“Turn your vessel around right now,” a US Coast Guard officer said into his radio microphone that projected out of the speakers on top of the Coast Guard’s small boat that was circling the Hudson Valley’s Sloop Clearwater who was sailing in the Sail4th Parade of Sail with the Tall Ships on Saturday, July 4th, 2026 at 11am, with 29 passengers and 19 crew aboard not long after the start of the event.
“We’re part of the parade! We’re in the parade.” shouted back one Clearwater passenger. “We’re here to escort -”
But they were cut off by the Coast Guard’s second command: “Turn your vessel back toward the bridge.”
“Why?” wondered another passenger. “I wonder what that could be about,” said another as the Coast Guard boat circled them.
The Coast Guard sped off to drive in front of the Clearwater, cutting it off and facing it head on while the dual currents carried both vessels, as a NYPD boat approached to reinforce the US Coast Guard.
Photo Credit: Hudson Valley Sloop Clearwater
The Clearwater’s Captain Rory Kane inquired as to why, and was informed the removal was due to the presence of two banners reading: “Save the Clean Water Act” and “Indigenous Rights, Racial Justice, Climate Solutions,” the Sloop Clearwater said in a press released issued to the media at 2pm.
Sloop Clearwater confirmed that they were ordered by the Coast Guard to exit the parade and leave the “exclusion zone.” Clearwater was scheduled to escort the NRP Sagres.
A representative from Sail4th 250 informed Clearwater’s Captain the decision was above their level.
“The Sloop Clearwater has a long and storied history of using the main sales to share messages of hope and advocacy,” said the organization. “The music and fight for justice will never be silenced,” the organization stated in their Instagram release of the passengers keeping time to a banjo and harmonica.
The Clearwater continued sailing south of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge until 3pm.
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 was the first major U.S. law to address water pollution. Growing public awareness and concern for controlling water pollution led to sweeping amendments in 1972. As amended in 1972, the law became commonly known as the Clean Water Act (CWA).
The 1972 amendments:
Established the basic structure for regulating pollutant discharges into the waters of the United States.
Gave EPA the authority to implement pollution control programs such as setting wastewater standards for industry.
Maintained existing requirements to set water quality standards for all contaminants in surface waters.
Made it unlawful for any person to discharge any pollutant from a point source into navigable waters, unless a permit was obtained under its provisions.
Funded the construction of sewage treatment plants under the construction grants program.
Recognized the need for planning to address the critical problems posed by nonpoint source pollution.
The Trump Administration is moving to weaken federal protections for waterways and wetlands, Inside Climate News reported in November 2025. “Environmental groups warn the proposal to change the definition of ‘waters of the United States’ would eliminate crucial safeguards for “countless” bodies of water.”
About Hudson River Sloop Clearwater
In 1966, the Hudson River was plagued by industrial pollution, and folk singer Pete Seeger and a group of activists decided to “build a boat to save the river” by bringing together communities across the region to protect and restore the river. Three years later, the sloop Clearwater set sail with a mission to save the Hudson through education, advocacy, sailing, and music.
A blog post at Pace University reads: “In 1972, Pete Seeger helped push Congress over the edge to pass the Clean Water Act by sailing the Clearwater to Washington, D.C. and delivering a petition with hundreds of thousands of signatures in support of the Clean Water Act.
As explained at Wikipedia, on August 18, 1955: “Seeger was subpoenaed to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC). Alone among the many witnesses after the 1950 conviction and imprisonment of the Hollywood Ten for contempt of Congress, Seeger refused to plead the Fifth Amendment (which would have suggested to many that his testimony might be self-incriminating). Instead, as the Hollywood Ten had done, he declined to name personal and political associations on the grounds that this would violate his First Amendment rights: ‘I am not going to answer any questions as to my association, my philosophical or religious beliefs or my political beliefs, or how I voted in any election, or any of these private affairs. I think these are very improper questions for any American to be asked, especially under such compulsion as this.’”
Nearly six decades later, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater remains resolute in this mission, and to date, more than half a million people have had the life-changing experience of sailing aboard the Clearwater.
Happy Fourth of July. Where we are celebrating 250 years of legalized violence and psychological trauma of whiteness keeping others from owning private property. Seasters Jones posted an observation about Karoline Leavitt's reaction to DSA (Democrat Socialists of America) candidates sweeping entrenched AIPAC funded candidates. Karoline says that the USA was founded on the what she calls The Three Ps: "prison, police and private property." Listen to the clip here. There's a reason why she's called KKKaroline.
Seasters Jones highlighted what @Cinemarxismbret replied: "She's right. Police, prisons and property are deeply entwined in our country's origins because at one point, PEOPLE were property, their life was a prison and the police were created to catch them when they escaped."
Beacon's Fourth of July Fireworks Day: Friday, July 3, 2026 Time: 6pm Food and Fun with Empire Concessions, Southwest Entertainment, Dutchess Dog House, A1 Parties. Free Bike Parking available Eraca Pavilion (the roof over the picnic tables by the swings) Location: Memorial Park, Pop Warner Field, Robert Cahill
Free show of fireworks. All are welcome. Video: Watch this satisfying video of the Beacon Fire Department training on their hose by the Beacon Bears football field.
