The highly popular “Cat Art Show,” which has been known to bring out the largest number of art lovers to any opening at Beacon’s Howland Public Library, will return to the library with a gala opening on Saturday, July 8, 2023 from 5 to 7 pm. This year’s “Cat Art Show,” which will include a wide variety of cat-themed artworks, will once again be curated by its founder and local artist, Jean Noack.
According to Noack, “We not only had a great turnout at the 2017 opening, many quality pieces were purchased by attendees. And we look forward to even higher attendance and sales at this year’s show.”
The 2023 “Cat Art Show” will feature work by new and returning local artists utilizing everything from paint and canvas to cameras to something called “wet-felted” cat fur employed by Noack herself. Says Noack, “I took a week-long class on wet felting of wool at the Fletcher Farm School for the Art and Crafts in Ludlow, VT, and have applied the method to cat fur to create framed artworks.”
Another popular local artist participating in the 2023 “Cat Art Show” is Anna West of Beacon. West not only paints cats but has contributed to their welfare by holding a fundraiser in 2022 where she accepted "commissions" to paint people's cats then contributed the funds to Talk To Me About Cats of Newburgh, NY.
West, whose paintings are currently on display at the Emerge Gallery in Kingston, NY, is representative of the many active artists who make up the thriving Beacon-area arts community and whose work will celebrate our feline friends at the 2023 “Cat Art Show.”
Other artwork will be provided by Markie Baylash, Jennifer Sarah Blakeslee, Tom Conroy, Jan Dolan, Cindy Gould, Mary Fetherolf, Stephanie Fogarty, Mary Ann Glass, Susan Keiser, Mandy Kelso, Philomena Kiernan, Barbara Lipp, William A. Loeb, Peter McGivney, Jean Noack, Rosemany Braghieri Rednour, Noah Rosaler, Chris Sanders, Eleni Smolen, Anna West, Bill Winter, and Trisha Wright
Artists whose work sells will donate a portion of the sale price to an animal charity of their choice.
The 4th Annual Chalk Art Protest created by Moraya Seeger DeGeare down a Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park was a joy. Threatening to rain in the morning, the clouds cleared, leaving a damp sidewalk pallet for chalking. People were encouraged to express their emotions through colors and words. Kids came and contributed their ideas.
Said Moraya about the event: “Amazing that it’s our 4th chalk art protest, and let’s be honest, we have more to chalk and talk about than ever. Just because it’s not the buzz of energy of 2020 doesn’t mean we need to be silent. 2022 had record numbers of cop killings. Roe v Wade overturned affirmative action ✖️. I’ve lost count of the amount of anti-trans bills. And I don’t know how to start listing things about immigration besides the decisive actions causing more trauma to those coming here for a safer life. Racism, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia. Suppose you need a place to be in the community on July 4th. Chalk, talk, get it out, and put it into art.”
Chalk art was created for protection of Trans lives, for Black lives, for Housing protection, and more. A Little Beacon Blog chalked a new design of the American flag, preferring it in pink with transparent alternates where any color or shape could shine through. A single star burst emanated from the black left corner. The lines were waves, and there were no straight edges, only curves. See video below for part of the chalking process.
Over at “Wait, What Is That,” the sister podcast from A Little Beacon Blog, we mixed it up by conducting the podcast out in the wild - from the chair of the hair salon Total Beauty Salon (formerly Salon Dae). Two powerful self-made stories were waiting to be told from inside the salon: the story of how Tahira Willis dug in to make a change in her career, leaving the world of childcare settings to pursue her life-long passion for hair and beauty styling. Known for her braids of the children’s hair at Beacon’s Rose Hill Day Care Center, Tahira left after the pandemic to work at Walmart, one of the only jobs available then. In that time, she was pulled hard by her friends to pursue her hair styling for real.
That’s when she came to Total Beauty Salon as a stylist who rents a booth. As does former owner Danielle Pitts, who bought the salon 10 years ago, rebranded it to Salon Dae, and sold it last year to one of her stylists, who rebranded it to Total Beauty. Danielle has just stepped out on maternity leave for the birth of her third son, so that she can enjoy early motherhood period, and pour her visions into her recently published children’s book, Hair, Hair Everywhere.
Where there once was no rain date, there is now a Rescheduled Date of Beacon’s Fireworks to Thursday, July 6th at Dark. This waterlogged week of rain has been great for the plants, but has become a nail-biter for firework shows. Much to the chagrin of dog lovers and those who end up in neighborly fights when firework amateur hour on the street results in fireworks going over or onto neighbor’s roofs.
Fireworks were even reportedly canceled on the Jersey Shore when a bit of thunder rolled by, according to some student reporters who left Beacon to visit.
Many of you have cut out for the weekend, if you're not already under water swimming in this hazy hot welcome to July.
