The hire is a professional appointment, as he needs to begin and pass the Academy, which will begin in September, Beacon's Police Chief Tom Figlia stated at Monday evening's City Council Meeting.
"Dustin has passed all of our rigorous testing, the agility, our background standards, including a polygraph and psychological assessment," Chief Figlia explained to the City Council. "I have selected he will attend in-house training until the beginning of the Academy in September. I request that we approve him for hire tonight.”
Dustin lives in the Town of Wallkill and graduated from the Newbergh Free Academy. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology with a Minor in Cyber Security from Mount St. Mary's College.
"Which are certainly skills that we could definitely use in the police department," Chief Figlia reflected.
The Chief then expanded on further connection between Fisch Solutions and the City of Beacon: "A fun little piece of Beacon history. When the founder of that company was 15, he created Beacon's first website.”
A second candidate, John Maraia, was also presented to be hired, and had passed all of his testing, but his background check of fingerprints was pending, as the system for that was down all day, the Chief said. "We kind of had a knife in the back on that one." He also would begin the Academy at a later date.
After Councilperson Amber Grant asked about the timing of the tests and checks for the appointment, City Administrator Ben Swanson said: "I would just add that the resolution for John does reflect that is contingent upon his successful completion of those two remaining items. So if either of those were not to be the case, then the resolution that you voted will ultimately be voting on in a moment would, even if it passes, would not appoint him successfully.
Councilperson Amber responded: "Okay. Yeah, I'm comfortable taking that approach based on just the timing constraints that are in place. And I know the Academy is only a couple of times a year. So as long as the resolution is as you said, clearly states that if those things don't come back as clear, that this person would not be appointed."
Personal and financial information "for hundreds of current, former and retired city employees, including police officers and firefighters" has been published on the dark web by the hacker group RansomHouse, the Highlands Current reported today. Documents that the newspaper say they have reviewed "appear to contain the contents of computers used by the City Administrator, Building Inspector, Finance Director, Tax Assessor and Human Resources Director, among other employees."
According to a message the paper found, the hackers allege that they informed the City about the breach, but did not get a response: "Dear management of City of Beacon, we were waiting for you for quite some time, but it seems that your IT department decided to conceal the incident that took place in your company.”
The article stated that City Administrator Ben Swanson gave a statement that the City is aware of the incident, but that statement is neither at the City of Beacon’s Facebook page nor the City of Beacon’s Police Facebook page.
RansomHouse allegedly said that they hacked in on July 23rd, and allegedly announced that they did so on August 6th. New York State's Cybersecurity Incident and Ransom Payment Reporting law requires municipalities to report breaches and ransom demands within 72 hours to authorities, and to people whose data was compromised within 30 days. Authorities include the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the Division of Consumer Protection, the Attorney General, and New York State Police.
The state law also states that a ransom payment be reported within 24 hours of payment, and that a ransom payment explanation within 30 days of payment.
On August 6th, 2026, while the Beacon City School District was undergoing final phases of major updates and improvements scheduled in its Capital Plan on all school campuses, two iconic trees in the high school track along Matteawan and Verplanck were taken down by arborists.
A Little Beacon Blog has reached out to the district for confirmation on the source and reason for their removal, but has not received a response yet.
Meanwhile, the jagged, tall tree stump of which the tree broke last March next to the bleachers on the walking path by the track remains up. Several other trees along that path also have bare, dead branches in the canopies. The BCSD has not yet confirmed to ALBB as to whose trees those are - the City's or the District's.
A Little Beacon Blog reached out to the City of Beacon’s Tree Advisory Committee Chair, Andrew (Andy) Bell with the following question: “Has the Tree Advisory Committee made recommendations to Mayor Lee Kyriacou or past City Administrator Chris White or current City Administrator Ben Swanson about tree management solutions? Such as regularly pruning tree branches that look diseased or weak?”
On July 30th, a large tree branch fell onto Beekman Street; more branches fell two weeks later in Memorial Park, with more still after Sunday’s high-wind rain storm. Dead branches remain in several trees. In the video published below, the small tree branch that fell on the Memorial Park hill fell onto what looks like freshly mowed grass. Hope the Highway Department guy on the mower isn’t under more trees with actively falling branches. Usually the fall season means leaf foliage, but it’s looking like full branch coverage in Beacon.
