During the COVID pandemic, Beacon City School District (BCSD) students received free meals. After the pandemic, that benefit stopped. Income eligibility requirements came into effect again. Beacon’s Director of Food Services and Nutrition, Karen Pagano, did not give up in her quest to figure out how to become eligible again. BCSD’s Superintendent Matthew Landahl did not either, and indicated during the district’s 2024 budget presentation on May 11, 2023, that he was hopeful for the ability to offer free meals again. Two seasons later, on December 14, 2023, Dr. Landahl emailed district families that free meals were available to all students regardless of income eligibility, effective Wednesday, January 3, 2023. The USDA and NYS are jointly funding this initiative.
Said Dr. Landahl: “We are excited to share that beginning on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, breakfast and lunch will be provided at no cost to all students in the Beacon City School District. This is being made possible by the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) designation and funding granted to the District by the New York State Education Department and USDA. I want to thank Karen Pagano and the BCSD Food Services staff for making this happen.”
“The CEP designation includes one breakfast meal and one lunch meal for each student.” When one middle-schooler was told of this benefit, they declared: “Yeah, but we can still buy SNACKS.” Indeed, Dr. Landahl confirmed. “There is still an additional cost to purchase à la carte items. À la carte items include, but are not limited to, snacks, bottled water, doubles, and extras.”
The Nitty Gritty On How The Free Breakfast and Lunch Is Possible
Karen has been following this since at least May 2023. She told ALBB: “This initiative was made possible by a change in eligibility requirements by USDA and NYS. The USDA proposed an expansion of the Community Eligibility Provision permitting schools with 25+% of Directly Certified Students to apply for CEP. The previous percentage was 40%, and Beacon no longer qualified with changing demographics.” She explains that Directly Certified Students are certified Snap or Medicaid, Foster, Homeless or Migrants. Meal applications do not count to this number.
Karen continued: “Beacon is about 31% Directly Certified Students, so we would be able to apply for CEP under these new regulations once approved by USDA.” New York State had also considering adding funding to their 2024 budget, which did get approved.
Math Applied In The Real World
If you’ve done math homework with your child, where you have to solve a story problem, this should feel similar, in terms of how it gets calculated.
Karen provided specifics: “Since the current calculations on how much USDA would pay schools based on this percentage are based on a factor of 1.6% times the number of the CEP student percentage would be paid by Federal funding through USDA - the remaining percentage would need to be funded by non federal funds. That current calculation would place the District as having to fund as follows: 31% *1.6=roughly 50 percent of the meals consumed would be paid for by the federal funding.”
With hungry eyes, Karen continued: “Here is where NYS comes in for the new budget: if USDA approves their change - and we can apply with the 31% - then NYS would fund the remaining 50% of the meals in that budget allotment.”
We have math story problems and if/then statements in one meal plan.
Beacon families will be able to enjoy this benefit for 3 years. “Then a new application will be submitted and will be dependent on how the funding will be permitted and our SNAP and Medicaid numbers at that time,” Karen concluded.
The Hudson River rose into Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park, filling the walking paths and encircling trees.
Heavy winds and rain had been blowing all Sunday night, leaving yards flooded and trash cans spilled over. Students got ready for school as the rain continued to pound, but being December, it felt like, should this be a blizzard, there would be no school. That’s when the call came in from Beacon City School District Superintendent Matt Landahl that Rombout Middle School was flooded, and that students who who already arrived would be dismissed early at 9:30am. Anyone else should not come, and all other schools were open.
In email correspondence, he stated: “This morning we had water coming in from the outside in the art hallway and the science hallway. We made much effort to clean up but we could not operate safely today. I want to give a special thanks to our staff who helped us get through today, especially our building maintenance teams, grounds maintenance teams, and our transportation department and drivers who helped us navigate the day.”
The Weather Channel described the east coast storm as intensifying “in the eastern Gulf of Mexico early on Sunday, Dec. 17, then raced along the East Coast into Monday, Dec. 18, with a combination of flooding rain, coastal flooding and high winds from Florida to Maine.” Fox Weather has reported river rising in Boston, and vehicles getting swept away when trying to cross through the water.
In Beacon, the grasslands, kayak dock and parking lot were engulfed by the Hudson River, which rose so high with the tied, its strong currents could be felt over the pavement.
To those not familiar with this parking lot at Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park, this picture looks like a rocky beach, but it is the Hudson River washing into the parking lot. This is not the first time. At least as close as September 24, 2023, during Spirit of Beacon Day and coincidentally during the Soon Is Now, an immersive art experience depicting the overflow of the Hudson River, a tropical storm grew in strength and pushed both events to postpone to their rain dates.
The water was rushing in over the MTA Beacon train station. About one foot of water rose around parked cars. The current crested further in toward Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park where the geese and mallard ducks usually swim. The Welcome To Beacon sign and landing were completely covered by the river. Normally, there are picnic tables positioned for the Number Seven Food truck to serve their steak sandwiches and mozzarella sticks.