Before you get to the things to do, the Spirit of Beacon Day Committee has announced that they are Open! Registrations now open for Vendors and Parade signups. Date is Sunday, September 24, 2023. The Spirit of Beacon Day is especially looking for Beacon City School District After School Clubs to represent at a table, so that kids, parents and caregivers can learn more about these initiatives and things to do.
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 Daley and Katie Hellmuth.
Newburgh Community Day
Day: Friday, June 30, 2023 Time: 6pm-10pm Location: Cronomer & Algonquin Park, Powder Mill Road and Gardenertown Road, Newburgh, NY, 12550
This Independence Day celebration includes food, games, fireworks, and more. Information >
July 4th Weekend At Boscobel House Day: Saturday, July 1, 2023 Time: 6pm-9pm Location: Boscobel House, 1601 NY-9D, Garrison, NY
Greater Newburgh Symphony Orchestra, outdoor symphonic picnic with fireworks at West Point Information >
Beacon's Fireworks: July 2nd Day: Sunday, July 2, 2023 Time: "Dark" Location: Memorial Park, Beacon, NY
Beacon’s Fourth of July Fireworks will be on Sunday, July 2nd, 2023 at dark, with no rain date. The event will be held in Memorial Park as it normally is. If ALBB learns of more details about what to find at the fireworks, other than fireworks, we will update this article. Information >
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Excuse us while we d r o o l over Dulce Cielo Mx birria tacos! NOMNOMNOM. Inside the HV Food Hall! Swing by and fill your belly and soul. 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 can hardly believe it is going to be the Fourth of July! It's officially SUMMER! Stop into Baja for all your fancy and creative cocktails to celebrate. Mocktails are available too. Enjoy delicious tacos, empanadas, entrees, quesadillas, sides, and starters. Specials always being updated and posted on the chalkboard! 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!
REEVES NYC POP UP
494 Main St.
(917) 783-2270
Incase you missed it last week... Reeves NYC will be popping up on Main St. until September 10 right here on Main Street! Reeves is an independent and leading edge Bespoke tailoring house based in New York City. They offer Bespoke Suits, Coats, Evening Wear, Sports Coats, Military, Clothing for Hunting, and Womenswear! You can check out all of their offerings here > Appointments can be booked HERE or via cellphone 917-783-2270. Check out Reeves NYC on Instagram > Reeves NYC is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY GOLDSMITH
226 Main St Retail 2
(845) 255-5872
If you love unique and colorful pieces you must checkout this new collection at Hudson Valley Goldsmith! What could you not love about a new batch of colored gemstone pieces?! Newly added to the cases. Snag this blue/green combo ASAP and check out the other beautiful pieces! See here for CUSTOM details >
OPEN:
Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11-5
Sunday 10-4 Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Did you grab your new summer sunnies yet?! Luxe has so many different styles to meet your needs - minimal, sexy, sleek, unique, fun, asian-style, petite, and even kids! Stop in store and shop or Shop Online >. You deserve a new pair of sunnies this season. And if you need them to be prescription, that won't be a problem! New styles are always arriving! And an Optometrist on site! PS: Appointments required for exams. Make an appt here! > BEACON HOURS
Monday from 10AM–5PM
Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM
Sunday CLOSED Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
SUMMER Camp Registration has only a FEW spots left! And starts SO soon!
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.
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!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Everyone wanted the menues to be online in one place at the Hudson Valley Food Hall, so that is exactly what we designed for them. Each food vendor has their own sexy page on the website that allows them to glow in their ow Learn more about how we can help you and your biz! Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
Beacon’s Fourth of July Fireworks will be on Sunday, July 2nd, 2023 at dark, with no rain date, the City Administrator Chris White announced during a City Council meeting this month. Sunset has been around 8:30ish PM of late.
The event will be held in Memorial Park as it normally is. If ALBB learns of more details about what to find at the fireworks, other than fireworks, we will update this article.
Summer is here. Reeves NYC is popping up on the other end of Main Street near the mountain! Grand Opening is this weekend and then by appointment only - so don't miss this opportunity to just wander in. All of your English Bespoke Tailoring needs could be answered in one or several stops. See below for the storefront photo and address so that you recognize it. And a big thanks to him for joining ALBB's sponsorship membership so that we can promote this!
Just for a little extra on this rainy Friday afternoon, here is a sneak peek of our newest podcast episode over at "Wait, What Is That?" with co-hosts Brandon Lillard and Katie Hellmuth. This episodes was taped in the hair chair, featuring stylists Danielle Pitts and Tahira Willis at Total Beauty Salon (formerly Salon Dae). They each explain how their styling seed was planted, and how they intentionally pursued it to make their dreams realities. This sneak peek is a video of the interview. The podcast will drop into your favorite podcast player shortly.
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Book an Event Promotion Advertising spot here.
You can sponsor this Event Guide with your event, for extra promotion of it!