GRAND OPENING PACKAGE
Are you planning your Grand Opening to your business?
Or your Grand Re-Opening?
Celebrate it with A Little Beacon Blog!
Book it on our website so that we can show off all you have accomplished. Buy Now >
Beacon Pool Opening
Rules and Admission details have been released. Information >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm
Grill Time! Featuring Eggbert's Hot Italian Sausage. More varieties are available. Pre-Order on their website by Thursday's and select which Market you want to pick up at for Free Pickup. Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market 11am-5pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Saturdays: Pick-Up Prio-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
Bring the refreshers with you wherever you go this weekend! Stay hydrated and perhaps seated. Ideal might be front stoop so that you can slip back inside when you need to cool off. These drinks are ayrloom and are "fast acting" 10mg THC : 5mp CBD per can. The Station Dispensary carries many flavors of them, including Honeycrisp, Vanilla Cola, Orange Creamsicle, Root Beer, and more. 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
It’s best to lay like broccoli on a thickly hot day like today. What is it to “Lay like broccoli”? It’s the quote from Julia Roberts the 1990 movie Pretty Woman. It means to completely chill out and lock in on your comfort zone. Carter’s is opening at 4pm today for the hotness, and delivers if you don’t feel like making public appearances. Call Chef Jon to arrange. 845-743-6527 Instagram > Carter's is a Sponsor!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon NY
Soccer has been playing inside of the Hudson Valley Food Hall since the beginning of time. Seven years, all games are played with sound! Enjoy your choice of food, and mix and match what dishes you order from the different chefs.
PIGGY BANK 2.0 446 Main Street, Beacon NY
Straight from the smoker, the Piggy Bank's Smoked Paprika Rubbed Pulled Pork, paired with a Fresh and Light House Salad and a Salty Baked Potato. It's the salty Baked Potato that ALBB is drawn to, with that fresh sour cream and garnish. Enjoy for us! Instagram > Piggy Bank 2.0 is a Sponsor!
HEALTHY IN COLOR 259 Main Street, Beacon NY
The Sugar Crusher spread/dressing supports a healthier post-meal glucose response. In other words, when you feel tired after eating, the special blend based in apple cider vinegar, avocado and berry works to manage your sugar response so that you can eat what you love with less reaction. Take one Sugar Crusher™ shot before eating to support a healthier post-meal glucose response* and help maintain steadier energy throughout the day.
You can now pre-order Sugar Crusher™ at: www.thesugarcrusher.com
Developed and Made in Beacon, NY. Instagram > Healthy In Color is a Sponsor!
ZIATUN BEACON 244 Main Street, Beacon NY
All the way back in 2018, Edible Hudson Valley published a piece called "We Are The Immigrants Of The Hudson Valley." In it, chef and restauranteur Kamel Jamal was featured for one of his restaurants, Ziatün, the little Palestinian eatery with big plates. The piece highlights how Kamal was literally born in a kitchen in a Palestinian refugee camp, and immigrated to the United States, where his family settled in Westchester. Being in the kitchen is his comfort zone. Equally important is connecting with his spiritual goals. "This [life] is temporary," he told the magazine. "We are all here short term...what we do and who we bring with us is what matters. Owning my restaurants allows me to employ people. That is more rewarding than all of the money in the world." Instagram > Ziatün is a Sponsor!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193-195 Main Street, Beacon NY
This just dropped, the Beacon Bread Good Morning t-shirts. Do you have yours yet? Other styles are inside as well. Pick one when you pack your Babka cookie to go. Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor!
iRunBeacon 5K: Register Now!
I Am Beacon is committed to their mission of offering college scholarships to Beacon seniors. With that, they are excited to announce...15th Annual | I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk 2026. "We invite you to join us this September as we put on the I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk. Whether you are an avid runner, beginner, or first timer our race is perfect for everyone. We are back yet again live and also offering a virtual race for those who would like to participate from anywhere!" Register Here >
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY
Sign up for a free trial class with Mountain Stream Budo!
The first step is for you to choose an art to try. Their programs to enroll in include:
Li'l Dragons Karate (Ages 4-6)
Karate (Youth, Ages 7-12)
Karate (Teen and Adult, Ages 13+)
Jujitsu
Kobudo
Iaido
You will experience a typical class in the art of your choice! If you're checking out kobudo or iaido, you will be provided with loaner tools/swords for the day. All classes are beginner-friendly and you will not be lost in a crowd of advanced practitioners! Learn More >
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 >
Mornings at Memorial Park are peaceful. Often, early walkers, roller skaters, Highway Department Lawn Crew, and sometimes, Beacon Fire are out here getting ready.
This week, a truck from Beacon’s Fire Department was spotted training on the fire hose by watering down the Beacon Bears football field. By Thursday, trashcans and border barrels were set up by Beacon’s Highway Department (and possibly Water Department since they overlap jobs sometimes during busy events).
This notice brought to you by ALBB’s Business Directory, where we highlighted CareFull MD Urgent Care from the Health & Wellness section. CareFull MD designed cute bandaids in matching colors for those summer blisters you get on both feet! Stop into CareFull MD to pick up a strip today! Collect them all!