Cars drove up to the water’s edge to take photos, risking a chance of dipping a tire into the current that could have swept them out. Water like that may look neat to touch, but the reminder that even shallow water, especially the Hudson River which flows both ways, could sweep away small children or unsuspecting adults.
Fire trucks were buzzing around all day, going into people’s homes to pump water out of flooded basements. During last evening’s City Council Meeting, Beacon’s City Administrator Chris White reported that at least 19 basements were assisted in being pumped out by the City of Beacon. “Thank you to our Fire Department and Waste Water Treatment Department,” he said. “The Treatment Plant was inundated by more an 4" of rain. We avoided significant damage because of how much water was pumped out,” he concluded.
It's the 15th of December. That means, you only have days left to find those epcial gifts, and ship them. Beacon is filled with the most amazing small businesses (and business owners). You can find ALBB's full Shopping Guide here and then our Restaurant Guide for when you're hungry or thirsty in between.
PS: Foodies take note: Carter's is now serving brunch on Saturdays as well as Sundays.
Gimlick: A Sketch Comedy Experience Day: December 15, 2023 Time: 8pm Location: 22 Kent St. Beacon, NY 12508
Audiences are invited to see the world through Gimlick’s eyes… if they dare! Sometimes surreal, occasionally unsettling, reliably ridiculous— this is a sketch comedy experience by three women searching for their place in the universe and maximum female pleasure. Throughout the course of the show they give advice for how to deal with modern technology, rabies, unwanted body hair, and demonic rituals. With backgrounds in improv comedy and theater, it is a show that blends big laughs with surprising theatricality, along with healthy doses of insanity thrown in for good measure. Information >
Yanarella Dance's 3rd Annual Donuts with Santa Day: Saturday, December 16, 2023 Time: 9:30am-11:00am Location: Yanarella Dance, 312 Main St, Beacon, NY
a FREE event for all those who attend! Donuts, refreshments, games and activities - all while hanging out with the big man himself, Santa!
Winter Solstice Celestial Celebration Day: Saturday, December 16, 2023 Time: 6pm-1am Location: 46 Deer Hill Rd, Wappingers Falls, NY Information >
Syncretic Liturgy Day: Sunday, December 17, 2023 Time: 2pm Location: Prophecy Hall, 1113 Wolcott, Beacon, NY
We are bringing back a congregation to Prophecy Hall for another righteous assembly that employs traditional customs to deviate from convention. The longest night of the year is the closest to darkness that we get, it is a universal time for introspection and stillness. But while the days are growing shorter, we grow closer to one another and the earth. Information >
Howland Cutural Center’s Annual HOLIDAY HOOT Hosted by Goldee Greene!
Day: Sunday, December 17, 2023 Time: 6pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah & Kwanzaa. Fun for the whole family! Jazz, Broadway, Pop, Opera, Spoken Word Information >
FREE Narcan Training Day: Tuesday, December 19, 2023 Time: 12:30pm Location: Howland Public Library, Beacon, NY
Learn how to use Narcan and potentially save a life! Join the Council for Addiction Prevention and Education of Dutchess County for a free Narcan training session. Learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer Naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. A free Naloxone kit will be provided for all attendees 18 and older at the conclusion of the training. Registration is recommended to ensure there are enough Narcan kits available. Register here >
Howland Cultural Center Holiday Gift Show & Sale Days: Nov 17-Dec 22 Fri, Sat, Sun & December 18-22 Time: 12-5pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St, Beacon, NY
Find unique gifts from local artists who, some of them, only display at this holiday sale. This is a real opportunity to find special gifts that you cannot find year long.
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Holiday Catering at El Nica Spot! Gallina Rellena..
(Stuffed chicken), Stuffing: potatoes, carrots, pork, veggies sofrito! Feeds 4 people and comes with white rice, green salad, and bread. Place your orders for December 24th BY December 20th. Pick up will be at 3pm! 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. 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
Unwrap the joy of Baja's holiday specials with some of their new food and festive cocktail features! The vibes, the food, and the seasonal cocktails are SO GOOD. Baja can whip up a mocktail for you too. And although we recommend trying the specials (because they are indeed SPECIAL and don't last long), don't forget that TACO TUESDAY 🌮 is every Tuesday at Baja! $2 chicken, beef & carnita tacos plus $3 coronas! PS: Check out Baja's specials! > Check out their specialty drinks > BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
🥂 New Year Eve 🥂 Taking reservations now.
Ticket 🎟️ Price Includes: SCHEDULE:
6pm: Cocktail Hour with Passed Apps
7pm: Buffet Dinner
8:30pm: Live Music: Mama's Black Sheep
11:30pm: Mama's Black Sheep Spin DJ Music 'til the ball drops
12pm: NYE Countdown & Toast
RESERVE NOW! Call 845-743-6527
TICKETS:
$150 Includes Top Shelf Alcohol
$100 No Alcohol Included
Gratuity Not Included (tip your server!) PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday 2-5! Carters is closed on Wednesday's for the winter! Follow Carter's on Instagram > Carters Restaurant & Lounge is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193-195 Maint Street, Beacon, NY
"Baby, it's cold outside.. say what's in that drink?! Baby" , it's... actually Beacon Bread Company's Toasty Fluff Hot Chocolate! Name a better way to warm your body & heart! Stop in for this... a full coffee bar, brunch, and more! Fresh baked breads and cookies every day with flour from the best of the best - King Arthur Baking Company. PS BBC is open everyday from 8am-6pm except for Wednesday! PPS Whole sale, special orders, and events/catering available! Follow BBC on Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
ZIATUN 244 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Fresh made hummus with imported ingredients and authentic family recipes! Nothing better. Authentic Middle Eastern food at Ziatun and you truly can't get anything like it anywhere else! Our suggestion? Get a little bit of everything... especially the hummus! You'll thank us later! PS! Ziatun is open everyday!