If you'd like to guarantee to see your entertainment event listed here, click here for more info >
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade Daley and Katie Hellmuth.
Reeves POP UP
Day: GRAND OPENING THIS weekend, Saturday, June 24, 2023 and Sunday, June 25, 2023 Time: 1pm-5pm Location: 494 Main St.
Reeves NYC will be popping up on Main St. until September 10! Reeves is an independent and leading edge Bespoke tailoring house based in New York City. They are proud standard bearers of their Savile Row heritage. Professionalism, style and the finest tailoring since 2011. See more about Reeves below and in our Shopping Guide. Information >
Taco Fest 6
Day: Saturday, June 24, 2023 Time: 9am-3pm Location: Ice Time Sports Complex, 21 Lakeside Rd, Newburgh, NY
Mexican street food event, showcasing street tacos, birria tacos, and other Mexican and Latin specialties like burritos, quesadillas, nachos with toppings and of course, street corn. Save room for some dulces like churros, Mexican refried ice cream, and so much more! Information >
Mid-Hudson Discovery Presents: Discover The Summer Event Day: Saturday, June 24, 2023 Time: 10am-4pm Location: Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum, 75 North Water, Street, Poughkeepsie, NY
Whether you're a science enthusiast, bookworm, or just looking for a fun way to spend a summer day, come join us for this amazing FREE event. Discover the Summer brings together both worlds of science and books with a day of exploration, learning and fun, while providing a great opportunity to jump into summer reading. Meet these New York Times bestselling authors and award-winning children's book illustrators from the Chappaqua Book Festival: Selina Alko, Ariel Bernstein, Artie Bennett, Valerie Bolling, Nick Bruel, MacKenzie Cadenhead, Paul Czajak, Jason Carter Eaton, Chris Healy, Katey Howes, Lorien Lawrence, Alan Katz, Janae Marks, James Preller, and Laurie Wallmark. Books are available for purchase and kids can meet Biscuit and Bad Kitty during a character meet and greet. Information >
Wanderlux Pride Event Day: Sunday, June 25, 2023 Time: 12-5pm Location: Wanderlux Style, Beacon, NY
Rainbow bracelets, rainbow candy, flags, and every color of the rainbow glitter champagne. Plus, exclusive in-store only discounts! Information >
K-Fest Day: Sunday, June 25, 2023 Time: 5pm Location: Heritage Financial Park, 1500 Route 9D, Fishkill, NY Information >
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Falafel sandwich from Tara Fusion?! Yes please! Inside the HV Food Hall! Swing by! 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
Stop into Baja & try their new Patron Margarita Tree! A Good way to try a few different flavors. Pair it with tacos, empanadas, quesadillas, or entree plates! Kid menu available and delicious sides that are always a must. Specials always listed on the chalkboard and the garage doors aways open to get a great view of Main Street! 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!
REEVES NYC POP UP
494 Main St.
(917) 783-2270
Reeves NYC will be popping up on Main St. until September 10! Reeves is an independent and leading edge Bespoke tailoring house based in New York City. They are proud standard bearers of their Savile Row heritage. Professionalism, style and the finest tailoring since 2011. “The 'house style' is unapologetically English with a strong Savile Row and usually more subtle Modernist influence, by constantly seeking out innovative and luxurious cloths we also have a creative and directional finish.“ - David Reeves GRAND OPENING THIS weekend, Saturday, June 24, 2023 from 1-5 and Sunday, June 25, 2023 1-5. Typical hours will be by appointment-only OR by chance. Appointments can be booked HERE or via cellphone 917-783-2270. Check out Reeves NYC on Instagram > Reeves NYC is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY GOLDSMITH
226 Main St Retail 2
(845) 255-5872
Complimentary without matching! We love a good matching set but mixing it up is always fun and unique! Still minimal and stunning to say the least! Hudson Valley Goldsmith uses recycled gold, silver and platinum and conflict free diamonds are always used for every custom piece & repair. Hudson Valley Goldsmith also seeks out suppliers who do the same. See here for CUSTOM details >
OPEN:
Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11-5
Sunday 10-4 Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Another favorite line at Luxe! This Dorian Gray Leisure Society frame is handcrafted out of 100% pure titanium and ion-plated in 24k gold with the intention of becoming a family heirloom! Go on in and check out the Leisure Society frame selection. Be sure to check out all selections! So many options - for everyone! Stop in store and shop or Shop Online >. New styles are always arriving!
Optometrist on site! PS: Appointments required for exams. Make an appt here! > BEACON HOURS
Monday from 10AM–5PM
Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM
Sunday CLOSED Luxe Optique 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.
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!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Everyone wanted the menues to be online in one place at the Hudson Valley Food Hall, so that is exactly what we designed for them. Each food vendor has their own sexy page on the website that allows them to glow in their ow Learn more about how we can help you and your biz! Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
PPFA’s “National Office Transformation” pushes out some of the movement’s most valued staff and brightest minds
Over one hundred staff at Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) have been given layoff notices as part of a broader restructuring of the national organization. This has raised major concerns among staff about PPFA’s direction and management as the movement for reproductive freedom faces enormous challenges.
