Open Studios: Winter Show @ The Yard Days: Saturday, February 18, 2023 & Sunday, February 19, 2023 Time: Saturday 12pm-9pm & Sunday 12pm-6pm Location: The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY Information > Maple Sugar Tours Days: Saturday, February 18, 2023 & Sunday, February 19, 2023 Time: 11am-2pm Location: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, 120 Muser Drive, Cornwall, NY Information > Beacon Toy & Comic Book Show Hosts Beacon Curated - Winter 23 Day: Sunday, February 19, 2023 Time: 12-6pm Location: VFW Post 666, 413 Main St, Beacon, NY A mere $3 admission fee at the door will get you access to dozens of vintage dealers selling clothing, sneakers, retro video games, dead formats, jewelry, records, toys, that kind of a thing. Information > Stephen Mallon – Industrial Landscape Photography - Featuring Sea Trains Day: Thursday, February 23, 2023 Time: 7:00pm-8:30pm Location: Beacon Sloop Club House, 2 Fynn Drive, Beacon, NY 12508  Stephen Mallon as part of its 2023 Lecture Series. Mallon is a photographer and filmmaker who specializes in the industrial-scale creations of mankind at unusual moments of their life cycles. Featured will be Mallon's work titled "Sea Train: Subway Reef Photos," which highlights the MTA’s artificial reef project where more than 2,000 subway cars were placed in the Atlantic Ocean. Information > *LAST CHANCE! Beacon Bra Drive Days: February 1-23, 2023 Donate bras and menstrual products to folks in need. You can donate: gently used bras (including sports bras, nursing bras, mastectomy bras, sealed menstrual hygiene products (tampons, pads, liners). Bring/ship donation to: Witch Hazel, 176 Main St, Beacon, NY. The goal is 100 bras + 500 menstrual products! Your donations will go to I Support the Girls! I Support The Girls (ISTG) collects gently new/used bras and new, sealed menstrual hygiene products and distributes them to folks experiencing homelessness, to help restore dignity and self-respect. In the past 7 years, ISTG has donation over 21.2 million products to over 4,200 organizations. Questions > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!     HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY How about Hand Made String Hoppers with Spicy Coconut Samba from Tara Fusion?! Special Catering Order Only! 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 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. Elixxr Wellness: Wellness cafe offering drinks with adaptogens  Tara Fusion Cuisine: Fusion cuisine of Bangladeshi, Indian, Sri Lankan and Middle Eastern food Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY Contemporary art lines the walls of Baja featuring many tequilas & tacos with a twist! 15 taco flavors available on the menu (excluding specials) and an option to order the Family Taco Combo for only $37! Includes 8 street tacos (chicken, beef, pork, or fish), served with authentic Spanish rice & beans. OR order 3 tacos for only $15! All options can be served as street tacos ;) Stop in! PS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm PPS: Check out Baja's specials! >  Check out their specialty drinks >  BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!     HUDSON VALLEY GOLDSMITH 226 Main St Retail 2 (845) 255-5872 It doesn't need to be Valentine's Day for you to treat someone you love (including yourself) to something special! Jewelry from Hudson Valley Goldsmith is not only  s t u n n i n g  but all pieces are eco-friendly and made with recycled gold, platinum, and silver. Oh, and, twice a year, Hudson Valley Goldsmith travels to Antwerp Belgium, the diamond capital of the world to hand pick their Diamonds, meet with the diamond cutters and “Sightholders” who purchase directly from the mines. Selecting their diamonds so early in the global trade process assures that they’re able to provide you with the best quality and value as well as a shorter chain of custody to assure their diamonds’ conflict- free origins! Interested in Custom Design work? See here for CUSTOM details > Shop in-store or online here > OPEN: Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00am-5:00pm Friday-Saturday: 10:00am-6:00pm Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon Believe it or not... Spring is around the corner. And your Spring wardrobe needs Anne et Valentin! Stop in and shop these! Luxe offers comprehensive eye exams, contact lens exams, contact lens new wearer training, expert progressive lens fitting, custom eyewear fittings & adjustments, eyewear repairs, and DMV vision tests! Your one-stop-shop for all eyewear needs! Need contact lenses? See more info here >  Need to make an appt ? Do that here! >  PS: Appointments required for exams. BEACON HOURS  Monday from 10AM–5PM Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM Sunday CLOSED  Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY Located on Main Street in Historic Beacon, the studio has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago!  Check out all of Yanarella's classes to find the best one(s) for you! >  See Kids Classes here > See Adults Classes here >  Register Online > Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you! Serious.Comedy Theatre 22 Kent Street Room 109, Beacon, New York 12508 Kids Improv Workshop & Jam Kids Improv Workshop + Jam is on pause temporarily   Winter class registration closed All shows are listed here > Keep up with Serious.Comedy Theatre here! > Serious. Comedy Theatre is a Sponsor, thank you! Spring Woodworking & Boatbuilding Courses Offered at the Hudson River Maritime Museum Build Your Own Cigar Box And Guitar Day: Saturday, February 18, 2023 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 13, 2023 Time: 10:00am-5:00pm Location: Hudson River Maritime Museum, 86 Rondout Landing Kingston, NY 12401 Information > 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. PS* NEW Advertising Packages available! See details >  BEACON DENTAL 1020 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon, NY (845) 838-3666 At Beacon Dental, they are dedicated to providing you and your family with quality dental care tailored to your individual needs. They welcome patients aged 4 and older and provide a full range of dental services to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health throughout your life. When you visit their dentists and team, you can be certain that your health, comfort and smile are always their highest priorities. Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you! ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 249 Main Street, Unit 108, Beacon Friendly reminder that Antalek & Moore's office has relocated!  You can now find them right down the road at 249 Main Street, Unit 108 in Beacon. Please note that their phone, fax, and mailing address have not changed. They look forward to continuing to serve you all in their new space! Reach out to Antalek & Moore for all of your insurance needs! Latest Announcements > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!   TIN SHINGLE Dear You, This is a love letter written to all of the hustlers out there. All of the business owners, creators, makers, and organizers. For Valentines Day, you need to hear this. Creator: you did this. To maintain this, is hard. To maintain this, means your heart needs to be in it every day. You are the main person who believes in you. If you don’t believe in you, things will fall apart. If you don’t believe in you, things you created will dry up. But they won’t die. Not if your heart is still beating. Not if it’s a good idea. The good idea you know should be made. It just needs a special breath of air. To breathe life back into it. And you will do that every day. And if you need to step away, to take more oxygen for yourself directly, that’s okay. Your creation will be there waiting for you. You may have new creations on the horizon. Those may replace what you are doing, or they may be in addition. Only you will know how to absorb. You will hire the people you need to. You will move office locations as you need to. You will buy more property as you need to. You do you, Creator. We are here for you. To support you and to buy from you. Create for us. We need you. More Tin Shingle Blog Posts > Become A Member! > Learn More About Tin Shingle > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!                             KATIE JAMES, INC. Do you need a website? Or a website upgrade? We got you! We've done a ton and we love working with new businesses and creating sites that share who they are! Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Social media accounts offer the emotional connection to your brand, and your website needs to reflect that energy. The designers and lead producer, Katie Hellmuth Martin, can guide you through this process and design you a website that both looks stunning, and works well to help people do what you need them to at your website. Learn More > RECENT WEBSITE PROJECTS Homespun Foods > Barb's Butchery > Sparrenberger Studio > WEBSITE IN THE WORKS Hudson Valley Food Hall Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you! BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES See them here > BRANDING  >  MARKETING & PR Tin Shingle Katie James, Inc. DENTAL Beacon Dental EVENT SPACE > CO-WORK SPACE The Main Office at Beacon Digital  EDUCATION > PRIVATE & INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Poughkeepsie Day School  HOME IMPROVEMENT > INTERIOR DESIGN Faust Design Build HOME IMPROVEMENT > LAWN SERVICES Blue Green Lawns INSURANCE > BUSINESS, HEALTH, LIFE, HOME Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency MUSIC Miss Vickies Music List Your Business In The Business Directory >  Read Our Latest Articles ARE YOU HIRING? List your job in ALBB's Job Listings >