Project Salt Box, a series on Substack that produces investigative reporting on the money and contracts behind immigration detention and grounded in the public record, has reported that a warehouse at 800 Corporate Blvd in Newburgh, NY, just blocks away from Stewart Airport and Healey Kia, has been leased to a Texas-based developer that has previously contracted with DHS for 15 years to the federal government for $35.5 million to be used for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The lease was signed on June 24, 2026.
First revealed on May 12, 2026, Project Salt Box reported then that this warehouse seems to be used for storing people, and has been in the works since April 2024: "ICE appears to be seeking a new facility near Stewart International Airport in Newburgh, N.Y., according to federal leasing documents describing a building with a dedicated sally port for 'detainee buses and vans,' secured parking and small arms storage — requirements that point to enforcement or detention operations rather than a conventional office lease. The procurement process began in April 2024, more than a year before the current administration took office, with estimated occupancy by spring 2027."
Congressman Pat Ryan issued an urgent warning on his federal government web page: “Congressman Pat Ryan Raises the Alarm on Reports of Potential ICE Facility in Newburgh, Sends Urgent Inquiry Seeking Answers.” He says he is “recommitting to the fight to keep ICE out of the Hudson Valley – in Chester, Newburgh, or anywhere else.”
According to Project Salt Box, federal contracting and property records show that National Realty & Development Corp. as an owner of the Northeast Business Center, the complex that is located at 800 Corporate Blvd. The winner of the bid is listed as Leverage Enterprises who specializes in construction and real estate leasing arrangements. It is a minority- and service-disabled veteran-owned business with one other contract for Customers and Border Protection offices in Arizona.
The General Services Administration signed the lease on June 24, 2026 under solicitation Notice ID 2NY0894 for 42,377 rentable square feet. "The most the solicitation allowed," Project Salt Box noted. "Ten of the 15 years are firm." The building has a total of 60,143 square feet on 10 acres and is listed on LoopNet.
The original file revealing the ICE connection had been deleted. That solicitation "called for a sally port big enough for detainee buses and vans, secured parking and small-arms storage, under Level III security standards," Project Salt Box reported.
An interior build-out is proposed for the warehouse and is estimated to be $343 a square foot, "$282.58 above GSA’s standard allowance, and near $12 million across the minimum space sought, Project Salt Box reports of the information it got from Planning documents.
In May 2026, Project Salt Box reported that "The link to ICE emerged from the portal’s own file history. When an amendment was posted on October 24, 2025, a document briefly appeared under the name '2NY0894 ICE Newburgh - RLP Amendment No 1 10232025 (1) (1) (1).pdf' before being replaced with a generically titled file. The underlying solicitation remained public." A screenshot was posted of that file history.
This is not the first warehouse in New York that ICE pursued. There was "the proposal to convert the former Pep Boys distribution warehouse at 29 Elizabeth Drive in Chester, N.Y. into a detention facility capable of housing up to 1,500 detainees," Project Salt Box reminded readers. But ICE declined to pursue "after more than 30,000 people signed a petition against the plan and elected officials on both sides of the aisle came out in opposition."
While ICE retains offices to conduct administrative work, including one at 15 Governor Drive in Newburgh that is 9,074 square feet since 2015, these large warehouses with loading terminals indicate the transfer and storage of people under with the action of enforcement.
Is this why Stewart International Airport can't keep hardly any useful domestic flights, maintains its International status? Is it merely a front for Enforcement business? And airplane maintenance for private plans of wealthy individuals and corporations?
Ever since Beacon’s Parks and Recreation Department rolled a fresh coat of gray paint onto the Art Walls at Beacon’s Skate Park at Memorial Park, the designs have been flourishing on both walls. The wall on the right has come to be used for bigger pieces of art, and wall on the left for smaller sketches.
There’s been thoughtfully shaded letters applied, covered then by a message that said “Gentrifiers Ruin Everything.” Save for the irony in that action over the letters, nor do we know if the sprayer of that message also has their own roots in gentrifying.
Next was a large portrait of faces with different facial expressions. Lots of shading there. Hombre. But it got covered up by symbols and a proud “Beacon Boys” and “Beacon All Day.”
Skulls of various scenarios are emerging on the opposite wall. Summer just started, so we should have a lot to watch in coming changes.
Yes, it's true! Beacon D'Lites has closed, and is having their Everything Must Go For Free Sale Today Only! Look for the tiny sign outside on the sidewalk.
All of the little retail things are free, like wall signs, Easter and Christmas decor, candles, baking tools, a faux Christmas tree, so much. The tables and shelving that the little items are on is also for sale, but you must go now - today - to secure.
For the past 3 years, the business has been under new ownership. Tara Flagler and her family bought it from the original owner, Donna Trappe, and built it out to include a new candle bar, which was popular for parties. She still sold the original Beacon D'Lite candles on the left side of the store, but on the right side of the store, operated the candle bar with totally different candle recipes.
As reported by WPDH: “The candle shop first opened in 2002 when founder Donna Trappe began hand-pouring soy candles from her home kitchen. As demand grew, Beacon D'Lites moved into a storefront at 327 Main Street in 2005, becoming part of Beacon's growing collection of independent shops, galleries and restaurants.” While she sold the business to Tara 3 years ago, Donna’s 3 nieces trained in how to make the OG Beacon D’Lite candles, and currently sell them at Beacon Bath & Bubble on Main Street, and Trax Coffee Roasters on Rte. 52.