Andy responded to ALBB that on August 11, 2026, the City of Beacon applied for a grant that if received, could lead to a management plan.
On Monday, Andy told ALBB: “The City has applied for a grant Urban and Community Forestry Tree Inventory - Round 17 UCF 2026 to do a tree inventory which will include a tree management plan. We submitted our application on 8/11 and hope to hear word later in the fall if we were successful in or bid.
“If so, and we're optimistic, this will give updated maps and information on approximately 2,800 trees in the public right of way throughout the city (street trees, park trees, etc.) and basic information on species, size, visual health assessment, canopy cover and other data. That will be used to create a management plan, including maintenance, new plantings, and removals when necessary. There will be a public outreach component as we build that plan and look forward to engaging with residents to let us know what they would like and any ideas they have for their street and park trees.”
That grant reads: “Project Types/ Practices Bids must be for one of the following practice types:
A) Traditional Street/ Landscaped Park Tree Inventory/Assessment;
B) Street Trees/ Landscaped Park tree inventory/assessment using ground based remote sensing (terrestrial LiDAR)
C) Forested Natural Areas Inventory/Assessment;
D) Community Forest Management Plan; or
E) a combined bid of a Community Forest Management Plan
D) and one of the inventory/assessment methods (A, B, or C).
“Bidders are allowed to apply for one inventory/assessment project and one management plan per application. Bidders are limited to one application. Each practice has different requirements as reflected in standards and specifications. Bidders should carefully review the practice information below, and the pass/fail eligibility criteria contained in the Guidelines to avoid disqualification.”
More Tree Grants
There is a different grant, Department of Environmental Conservation Urban and Community Forestry Program 2026 Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grant (Round 2). “That [one] focused on reforestation and not maintenance of individual trees,” Andy told ALBB. “It might be something that we could use for our more natural areas like the University Settlement Camp or Hiddenbrooke Park. We won't be applying this round. I've heard there could be grants available for maintenance in some special situations like widespread disease, but I think generally it falls to the municipality.”
The grant eligibility requirements above the above mentioned reforestation grant state that tree maintenance and planning are ineligible for use of those grant funds if awarded.
On page 25 of the Bid Document / Request For Applications, guidelines state: “Funds cannot be used for real property (land) acquisition; maintenance of individual trees; or trail planning, design and construction. Costs considered ‘maintenance’ of tree after the commissioning period are not eligible.”
The City of Beacon’s Plan and Budget For Preventative Tree Pruning
The question remains: what is the City of Beacon’s plan and budget for preventative measures for the increasing amount of large tree branches falling in Beacon on City owned and maintained property? Some of the large trees that have been falling, like this one along Matteawan Road in March of last year (2025) and the two removed this year near the track, may be on Beacon City of School District property. ALBB reached out to the District for confirmation, but has received no response yet.
ALBB's FACE PAINTING TABLE AT CORN FESTIVAL Day: Sunday, August 16th, 2026 Time: 12-5pm Location: Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, Beacon, NY 12508
🌽🌽🌽 Corn Festival Sunday is here! Strong-arm ringleader Joyce Hanson of the Beacon Sloop Club is back on the phone 📞 calling everyone to make sure they are prepared. Watch this video to see what it's like being on the other end.
Read this article to find out what to expect at this year's Corn Festival, and who will be there. Read/Watch This >
Stony Kill's Open Barn Days: Saturdays and Sundays Time: 11am-1pm
Step into the barn and experience the Open Barn program. Meet the heritage livestock up close; learn about the important role these unique breeds play in agriculture; and enjoy a fun, hands-on experience for all ages.