Monday-Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Follow Ziatun on Instagram > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm Free Home Delivery & Farmers Market
Pick-Ups Website > Instagram >
Eggberts Free Range Farm is a family-owned farm for the past 50 years, owned by farmer Carrie Sabins in Washingtonville, NY. Across her two farms, live hens, goats, pigs, and cattle. All roam freely and eat grass and other nutritious sources, like sunflower and pumpkin seeds, flower petals, etc. There are no nitrates in their meats. DELIVERY: Free Delivery available to Beacon, Newburgh and Cold Spring. Order online now. MARKETS: Find Eggberts Free Range Farm at the Cold Spring Farmer's Market on Saturdays, and the Beacon Farmer's Market on Sundays. Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
This is your sign to head on into Luxe Optique and snag those winter glasses that will complete your holiday outfit! Because... look how fabulous?! AND, It's officially the countdown to winter! ☃️ Lucky for you... Luxe continues to bring in new styles to keep things exciting and fresh! Head in and snag a pair for you and treat someone to a pair for the holidays! Best gift ever! PS: Eye doctor appointments available here! > BEACON HOURS
Monday from 10AM–5PM
Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM
Sunday CLOSED Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon
The Question of Palestine... Binnacle was able to snag a few copies right before they went on backorder! They may or may not have anymore... but this is your sign to SHOP at Binnacle.. support small business, read a new book, try a new read, gift someone a special book! Follow Binnacle on Instagram to keep up with their new reads and to get them right away! Learn More about Binnacle Books > Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES OPEN! A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide is one of the biggest draws to this publication. Every store is listed in it for the best experience for our readers. Google rewarded A Little Beacon Blog with a #1 ranking for "boutique shopping beacon ny." Designed to elevate your store from the rest, this advertising campaign is integrated with our Instagram. Show your storefront in the listing, get your business a permanent weekly feature in A Little Beacon Blog's Retail Therapy Newsletter sent on Fridays (see examples here), as well as weekly Instagram features. More information here >
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Yanarella Dance's 3rd Annual Donuts with Santa Day: Saturday, December 16, 2023 Time: 9:30am-11:00am Location: Yanarella Dance, 312 Main St, Beacon, NY
a FREE event for all those who attend! Donuts, refreshments, games and activities - all while hanging out with the big man himself, Santa!
Interested in dance lessons/classes?! Reach out for more information & sign up! Yanarella Dance offers dance classes for everyone - and all age groups!
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. Beacon Dental is also happy to announce that they now accept Medicare health insurance! Call them for a free cleaning & check-up and refer your family & friends! Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Katie James Inc. works with local and national clients. Businesses of all sizes and budgets can find a branding home with Katie James, Inc.
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. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ART > TATTOO Invisimark (Stretch Mark Tattooing - to make stretch marks disappear)
On Friday at 3:50pm, the Beacon City School District’s Superintendent Matthew Landahl informed district families about an act of anti-semitism that happened at Rombout Middle School in one of the bathroom stalls.
Dr. Landahl wrote:
“This afternoon, some anti-semitic graffiti was discovered in a bathroom stall at Rombout Middle School. I want to thank the student who reported it. We have immediately begun an investigation into the incident and the person responsible for it will be held accountable through our Code of Conduct. We stand against this sort of hate speech and it is also clearly spelled out in our Code of Conduct.
“I want to offer our support to our students, families, and staff and please reach out to us if you need assistance or have something to report.”
The weeks after October 7, 2023 have been confusing and ever-changing. The feelings of which remain daily. Locally in Beacon, everyone wanted to protect their neighbor - Jewish, Muslim - Arab - to ensure their safety. Protests started in the name of Palestine, led by some Jewish and Palestinian community leaders, like this one in October outside of Congressman Pat Ryan’s office, and this one after the Thanksgiving “ceasefire pause,” also outside of Pat Ryan’s office. The Congressman has yet to call for a ceasefire or give any acknowledgement of the indiscriminate killing of Palestinians, and targeted of others (like journalists).
In response to Pat Ryan’s silence, more Beaconites in the Jewish community began to mobilize, resulting in a ceasefire lighting of the menorah on the 8th and final night of Hanukkah outside of Pat Ryan’s office in Newburgh Thursday evening.
At first, an artsy Ceasefire Menorah sign emerged on social media. The adhesive bling and glitter tape placed at odd angles indicated this was a sign made by children in sincerity, trying to stop the bombing. This is classic Beacon style, for those who were in Beacon during the days of the bicycle sculpture menorah.
