Stony Brook Alumna Ella Engel-Snow Charges School with Stonewalling, Demands Compliance with NYS Law
On November 12th, 2025, Stony Brook alumna Ella Engel-Snow (graduated May 2025), served the university with an Article 78 petition after the university administration failed to respond to multiple Freedom of Information Law (“FOIL”) requests.
Article from The Statesman covering the arrest of Stony Brook students arrested while protesting for Palestine from their encampment in May 2024.
The FOIL requests are part of a larger effort by SUNY BDS (not affiliated with SUNY or NYS), a group of students, staff, faculty, and alumni calling on New York State to divest from Israeli apartheid. Initially, Ms Engel-Snow filed a FOIL requesting for Stony Brook’s investments, but the Stony Brook Records Access Officer was not forthcoming with any documents, according to a press release submitted by SUNY BDS.
“I was grateful to be part of Stony Brook Graduate Students for Palestine and to work alongside students committed to social justice. Throughout that time, I was appalled by the administration’s suppression of student activism. We have a right to this information. ”
— Ella Engel-Snow, Member of SUNY BDS
Engel-Snow was one of 29 people, including students, faculty, and alumni, arrested on the Stony Brook campus in May 2024 as reported by The Statesman during a student encampment in which participants set up sleeping bags on campus grounds and refused to leave, demanding an end to university complicity in the genocide in Palestine. The campus was stormed with approximately 150 police officers and state troopers. The Statesman reported that “Stony Brook University police, state troopers, Suffolk police and a mobile field unit arrested 29 people including students, faculty members and community members participating in a Gaza solidarity encampment protest organized by Sb4Palestine.”
While Ms. Engel-Snow was detained, she says her phone was illegally seized by the police and kept for approximately 10 days as “evidence,” along with at least 15 other phones, all of which were held without warrants, according to the press release.
Ms. Engel-Snow submitted the FOIL request in January 2025 seeking legal and business correspondence to and from Stony Brook University Police Command Staff containing specific key words. Those legal requests having gone ignored, SUNY BDS says. The resulting lawsuit seeks legal and business correspondence between the university and police regarding their actions in response to student protests, among other information.
According to Engel-Snow, “I submitted the FOIL request because I wanted to know how the administration came to the conclusion to send 150 armed police and state troopers to chase down peacefully protesting students. Who made that decision? And what are they so afraid of?” she said in the press release.
“During my two years as a graduate student,” Ms. Engel-Snow reflected, “I was grateful to be part of Stony Brook Graduate Students for Palestine and to work alongside students committed to social justice. Throughout that time, I was appalled by the administration’s suppression of student activism. We have a right to this information. The New York Freedom of Information Law (“FOIL”) requires that Stony Brook release these records. What kind of example is university leadership setting when they threaten students and at the same time disregard the law?”
According to reporting at The Statesman, “According to SUNY BDS, many SUNY campuses have repeatedly delayed releasing records, and SUNY Campus Foundations, which manage university funds for those campuses, have argued that they are exempt from FOIL because they operate as private nonprofit organizations.” Stony Brook University told The Statesman that it does not “comment on pending legal matters.”
After being stonewalled repeatedly, she submitted an appeal, SUNY BDS said in the press release. “Stony Brook’s further failure to respond has forced Ms. Engel-Snow to serve them with the Article 78 petition, which allows individuals or groups to seek a court’s review of a decision of a public body,” the group said.
For more information, contact SUNY BDS at sunybds1@gmail.com.
This article was submitted as a press release from Rally Middletown, and published in full below.
On Sunday, December 21, 2025, members of Rally Middletown, a growing local Palestine-liberation action group, and the Party for Socialism and Liberation – Hudson Valley successfully conducted a peaceful protest action at the Galleria at Crystal Run. The demonstration decried Israel’s violation of the ceasefire in Gaza while linking commercialism at home with imperialism abroad. The protest, which lasted approximately 10 minutes, was planned and staged with the safety of activists, shoppers, and staff in mind.
Photo Credit: Rally MIddletown
The demonstration began with the activists unfurling a banner reading, “All I want for Christmas is a liberated Palestine” from the mall’s iconic center staircase. They then sang an adaptation of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” titled “We Wish for the Liberation of the Palestinian Nation,” as shoppers gathered and recorded on their phones.
“Is there still a genocide in Gaza?” one activist asked the growing crowd.