COEXISTENCE MY ASS! Day: Saturday, August 29th, 2026 Time: 7:30pm Location: The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY 12508 Presented by Jewish Voices for Peace Hudson Valley: "Join us for a screening of COEXISTENCE MY ASS! in Beacon, NY on August 29. Filmmaker Noam Shuster Eliassi grew up the literal poster child for the Israeli-Palestinian peace process before making a hard pivot to stand-up comedy and political satire. But as the region sinks deeper into devastating violence, she must meet the moment by challenging her audiences with hard truths that are no laughing matter." Register >
SEPTEMBER'S ALBB MEMBER EVENT
Business Blog Squad Goals Meetup:
A Monthly Soiree For Little Beacon Blog's Advertisers Day: Thursday, September 10th, 2026 Time: 6-8:30pm Location: Estilo Y Vino, 173 Main Street, Beacon NY
This is a time for member advertisers to check in with each other, learn how to support each other, and come away energized with new ideas and revived conviction of moving forward. Bring a friend. Read how our last one was > Details >
The Film Lab at the Yard Presents The Outdoor Micro Film Festival:
Beacon Short Film Showcase Day: Sunday, September 20th, 2026 Time: 7:30pm Location: The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon NY
Enjoy a free-to-attend outdoor micro film festival featuring the shorts of Beacon movie makers, plus a screening of 1922’s Nosferatu with @zedstarseven providing the soundtrack. Beer and food available for sale. Got a short film you want to screen? Email labyardfilms@gmail.com
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY
Jujitsu classes for teens & adults are available at Mountain Stream Budo. No experience necessary! Beginners welcome. Available to all ages, skill levels and fitness levels. Come in for a free class any time! Located on Eliza Street (right between Re:Form Pilates and Oui Oui Café), so you can grab good food before or after. Trial Class Info >
Beacon Open Studios Presents Painting en Plein Air Day: Saturday, August 29th, 2026 Time: 2-5pm Location: 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY Price: $12
Join others for an outdoor painting and drawing session at Fishkill Farms. Enjoy the gorgeous 150 acre grounds. Bring your own art supplies, plus cleaning supplies (no sink). Buy Tickets >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm
Look at these beauties. Tomatoes at the Cold Spring Farmers Market . It’s BLT Season and Eggbert’s has your fresh bacon to go with those tomatoes 🍅
Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market 11am-5pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Saturdays: Pick-Up Pre-Orders Only at Newburgh Farmer's Market Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 10am - 2pm Farm Fridge: Shake and Grind, 190 S. Plank Road, Newburgh SHOP ONLINE:Order Online DELIVERY: 🚚 Free Website >Instagram > Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor!
The Station Dispensary
463 Main Street, Beacon NY
Stay cool and bubbly with the ayrloom beverages at The Station Dispensary. This beverage company is the latest venture from the family that brought you Beak & Skiff and 1911 Established hard cider & spirits. Their cannabis brand operates from the 5th generation’s commitment to innovation, the preservation of their 1,000-acre farm, and a passion for cannabis. The flavors are fresh and tasty. Website >Instagram > The Station Dispensary is a Sponsor!
Features from our Sponsors. Is your business on the menu?
CARTER'S RESTAURANT 424 Main Street, Beacon NY
Carter's did a take on the White Castle Slider Burger, and this is how it turned out. It was a special in July. It was stacked with juicy beef, melty American cheese, grilled onions, and pickles. if you missed it then, don't miss a week you go to Carter's.
Back patio open! Instagram > Carter's is a Sponsor!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon NY
Do you want a summer coffee drink that is not heavy with a dairy or alternative dairy base? Then the Espresso Spritz at Oold Dhaka Coffee House is exactly what you’re looking for.
Crisp. Sparkling. Almost zero calories.
Their Espresso Spritz is made with a double shot of espresso and sparkling Perrier. That’s it. Refreshing, simple, and exactly what quenches hot summer days.
PIGGY BANK 2.0 446 Main Street, Beacon NY
The Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich at Piggy Bank. A Nashville dry rub, buttermilk fried chicken, pickles, slaw, mayo, all on a sweet potato bun. Sink your teeth into that first bite... Instagram > Piggy Bank 2.0 is a Sponsor!
ZIATUN BEACON 244 Main Street, Beacon NY
When you are at the Corn Festival this Sunday, come up the hill to Beacon’s Main Street to enjoy award winning Middle Eastern food at Ziatun, and pick up a Palestine t-shirt so that you can represent anywhere you go. 🇵🇸🫒 Instagram > Ziatün is a Sponsor!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193-195 Main Street, Beacon NY
ALBB tried the Strawberry Basil Bear's Fruit Probiotic Sparkling Water for you. The can had our mini-ALBB insist on buying it. We were warned that it was not sweet. Which made the Adult ALBB perk up and want it even more. Sure enough, this drink has no sweetner, and hits perfectly on a hot summer day. No upset tummy. Just probiotic refreshing. Stop into this bakery to get one from their new drink case. Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor!