Said one participant about the genesis of the organizing: “A local group of Beacon Jews are upset by what is happening in Gaza, and want Pat Ryan to act to stop it.”
Kids from Beacon, Cold Spring and possibly elsewhere wrote on cards their reasons for why they were there and wanted the bombing to stop. Said one Beacon kid: “I support ceasefire because too many people have died.” Said one kid from Cold Spring: “I support ceasefire because what is happening is horrible.”
Said a voter from Beacon: “I support ceasefire because my Jewish values demand it!”
The cards were taped to Pat Ryan’s office window. Cards have been taped to his windows after other protests. Removing them and having them reappear must feel like the scene in Harry Potter when the owls keep delivering the message, despite the messages getting thrown away.
The artist Mimi Fortunato, who describes herself as an artist/educator disrupting systemic racism that perpetuates educational, environmental, economic inequities, painted a cape that she wore to the evening.
The following press release was submitted by Mie Inouye to report on the “March For A Free Palestine!” protest down Broadway in Newburgh on Sunday, December 3, 2023. The march was organized by Mid-Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America, Jewish Voice for Peace - Hudson Valley, Veterans for Peace - Hudson Valley, Bard SJP, and the Mid-Hudson Islamic Community.
Three hundred community members took to the streets in Newburgh during the rain on Sunday, December 3, 2023, in support of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and a just peace in the Middle East. Carrying a banner reading “From the River to the Sea Palestine Will Be Free,” marchers called on local representative Congressman Pat Ryan to support a lasting ceasefire and oppose additional military aid to Israel which has killed thousands of Palestinian civilians with U.S. funding and weapons. A humanitarian pause that began on November 24, 2023 ended on Friday. Hundreds of Palestinians have been killed in the last three days.
“Representative Ryan, listen to your constituents. We are Palestinians, Jews, veterans, people of conscience from all faiths and backgrounds united in our heartbreak and anguish watching Palestinian families buried under the rubble in Gaza. We demand that you represent us, the majority of Americans who want to see an end to violence, an end to occupation, and an end to injustice. Raise your voice with us for a permanent ceasefire. Do not send more of our tax dollars to fund the killing of civilians. We will remember how you vote when it’s our turn at the ballot box.”
— Abdallah Quotate of Mid-Hudson Islamic Community
“As the brief respite from the bombing during the humanitarian pause last week showed us, a ceasefire is the only way to stop needless death and suffering, and to bring hostages home. After killing thousands of Palestinian men, women, and children and displacing more than one million people in the last few weeks, Israel is gearing up to continue destroying Gaza in a war of vengeance with the blessing and the backing of our government. We are here today to make clear: No more money for massacres,” said Felice Gelman of Jewish Voice for Peace.
The marchers focused their calls on Representative Ryan, who has been under increasing pressure from constituents to call for a ceasefire. At a November 9 rally at his district office in Kingston, more than 400 residents delivered a large format check from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee for $25,950 (the amount the GOP donor-funded network gave Ryan in 2022), with a memo line reading “genocide.” Ryan was one of just 22 Democrats who joined Republican colleagues in voting to censure his colleague Palestinian-American Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib.
During the march, Abdallah Quotate from Mid-Hudson Islamic Community spoke, saying: “Representative Ryan, listen to your constituents. We are Palestinians, Jews, veterans, people of conscience from all faiths and backgrounds united in our heartbreak and anguish watching Palestinian families buried under the rubble in Gaza. We demand that you represent us, the majority of Americans who want to see an end to violence, an end to occupation, and an end to injustice. Raise your voice with us for a permanent ceasefire. Do not send more of our tax dollars to fund the killing of civilians. We will remember how you vote when it’s our turn at the ballot box.”
Marchers mourned the deaths of thousands of Palestinian and Israeli civilians and called a ceasefire the first step to a just and lasting peace. They ended their march at Representative Pat Ryan’s office on Broadway, where they called on him to support a permanent ceasefire and stop sending his constituents’ tax dollars to fund Israel’s assaults on the Gaza Strip.
“Every life is precious and we mourn all of those, Palestinian and Israeli, who have been so cruelly taken from us in the last few weeks. There is no military solution to prevent more death and devastation – the only path toward a just and lasting peace is to end the occupation and apartheid which denies Palestinians their freedom and dignity,” said Andrew Hiller of Mid-Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America.
The march was organized by Mid-Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America, Jewish Voice for Peace - Hudson Valley, Veterans for Peace - Hudson Valley, Bard SJP, and the Mid-Hudson Islamic Community.
Some people in the Jewish community in Beacon organized a menorah lighting on the final night of Hanukkah in front of Congressman Pat Ryan’s office in Newburgh, to help him hear them demand an immediate ceasefire.