“Yes!” the other activists responded. “Will good people ever turn their back on the innocent and their suffering?” he continued, before being answered with a resounding “No!”
The group then performed a series of pro-Palestinian chants, which they continued during their procession out of the building, with some onlookers lending their voices. Shouts of “While you’re shopping, Gaza’s starving!” reverberated through one of Orange County’s largest commerce centers.
“The Gaza genocide is the worst humanitarian crisis of our time, and history is watching our society’s response,” said Rally Middletown co-founder Jason Nietzschmann. “All year, not just during the holidays, we should consider how our spending impacts the vulnerable. Support for corporate America fuels the imperialist war machine, funding the killing of families abroad while families at home struggle to survive.”
Photo Credit: Rally MIddletown
Rally Middletown has demonstrated weekly since June 2024 and organized a May 2025 march in the City of Middletown’s Business Improvement District to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the Nakba. Sunday’s protest, however, marks the group’s foray into pop-up actions and speaks to its growing membership and expanding organizing capabilities.
The nonviolent protest concluded with the activists (who were already exiting the Galleria) promptly complying with Security’s request to leave. No incidents arose from the display of Palestinian solidarity.
ABOUT RALLY MIDDLETOWN
Rally Middletown, founded June 2024 in response to the ongoing genocide in Gaza, is a grassroots action organization run by members from across the greater Middletown, NY area. The group hosts a weekly rally for Palestinian liberation every Sunday from 12-1:30p.m. at the intersection of Rt 211 and Dunning Rd in Town of Wallkill, NY. Follow Rally Middletown on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads for more information or to get involved.
ABOUT THE PARTY FOR SOCIALISM AND LIBERATION
The Party for Socialism and Liberation exists to carry out the struggle for socialism, a system where poor and working people have power and the wealth of society is used in a planned and sustainable way to meet people’s needs and the planet’s needs.
ALBB has had the pleasure of getting to know Noah Mitchell, owner of the new Martial Arts school in Beacon: Mountain Stream Budo. After months of passing by his studio, imagining what it was like inside and who the owner might be, actually getting to meet Noah has been a completely different experience. Nothing like how he was imagined to be!
Full of supportive energy, Noah has devoted his life to full-time martial arts instruction; however, before that, he built a career in film production for 16 years after having graduated from film school at NYU.
As a hobby, Noah is an avid book collector. He has been collecting modern first and limited edition books since he was a teenager. Featured in the Washington Post, Noah has a community of followers in the book collecting world. He was recently featured in a YouTube interview for his Stephen King collection.
In this interview, we learn about Noah’s background as well as his martial arts school, which offers classes for kids and adults, that has recently opened in Beacon on Eliza Street just off Main Street. After establishing himself in Putnam Valley for 20 years, he uprooted his business in order to be closer to his home in Fishkill.
Noah walks us through MSB’s offerings of traditional Okinawan karate and kobudo (a martial art consisting of Okinawan weapons), Japanese jujitsu and iaido (an art that consists of drawing and cutting with the Japanese Samurai sword). Students can choose to train in any one of these arts or in any combination of them.
Noah takes us to the kobudo area to see the weapons, and then we go back to the bag to envision kicks and falling on landing pads.
No experience is necessary to start these classes; Noah is ready to train with you or those you care for regardless of age or fitness level. Beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome!
The Beacon Farmer’s Market announced that they will be open on Sunday, December 28th. Proving that they could do it during the first winter storm if the DMV parking lot was plowed by the City of Beacon, they are eager to remain open for the last weekend in December so that the remaining 2025 Emergency FreshConnect Coupons issued by New York State can be distributed to anyone in need.
Each week since the SNAP crisis, people in need can get free $20 in these coupons to be used within the market, plus $30 in Greens4Greens dollars from the Market’s own fundraising. A Little Beacon Blog reported on how these currencies work in a video interview with Market Manager, Amy Bandolik. Here is what you can buy with FreshConnect dollars.
Expressed in their Instagram announcement today: “One important reason we’re staying open: this Sunday is the final day to use the 2025 Emergency FreshConnect coupons/benefits. Especially during the holidays and in the cold, we want to stay true to our mission of supporting access to fresh, local food for our community ❤️”
With rain predicted for Sunday evening, the Market encouraged people to come out before. “As long as the plows work their magic in the DMV lot (we’ll be checking in on Saturday afternoon), we plan to be open,” they said in their announcement.