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY
Programs are enrolling for summer at Mountain Stream Budo! The training does not stop for summer (and the air conditioning is on inside)!
Classes available for all ages - kids 4-12, teens and adults! Stop in any time this summer for a free trial class. No experience necessary; beginners welcome.
Pick from (or combine!):
Traditional karate
Okinawan weapons
Jujitsu
Swordsmanship 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 >
As summer progresses, rainfalls included, more tree branches have been falling throughout the City of Beacon. The water is draining slowly into the ground, and Friday night, at least two major tree branches fell in Memorial Park. One in front of the Highway Department hut, and the other near a baseball field and where the volleyball players set up nets. Mothers often sit beneath those trees nursing their babies or spreading a picnic lunch.
Last week, two iconic trees were removed by arborists at the Beacon City School District track, along Verplanck at Mattawan.
Does The City Of Beacon Have A Tree Management Plan?
This tree near electrical wires with dead branches is at the Beacon Bears Football field in Memorial Park.
The City of Beacon has been designated a “Tree City.” Mayor Kyriacou is strongly advocating for the development of the Rail Trail through Beacon, which will bring more tourists, but will disrupt land usage here by private landowners and businesses who lease land and will lose their parking lot.
Use of the public parks such as Memorial Park and Green Street Park have been increasing with volunteer based sports recreation leagues of all ages, and kids activities, such as the Kid Day Camp that the Beacon Parks and Recreation Department hosted at Memorial Park. Not to mention the new free movie screenings also from the Beacon Parks and Recreation Department through a partnership with Story Screen. And of course, the gathering for the 4th of July fireworks.
The City of Beacon does have a Tree Advisory Committee who in theory is assigned with tasks, but the Committee has not presented to City Council in some time, unless it is having a public ceremony to plant a tree along Main Street or other designated spot, or to carry out their successful backyard tree program.
According to the City of Beacon’s website, the Tree Advisory Committee is responsible for the following items. It is unknown at this time if the Tree Advisory Committee has made recommendations to Mayor Kyriacou or former City Administrator Chris White or current City Administrator Ben Swanson about regular tree pruning work, to be on the offense with aging trees.
Making recommendations to City Staff regarding removal, pruning, or planting of public trees;
Maintenance of a citywide inventory of trees in public spaces;
Development of a Tree Master Plan for the City of Beacon;
Promotion of tree maintenance citywide, and educating the citizens of Beacon about the benefits and care of trees as well as threats to tree health;
Assisting various City departments regarding issues of tree planting, removal, and replacement throughout Beacon.
The fallen tree branch further into Memorial Park by the baseball field is one of the older trees. Next to that older line of trees, baby trees have been planted, perhaps to replace the aging trees beside them.
SHOW DATES: Thursday September 3rd Thursday September 17th Times: 7:00pm Location: Savage Wonder, 139 Main Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Buy Tickets Now >
Arriving in September for two dates only, Lolo's Boyfriend Show opens at Savage Wonder at 139 Main Street Beacon. Written and performed by Lauren O’Brien, Lolo’s Boyfriend Show is winner of the ICI Audience Choice Award at the Edinburgh Fringe, shortlisted for Best Production, and featured Off-Broadway at Playhouse 46.
Lolo’s Boyfriend Show is an irreverent, soul-baring solo performance following Lolo as a dream European tour unravels, sending her back to suburbia to confront love, loss, and a trail of unforgettable exes. After her punk cabaret tour collapses, Lolo returns home, surrounded by the ghosts of past relationships—from The Yogi to The Addict to The Cowboy. A promising new romance sparks a deeper reckoning, as she navigates heartbreak, identity, and the possibility of a different kind of happiness.
This bold and cathartic performance blends humor, vulnerability, and sharp storytelling into one unforgettable night.