Thirty-seven of the impacted workers are members of 1199SEIU. Members of SEIU Local 500 in DC are also affected, alongside dozens of non-union staff. The layoffs are set to take effect on July 7. A range of jobs are facing cuts, including communicators, researchers, data scientists, and staff focused on equity issues.
In late May, PPFA announced a restructuring it dubbed “Project North,” described as equity and transparency “but lacking rationale for mass layoffs,” according to the union’s press release. PPFA says that the restructuring is “not being driven by resource constraints,” making the job losses even more questionable.
“At a time when abortion rights are being curtailed across the country and Planned Parenthood’s advocacy and community-based healthcare services are more important than ever, PPFA should not be letting go staff members whose contributions have been crucial to the movement,” said Veronica Turner, Senior Executive Vice President at 1199SEIU. “These are leaders and activists and who are facing their own financial and health challenges, and we condemn PPFA’s lack of collaboration with its employees and their unions in navigating a major restructuring. We call on PPFA to urgently reassess these damaging layoffs.”
*One year ago, on June 24, 2022, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark piece of legislation that made access to an abortion a federal right in the United States. The decision dismantled 50 years of legal protection and paved the way for individual states to curtail or outright ban abortion rights.
Thousands of healthcare workers across New York to walk out and rally during their breaks to protest Gov. Hochul’s budget on April 5, 2023. A month before that, they protested in the nation’s capital, and engaged in an act of non-violent civil disobedience in New York City in the form of a funeral march. Some were arrested. Those photos are below.
Healthcare workers in cities and towns across New York banged on pots and pans in front of their institutions and hold rallies to raise the alarm that Governor Hochul’s proposed budget that neglects NY’s healthcare needs.
11 a.m. The Grand at Guilderland, 428 NY-146, Altamont
11 a.m. Schenectady Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, 526 Altamont Ave, Schenectady
WHAT: Healthcare workers will rally during their lunch break outside their institutions, banging on pots and pans to raise the alarm of New York’s healthcare crisis and the need to Close the Medicaid Coverage Gap in the FY2024 state budget.
WHY: Three years ago, as the pandemic was turning our world upside down, New Yorkers banged on pots and pans each night to cheer healthcare heroes. Now, healthcare workers will be making the noise: raising the alarm that Governor Hochul has proposed a budget that completely fails to grasp the gravity of the crisis facing NY’s healthcare system.
Today, patients and healthcare workers continue to face the pandemic’s aftershocks. Safety-net hospitals are on the brink of closure, emergency rooms are overflowing, nursing home residents face interminably long wait times for bedside care, and homecare services are becoming ever harder to come by.
Rather than making the necessary investments to stabilize healthcare services, Governor Hochul’s budget would make the situation worse. Her proposed 5% Medicaid rate increase is entirely offset by the elimination of savings from the 340b drug pricing program and the cut to the Indigent Care Pool.
The budget includes cuts of $700 million from safety net hospitals, reverses course on a major victory last year raising the pay of homecare workers to $3 above the minimum wage, reduces wages for consumer-directed home health aides by $4.09/hr., and fails to provide adequate funding increases to nursing homes as they struggle to recruit and retain staff to comply with nursing home reform laws.
With stagnating Medicaid funding and a depleted and burnt-out workforce, an austere healthcare budget would be devastating to New Yorkers, especially seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families.
1199SEIU is calling on NY’s elected leaders to invest $2.5 billion in healthcare in the FY2024 budget, including the following:
(The one-house budget proposals recently released by Speaker Carl Heastie and Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins make many of these commitments, and they must be fulfilled in the final budget.)
Increase Medicaid reimbursement rates by 10% for hospitals and 20% for nursing homes, with no offsets.
Restore the $700 million in safety-net funding, and increase it by an additional $600 million.
Address the disparity in reimbursement rates in upstate New York, which are approximately 20% lower than downstate.
Preserve the investment made last year in Fair Pay for Home Care to stabilize the homecare workforce and undo the drastic proposed cuts to wages for workers employed through the consumer-directed program.
Raise the minimum wage to $21.25 by 2027, followed by indexing.
ADDITIONAL CONTEXT AND PROTESTS:
Wednesday’s event comes two weeks after some 15,000 members of 1199SEIU held the largest rally in decades at the Capitol on 3/21, calling attention to the severe impact that Gov. Hochul’s proposed budget would have on access to healthcare in New York’s most vulnerable communities. Photos of the rally can be found here.