This means that public parking in the DMV lot during snowfall is prohibited. Residents are encouraged to use other public parking lots if they need to move their cars off the street for plowing.
The free toiletries and hygiene collection available to anyone in need at Beacon’s Howland Public Library. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth
According to Michelle Rivas, Adult Services & Community Engagement Librarian for the library, who spoke to A Little Beacon Blog about the program, the Howland Public Library had been in talks with Fareground for a possible partnership to offer a 3rd refrigerator to the community before the first two were removed. The library already has a Tiny Food Pantry inside, as well as an Essentials collection, which offers free toiletries, socks, underwear and other needs to any person in need.
When some people in the Beacon community reacted with outrage over the removal of both community refrigerators, Beacon’s City Administrator Chris White had Heidi Harrison, the Assistant Recreation Director for the City of Beacon’s Parks and Recreation Department, deliver what could be viewed as a humiliating critique of the Parks and Recreation’s view of Fareground’s management of the refrigerator.
To justify his eviction of the community refrigerator during the October 15, 2025 City Council Meeting, City Administrator Chris had Heidi present pictures of the fridge at different points over its lifetime, as Chris sat behind her in the jury box of the City courtroom, insisting on code enforcement of the community refrigerator at levels that restaurants need to reach and maintain. Chris also made unfounded criticisms of the type of food offered from the fridge by anonymous donors, saying his own mother wouldn’t take food from it. He then played the religion card, saying food that respects ethnic and religious diets was not offered. Some community members called his guided presentation “unhinged,” and KK Devina, former member of the now disbanded Commission on Human Relations, called for his resignation. Meanwhile, many adults, kids and teenagers took snacks and other food from the refrigerator on a regular basis, and vocalized missing the resource.
“We are so grateful to Howland Public Library and the Friends of Howland Public Library for their commitment to food access in Beacon. Libraries are vital resources and community gathering spaces. Adding a community fridge makes our local library even more welcoming.”
New Refrigerator Partnership Between Howland Public Library and Fareground
Purchase of this new refrigerator was sponsored by the Friends of the Library, Michelle told ALBB. The Friends of the Library is a fundraising extension of the Howland Public Library that has its HQ next to the library - The Beacon Reads Bookstore - which sells used books, staffed by volunteers.
“We are so grateful to Howland Public Library and the Friends of Howland Public Library for their commitment to food access in Beacon. Libraries are vital resources and community gathering spaces. Adding a community fridge makes our local library even more welcoming,” said Jamie Levato, Executive Director of Fareground. “Our Fridge/Pantry Care team is still seeking host sites for additional Beacon Community Fridges. Please reach out if you would like to host a fridge or pantry or if you would like to join the care team.”
Opening day was Tuesday, December 23rd, before the library was closed Wednesday - Friday for the holiday. The library was open until 8pm that evening. Fareground mentioned that a ribbon cutting is being scheduled for January 2026, which is when donations from the general public will begin being accepted. Guidelines will be released of what can and cannot be accepted into the Community Fridge also at that time.
The new refrigerator has a glass door. “It was important to us to select a fridge with a glass door so it was easier for community members to easily see what was available,” Michelle told ALBB. “The glass door also makes it easier and for the library outreach team and Fareground volunteers to monitor the fridge and keep it clean and safe,” she concluded.
Example of an Andre the Giant themed sticker art campaign in Beacon, on poles and pipes around town. Now there is another one - with an octopus from HVAC company Shelter Air.
Shelter Air, the HVAC heating and cooling company from Garrison with their headquarters in Beacon above the Beacon Creamery at 134 Main Street, servicing Dutchess, Orange and Westchester Counties, has launched an André the Giant themed sticker art campaign. You’ve seen similar art in Beacon on pipes and poles (ideally not on City-owned or citizen-owned property). Now there is a new local bootlegged edition.
A long-time vision for founder Kimberly Sevilla, owner of the woman and independently owned HVAC company, the stickers are of the Shelter Air mascot and logo, the octopus. “I chose an octopus that shows people we are different,” Kimberly told Shelter Air’s newsletter subscribers. “Partly because I love how they look, but also as a nod to the old octopus furnaces that heated homes for decades. Eight arms reaching out to every room.” Kimberly’s husband, Enrique, a graphic designer, brought the logo to life with his design work.
A Little Beacon Blog sat down with Kimberly at Estilo Y Vino in Beacon to learn more about this inky design, which can now be seen on the I-84 exit ramp, a right of passage for businesses and expressionists.