Where To Find Tara Flagler Now In The Hudson Valley
But fear not. She is removing the beautiful granite candle making bar and putting it into storage until the next iteration of her candle bar opens again.
"This is a positive change for us," Tara told A Little Beacon Blog. "This is a healthy move for our family as we tend to my mother and our other businesses."
This isn't all Tara does. A native of Cold Spring, Tara’s career started from her background as a dancer and fitness instructor. She grew up with a nursing influence and also living with an ill parent. This all influenced her career decisions.
Tara owns and operates with staff:
The Main Course (To-Go Foods, Meals, Event Planning, Catering)
Once you meet Tara, you will be amazed at how much of her passions begin unfolding before you. She is a lifelong learner and do-er, as she serves as an Exercise Physiologist, is a Retired Professor of Exercise Physiology, and formerly worked in Cardiac Rehab.
After she explored dance and fitness instruction, she went on to study Human Performance Science at Adelphi University. While working in cardiac rehabilitation at the 92nd Street Y in NYC she completed her first Masters Degree in the field and went on to work in Hamilton, Bermuda and at the Riverdale Y before marrying and moving to Tennessee and Germany.
Tara has worked for the Red Cross, several health and fitness clubs, ran an in-home daycare in Germany and finally settled back in Cold Spring with her family.
“My name is Fran Caracappa, a resident of East Fishkill for almost 37 years, living in proximity to the site of the proposed 1 Gig data center. The site is in my legislative district - 21- for which I am running for County Legislator.
“As a resident, my concerns are for potential irreparable changes which may lie ahead for all the residents of East Fishkill, not only those residing in District 21 where the hyperscale data center(s) could be located.
“A hyperscale data center has no place in East Fishkill, in a town eager to expand tourism and open spaces as specified in the recently adopted Town’s Comprehensive Plan. Does the town need such a large capacity facility? The electrical grid operator , NY ISO in a joint meeting with Central Hudson on April 8, 2026, informed attendees that new large load customers such as AI computing is driving projected demand higher – at a cost to all of us. Do we have to bear the burden for those well south of us and at what cost?
“I have always acknowledged that the project is not before the Town Planning Board. However, the project is in the Grid Operators active queue assessing its interconnection with Central Hudson and NYSEG. In a load connection memo (May 14, 2026), NY ISO is reviewing project #1738 (1,000 MW) along with a project in IPark #1760 (150MW.) NY ISO is also potentially reviewing the impact of overall capacity for the 2 East Fishkill projects as well as the Orangeburg and Buchanan sites.
“What is the right size of data centers for the environment? We need to understand the impact on our water sources and wetlands, exposure to forever chemicals (PFAS), the 24/7 noise levels and light pollution, the heat generated, use of back up diesel generators when the grid is unstable and the electronic waste as components age out.
“A moratorium is needed to assess the full impact on our environment and health. As someone who holds a master’s in public health, I understand the consequences can be irreparable.
“I am concerned citizen; a moratorium will allow the Town to take the time out that is needed to fully assess the impact of a hyper-scale data center.”
Since A Little Beacon Blog’s article published about the prospect of a data center being built in East Fishkill, and the unanimous vote on the moratorium on new data centers that followed (existing applications would be honored, but there are no existing applications before the town), readers have been asking: “Can a developer amend a site plan? In the data center moratorium, if a plan that has been submitted already, like Treetop’s plan for the warehouse, can they amend the site plan to be a data center and be within an existing plan that is exempt from the moratorium?”
ALBB posed this question to East Fishkill’s Town Supervisor, Nick D’Alessandro: “No, they cannot,” he answered.
Columbia University’s Sabin Center Climate Law Blog has published an article about the sustainability of such moratoriums, saying: “Rapid data center development is challenging local governments’ ability to manage the environmental challenges these facilities raise. Cities, towns, and counties are facing both uncertainty about the scope of those impacts and growing opposition to data centers from residents. In response, many are turning to temporary moratoria to pause data center development while they figure out the right regulatory approach. According to one Data Center Tracker, at least one hundred data center moratoria have been adopted in communities across the country. But the legal frameworks in which these measures operate can be complex, and cities have limits on how—and for how long—they can use a moratorium in this way.” Much more legal detail is in Sabin Center’s article.
Happy Monday, if you’re a business owner who is in the hustle and likes your job (even though entrepreneurship is haaaard), Mondays can be a welcome place. This one is for the Service Providers out there. Who don’t sell tangible goods but provide a service (video, legal, financial planning, etc).
Also: Correction: there is no City Council Meeting tonight because it’s the 5th Monday, and they now alternate weeks. Which is sort of good because now ALBB has more time to get you those addresses of the proposed Historic House Designations that will auto-flip to Historic Designation unless the homeowner writes in their objection! It’s not very affordable to be Historic Designation, in many cases.
Onward! ALBB is off to take a break To The Garden on this evening. Doing an odd job of moving hostas and tiger lilies for a neighbor.