On 3/29, hundreds of 1199SEIU members and supporters held a “funeral march” through the streets of New York City to the door of the Governor’s office to raise awareness of the deadly impact of healthcare cuts. Over two dozen participants, including 1199SEIU President George Gresham and hospital and nursing home workers, engaged in an act of non-violent civil disobedience and were arrested. Photos and video of the 3/29 march and civil disobedience action can be found here.
ACTIONS ACROSS THE STATE: New York City: Bronx: 12PM: St. Barnabas Hospital, 4422 3rd Ave., Bronx 2PM: Pinnacle Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation, 801 Co-Op City, Bronx
Brooklyn: 12PM: Brookdale Hospital, One Brookdale Plaza, Brooklyn
Manhattan: 12PM: NY Presbyterian Hospital, 177 Fort Washington Ave, New York, NY 2PM: The New Jewish Home, 120 W 106th Street, New York, NY
Queens: 12PM: Jamaica Hospital, 8900 Van Wyck Expressway, Jamaica 2PM: The Pavilion at Queens for Rehabilitation & Nursing, 36-17 Parson Blvd, Flushing
Long Island: 12PM: Long Island Jewish Valley Stream, 900 Franklin Ave, Valley Stream 2PM: Hempstead Park Nursing Home, 800 Front Street, Hempstead 2PM: Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care & Rehabilitation, 271-11 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park
Dem. lawmakers say “not so fast” on Gov. Hochul’s “conceptual budget” for healthcare
“State legislators joined healthcare workers and providers outside of ERs and nursing homes Friday afternoon (April 28, 2023) to say that more needs to be done on Medicaid before a final budget is signed.
“On Thursday evening, Gov. Hochul announced a tentative budget deal that caregivers, advocates, and legislators say doesn’t go nearly far enough to protect New Yorkers who rely on Medicaid. Although the Governor claims she’s increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates by 7.5%, the actual amount equates to an anemic 2.5% when considering that she reduced hospital funding by $525 million just weeks ago on April 1, in the implementation of a managed care “pharmacy carve-out.” At a time that healthcare costs are sky-rocketing and NY’s healthcare needs have never been greater, the Governor’s budget is a step backwards, not forwards.
“Video remarks from outside Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx include satatements from:
The United Healthcare Union Works East union 1199SEIU has been working aggressively to get improvements in their employment contract. This April 2023, 1199SEIU Members In NY’s Hudson Valley have ratified a contract after more than a year of tense negotiations with Nuvance Health, which is based in Connecticut.
Key contract highlights include: Annual raises of 3.5% in 2023, 2024, 2025; Increases minimum rates up to 10%; Juneteenth as an additional premium holiday, according to the union’s press release.
From the United Healthcare Union Works East Press Release:
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More than 1,500 members of 1199SEIU, the nation’s largest healthcare union, have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a contract that will improve the lives of the workers, their families and patients, and will also help to recruit and retain staff
The 3-day ratification vote, which took place on April 19, 20 and 21, was the culmination of more than a year of contentious negotiations. With constant stalling on behalf of the employer and little progress being made, the healthcare workers were forced to hold several informational pickets, joined with concerned elected officials and patients at press conferences, held a car caravan to inform the public and contact Board members, and demanded dozens of meetings with management (away from the negotiating table.)
The Bargaining Units:
First Union Contract:
Technical Workers at Northern Dutchess
BioMed Engineers at Vassar/Putnam
Radiation Therapists at Vassar Putnam
Extending Contract:
Vassar Brothers Medical Center
Putnam Hospital
Contract Highlights:
Annual raises of 3.5% in 2023, 2024, 2025
Increases minimum rates up to 10%
Juneteenth as an additional premium holiday
Long-time members continue their no-cost, comprehensive health benefits through the 1199 National Benefit Fund
New members to be covered by the 1199 National Benefit Fund effective 12/1/24
Background: New York’s healthcare system is facing an unprecedented crisis. Three years since the first COVID case was confirmed in New York, patients and workers continue to face pandemic’s aftershocks. Emergency rooms are overflowing, patients wait interminably for lab results, and healthcare workers are fed up and leaving the industry. This contract aims to recruit and retain workers and bring back the type of care that Hudson Valley residents have enjoyed in decades past.
Said Michael Dick, Biomedical Engineer, Vassar:
"As a lifetime member of this community, this is much more significant than a win for the ‘people who work here.’ This is a victory for the entire community. This organization is meant to serve ALL of us. With the support of 1199 and the entirety of its membership, we look forward to bringing back the Vassar we know.”
Said Daniel Duffy, Radiation Therapist, Putnam:
“After three years of being persistent and at the same time being patient, we have our contract. I think, I hope, Nuvance may now see us as a valuable asset to their organization.”
Said Greg Speller, 1199 Executive Vice President:
“We are very happy that our members prevailed and won important collective bargaining agreements that will benefit healthcare workers and patients. Special praise goes to the workers who fought hard for their first contracts; technical workers at Northern Dutchess Hospital, and staff in the biomedical and radiation therapy departments at Vassar and Putnam.”