What inspired you to use André the Giant as inspiration?
"I was deeply influenced by the early fanzine art of the 90s and watching Shepard Fairey's evolution in New York - seeing his work appear on walls and watching his artistic progression in real-time. In today's AI and computer-dominated age, I believe art with a human touch matters more than ever. There's something powerful about hand-made, tactile work that connects with people differently. I'm actually working toward creating a roller print for next year's steam roller event - it's a personal goal that embodies this commitment to physical, hands-on artmaking."
Why are signs important to you?
"Signs are visual anchors in our daily lives. They're woven into the fabric of a town - they shape what we see, how we navigate, and ultimately become part of our collective visual memory. I'm obsessed with the hand-painted signage of New York - there's an authenticity and craftsmanship in those signs that speaks to a different era of commerce and community. I'm actually putting this belief into practice by commissioning a hand-painted sign for our Shelter Air building on Main Street. In an age of vinyl wraps and digital printing, these hand-painted signs aren't just functional; they're cultural artifacts that tell the story of a place and the people who care about it."
Why is guerrilla marketing important to you?
The octopus sticker on the I-84 ramp.
"Guerrilla marketing requires heart and soul - it's something VC-backed companies struggle to replicate authentically. You can't just throw money at it; it demands creativity, personal investment, and genuine connection to your community. The cost is relatively low, but the challenge is high - it's far more engaging than simply paying for print ads. Plus, it's fun. There's an energy and immediacy to it that traditional marketing can't match."
Why is Beacon important to you?
"Beacon has an energy that reminds me of the East Village and Soho in their heyday, or early Williamsburg before gentrification took hold. It also reminds me of smaller cities where I've lived, like Frederick, Maryland, before urban sprawl took over. There's still space here for people to create and experiment - small independent shops, restaurants, artists' studios.
Octopus sticker on a computer inside the office of Shelter Air, above the Beacon Creamery.
“I love how fiercely Beacon protects small business - there are no malls or shopping centers here. It's a real city with real history - there's a rhythm and heartbeat to this place. I love how diverse Beacon is, both racially and economically. It's important for us to get to know people with views other than our own and share common ground - literally.
“There are deep, deep roots here. There's something deeply meaningful about volunteering for and showing up for people you see on the street every day. It creates a web of connection that's far more valuable than any midnight run to the city. There's some really cool stuff happening here - it's a place where community isn't just a buzzword, it's lived experience."
How many employees do you have, and what's their background?
"We have five employees on staff and we're growing rapidly. What's interesting is that all of them previously worked for private equity-owned firms where they experienced impersonal management styles that left them feeling disconnected. They've found something different here at Shelter Air - a more human approach to both the work and the workplace culture."
It's Holiday Orders and Hours time. See below for deadlines and opportunities from ALBB's Member Sponsors. Enjoy!
Hot Tip: If you'd like to promote your event in A Little Beacon Blog's "All The Things" Event Calendar, see our submission guidelines. Member Sponsors of ALBB enjoy weekly or bi-weekly event and product promotion as part of their membership.
ROC Pilates: New Location: 234 Main Street (near Bagel-ish)
12/20/2025 | 1pm
New Year * New You. Food, Drinks, Raffles, Flash Sales. Special Guests:
Daydream Collaborative & Healthy in Color
Witch Hazel: 176 Main Street
12/20/2025 | 1pm
Custom Perfume Making Class
Famous Meadow: 64B Maple Street
12/20/2025 | 2pm
Winter Solstice Wreath Workshop
Lily & Marigold Home and Design: 163 Main Street
12/20/2025 | 3pm
Candle Making Class
Mana Potion Tabletop: 192 Main Street
12/20/2025 | 5pm
Warhammer 40k
First Presbyterian Church: 50 Liberty Street
12/20/2025 | 7pm
Blue Christmas Service
Die Nutcracker Harder
A Co-Production from Savage Wonder and Exit12 Dance Company Days/Times:
Saturday, December 20 – 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 21 – 3:30 PM Location: 139 Main Street, Beacon NY Information >
Features from our Sponsors. Is your business on the menu?
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteer Opportunities are available with both food access programs, Fareground and Beacon's Backyard. They need volunteers all year round, and have openings for the Holidays. Click here to sign up. Donations are also accepted at any time. Here is Beacon Backyard's donation form, and Fareground's. COMMUNITY
All people looking to be in community, who need a free hot meal for any reason, are welcome to both dining experiences no questions asked.