🌟 This Money Monday Small Business video message is sponsored by @tinshingle , who is in the business of turning ideas into action! And making your own news and social media. www.tinshingle.com
On the evening of Thursday, June 25th, 2026, Vincent Javinett, age 34, dove into the Fishkill Creek at the dam location of 508 Fishkill Avenue at the cliffs, and did not resurface. At 7:34pm, the Beacon Police, Fire and EMS were dispatched to respond to a call about an individual who cliff dove into the Fishkill Creek and had not resurfaced, Beacon Chief Figlia said a day after the incident in a press release published at 10:32am.
Reporting for News12, Ben Andy said that people living in the Groveville community behind the dam said they see kids jumping from the cliffs all of the time, “one after the the other, off the cliff into the water.”
First responders arrived within minutes, but assessed that given the amount of time Vincent had been under the water, “there was no chance of survival,” Chief Figlia said. Regardless, Beacon Fire entered the water to recover the victim, but they could not locate him. A dive team was called in from New York State Police, where he was then recovered from the water.
“The dive team found him. They found his body here,” Ben referred to a crevice between rocks. “They pulled him up in a stretcher, where many people could see what was going on,” Ben reported.
Chief Figlia confirmed that the jump was a tragic accident. “Beacon Police conducted an investigation and recovered video evidence from the scene, which confirmed, beyond a doubt, that the incident was a tragic accident.”
“It’s a super dangerous situation. People knew about it already, and sadly, they are not surprised this happened,” Ben reported.
“[Cliff diving at the Fishkill Creek] is a wheel chair at best, suicide at worst.”
— Kelley Durkin, USA & World Team Level Dive Coach
Chief Figlia continued: “Our thoughts and sympathies go out to Mr. Javinett and his family and loved ones.
People in the Comments of the Beacon Police’s Press Release acknowledged that cliff diving at this location has been going on for years. Said Sara Lynn: “I can’t believe after all these years, people are still doing this. These well known ‘spots’ should be guarded and tragic events such as this can be avoided. I’m sorry for this person’s family and friends, as well as those who bared witness.”
“Close this cliff.”
— Kelley Durkin, USA & World Team Level Dive Coach
Kelley Durkin said (ALBB has edited for FB typos): “I am a lifetime diver + USA & World Team level coach. In 1970's, all the local divers would cliff dive off Castle Rock in S. Salem at 55 ft. If I had to do it over again, I wouldn't do it. When you are young, you function off ‘thrill, dare & invincibility.’ I saw an experienced diver and coach do a normal front dive fine, and break his neck near death. Another diver got knocked out and was under dark water until a friend ‘felt him’ and saved him at the last minute.
“The Olympic 10M Platform is 33 ' and a diver is moving 40+- MPH. I've seen experienced divers miss a dive and go to the hospital. So that's only 33'. My Castle Rock is 55'and this cliff here is some say 80'. You are likely moving 60+ MPH! After a life of high level diving and coaching, I will not let a trained diver of mine on 10M Platform at 33' for ‘years’ after extensive training. Today, I would never let myself or anyone I knew go off the 55' and 80' should be closed off to everyone.
“various objects are present at the creek bottom - submerged logs & stumps, bicycles, shopping carts, pipes, construction debris, etc. Storms and high water flows constantly change the creek bottom.”
— Beacon Councilperson Sergei Krasikov
“Further, just about everyone on these cliffs are local dare non-divers with zero training. This is a wheel chair at best, suicide at worst. And I have not even got into how the cliff rock shapes out under water, how deep the water is, what's down there, that current you talk about, etc. Close this cliff - I don't care how ‘dare’ you are.”
A Little Beacon Blog reached out to Beacon Councilperson Sergei Krasikov, who works closely with the Fishkill Creek, for comment about what he knows about the depth and condition of the creek there. He responded: “I do not know the depth or the condition of the creek bottom in the area. From general experience and observations at various sites during kayaking, clean ups, water quality sampling etc., various objects are present at the creek bottom - submerged logs & stumps, bicycles, shopping carts, pipes, construction debris, etc. Storms and high water flows constantly change the creek bottom. Cliff jumping is inherently dangerous, but especially so in creeks with constantly changing conditions and the water you cannot see through. My heart goes to the family and friends of the man who has died so tragically.
Happy Fourth of July. Where we are celebrating 250 years of legalized violence and psychological trauma of whiteness keeping others from owning private property. Seasters Jones posted an observation about Karoline Leavitt's reaction to DSA (Democrat Socialists of America) candidates sweeping entrenched AIPAC funded candidates. Karoline says that the USA was founded on the what she calls The Three Ps: "prison, police and private property." Listen to the clip here. There's a reason why she's called KKKaroline.
Seasters Jones highlighted what @Cinemarxismbret replied: "She's right. Police, prisons and property are deeply entwined in our country's origins because at one point, PEOPLE were property, their life was a prison and the police were created to catch them when they escaped."
Beacon's Fourth of July Fireworks Day: Friday, July 3, 2026 Time: 6pm Food and Fun with Empire Concessions, Southwest Entertainment, Dutchess Dog House, A1 Parties. Free Bike Parking available Eraca Pavilion (the roof over the picnic tables by the swings) Location: Memorial Park, Pop Warner Field, Robert Cahill
Free show of fireworks. All are welcome. Video: Watch this satisfying video of the Beacon Fire Department training on their hose by the Beacon Bears football field.