It must be noted that this was markedly different from other negotiations with other hospital systems.
Sadly, Nuvance treated their healthcare workers poorly in this process. Instead of coming to the table and agreeing to good terms (that the 1199 healthcare workers eventually forced upon them), management fought, stalled and disrespected their workers—during the same time they were getting all of us through a global pandemic. This out-of-state hospital operator must treat their workers much more respectfully, given what the workers have done for their communities and continue to do for their communities.”
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1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East is the largest and fastest-growing healthcare union in America. We represent over 450,000 nurses and caregivers throughout Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Florida. Our mission is to achieve quality care and good jobs for all.
Beacon Elks Lodge donated $200 of their Gratitude Grant to the Beacon Police Department’s Summer Youth Academy.
The Beacon Youth Police Academy is a free, week-long program for students entering grades 9-12 and provides an introduction to careers in law enforcement.
The goal of the academy is to help participating youth understand the role police officers play in the community, the duties required to be performed on the job, and requirements of becoming a police officer. In addition, the program fosters relationships between the officers and the youth participants. This is accomplished with mock situations and lectures, field trips, physical fitness exercises, and games.
The Gratitude Grant is one of three grants the Beacon Elks Lodge has obtained for the 2023-24 Elk Year.
“These grants allow the Beacon Elks Lodge to be an active and integral part of the community,” said Jennifer Velez, Exalted Ruler, Beacon Elks Lodge. “Additionally, the grant allows the Elks to support local law enforcement missions and initiatives and provides local youth with an opportunity to learn about the possibilities of a career in law enforcement.”
“Our Youth Activities team helps assist local youth organizations, local youth initiatives, and local first-responder organizations with the development of young men and women in the community,” added Velez.
For more information on the Beacon Youth Police Academy, contact the Beacon Police Dept. at (845) 831-4111.
For more information on the Beacon Elks Youth Activities Committee or community service and outreach, contact Robert K. Lanier, Public Relations Chair.
Oh wow, this is a big weekend. Juneteenth is this weekend! It's Beacon's first festival celebrating it at Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, but not the first one that happened. We have the history and details for you here. Enjoy music, food and vendors down by the river.
Many of you have asked about a Pride march in Beacon, and you now have one. Scroll down to learn the times!
Read on, Friends, and have great and safe weekends.
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S&DC Town Hall Meeting Day: Friday, June 16, 2023 Time: 6:30pm Location: Teamster’s Hall, 15 Stone Castle Rd, Rock Tavern, NY 12575
Get information on what this proposed change will do to your Postal customer services, local post office changes, future of your town Post Office, & safety town concerns. Speakers from APWU, NALC, Rural Carries. Light refreshments provided. Towns affected: September 2023- Newburgh, New Windsor, Cornwall, Cornwall on Hudson, Clintondale, Maybrook, Salisbury ills, Rock Tavern, Wallkill, Beacon. February 2024- Walden, Modena, Montgomery, Fishkiill. On Hold no date - Wappingers Falls, new Paltz, Pine Bush.
Love + Liberation Days, Times & Location:
Friday, June 16, 2023
Queer Liberation March
6:30pm
Beacon Streets Saturday, June 17, 2023
Family Pride
1:00pm-5:00pm
TheYard Beacon
Dance Party
6:30pm-10:00pm
Industrial Arts Brewing, Beacon, NY
Free Community Event!
Beacon LitFest At Howland Cultural Center Days: Saturday, June 17, 2023 & Sunday, June 18, 2023 Location: Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, NY
Celebrate the literary arts through Poetry, Playwriting, Non-Fiction, and Fiction. Information >
Beacon’s First Annual Juneteenth Riverfront Festival
Day: Monday, June 19, 2023 Time: 11am-5pm Location: Pete & Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, Beacon, NY
Beacon4BlackLives is teaming up with Bosco and the Storm to put on a Juneteenth Riverfront Festival. Poets, singers, vendors, dancers, food trucks, artists & live music! Information >
SAVE THE DATE: BeaconArts Presents: Bus Shelter Art Project Fundraiser: A Benefit Concert Day: Wednesday, June 21, 2023 Time: 7-10pm Location: Dogwood Bar, located at 47 E Main Street, Beacon, NY
The event will include a night of music, raffle prizes, and drink specials. Tickets are limited and should be purchased in advance Information >
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Every Thursday night is Oysters With Dad night at HV Food Hall! Swing by! 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
Stop into Baja & try their Amazing Dragon Fruit Margarita! Enjoy it outside (or half inside/half outside) while eating delicious foods that are made with fresh ingredients. Starters/bowls, Tacos (3 for $15!!!), Quesadillas, Main Plates, Sides, not to mention, a Kids Menu! Oh & specials. Baja is always rotating their specials! Stop in & check out the chalkboard for those. 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
Whole bunch of new watches just in time for fathers day! Watch this video to get a sneak peak of them all > No better time than now to snag one of these for dad, grandpa, uncle, stepdad, friend, or even yourself! Count on Hudson Valley Goldsmith to have the most beautiful pieces that are carefully chosen and ethically sourced. See here for CUSTOM details >
OPEN:
Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11-5
Sunday 10-4 Shop Jewelry > Hudson Valley Goldsmith is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
The kickoff to Summer happened and it's officially almost here! You need new sunnies and/or new glasses! New season = refresh! Not just for your closet. Luxe Optique carries brands (including their line) that is minimal, sexy, fashionable, classy and unique. Something for everyone. Stop in store and shop or Shop Online >. New styles are always arriving!