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon NY
Seeing the cheerful ambiance of Oui Ohio inside of the HV Food Hall is always a delight. Some of you may see them out in the wild at different events and catering opportunities they have. Go inside the Food Hall, and you'll get to experience them in their HQ. Find delicious comfort dishes like the Salted Pretzel, the Pouline, the Bratwurst, and of course, the Croque Monsieur. More is on their menu. Stop in to try.
BAGEL-ISH
226 Main Street, Beacon NY
Holiday Orders are due to Bagel-ish by SUNDAY for pickup.
Email: bagelish226@gmail.com
Text: 646-458-1808
Voice: 845-440-6332 Instagram > Bagel-ish is a Sponsor!
CARTER'S RESTAURANT Main Street, Beacon NY
🎄 Carter’s Christmas Eve Dinner — Now Accepting Reservations! 🎄
They are OPEN on Christmas Eve for dinner ✨
Celebrate the night with great food, cozy vibes, and holiday cocktails. Did you see this one!?
📞 Reservations Recommended — Book Now!
🎁 Limited seating—reserve your table today! Catering and Private Parties available. Call them for details. 845-743-6527 🍁 Instagram > Carter's is a Sponsor!
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm
Eggbert’s Tallow-based Skincare! Perfect Stocking Stuffers. Purchase Balm, Unscented Soap, and Lotion. Great for cold, dry winter weather. It is rich in Vitamins A,D, and K. It absorbs in to the skin creating a barrier to keep your skin from drying out and it is a natural anti-inflammatory. Made with Coconut Oil, Castor Oil, Sodium Hydroxide. Unscented.
FARMERS MARKETS: Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market: 11am-3pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 10am - 2pm SHOP ONLINE:Online ordering is available 24/7. DELIVERY: 🚚 Delivering to Cold Spring, Cornwall, New Windsor, Newburgh, Beacon, Fishkill, and Wappingers Falls. Website > Instagram > Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor!
The Blushery 528 Main Street, Beacon NY
Book now for your brow shape or chin wax! Laser Hair Removal is also available for anywhere on the body. Gift Certificates also available. Book Online >
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY
(door is on Eliza Street, near Citizens Bank)
Give the gift of self esteem, confidence, fitness, and life skills with one month of martial arts training at Mountain Stream Budo. Open to students of all ages and abilities, your month includes unlimited classes in your chosen discipline. Prices vary per discipline, which include:
Karate
Kobudo
Jujitsu
Iaido
Students have their choice of attending 3-4 classes in each discipline per week.
They do not have contracts at Mountain Stream Budo. Unlike many other schools, they do not bind you into a financial commitment with penalties for breaking that contract.
Owner Kyoshi Noah Michell will guide you through the program in terms of how it works and how much it costs. If someone in your life loves martial arts or would benefit from trying, then this Gift Certificate for One Free Month is the perfect gift.
Call or email today to purchase and learn more.
(845) 526-BUDO
info@MountainStreamBudo.com Class Schedule & Signup >
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY
Gift Certificates are available for Kids Classes as well! Help a family out by giving a gift of 1 Free Month of unlimited classes to Mountain Stream Budo's Li'l Dragons program. Inquire today on age groups and prices. Class Schedule & Signup >
Tin Shingle's Content Planning Template
Coming Soon: Tin Shingle's 2026 Editorial Calendar Template will be available for free to Tin Shingle Members, or for purchase or fresh download for those who already have lifetime access. This template is a spreadsheet of the 12 months of the year with national themes included. Perfect for coordinating planned publish dates with your team. Learn More >
Free Breakfast Program Day: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays Time: 6:30am-8:30am Location: 12 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY 12508
They have a Wish List of food items! If you're in the mood to donate, find the list here. Information >
FRIDAYS: Fareground's Free Community Dinner Day/Time: Fridays, 5:30pm-7:30pm Location: First Presbyterian, 50 Liberty Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Information > Volunteer > Donate >
There is a reader of A Little Beacon Blog who laments the changes, rolls with the waves, and gets overwhelmed from time to time with the construction. To deal with the big picture when things mushroom, ALBB told the reader that sometimes, ALBB views Beacon as a Richard Scary book. This made the reader feel better, in that they could compartmentalize.
Now, when we see a grand construction scene, ALBB sends this reader the snapshot, and the reader finds the page in a Richard Scary book to match it ☺️ It’s our Little Beacon Construction game.