The artist Mimi Fortunato designed a menorah cape specifically for this occasion. Photo Credit: Mimi Fortunato
From the organizers: “Please come to Rep Pat Ryan’s office this Thursday 12/14 at 4pm-5pm (605 Broadway in Newburgh) to demand that Rep Ryan call for an immediate ceasefire. Bring a sign, light a menorah for the last night of Hanukkah. All are welcome! 🕊️”
Judging by the artistic style of this sign, especially the glitter tape and adhesive bling, and knowing what we know about Beaconites, it is quite possible that this sign was designed by children. Who most likely will be at the menorah lighting.
The first protest held in front of Pat Ryan’s office in Poughkeepsie with over 150 Jewish and Palestinian allies were in attendance was in October, which you can read about here.
Guardian Self Storage is collecting new unwrapped toys NOW until December 16.
“Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas.”
Ceasefire events for Israeli’s aggression in Palestine are happening in succession. See these dates below and mark your calendar for participation.
Light In For A Ceasefire Now Day: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 Time: 5-6pm Location: Promenade Hill Park, Hudson, NY
Artist Teach Day: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 Time: 3-6pm Register here >
Jewish-Led Chanukah Ritual Day: Thursday, December 14, 2023 Time: 4pm Location: 605 Broadway, Newburgh, NY Outdoor, pavement sidewalk. Free street parking/lot across
Ceasefire Now Days: Sundays Time: 1pm Location: NE Corner of Route 59 & Middletown Rd, Nanuet, NY Outdoors with chants on wide sidewalks. Park at Shake Shack!
“During the speech, however, Ryan did not mention the claims, reported in The New York Times and elsewhere the previous day, that 3 of those hostages had been killed by Israeli bombings. Nor did he mention the cease-fire that may still save the lives of the remaining hostages, as well as countless Palestinian civilians.”
On November 30, Congressman Pat Ryan delivered a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives, appealing for the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. During the speech, however, Ryan did not mention the claims, reported in The New York Times and elsewhere the previous day, that 3 of those hostages had been killed by Israeli bombings. Nor did he mention the cease-fire that may still save the lives of the remaining hostages, as well as countless Palestinian civilians.
As Israel’s assault on Gaza enters its third month, the lives of more than a hundred Israeli hostages and two million Palestinian civilians hang in the balance. And according to a growing number of voters, so too do the political futures of Democratic politicians like Ryan, who continue to resist calls for a cease-fire.
“We Don’t Know if Our Family is Alive”
Due to the ongoing war, the reality on the ground in Gaza can only be approximated. According to Reuters, some 240 hostages were taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Of those, 108 have been released by Hamas, 1 freed by the Israeli military, and the bodies of 3 recovered by the same. Hamas has said that dozens of the remaining hostages, who are being held throughout Gaza, have been killed by indiscriminate Israeli bombings. The Israeli government rejects that claim, although it has declared at least 8 hostages “dead in absentia,” conceding that they have likely been killed.
“We were in tunnels, terrified that it would not be Hamas, but Israel, that would kill us, and then they would say Hamas killed you,” one freed hostage said. “So, I strongly urge that the prisoner exchange begins as soon as possible and everyone needs to return home.”
— Israeli Hostage Upon Release
Newly freed hostages themselves have said that they feared death from Israeli bombings more than from Hamas. Israeli news site Ynet received recordings of a meeting between freed hostages, hostages’ families and the Israeli government, during which multiple freed hostages described their experiences in captivity and urged for a cease-fire to resume the exchange of hostages for Palestinian imprisoned by Israel.
“We were in tunnels, terrified that it would not be Hamas, but Israel, that would kill us, and then they would say Hamas killed you,” one freed hostage said. “So, I strongly urge that the prisoner exchange begins as soon as possible and everyone needs to return home.”
The circumstances for Palestinians in Gaza have been no less horrific, as detailed by Al Jazeera. As of this publishing on 12/12/2023, ongoing Israeli assault has killed at least 18,205 Palestinians, including 7,729 children and 5,153 women; injured another 49,645; and left 7,780 missing.
Among those unaccounted for are the family and friends of Kamel Jamal, owner of the Palestinian restaurant Ziatun on Main Street in Beacon. Jamal’s parents belonged to the first generation of Palestinian refugees, displaced by Israel upon its founding in 1948. He was born in a refugee camp in neighboring Jordan and moved to the United States as a child in the late 1970s, but still has family and friends in Gaza.
“Every night we go to bed and we ask, ‘Are you alive?’” says Jamal. “Every morning we wake up, we ask, ‘Are you alive?’”
“Right now,” he continues, “we don’t know if our family is alive, as we have not heard anything in three days.”
“Never, Ever Voting Democrat Again”
To Jamal, the scale of death and destruction in Gaza makes the necessity for a cease-fire painfully obvious.
“If someone needs to think about a cease-fire,” he says, “really they shouldn’t have an opinion.”
Support for a cease-fire is shared by a majority of US voters — but not politicians. According to a recent poll by Data for Progress, 61% of all likely voters support a permanent cease-fire and de-escalation of violence in Gaza, including 76% of Democrats, 57% of independents and 49% of Republicans. However, of the 535 members of Congress, only 61 have thus far called for a cease-fire, per the Working Families Party.