“Bold, cathartic, and irresistibly entertaining…” – ICI Review
“…tragically funny writing, sickeningly relatable scenarios…” – Hot Take Reviews
“…fearless and raw….” – Brian Thomas, Emmy Nominee/Award-Winning Director
“There’s a crowd of people on stage – but only one actor…clever, funny, and poignant…highly recommended!” – B. Jeffrey Madoff, Madoff Productions (no relation to the master swindler, he tells the New York Times)
“…layered and introspective…Lauren O’Brien tackles a demanding role with commitment and energy…” – Theatre & Tonic
Lauren O’Brien (Writer/Performer) has performed regionally in To Kill a Mockingbird (Mayella), Angels in America (Harper), and A Wrinkle in Time (Mrs. Whatsit), among others. She was a founding member of director Polina Klimovitskaya’s avant-garde theatre company, Terra Incognita, where she co-developed the original work Ophelia Tapestry. Lauren co-wrote a punk-cabaret album, The Devil’s Girlfriend, which toured throughout Germany. Her first solo show, Jaxx & Lolo, won awards for Best Show and Excellence in Multi-Media at the NYC Frigid Festival.
Savage Wonder’s founding is rooted one veteran searching for a creative sandbox, and has become a permanent home for art that rewrites expectations. Savage Wonder is not here to help veterans. It exists so veterans and first responders can help the arts—and the invitation is simple: Come play.
Savage Wonder's emblem is the octopus — strange, nimble, many-armed. Its logo is a splash—paint, wine, or blood, depending on the eye. Both reflect the spirit of the place: intimate, surprising, whimsical, and alive.
Strong-arm ringleader Joyce Hanson of the Beacon Sloop Club is back on the phone 📞 calling everyone to make sure they are prepared.
Many organizations will be there. Mothers Out Front Dutchess County has a table. Says Sandi Stratton-Gonzalez, the Education Consultant for the group: “The water and air are intimately connected to one another. We, the plant’s humans, interact with the air and water with every breath we take! In Dutchess County we continue to pollute both, burning waste in an aging incinerator that is often down for repair. We are on the precipice of change! We have an opportunity to reduce waste, build a circular economy and end our reliance on plastics.”
Who else will be there? We asked longtime event coordinator, Joyce Hanson, what to expect at this year’s Corn Festival: “Artisans, painters, potters, good food, an ice cream truck, and wonderful free children’s activities. Children can do free crafts at the Children’s Area, up by the Corn Husking, where we have 2 amazing volunteers who work so hard. Glenn and Mary Arnold will be corn husking.
“Alice Matthews will be there as well and is famous for her crafts. She is providing free crafts for children. She has been working on it for a month. This event is family oriented. I encourage people to come. Bring a blanket. Bring chairs. Hang out by the river. Listen to the music. Our event is sustainable. Nothing will be sold in a plastic water bottle. Free admission. Spend the whole day at the park.”
ALBB will be there with face painting, discounted for any kid living in Beacon, NY.
The boxes of vinyl records in crates out on the sidewalk of Hudson Valley Vinyl have moved down a few blocks to 323 Main Street. A few months ago, Hudson Valley Vinyl put out an Instagram message that declared that their landlord was seeking “Soho prices” for rent and that they were moving. That Instagram post seems to be unfindable now. A local newspaper who wrote about the relocation focused their announcement of this move on rent look-backs of rent at various shops on Main Street.
A Little Beacon Blog has chosen to look back at real estate history for the former location: 267 Main Street.
“In his time as a tenant, Reisman said that 267 Main, a two-story structure which spans six storefronts, has had three owners,” the owner of Hudson Valley Vinyl told the newspaper. “The most recent sale, according to Dutchess County records, came in 2024 when Vinit Jobanputra of Westchester County purchased the building for $2.94 million.”
Previously at 267 Main Street, when owned by Vincent Satriano, the building was targeted by Mayor Lee Kyriacou under the administration of City Administrator Chris White to be designated Historic in July 2021. Th property owner of 267 Main Street was one of 9 commercial property owners to object to the designation, and along with other property owners, submitted a strongly worded letter of objection. However, Mayor Kyriacou ignored his objection and got the votes from City Council members at the time to override him and the other property owners, thereby designating the building Historic.