Optometrist on site! PS: Appointments required for exams. Make an appt here! > BEACON HOURS
Monday from 10AM–5PM
Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM
Sunday CLOSED Luxe Optique 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.
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!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Everyone wanted the menues to be online in one place at the Hudson Valley Food Hall, so that is exactly what we designed for them. Each food vendor has their own sexy page on the website that allows them to glow in their ow Learn more about how we can help you and your biz! Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
The two day festival, a collaboration of the Beacon LitFest Committee and Howland Cultural Center, will feature a stellar line up of award-winning writers, poets, and playwrights, workshops, and cameo appearances by NYT and NPR Puzzlemaster Will Shortz and accomplished actor and producer Emily Mortimer.
The Beacon LitFest Committee and the Howland Cultural Center (HCC) in Beacon, NY, announce the inaugural Beacon LitFest scheduled for the weekend of June 17 and 18. Saturday will feature an all-day program of exceptional writers, poets, and playwrights and include provocative literary conversation, staged performances, and guest appearances by NYT and NPR Puzzlemaster Will Shortz and accomplished actor and producer Emily Mortimer.
A book-signing, first edition book gifts, and cocktail hour will follow. On Sunday, the Beacon LitFest@HCC will offer writing workshops with master instructors.
On Saturday June 17th, the main program begins at 11am and will end at 5pm, with a midday lunch break. It will feature special guest New York Times and NPR puzzler Will Shortz in conversation with bestselling author Danielle Trussoni. They’ll discuss her hotly anticipated thriller, The Puzzle Master, which has already garnered the 2023 Prix Bete Noire des Libraires and American Booksellers Association Indie Next awards, which Booklist calls “a sure-fire hit.”
Novelist Laura Sims will introduce her new, razor-sharp suspense novel How Can I Help You and discuss the development of her critically acclaimed novel, Looker, for television with her guest, the award-winning actor, screenwriter, and producer Emily Mortimer.
Poet and editor Martine Bellen will read from her new release An Anatomy of Curiosity and cultural activist, educator and anthologist Patricia Spears Jones will share work from A Lucent -Fire, Pain Killer and others.
Indran Amirthanayagam poet and translator will read from his latest Ten Thousand Steps Against the Tyrant. Nonfiction writers, Donna Minkowitz (Growing Up Golem, Ferocious Romance), Ginger Strand (The Brothers Vonnegut, Flight) and Jamie Price, PhD (The Call) will share sometimes subversive research methods when writing about major social and political topics.
Unique to the Beacon LitFest is the inclusion of playwriting as a literary art. Award-winning UK and US Playwrights Nigel Gearing and Charlotte Meehan will discuss the form and function of language in dramatic works.
A book signing will include a free first edition copy of Trussoni’s The Puzzle Master with any book purchase, and a cocktail reception will follow Saturday’s activities to allow writers and audience members to mingle.
June 18th Program for Beacon LitFest
On Sunday June 18, at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm, Beacon Litfest@HCC will offer three consecutive live writing and storytelling intensives, limited to 10 participants each. The workshops, led by notable Hudson Valley writers, include: Live Writing-A Poetry Project with poet and curator Ruth Danon, PhD; Is It Memoir? Is It Fiction? with journalist and memoirist Ken Foster; and From Stage to Page: Adding Drama to Narrative with Dramaturg, writer and producer, Shane Bly Killoran. “Our plan with this festival is to highlight Beacon’s growing literary community and expose audiences to fresh and thought-provoking work, says Dr Hannah Brooks, LitFest co-producer and Howland board member.
Lead-in LitFest programs have included sold out presentations of “The Vagina Monologues” staged in collaboration with Hit House Creative and “Hudson Valley Poets Present” produced with Live-Writing: A Project for Poetry.
Howland Cultural Center and BLF support diverse voices in panelists and audiences and are committed to inclusivity and access to cultural participation. American Sign Language translation is being provided for the main program and a percentage of tickets and workshop seats to community members of limited means. “Our goal,” says Howland President Theresa Kraft, “is building true community--the arts help us get there.”