This scene is at Sun River Health on Henry Street.
Available to anyone “in need” until the end of December 2025: the $2 Fresh Connect money from New York State to spend at markets like Beacon Farmer’s Market. The Beacon Farmer’s Market is giving these cash coupons away to anyone in need plus their Greens4Greens monies from their fundraisers and donations. If you need to make lemonade from lemons and are in a tough spot, walk your little booty to the Market Manager’s table to request this assistance. Then spend in the market. Several vendor tables accept both currencies. Like:
A Little Beacon Blog took a shopping tour of the highly anticipated St. Joachim’s / St. John Holiday Shop at the church at 51 Leonard Street on the east end of Beacon near the mountain. Our guide was a longtime reader who attends the shop each year.
The first table was a blow-out Santa table with snowmen to choose from. The church ladies prepare all year for this sale, collecting new and handmade gifts to sell.
The jewelry table is at the center of the mix. People young and old enjoy it for finding treasures. One ALBB reader gave us a tip, that one should keep coming back, because as one piece of jewelry is sold, the empty spot is replaced with a fresh box of jewelry.
The baked goods table was extensive. Our tour guide was excited to see an Italian dessert, and explained how it was made.
This beaded bling craft was discussed as an alternative or addition to crocheting.
And to complete the shopping tour, a purchase needed to be made. A Santa bookmark, of course.
During the December 15, 2025 City Council Meeting, the last of the year, Mayor Lee Kyriacou formally honored City of Beacon Fire Chief Thomas Luccesi for his heroic effort in stopping an elderly woman from continuing to drive the wrong way down the fast lane of I-84 the morning of October 31st at 8:30am. "My wife makes fun of me," Chief Luccesi said as he began recounting the event to the City Council after accepting his plaque, "I guess you can't take the cop out of me sometimes."
Before presenting him with the plaque, Mayor Kyriacou said: "You did a pretty amazing thing. The fact that you were in the area at just the right moment is absolutely incredible...Amazingly, you somehow managed to get in front of that person and then get them off the road without anyone being injured or killed or even an accident, which is pretty amazing. And done on Halloween, let alone," Mayor Kyriacou said before presenting Chief Luccesi with the plaque.
In a press release issued by the City of Beacon the day of the incident that was reported on here and here, Chief Luccesi was quoted as saying: "It’s not often that my heart drops and my adrenaline spikes outside of a fire scene,” Chief Lucchesi said. “As I rounded a curve, I suddenly saw a car coming straight at me. Vehicles were swerving everywhere to avoid her.”
After accepting his honor this week at City Council, with City of Beacon Firefighters and his wife and children sitting behind him, Chief Luccesi told the story of how he managed to stop the driver from continuing driving the wrong way:
"I was returning from dropping off one of our members to pick up one of our apparatus that was out of service.
“I ended up going in front of her, figuring that either she’ll hit me or she’ll, you know, stop on her own. ”
— CIty of Beacon Fire Chief Thomas Luccesi
"I went to I-84; turned a podcast on. I was sort of zoned out - not really paying attention - you know - just driving down the road. I look up and there's a car coming at me in the left hand lane - in the fast lane.
"Cars were diving all over trying to get out of her way. I swerved out of the way. She passed me. As she drove by, I saw an elderly woman who just looked like she was out for a Sunday drive.
"I spun around real quick." From the press release, Chief Luccesi also turned on his emergency lights and siren. "As I spun around, there was nothing but what looked like smoke and I was really nervous that I thought she got in an accident. Ended up being tractor trailers locking their brakes up trying to get out of her way.
"It took probably a minute or two to catch up to her, and she was just still driving in the left-hand lane. I ended up going in front of her, figuring that either she'll hit me or she'll, you know, stop on her own. And luckily she stopped and she said she she made a wrong turn.
"Fortunately, no one got hurt." Then Chief Luccesi motioned to the City of Beacon Firefighters sitting behind him. "Any one of these guys here would have done the same exact thing, same circumstance. So I appreciate it very much. Thank you."
On the day of the incident, Mayor Kyriacou thanked the Chief, saying: "The Chief’s quick thinking and courageous action likely saved one or more lives today, and the City of Beacon is fortunate to have a Fire Chief who always goes above and beyond to help others. Job well, done, Chief Lucchesi."