Vincent’s letter of objection is re-published below. ALBB published it the first time in 2021. This year, 2026, Mayor Kyriacou targeted an original set of homes he wanted to designate back then, but tabled because of all of the objections from homeowners. Buildings that are designated as Historic can face significant financial and time-related challenges when updating or modifying their buildings.
This year, when Mayor Kyriacou tried again, some of the homeowners may not have received the notices of the intended Historic designation. One homeowner did object, but her objection email was ignored, until she re-forwarded it after her house was being written into the Historic designation resolution legislation. Several of those homes were designated Historic as well.
July 2021 Mr. Christopher White City Administrator
Dear Sir,
I received your letter regarding our building located at 257-267 Main Street, Beacon and the City’s interest in re-designating our property as a ‘historic-property.’ I’d like to give a brief background if I may. Our company “26 East Main Street, LLC” purchased the property sometime around last August/September of 2020. We had been in contract to purchase for more than a year dating back to the summer of 2019! Once Covid hit, our closing was put off numerous times due to constant rescheduling of engineers, attorneys, banks, title companies, etc, all due to the pandemic. Then when we finally closed, almost 2/3 of the units were either with expired leases, unpaid rents, and/or vacancies as well as many other neglected items left unaddressed in/around the property for more than a year as a result of absentee-management. I am happy to report, that after an incredibly difficult, painful, costly, and challenging year, we are finally just starting to see some light at the end of this very long and dark tunnel, hoping for a better 2022.
We have been in property management and development for approximately 20 years. We purchased this property for (2) reasons; one- to manage as existing for a period, two- for the possibility to develop. There are (3) properties immediately neighboring us to the West on both street corners that have been completely built new, and a third currently under construction across the street and a few doors from the gas station. After removing former buildings, all of these brand new buildings are beautiful and greatly enhance and add value to Main Street. These owners rightfully enjoyed the freedom from restriction to develop their properties as we hoped and expected someday to have same, and feel otherwise would be greatly unjust.
We spent a significant amount of money investing in Beacon and this property. The justification for the large investment was solely based on the possibility to rebuild on our property as the aforementioned neighbors have. By adding this designation to our property, that opportunity seems greatly diminished, if at all.
After consulting with our attorneys, we have arrived at the conclusion that we are strongly against this proposal and do NOT want this designation/restriction/limitation placed on our property and further feel it will greatly devalue our investment, and doing so against our will (especially in light of all we just sent through the last (2) years) would just add further salt in our wound.
Please strongly consider NOT placing this unwanted designation on OUR property against our will, further causing financial damage and hardship to our already struggling investment.
Thank you for your time and consideration during these challenging times. Sincerely,
Vincent Satriano 26 East Main St, LLC
Hudson Valley Vinyl told the newspaper the amount of the rent they left after their lease expired, and what the new rent could be: “Reisman had been paying $2,720 monthly on a lease that expired today [the article was published July 31, 2026]. He said Jobanputra offered a three-year extension at $3,500 per month — a 29% increase — with additional 5 percent increases in Year 2 and Year 3. (When contacted for comment, a property manager said: ‘The family does not wish to discuss their business with the media.’)”
What Is Normal Rent For A Business On Main Street?
Rents in general on Main Street have averaged between $2,500-$4,500, with the lower end being in properties that are not fixed or maintained by property owners, or are in old leases. ALBB knows of higher rents that retail businesses endure, which forces their prices for customers up in order to sustain their businesses and payrolls.
Cited in the Current’s article about the record shop was property owner Joe Donovan, who said that he and his wife own several properties on the other end of Main Street, for a total 24 properties in Beacon. Joe told the newspaper: “One hundred percent of why I’m here is to be part of urban revitalization, to make walkable, mixed-use, diverse Main Streets a public good,” Donovan was quoted by the newspaper. “To me, that’s fun.”
Before the eviction, Tito’s had been paying less than $2,250 and was in contract negotiations to increase that rent and continue business. However, after the eviction, Donovan advertised the empty space for double the rent at $4,500, without having fixed the property yet. The City of Beacon’s Building Department required that he fixed the flooring before opening the space back up for use. Prospective tenants were offered a few months of free rent if they signed on while the building owners brought their building up to code for that violation. While one tenant did sign on, the property remains unopened and that former restaurant unit under construction.