GRAND OPENING PACKAGE
Are you planning your Grand Opening to your business?
Or your Grand Re-Opening?
Celebrate it with A Little Beacon Blog!
Book it on our website so that we can show off all you have accomplished. Buy Now >
Beacon Pool Opening
Rules and Admission details have been released. Information >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm
Grill Time! Featuring Eggbert's Hot Italian Sausage. More varieties are available. Pre-Order on their website by Thursday's and select which Market you want to pick up at for Free Pickup. Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market 11am-5pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Saturdays: Pick-Up Prio-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
Bring the refreshers with you wherever you go this weekend! Stay hydrated and perhaps seated. Ideal might be front stoop so that you can slip back inside when you need to cool off. These drinks are ayrloom and are "fast acting" 10mg THC : 5mp CBD per can. The Station Dispensary carries many flavors of them, including Honeycrisp, Vanilla Cola, Orange Creamsicle, Root Beer, and more. 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
It’s best to lay like broccoli on a thickly hot day like today. What is it to “Lay like broccoli”? It’s the quote from Julia Roberts the 1990 movie Pretty Woman. It means to completely chill out and lock in on your comfort zone. Carter’s is opening at 4pm today for the hotness, and delivers if you don’t feel like making public appearances. Call Chef Jon to arrange. 845-743-6527 Instagram > Carter's is a Sponsor!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon NY
Soccer has been playing inside of the Hudson Valley Food Hall since the beginning of time. Seven years, all games are played with sound! Enjoy your choice of food, and mix and match what dishes you order from the different chefs.
PIGGY BANK 2.0 446 Main Street, Beacon NY
Straight from the smoker, the Piggy Bank's Smoked Paprika Rubbed Pulled Pork, paired with a Fresh and Light House Salad and a Salty Baked Potato. It's the salty Baked Potato that ALBB is drawn to, with that fresh sour cream and garnish. Enjoy for us! Instagram > Piggy Bank 2.0 is a Sponsor!
HEALTHY IN COLOR 259 Main Street, Beacon NY
The Sugar Crusher spread/dressing supports a healthier post-meal glucose response. In other words, when you feel tired after eating, the special blend based in apple cider vinegar, avocado and berry works to manage your sugar response so that you can eat what you love with less reaction. Take one Sugar Crusher™ shot before eating to support a healthier post-meal glucose response* and help maintain steadier energy throughout the day.
You can now pre-order Sugar Crusher™ at: www.thesugarcrusher.com
Developed and Made in Beacon, NY. Instagram > Healthy In Color is a Sponsor!
ZIATUN BEACON 244 Main Street, Beacon NY
All the way back in 2018, Edible Hudson Valley published a piece called "We Are The Immigrants Of The Hudson Valley." In it, chef and restauranteur Kamel Jamal was featured for one of his restaurants, Ziatün, the little Palestinian eatery with big plates. The piece highlights how Kamal was literally born in a kitchen in a Palestinian refugee camp, and immigrated to the United States, where his family settled in Westchester. Being in the kitchen is his comfort zone. Equally important is connecting with his spiritual goals. "This [life] is temporary," he told the magazine. "We are all here short term...what we do and who we bring with us is what matters. Owning my restaurants allows me to employ people. That is more rewarding than all of the money in the world." Instagram > Ziatün is a Sponsor!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193-195 Main Street, Beacon NY
This just dropped, the Beacon Bread Good Morning t-shirts. Do you have yours yet? Other styles are inside as well. Pick one when you pack your Babka cookie to go. Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor!
iRunBeacon 5K: Register Now!
I Am Beacon is committed to their mission of offering college scholarships to Beacon seniors. With that, they are excited to announce...15th Annual | I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk 2026. "We invite you to join us this September as we put on the I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk. Whether you are an avid runner, beginner, or first timer our race is perfect for everyone. We are back yet again live and also offering a virtual race for those who would like to participate from anywhere!" Register Here >
Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY
Sign up for a free trial class with Mountain Stream Budo!
The first step is for you to choose an art to try. Their programs to enroll in include:
Li'l Dragons Karate (Ages 4-6)
Karate (Youth, Ages 7-12)
Karate (Teen and Adult, Ages 13+)
Jujitsu
Kobudo
Iaido
You will experience a typical class in the art of your choice! If you're checking out kobudo or iaido, you will be provided with loaner tools/swords for the day. All classes are beginner-friendly and you will not be lost in a crowd of advanced practitioners! Learn More >
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 >
Photo Credit: Picture of Edison Irizarry from Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office
On Friday, June 26th, 2026, nearly a year after the murder of the Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Casey Cuddy at 86 Rombout Avenue, a scheduled court proceeding occurred for Edison (Eddie) Irizarry, who is the retired police officer charged with fatally shooting Casey multiple times. Eddie has plead not guilty to shooting his then temporary roommate in the two bedroom Rombout Avenue duplex Eddie rented from Casey while briefly moving back to Beacon from North Carolina to handle family affairs, according to family members who spoke with A Little Beacon Blog. Eddie later confirmed this himself when speaking with a Times Union reporter from jail.