Holiday lights strung on the new City of Beacon firehouse. Lights were hung by the Beacon firefighters and purchased with their union dues through the City of Beacon’s Professional Firefighters (IAFF L-3490). Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth
On the night of December 1st, 2025, during a City Council Meeting, residents learned that the City of Beacon Firefighters had purchased and hung the holiday lights shining brightly from the new Beacon firehouse.
This blogger, Katie Hellmuth, had gone down to the City Council Meeting that evening to deliver a Public Comment in support of the change in zoning requirement for 248 Tioronda, which allowed the developer to pursue building residential units on its remaining plot of land. Years ago, the City of Beacon changed its zoning law to require the property owner to develop commercial space for retail or business use. After years of trying, the developer did not find interested occupants, and requested a change of use for the zoning to allow residential apartments to be built instead, with an increased percentage of Below Market Rate (BMR) units available, honoring the Beacon City Council’s request.
At the end of this reporter’s comment in support of the zoning change, Katie remarked: “Also, the holiday lights on the firehouse and on this building look very nice.” In response, during the latter part of the meeting, City Administrator Chris White remarked that the City of Beacon’s Professional Firefighters (IAFF L-3490) had purchased the lights themselves, and hung them.
The City of Beacon’s Fire Chief Thomas Lucchesi confirmed to A Little Beacon Blog that the firefighters purchased and installed the lights using funds from their union dues. Chief Lucchesi added: “The firefighters typically decorate each year, but this is the first time they’ve been able to decorate the new firehouse—we were still getting settled in last holiday season.
“Our department has a great relationship with both the City and our residents, and the holiday season gives us an opportunity to share that sense of community in a simple but meaningful way. The firefighters take a lot of pride in the firehouse and in bringing a little extra holiday cheer to the neighborhood.”
The Professional Firefighters (IAFF L-3490) have confirmed that the new address of their new firehouse is 1140 Wolcott Avenue. The old address was 13 South Avenue, which as of this publishing, was listed in Google. Google may take time to update.
As a holiday reminder, the City of Beacon Firefighters are available to provide and install new fire alarms in your residence free of charge, courtesy of the Red Cross and of Chief Lucchesi reviving that program. Read more about that here or simply call them to request installation for all the necessary rooms in your residence: 845-831-1334.
For this winter season, the administration has featured a stunning photo of Beacon’s East End of Main Street. The Winterscape is a photo by local photographer Scott Snell, who is a DP, Camera Op, and Aerial Cinematographer. The scene feels like Beacon is a little gingerbread town, or box cover of an Advent calendar with chocolate surprises behind each window.
If you've enjoyed something you've read about in A Little Beacon Blog, do share it with us! Tag us in a photo or email it to us.
In this scene, Nicole Smyle, Director of Client Engagement and Development for Smyle Taxes, the boutique accounting firm specializing in creative and entrepreneurial industries, enjoyed Die Nutcracker Harder at Savage Wonder during opening weekend.
Sorry to miss this one for you...but keep your eye on creative classes from Witch Hazel... Collage Club Crafting with Laura Delarato at Witch Hazel Day: Sunday, December 14, 2025 Time: 1-3pm Price: $20
Join us in the Witch Hazel studio for two hours of open studio time and collage crafting, led by artist Laura Delarato. All supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own ephemera, stickers, zines etc! All skill levels are welcome. Information >
Die Nutcracker Harder
A Co-Production from Savage Wonder and Exit12 Dance Company Days/Times:
Sunday, December 14 – 3:30 PM & 8:30 PM
Saturday, December 20 – 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 21 – 3:30 PM Location: 139 Main Street, Beacon NY Information >
City of Beacon SNAP Grocery Card Gift Card
Day: Weekdays Time: Business Hours Location: Beacon Recreation Center, 23 West Center Street, Beacon, NY
During the SNAP crisis, Mayor Kyriacou proposed, and the City Council approved, the purchase and distribution of emergency grocery gift cards to one of the following food sources: Key Food, Beacon Natural, and the Beacon Farmer's Market. The City of Beacon has a list of Beacon residents who receive SNAP, and those people may come to pick up their grocery gift card if they haven't yet. Information >
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HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon NY
Down with the flu? Feed that flu! Trina at Tara Fusion inside of the Hudson Valley Food Hall has the broth you need. Her fresh beef soup is steeping in garlic, carrots, celery and more. Sip it and feel your body get nice and hot. Grab extra napkins as your nose will run to clear the toxins.