The resistance to a cease-fire demonstrated by Democratic politicians like President Joe Biden and Ryan not only threatens the lives of Israeli hostages and Palestinian civilians, but the political futures of those politicians too. The most recent polls collected by 538 put Biden neck-and-neck with or losing to Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee. Yet as Politico reports, Biden’s callousness toward mounting Palestinian casualties is pushing fellow Arabs and Muslims to campaign against his re-election in swing states where they are significant voting blocs, such as Michigan, Minnesota, Arizona, Wisconsin, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and Pennsylvania.
Although detailed polling data isn’t publicly available on the prospects of Ryan’s re-election in 2024, the situation is comparable. According to Ballotpedia, Ryan won his current seat by less than 3,600 votes in 2022. And heading into the next election, he’s already lost at least one.
“I can assure you that I will never, ever be voting Democrat again,” says Jamal. “Republicans aren’t better, but Democrats lost the majority of all Muslim/Arab votes.”
(Ryan’s communications director, Sam Silverman, failed to respond to multiple requests for comment for this article.)
Light In for a Ceasefire Now, A Jewish-led Hanukkah Ritual Action
Members of the Hudson Valley Jewish community join with other communities on Hanukkah using ritual, song and art to turn up the heat on our ongoing demand for a CEASEFIRE NOW and an end to US aid to support Israels current genocide and ongoing occupation. We will be lighting our menorahs as we shine the light on the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza and the Occupied Territories. We will weave together stories and make connections across struggles and liberation movements to amplify the demand for a Ceasefire Now and a Free Palestine, adding our voices to the broader movement in the Hudson Valley, the US and across the globe to call for a CEASEFIRE NOW and end the mass killing of Palestinians. There will be a wide variety of voices represented, and each candle will be lit by a person representing a different intersection of this movement.
WHAT: Light In for a Ceasefire Now, A Jewish-led Hanukkah Ritual Action -Hanukkah ritual to Demand a Ceasefire Now
WHEN: Wednesday, December 13, 5-6PM EST
WHERE: Promenade Hill Park, Hudson, NY
WHO: Organized by an informal network of HV Jewish and Jewish adjacent artists, educators, activists and community members.
WHY: We as Jews demand an end to the genocide in Palestine. We will be lighting our menorahs and shining the light on our demand for a Ceasefire now and a Free Palestine. We as Jews say “Not in our Name” “Never again is now” Anti-zionism does not equal Anti-semitism.
During the November 13, 2023 City Council meeting, Beacon Councilmember Paloma Wake dedicated her Report session to an acknowledgement of the Israel-Palestine [war that escalated on October 7, 2023, in which she expressed her disappointment of Congressman Pat Ryan.
On November 27, 2023, while the Israel-Palestine war is in a ceasefire over the American Thanksgiving, she continued with her message. Unable to attend the City Council meeting that evening, she tapped Councilmember Justice McClain to read her words for her.
Her sentiment is published below in full:
“Apologies that I cannot join live tonight and Thank You to Councilmember McCray for conveying this portion of my report on my behalf:
“In follow up to my comments last week expressing disappoint with Congressman Pat Ryan’s censure of Congresswoman Tlaib and his prevailing rhetoric around the ongoing genocide in Palestine, I would like to share a summary of my comments to Congressman Ryan during a recent lobbying call which called for, among other things, an immediate Ceasefire or halt of hostilities in Palestine which is now tentatively in place and a call for a change in rhetoric that stops conflating calls for Palestinian freedom and critiques of Israeli apartheid with anti-Semitism which we all unequivocally condemn. We also called for him to condemn acts of Islamophobia & Palestinian genocide with the same vigor as his righteous condemnations of anti-Semitism.
“Congressman, I am speaking to you as a fellow elected official and from the City of Beacon which you have (rightly) invested a lot in, and you know is an active constituency in your district.
“You also know that your district includes the Indigenous, ancestral homelands of the Mohican, Lenape, Wappinger, and Mohawk people who either have diplomatic ties to or are a part of the Haudenosaunee confederacy, the longest running Democracy in the world, recognized by the UN and recognized by our founding fathers in their time as inspiration for our founding documents.
“It should not be lost on you that as officers of American Democracy, we must understand the lineage of settler-colonialism that built this country as it stands today and take into account our failures in that enterprise in current affairs, not repeating or perpetuating mistakes of the past.
“On one of the last days of Native American Heritage month, and days after the National Day of Mourning which recognizes the true history of the genocidal Dutch encounter with Native peoples in our region, I ask all Beaconites to reflect on the systems of power and control which separate us, as everyday citizens, from an honest relationship with the land. Our love of Mt Beacon, our appreciation of Fishkill Creek and all waterways that lead to the Mahicannituck (Hudson) River, and the wildlife that support these ecosystems all lead to the logical conclusion that non-Indigenous Beaconites like myself have a debt to pay to the land and to the generations who stewarded this land before us.”
Learn how to use Narcan and potentially save a life!
Join the Council for Addiction Prevention and Education of Dutchess County for a free Narcan training session at the Howland Public Library in Beacon on Tuesday, December 19, at 12:30 pm.
Learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and how to administer Naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. A free Naloxone kit will be provided for all attendees 18 and older at the conclusion of the training. Registration is recommended to ensure there are enough Narcan kits available.
Happy Hanukkah. If you are looking for the best latkas in Beacon, you can find them at Pandorica, which started as a tea room, but rebranded to be a Dr. Who themed dining experience. People come from all over the country to dine there.
Holiday Fineries At The Wineries
Day: Saturday, December 9, 2023 &Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 11am-5pm Location: Benmarl Winery, 156 Highland Ave, Marlboro, NY Information >
Menorah Lighting In Beacon
Day: Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 4:30pm Location: Pohill Park (corner of Main Street, Wolcott Ave and South Ave)
The Chabad of Beacon is a new Jewish center in Beacon at 65 East Main Street started by Rabbi Shaya and his wife Esty. started a Charade Jewish center in Beacon. This Menorah Lighting will include Mayor Lee Kyriacou. Information >
Winter Market
Day: Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 11am-5pm Location: Twin Star Orchards,155 N Ohioville Rd, New Paltz, 12561
Shop local artisans! Information >
Paint & Sip Day: Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 12pm-2:30pm Location: Two Way Brewing, Beacon, NY
Ticket includes step by step instruction, all art materials and one drink from the bar! Information >
LAST DAY OPEN! Plan Bee Farm Brewery
Day: Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 12pm-6pm Location: Plan Bee Farm Brewery115 Underhill RoadPoughkeepsie, NY 12603 Information >
Photos With Santa Day: Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 2-4pm Location: St. Joachim's Church Gym, 51 Leonard Street, Beacon, NY
Event hosted by St. Francis of Assist Lodge in Beacon. Come get out for a family fun time! Meet Santa & his friends and have a chance to win prizes. Dogs are welcome too! $10 ticket includes picture with Santa, snacks, drinks, and crafts. Raffles are from local businesses.
The Nutcracker Day: Sunday, December 10, 2023 Time: 3pm Location: Bardavon, 35 Market St, Poughkeepsie, NY Information >
2023 Toys for Tots Donations Day: December 11, 2023 Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Location: One Park Place, 300 S State St, Syracuse, NY 13202
The Colwell Law Group, LLC proudly supports Toys for Tots this holiday season as an official drop-off collection site for toys. Your contributions will be collected by the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, benefiting local families and children in need. Feel free to drop off your new, unwrapped toys at our convenient office location: One Park Place, 300 S State St, Syracuse, NY. Our drop-off is available from Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM until December 11th, 2023. Join us in spreading joy and happiness throughout our community. Information >
SAVE THE DATE!
Lit Lit Mixer Day: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm Location: Happy Valley Arcade Bar, 296 Main St., Beacon, NY
Come just to hang out with other writers and readers in our area!
SAVE THE DATE!
BeaconArts Holiday Party at the Hudson Valley Brewery!
Day: December 14, 2023 Time: 7-10pm Location: Hudson Valley Brewery, 7 E Main St, Beacon, NY
Join them for the 2023 BeaconArts Holiday Party! There will be a cash bar, hors d'oeuvres, and an opportunity to connect with the full BeaconArts community. Bonus!: The party will be on the second floor, Hudson Valley Brewery's newly renovated event space.
Howland Cultural Center Holiday Gift Show & Sale Days: Nov 17-Dec 22 Fri, Sat, Sun & December 18-22 Time: 12-5pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St, Beacon, NY
Find unique gifts from local artists who, some of them, only display at this holiday sale. This is a real opportunity to find special gifts that you cannot find year long.
SAVE THE DATE!
A Little Beacon Blog / Beacon Digital / Main Office Holiday Party!
Day: December 21, 2023 Time: 5-7pm Location: Beacon Digital / Main Office
Come for a night of festivities, music, and vision boarding.
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Discover the perfect blend of traditional Mexican delights food , vegetarian and vega at Dulce Cielo Mx! 🌮 Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Mexico, where authenticity meets innovation. From classic tacos to plant-based wonders, they cater to every palate. Join them for a culinary adventure that celebrates the best of Mexican cuisine, with a special touch for our vegetarian and vegan friends. Your taste journey begins here! 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. 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
Always popping into Baja to check the menu board for delicious and seasonal specials! Look at that fresh guac and those crisp sprouts! Stop in for this deliciousness and don't forget to reach out to Baja for their exceptional catering services! Leave the stress of cooking at the front door. Be sure to plan ahead!