The Howland Cultural Center, the city’s former library and known today as the ‘Jewel of Beacon,’ is located at 477 Main St in Beacon, NY. Tickets for the Saturday and Sunday events are available to the public at howlandculturalcenter.org or at the door.
Mergers in Beacon. Coming together. That is what Beacon’s community is all about. Lots of ideas. Lots of intentions. Sometimes done before. Sometimes done again. Since the racial reawakening of 2020, there have been 3 Juneteenth celebrations in Beacon organized by Beacon 4 Black Lives. But this year’s is being billed as Beacon’s First Annual Juneteenth. That is because a merger happened between groups who each had the desire and drive to produce the event: Beacon 4 Black Lives and Bosco and the Storm and his niece, Lastar.
For the past 3 years, Beacon 4 Black Lives held Juneteenth events. “The first year was a celebration in the form of a protest,” founding member Justice McCray told A Little Beacon Blog. “The next two years were at a private venue. We were thinking…how can we support somebody’s else’s vision? Something better, something new and something fresh. Something that invites more people in.”
At the end of Spirit of Beacon Day 2022, Michael Faison aka “Bosco” of Bosco and the Storm, who was a Musical Spirit Coordinator and performer for that event, told ALBB of his desire to produce a Juneteenth celebration the following year. Brooke Simmons and Rueben “Yogi” Simmons, the brother/sister duo and co-founders of I Am Beacon assisted Lastar with getting in touch with Justice to help them with permits and organizing, who after leading racial justice protests in the city with Beacon 4 Black Lives, ran and earned a position on Beacon’s City Council.
This year, Bosco told the Highlands Current how the idea came to him to produce a Juneteenth event: “I was actually at home and it just hit me that we need to do a Juneteenth festival. I called my niece, who is good at organizing. It’s going to feature my band and other local bands with Black artists, but it’s not just limited to Black artists, because my band is interracial. We’ll have Black entertainers, comedians, singers, dancers, poets — people doing whatever they do to be a part of the festival. Beacon 4 Black Lives also stepped in to help get the permits and that stuff.
“I never thought we would see this [Juneteenth celebrated as a national holiday] in my lifetime, but I’m glad we can start it here, and then the younger generations can keep it rolling. A lot of the Black folks who were born and raised here moved away, so we tried to reach out to them to come home for a day. And it’s not just for Black folks; it’s for anyone who wants to come have a good time.”
While this is called “Beacon’s Juneteenth,” it’s a city-wide event. “The City of Beacon has been supporting us, but it’s a city-wide event, but not produced by the City of Beacon, but the City gave their support,” said Justice.
Juneteenth Musical Lineup
Bosco and The Storm (Band)
Cynthia Moore and daughter Maya (Singing Opening Ceremony of the Negro Nation Anthem)
Jaeden Drysdale (Poet)
Ice The God (Hip Hop & R&B Artist)
Jayda Woodall (Poet)
The Moonlight Initiative (Band)
Melody Africa (Performers/Dance)
Common Ground Farm (Vendor)
Faithful Praise (Performers/Gospel Singers)
Born Genius (Hip Hop Artist)
Juneteenth Food Lineup
We Got The Juice
A&I Concessions
Cookies Creations
Pat’s Kitchen
Common Ground Farm
Incredible Creations
Cafe Con Amor Jibaro
Essie Mae Water Ice
Luv Y’all Food
Juneteenth Vendor Lineup
We Got The Juice (Vendor)
Broadway Art Gallery (Vendor)
AbuBashir Oils (Vendor)
Howland Public Library (Vendor)
A&I Concessions (Vendor)
Behind The Chair Ministries (Vendor)
Cookies Creations (Vendor)
Beacon High Step Team (Vendor)
Pat's Kitchen (Vendor)
Backies All Natural (Vendor)
The Little Me Boutique (Vendor)
Joce Cova (Vendor)
Community Voices Heard (Vendor)
City on a Hill Clothing Company (Vendor)
5Heart Products (Vendor)
Incredible Creations (Vendor)
Cafe Con Amor Jibaro (Vendor)
Soaps By Tina (Vendor)
Four Winds Jewelry (Vendor)
Newburgh Rowing Club and Beacon Sloop Club will collaborating to offer free Kayaking and boating from 11-2pm
Compass Arts will be offering free activities and a blank canvas for the festival attendees to create a shared artwork.
Juneteenth Parking
Justice wanted to get the word out about parking: “Parking not listed as MTA’s Free Parking Day, so unfortunately, it is paid parking at the station - as far as we know.” There is a small parking lot by the park, but the organizers are prioritizing that for the elderly. People are recommended to have a parking drop off spot. Beacon’s building, 1 Municipal Plaza, does have free parking on Monday because the building will be closed.
Parking in the MTA lot is $3.50 at the train. You can also park on side streets and walk a bit down to the river.
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A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
ver The Summer Event
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