Back To Hudson Valley Vinyl
The record shop has a nifty little website. On the home page, an illustration of a record travels down with the scroll as the reader finds more information. It’s cute. Creates a bit of animation that doesn’t happen on the mobile scroll. It’s worth visiting via desktop to experience it.
Upon their “We’ve Moved!” announcement on Instagram, neighboring business, Binnacle Books, said: “Amazing, welcome to the best block in town.” Esteemed music critic, Nate Chinen who used to live in Beacon and currently writes “words about sound” for WRTI / NPR, identifies as ex-NYT, is the author of a Substack, The Gig, and is the author the book, ‘Playing Changes: Jazz For the New Century,’ said “Can’t wait to check the new digs. (Congrats on heaving all those boxes and crates into place)”
Last week’s first Little Beacon Business Blog Squad Goals mingle is complete! Ignore the date that said 8/9. It was to be last month, and we postponed to August, only to be met with accidentally putting it on the same night as Beacon Hoops playoff games which one of our mini ALBBers was playing in. Fortunately, the rain came ☔️, and despite best efforts/desires to leaf blow the rain off the courts, Beacon Hoops rescheduled to this Sunday 🏀 and we stayed in Estilo Y Vino Wine Bar.
This mingle was for business members of ALBB (Things To Do In Beacon Guides and Business Directory), and non-profits are welcome to join at a discount rate! Everyone needs marketing and to support their local journalists and media outlets.
Joining the table was Kimberly Sevilla of HVAC company Shelter Air, therapist Kristen Verge , and Reuben Simmons of I Am Beacon. We avoided the dreaded question: “What do you do for fun?” because for business owners, working is usually 24/7, and sometimes IS fun. But this question prompted us to actually want to go line-dancing at Billy Joe’s across the river (would be nice if the ferry was reinstated to get there without car!). So the next Business Blog Squad Goals mingle might be there.
Kimberly, who is a firefighter in Cold Spring when not booking HVAC jobs, has also been racing in her sail boat on Summer Fridays. Kristen wants to do more collaging, so ALBB may also have a Vision Boarding party for possibly everyone. Need a creative space like That Creative Space to get messy in.
The wine at Estilo Y Vino was delicious as always. ALBB wanted the Chianti because of its promise of Violet Fragrance with a hint of Cherry Notes from Tuscany, Italy. Yes please. But the bottle was out and owner Elizabeth’s recommendation of another Italian suited just fine.
Watch ALBB’s new Event tab to see when our next mingle is. We will be at Estilo again!
For years we have watched Mary, aka @muralsbymare, paint subway walls, business walls, any wall she can get her brushes on. On a rainy Monday, we happened to see her mid-project for Café Mokha 1450 in Poughkeepsie across from Marist where she has been commissioned for the second time to paint the wall opposite the first wall she covered. This piece will be the Wall of Yemen, as we learned about during our first interview with co-owner Ali Dabashi, which will showcase the architecture, hospitality and beauty of Yemen.
During this interview, Mary shares with us her painting process. Her passion of painting is now her full time job, with her first big project being the statement wall at Carters Restaurant. She had been a bartender at Carter’s. Chef and owner Jon Lombardi asked her if she wanted to paint the logo on the wall that the live bands play in front of. That wall has become a signature look of the restaurant. Mary was commissioned a second time to paint a cascading mystical scene outside on the back patio, as well as hand-paint the letters above the front door.
Take a listen for a dose of inspiration this regular Tuesday, to see what believing in yourself and your talents can look like. This small business interview is brought to you by Tin Shingle, a resource and empowerment zone helping dreamers turn ideas into action.
Happened to arrive when Murals By Mare was there painting the Wall of Yemen before their Grand Opening on August 14th! Seeing Mary in person was a treat in itself, as we only see her in pictures. ALBB interviews Mary’s painting process here!
Co-owner Ali Dabashi Ali Dabashi fixed us the comforting Adeni Chai tea, which is sweet Yemeni spiced black leaf tea with cardamom and nutmeg made really hot with evaporated milk.
The Biscoff dessert in a can at 1450 MOkha in Poughkeepsie across from Marist in the Job Lots parking lot.