During today’s court meeting, Judge Jessica Segal met with the Prosecution and Defense at her side bar. This medical report has been delayed since the beginning of the trial, into January 2026. When they completed their conversation, the parties resumed their positions at their tables. Judge Segal said for the record: “I had a conference with the attorneys at the bench. I finally received the expert report from Defense. Took a long time. The People need to retain their own expert now. For the same purpose. The Defendant’s Medical Evaluation, being explored by attorneys as well.”
For the next meeting, Judge Segal said it would again be for attorneys only, where Eddie would not be required to attend. If the attorneys knew of a delay, they could call in to adjourn. Eddie made at least two appearances in the beginning. During those early meetings, there was concern about his capability of returning. During his first appearance, he seemed thinner and pale. Eddie did not attend his second court appearance in September 2025; his attorney citing ongoing mental health considerations. When he did appear for his next court appearance, he had more color in his face and looked better fed.
A new Public Defender appeared today. He stated that the original Public Defender has since retired her office.
Details Of The Case
According to New York State Police: “On July 21, 2025, at approximately 9:02 p.m., the City of Beacon Police Department responded to a private residence on Rombout Avenue following a 911 call placed by Edison Irizarry, 52, of Beacon, NY, who stated he had shot his roommate.”
The Beacon Police arrested Eddie, who had served for 17 years as a police officer for the City of Beacon and retired in 2021. Soon after, he moved to North Carolina, family told ALBB. “To maintain the highest integrity,” Beacon’s Chief Figlia stated in a press release the next day, the Beacon Police handed the investigation over to the New York State Police.
At the time, Mid-Hudson News reported that Eddie told Dispatch that “Cuddy had threatened him with a shotgun, and Irizarry claimed to have fired three rounds at Cuddy.” Upon arrival, the Beacon Police found Casey dead from an apparent gunshot wound. Eddie was charged with:
Murder in the Second Degree (Class A -1 Felony)
Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree (Class C felony)
Criminal Possession of a Firearm (Class E Felony)
After his arraignment on August 8th, 2025, Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi stated that Eddie allegedly shot Cuddy “multiple times” with a 9-mm semiautomatic Glock pistol. Parisi released a statement which said: “Today, the defendant was arraigned on a charge of murder. The allegations are both troubling and disappointing, particularly given the fact that the defendant is a former member of law enforcement," Parisi said. “My thoughts are with the victim’s family as they endure an incredibly painful time. While the defendant is presumed innocent under the law, we will pursue this case with the utmost diligence, fairness and integrity. Our responsibility is to the truth, to due process, and to securing justice for the victim and the community.”
Judge Segal remanded Eddie without bail, citing him a flight risk. “Mr Irizarry,” she said, “given the nature of the charge and the potential for over 20 years in prison, I have concerns about flight risk. Remand without bail.”
One hour before shooting Casey, Eddie posted to his Facebook profile, which goes by Izzy Zarry: “You guys got me if I kill a Petti file.” Since then, multiple locals in Beacon who were connected to his Facebook account have disconnected their connection.
Speaking to ALBB, some family members have tried explaining the intentions of the Facebook post away from Casey. No evidence or indication of Casey being what the Facebook post states has surfaced. Neighbors tell ALBB that Casey was an outspoken advocate against Trump, was active in the community, enjoyed riding his bike and was a performer in local theater in Wappingers Falls.
Eddie Has Given A Media Interview
A reporter from the Times Union interviewed Eddie from the Dutchess County jail, which was published a month after the killing on August 22, 2025. His mother Laura was also at the jail that day visiting him. In that interview, Eddie told the newspaper that “he acted in self-defense to prevent ‘something evil from happening.’”
His mother told the reporter that she feels “her son ‘snapped’ after years of domestic upheaval and lingering post-traumatic stress related to his long career as a police officer.”
The Times Union interview states: “Irizarry declined to describe the moments leading up to the shooting, but said he acted to prevent Cuddy from engaging in an unspecified ‘evil’ activity. Irizarry also said he acted to defend himself, but would not provide details. He appeared friendly in his first interview with a reporter since the shooting.”
The article states he “lamented” Judge Segal’s decision to deny him bail, based in part that he has family in Puerto Rico.
On Thursday evening, after the East Fishkill Town Board voted on a 3 year moratorium on data centers, Mike Schade wrote into A Little Beacon Blog as a followup to our earlier article about the anticipated vote to pass the moratorium, to report in that the Board voted unanimously to pass the moratorium. He CCed Fran Caracappa, who said: “I live in East Fishkill, and the site is in my legislative District 21 - for which I am running for County Legislator. We will see how the town prepares its review during the moratorium.”
This action to pass the 3 year moratorium is sparked by interest in Treetop Companies inquiry to East Fishkill to build a data center instead of the 1,161,515 SF warehouse they are currently planning for.
News12 Hudson Valley reported that Town Supervisor Nick D'Alessandro “has been reminding the community that Treetop has never submitted a formal application for the project nor a site plan, and that current zoning laws do not allow standalone data centers.” Nick acknowledged to his constituents and to News12 that “any landowner and/or developer is free to explore new uses for their land, but that exploration is far from any approved project.”
During the Town Board Meeting, recent college graduate, James Quinlin, was quoted by News12 as being concerned about Treetop’s interest, and appreciated the early backlash. The media outlet reported: “He is glad opposition has started early, even before the company submits any site plan or zoning law requests to the town,” News12 stated.