SIGN UP FOR THIS NEWSLETTER JOIN THESE ADVERTISERS: We create ad packages that work for different types of businesses. Click here for ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog and accomplish your goals. We look forward to highlighting your business and show your support!

925 Wolcott Ave Was Being Renovated To Convert 16 Units to 9 SRO Units, Before Fire

The former boarding house at 925 Wolcott Avenue that burned down as a result of arson on January 3, 2023, was under renovation to convert 16 units to 9 units that would meet SRO definition (Single Room Occupancy in apartments or residential hotels in which low-income or welfare tenants live in single rooms), according to the permit filed by the owner, Yeshia Berger of 925 Wolcott Ave LLC, which was obtained by A Little Beacon Blog via FOIL request. He acquired the title to the property on July 13, 2022, according to the paperwork.

The front porch of 925 Wolcott Avenue.

According to the Application For The Certificate Of Occupancy Or Certificate Of Compliance filed on December 7, 2022, and had an Issue Date from the City of Beacon of December 12, 2022 signed by Building Inspector Bruce Flowers, each unit would have a bathroom and kitchenette, with all new plumbing and electric. A sprinkler system was also to be installed. The estimated cost of construction was written in as $200,000.

An Application for Building Permit was submitted on August 19, 2022 with an Issue Date dated August 26, 2022 signed by previous Building Inspector David Buckley to get new moldings, floors, and plumbing on the front porch/deck. The contractor was designated Olvin Construction out of Monroe, NY on the permit, who held the Workers Compensation Insurance.

On July 19, 2022, an Application For The Certificate Of Occupancy Or Certificate Of Compliance was filed to “rebuild existing CFP - roof to remain - with patch and paint to the interior with new plumbing fixtures.”

More than a month after the fire on January 3, 2023, pieces of the razed house still sit on the property. The arsonist and former tenant of 925 Wolcott Avenue, Brian P. Atkinson, is due in court later in February, unless the hearing is pushed. Mid Hudson News and ALBB first reported that Brian turned himself in after starting the fire, according to people who were at the scene. The Highlands Current later reported that “Police said he walked to the department and turned himself in immediately after starting the fire,” even though that was not written in the Press Release issued by the Beacon Police.

The owner, Yeshia, also owns the boarding house across the street, 916 Wolcott Avenue. That house was recently in the news as being the residence of the man who died after a fall into the stream under Teller Avenue on New Year’s Day. While the situations remain unconnected, both men did frequent Main Street at the local outdoor sidewalk hangout on Teller and Main Street.