BAGEL-ISH
226 Main Street, Beacon NY
Yusuf made a batch of jalepeno chedder sourdough bagels, and they made Bagel-ish's Instagram. These house-pickled jalapeno lead the way in a sandwich. Order one with the turkey bacon egg souffle. Instagram > Bagel-ish is a Sponsor!
CARTER'S RESTAURANT Main Street, Beacon NY
Influencers be influencing…Vincenzo Esposito said he heard a lot about this spot, so he went in. His accent is on point, and he ordered all the top faves. “We ordered a few appetizers and she settled for the burger,” he said of his dinner partner before moving to show the enormous chicken Parmesan he got, plus the French Onion Soup, drink tower, and ended with the sundae. Dare you not to order in or out from Carter’s tonight or this week.
(9pm every other night and Sunday 8pm) Catering and Private Parties available. Call them for details. 845-743-6527 🍁 Instagram > Carter's is a Sponsor!
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm
Introducing…Eggbert’s Skincare! Just in time for Stocking Stuffers. Using the tallow from their beef fat rendered, they have mixed tallow-based Balm, Unscented Soap, and Lotion. Great for cold, dry winter weather. It is rich in Vitamins A,D, and K. It absorbs in to the skin creating a barrier to keep your skin from drying out and it is a natural anti-inflammatory. Try a sample at their table at any of their markets when you pick up your eggs and beef!
FARMERS MARKETS: Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market: 11am-3pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 10am - 2pm SHOP ONLINE:Online ordering is available 24/7. DELIVERY: 🚚 Delivering to Cold Spring, Cornwall, New Windsor, Newburgh, Beacon, Fishkill, and Wappingers Falls. Website > Instagram > Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor!
The Blushery 528 Main Street, Beacon NY
Book now for your brow shape or chin wax! Laser Hair Removal is also available for anywhere on the body. Gift Certificates also available. Book Online >
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY
(door is on Eliza Street, near Citizens Bank)
Give the gift of 1 Free Month of Martial Arts with Mountain Stream Budo. Students of all ages and abilities register for their program, and can attend unlimited classes in their chosen discipline.
Students have their choice of attending at least 3 classes in each discipline per week. Mountain Stream Budo does not bind you for a financial commitment with penalties for breaking that contract. Unlike many Martial Arts schools, they want you to be there because you want to be there. Because it has meaning in your life.
Owner and Kyoshi Noah Michell will guide you through the program in terms of how it works and how much it costs. If someone in your life loves Martial Arts or would benefit from trying, then this Gift Certificate of 1 Free Month is the perfect gift.
Call or email today to purchase and learn more.
(845) 526-BUDO
nfo@MountainStreamBudo.com Class Schedule & Signup >
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY Self Defense Seminar
This two-hour private or semi-private workshop is geared toward individuals with no prior martial arts background and who don't have the time or desire to commit to a long-term training regimen. It will consist of an overview of self-defense theory and concepts and will include many basic techniques, focusing primarily on releases and controls, as well as pressure points.
The cost of your seminar will vary depending on the number of people in your group. Private lessons are available upon request.
Please contact us for more information or to schedule your seminar.
Tin Shingle's Content Planning Template
Dropping soon: Tin Shingle's 2026 Editorial Calendar Template will be available for free to Tin Shingle Members, or for purchase or fresh download for those who already have lifetime access. This template is a spreadsheet of the 12 months of the year with national themes included. Perfect for coordinating planned publish dates with your team. Learn More >
Free Breakfast Program Day: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays Time: 6:30am-8:30am Location: 12 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY 12508
They have a Wish List of food items! If you're in the mood to donate, find the list here. Information >
FRIDAYS: Fareground's Free Community Dinner Day/Time: Fridays, 5:30pm-7:30pm Location: First Presbyterian, 50 Liberty Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Information > Volunteer > Donate >
During Sunday’s projected snowfall of over 2”, the Beacon Farmer’s Market will be open. This means that the DMV parking lot is closed to cars seeking to park there when the City of Beacon receives 2” or more of snow. City code demands that all cars be moved off the road when more than 2” of snow have fallen. Usually, the City of Beacon encourages people to park in one of the free municipal lots (see ALBB’s OG Parking Guide here).
The Beacon Farmer’s Market announced on their Instagram: “A quick parking reminder for neighbors and visitors: The DMV lot is not available for parking from 8am-3pm on Sundays. Thanks for helping us keep a great Market Day rolling. Please pass it on.”
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.