Can we talk about how TACO TUESDAY 🌮 is every Tuesday at Baja!? $2 chicken, beef & carnita tacos plus $3 coronas! Say no more... PS: Check out Baja's specials! > Check out their specialty drinks > BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
Carter's can host your Private Party! Celebrations, Rehearsal Dinners, Celebrations of Life, Birthday Parties. Enjoy their Winter decorations for the month of December, into January. Carter's has a broad menu for you to choose from as they craft your own menu. Bring your decorations, and they will provide the delicious food and drinks. Choose your room! Choose your party size. Off-site catering available too! Check out this video to see the potential your party can have! Santa bar seats and so much festive fun! PS: Carter's has your New Year's Eve plans! They are bringing back Mama's Black Sheep, and have a full menu with drinks for you included in the ticket price. Check out this Mama's Black Sheep song, "Spooning." Make the plan and save your spot! Ticket admission. RSVP required. PPS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday 2-5! PPPS! Katie James Inc. creates and curates Carter's Instagram, and can for your business too. Follow Carter's on Instagram > Carters Restaurant & Lounge is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193-195 Maint Street, Beacon, NY
Brunch anyone?! We're keeping it 'basic' all day at BBC! But there are so many options! Along with a full service coffee bar offering the seasonal coffee drinks you know and love... like gingerbread and peppermint mocha! PS BBC is open everyday from 8am-6pm except for Wednesday! PPS Whole sale, special orders, and events/catering available! Follow BBC on Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
ZIATUN 244 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Our bellies feel so full and happy just by looking at this photo! Authentic Middle Eastern food at Ziatun and you truly can't get anything like it anywhere else! Our suggestion? Get a little bit of everything... just like this photo! Taste the Middle East! PS! Ziatun is open everyday!
Monday-Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Follow Ziatun on Instagram > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm Free Home Delivery & Farmers Market
Pick-Ups Website >
Eggberts Free Range Farm is a family-owned farm for the past 50 years, owned by farmer Carrie Sabins in Washingtonville, NY. Across her two farms, live hens, goats, pigs, and cattle. All roam freely and eat grass and other nutritious sources, like sunflower and pumpkin seeds, flower petals, etc. There are no nitrates in their meats. DELIVERY: Free Delivery available to Beacon, Newburgh and Cold Spring. Order online now. MARKETS: Find Eggberts Free Range Farm at the Cold Spring Farmer's Market on Saturdays, and the Beacon Farmer's Market on Sundays. Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
This is your sign to head on into Luxe Optique and snag those winter glasses that will complete your holiday outfit! Because... look how fabulous?! AND, It's officially the countdown to winter! ☃️ Lucky for you... Luxe continues to bring in new styles to keep things exciting and fresh! Head in and snag a pair for you and treat someone to a pair for the holidays! Best gift ever! PS: Eye doctor appointments available here! > BEACON HOURS
Monday from 10AM–5PM
Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM
Sunday CLOSED Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon
If you know Binnacle Books, you know how amazing they are! And then, they do something called the Beacon Prison Books Project. An organization that provides free books to incarcerated persons, by request. People who are incarcerated in area prisons can use free postcards or simply write to us at our P.O. Box to request books or book recommendations. THEN Binnacle Books partners with local bookstores to order the books, connect with individual sponsors, pack up the books, and send them to the person who made the request. The project began its life at Binnacle Books in Beacon, NY, and now includes a number of Hudson Valley bookstores, including Blackbird Infoshop, Half Moon Books, Oblong Books, Rough Draft Bar & Books, and World's End Comics. Since February 2020, Binnacle has sent over 3000 books to incarcerated folks in the Hudson Valley and throughout New York State. Learn More > Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES OPEN! A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide is one of the biggest draws to this publication. Every store is listed in it for the best experience for our readers. Google rewarded A Little Beacon Blog with a #1 ranking for "boutique shopping beacon ny." Designed to elevate your store from the rest, this advertising campaign is integrated with our Instagram. Show your storefront in the listing, get your business a permanent weekly feature in A Little Beacon Blog's Retail Therapy Newsletter sent on Fridays (see examples here), as well as weekly Instagram features. More information here >
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.
MEGAN & KENNETH PHOTOGRAPHERS Weddings & Families
How dreamy is this winter engagement session?! captured by the best of the best, Megan & Kenneth Photographers! Bundle up and book an engagement session in the snow. Did we mention... Megan & Kenneth offer an engagement shoot to every couple who books their wedding photography with them! Reach out NOW! Find more information here > Megan & Kenneth are Sponsors. Thank you!
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. Beacon Dental is also happy to announce that they now accept Medicare health insurance! Call them for a free cleaning & check-up and refer your family & friends! Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Katie James Inc. works with local and national clients. Businesses of all sizes and budgets can find a branding home with Katie James, Inc.
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. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ART > TATTOO Invisimark (Stretch Mark Tattooing - to make stretch marks disappear)
Chabad of Beacon describes itself as "a vibrant Jewish community in the Beacon area, providing personalized social, educational, and spiritual experiences.” They offer synagogue services, adult education, youth programs, holiday celebrations, women's events, and community services.
This Sunday, December 10th at 4:30pm, they will have a Menorah Lighting in Beacon with Mayor Lee Kyriacou.
Say the organizers: “🕎 Join a Beacon community Hanukah celebration! Menorah lighting at Polhill Park! 🌟 Fun for the entire family! 🎉 Enjoy delicious donuts and latkes! 🤗”
Support for this publication comes in part from these businesses. We have highlighted what makes them special on their own dedicated pages. Want your business listed here? See the "Sponsor Spotlight" or "Event Promotion" option in our Advertising Page.
A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
s with Santa
l HOLIDAY HOOT Hosted by Goldee Greene!
SAVE THE DATE!