Mike Schade’s statement that he presented during the meeting has been printed in full below. Mike is also running for Dutchess County Legislature, District 17.
“My name is Mike Schade. I live in neighboring Fishkill. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
“I want to recognize that no formal proposal for a massive data center has been submitted to the Town of East Fishkill. At the same time, the fact that a project of this scale is being evaluated by the New York Independent System Operator raises serious questions and concerns.”
— Mike Schade
“The AI data center being evaluated by the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) in East Fishkill should serve as a wake-up call not only for this community, but for communities across the Hudson Valley.
“I have worked to safeguard communities in New York and across the country from environmental health hazards for more than 25 years, including right here in East Fishkill. Going back to 2004, I worked with residents in Hopewell Junction whose drinking water was contaminated by TCE, a cancer-causing chemical from the Hopewell Precision site.
“I was here then, and I would be here now regardless of whether I was running for office. I am committed to protecting the health, water, and well-being of communities throughout the Hudson Valley.
“I want to recognize that no formal proposal for a massive data center has been submitted to the Town of East Fishkill. At the same time, the fact that a project of this scale is being evaluated by the New York Independent System Operator raises serious questions and concerns.
“I want to thank the Town Supervisor and Town Board for listening to residents and considering a three-year moratorium. Given the scale of this facility being evaluated and the questions it raises, that is a prudent and responsible step.
“According to the Times Union, the East Fishkill AI data center being evaluated could require as much electricity as approximately 800,000 homes. To put that into perspective, the facility could require more than six times the electricity used by all homes in Dutchess County combined, and roughly 80 times the number of homes in East Fishkill.
“I want to thank the Town Supervisor and Town Board for listening to residents and considering a three-year moratorium.”
— Mike Schade
“That’s simply staggering. No community should be expected to absorb that kind of demand without asking very tough questions first. When one project requires more than six times the electricity needed to power every home in Dutchess County, we’re not talking about neighborhood development anymore. We’re talking about a massive industrial-scale facility operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with impacts that could extend far beyond East Fishkill.
“At a time when families are struggling to pay their utility bills, residents should not be asked to shoulder the costs of infrastructure upgrades needed to serve some of the largest and wealthiest corporations in the world.
“The Hudson Valley should absolutely welcome economic development. But development should strengthen communities, not strain infrastructure or diminish quality of life. Responsible growth means planning for the future, not gambling with it.
“I strongly encourage the Town Board to adopt this moratorium. In closing, I want to thank the Town Board for considering for this important measure.”
Town Supervisor Nick stressed to News12 that the moratorium “alone would halt an application. Bbut I think that those large data centers — I don't see a future for them in the Hudson Valley. We just don't have the space."
In the discussion of the pursuit of New York State taking over Central Hudson, an ALBB reader asked: “What about the 22 cents of every dollar that we pay in New York State Taxes and Policies on our Central Hudson bills?”
During the winter, Central Hudson published a video and article explaining the compartmentalization of their dollar division, while people received very high gas and electric bills. In the article, Central Hudson wrote:
Several members of the New York State Senate held a news conference on Feb. 4, 2026 to discuss rising energy costs throughout the state. Increasing energy costs are a real concern for residents and businesses across New York State and the entire country. Central Hudson agrees that timely action is needed to help ease that burden.
It is also important to understand that nearly 60 percent of every dollar customers pay Central Hudson for service is driven by costs outside of our control. These charges go toward state-mandated fees and surcharges, taxes, and payments to third-party companies that generate electricity and supply natural gas.
To produce meaningful and lasting relief for New Yorkers, policymakers should take a careful, honest look at the policies in place that have directly contributed to these rising costs. Central Hudson stands ready and willing to work with lawmakers on practical solutions that deliver real help now – rather than additional legislation that may generate headlines but ultimately results in limited impacts for customers.
Central Hudson is a Fortis company, as illustrated in their logo. Central Hudson started as a private company in 1900 with the aim of consolidating energy and gas supply from multiple suppliers in the region.
While seemingly unrelated, there have been great efforts to consolidate purchasing power between municipalities in the Hudson Valley in order to gain a discount on electric rates. The first of such consolidation was the Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) agreement, which locked in a low flat rate for electricity to customer’s bills in Beacon and other communities. Beacon customers were automatically opted in to the low flat rate agreement. See Beacon’s code law on that here (it has now ended).
That discount was met with skepticism from some Beacon customers who opted out. Later, after the start of the bombing of Ukraine by Russia, rates unbuckled and the supplier of the discount program broke their contract with the municipalities and left the agreement. A lawsuit by the municipalities followed, resulting in a settlement check award of $50 per customer, which ALBB reported on here: “Open The Mail: There May Be A $50 Settlement Check In It From Columbia Utilities Power”
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.
t’s best to lay like broccoli on a thickly hot day like today. What is it to “Lay like broccoli”? It’s the quote from Julia Roberts the 1990 movie Pretty Woman. It means to completely chill out and lock in on your comfort zone. Carter’s is opening at 4pm today for the hotness, and delivers if you don’t feel like making public appearances. Call Chef Jon to arrange. 845-743-6527 