Also enjoyed an iced Strawberry Refresher drink with a Biscoff dessert in a can, as well as a whipped strawberry mouse type delight.
Many of you know ice cream and sorbet maker James Spica from his bright yellow tent at the front of the Beacon Farmer’s Market every Sunday. You may also recognize his voice from his weekly radio show on WVKR 91.3FM. James makes and sells popsicles and cups of ice cream and sorbet. But you can only mainly get it on Sundays at the market. Until he partnered with Annie down at The Chocolate Studio on the east end of Main Street near the mountain.
How did this happen, and what is available?
James tells A Little Beacon Blog (who is a regular customer of his strawberry rhubarb): “Back in 2024, Annie approached me at the Beacon Farmers Market and asked if I would be interested in having my award winning line of vegan ice cream and sorbet offed at The Beacon Chocolate Studio. Already up to my eyeballs in new orders I said thanks so much for the offer but I can’t do it. Annie asked again in 2025 and I had to say yes. It’s been a pleasure to have my New Confectioner vegan ice-cream in her shop. I’ve been a vendor at the three time Best Of The Hudson Valley winning Beacon Farmers Market since 2011, and I am so proud to be a small part of that. Annie just stocked up with our most indulgent flavors including Matcha, Strawberry Rhubarb, Turkish Chocolate Coffee and more. Thanks Again Annie, You Rock!!”
How Did James Get Started?
“A while back,” James tells ALBB, “my most excellent wife, Judy, got me a simple ice cream maker for my birthday. That turned out to be a light switch moment and the beginning of my total obsession with frozen desserts.”
James discovered the frozen dessert in the small town of El Pescadero Baja Mexico. “I had some very rustic, but oh so delicious helado flavors. Prune, avocado, corn, tequila, and almond. These sound simple enough, but the authenticity of the flavors really came through," James recalled.
“Later, I had the good fortune to taste my first vegan ice cream in Rome, Italy, a place with a long history of dairy gelato. But Rome is also know for its world renowned food, and we found a vegetarian spot that had wonderful vegan ice cream.”
In 2010, with two new Ice creams maker in hand, James began to selling his vegan treats at the Millbrook Farmers Market. “To my surprise, they took off. After retiring, I had the benefit of some retirement money. So I took classes at the Culinary Institute of America and at Penn State.” Having the Culinary Institute of America so close to Beacon in the Hudson Valley has produced several culinary self-starters like James.
“The year of 2025 was my 16th season, and I can’t imagine ever stopping,” James concluded.
Thursday is ALBB’s first meetup for our Business advertisers! This is ALBB’s Business Blog Squad. A collection of therapists, roofers, restaurant owners, shop owners, and more. This is a chance for a time to get together to talk shop, share experiences, spark new ideas, and come away revived to keep going. Because as business owners, we push ourselves to push through. 👊🏼
Hosted by the generous Elizabeth Rodriguez, owner of the beautiful and intimate Estilo Y Vino Wine Bar at 173 Main Street. ALBB business Members enjoy 1 free glass of wine with 1 tapas order.
This is a great time to join ALBB’s Business Blog Squad and begin your advertising campaigns. We created several levels to work with different budgets and goals.
BRING A FRIEND Bring your spouse, partner, favorite person, fellow staff member. Enjoy yourself and mingle with friends.
IDEATE! Get down to business with other business owners who want to support you and mutually share in your success. Let’s discuss what’s working, what is not working, and how we can grow from there.
CELEBRATE Your chance to share what you’re celebrating.
NAIL IT Come away revived. Make new or renewed connections with others.
ALBB’s ADVERTISING PROGRAMS
There are several to pick from:
Things To Do In Beacon Guides:
Designed for businesses on Main Street. Get weekly features in ALBB’s Instagram and weekend Newsletter. See Them Here >
Business Directory:
Designed for service-based businesses and the service extension of Main Street business (such as Catering or additional Beauty services). Search This Here >
Branded Content:
Designed for businesses who want to control the narrative. Purchase one article or partner with ALBB for one article each month.
Learn about all advertising programs here in ALBB’s Media Kit. Advertising memberships can be started online via the link below. DM with questions or schedule a phonecall to explore.
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.
