Strawberry Festival This Sunday - A Little Beacon Blog Will Be There Face Painting

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The annual Strawberry Festival from the Beacon Sloop Club is here! This is their opening festival for their series of harvest-inspired (Strawberry, Corn, Pumpkin) celebrations and fundraisers held down at Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park. Look forward to Hudson Valley locally grown fresh picked strawberries, homemade strawberry shortcake topped with the Beacon Sloop Club’s famous real whipped cream. You will also find strawberry smoothies and other strawberry delights.

Live music will be played and will be powered from two solar power stages. The event is dedicated to the environment, so look for environmental educational displays, activities for children, and a variety of food and artisan hand-made crafts.

Free sails on the sloop Woody Guthrie will be available. To sail, you’ll need to sign up at noon at the Beacon Sloop Club’s merchandise table. Bring a blanket, or a chair and enjoy the festivities of the day surrounded by the Hudson River. There is a kids park in the park, so little ones will have swings to swing on an slides to climb.

A Little Beacon Blog’s Face Painting Table

A Little Beacon Blog will be there with our face painting! Kids and adults are welcome. We take requests, and can even paint your spirit animal. The face painting chair is a relaxing experience.

About The Beacon Sloop Club

According to the Beacon Sloop Club, here’s what you can expect at the festival: “.

Founded by folk singer and activist, Pete Seeger, The Beacon Sloop Club is a 501-c3 volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation, protection and restoration of the Hudson River and surrounding waterways through advocacy, education and celebration.

As part of our mission, we provide free river access through free sails and sail training on the ferry sloop Woody Guthrie, a replica of the 18th and 19th century sloops that once plied the Hudson River.

The Beacon Sloop Club offers free seasonal music festivals to the people of the river, as well as other events, lectures and classes throughout the year.

Our monthly meetings are the first Friday of the month, starting with potlucks at 6:30 and ending with a Circle of Song. Everyone welcome!

POEM: To Anyone Who Tells Me That I Support Terrorists; That I Don't Know What It's Like To Be Jewish

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Sometimes when someone says something to me about Palestine - either a stranger in Comments, or a regular Instagram person in Comments, or a regular Commenter here at the blog itself, or a person I know in real life - it can trigger a poem to process what they just said. In this case, someone who I know for years, and had just spent several hours with in one of the most pleasant and fun experiences, did an about face on a Monday evening. Unprovoked directly by me, resulted in them letting me know their thoughts in a random DM.

If it triggers a response in me that may help others, the response is put into words if possible, and then into a poem. Or word phrases. However you grammar dart enthusiasts want to target it to say what it isn’t. :) It’s words. And if they help someone, they are here.

To anyone who tells me that I support terrorists.
That I don’t know what it’s like to be Jewish.
You’re right.
I don’t know what it’s like to be Jewish.
Or to have your family be wherever they are from.

I also don’t know what it’s like to be Black.
Or to have my family stolen from me and my body sold.

I know what it’s like to study the Holocaust.
I know what it’s like to be challenged.
I know what it’s like to be asked:
“What would you do if this were happening again?”
I know what it’s like to be racist.

I know that telling me that I support terrorists and that I don’t know what it’s like to be Jewish is an extremely racist thing to say.
You are extremely racist.
Were before. And still are. Despite my hope.

You wish ill on me.
You wish I get what I deserve.
This is not what is breaking my soul today.
Something completely different and unrelated is breaking my soul today.
And making me stronger and more focused. Clarity.

Doing anti-Zionist, anti-occupation, liberation work is healing my soul today.

Free Palestine.

SUNDAY: Large Demonstration for A Free Palestine to Take Place in Middletown, NY

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On Sunday, a large crowd of concerned citizens will gather alongside Route NY-211 to protest against the ongoing genocide that Palestinians are facing. The rally aims to bring attention to the urgent need for both local and international action to support the affected region. Demands will be made for the City of Middletown to pass a ceasefire resolution, according to a press release by the organizers.

WHEN: Sunday, June 2nd, 12pm-1:30pm.

WHERE: Orange Plaza, Middletown NY (Corner of Route 211 and Dunning Rd.)

WHAT: Participants will hold signs, chant slogans, and share personal stories, emphasizing the importance of standing together against injustice and colonization. The organizers of the event presented several demands for the City of Middletown, urging local leaders to take concrete steps towards preventing further violence.

WHO: Middletown community members, guest speakers, and well-known public figure to be announced.

Says local Instsagram account Celebrate_845:

“MIDDLETOWN, NY - LET’S MOBILIZE! THIS IS A CALL TO ACTION! We are meeting near a major intersection, so we need as many brave souls as possible!

“As Israel continues to bomb and starve 2 million people trapped in Gaza, we MUST increase our presence and bolster our message for a permanent ceasefire. It is through our collective action that we escalate pressure to divest from the Fascist Israeli military machine and dismantle the occupation in Palestine.

“Join us on June 2nd, from 12-1:30pm, at the Orange Plaza in Middletown, as we reject the genocidal status quo and stand in solidarity with Palestinians against a 57-year-illegal military occupation.”

Accessibility and safety info:

“We will gather at the corner of Dunning Road and Route NY-211 in Middletown, NY (the sidewalk behind Chase Bank leads directly to the designated area).

“There are plenty of parking spaces available in Orange Plaza. Do not congregate in the parking lot otherwise Town of Wallkill Police will attempt to shut us down. This event is fully outdoors & is mostly standing in place. Location has large grass area with a small stretch of paved sidewalk and a bench. BYO chair if needed. Water and masks will be provided.

“Do not block any sidewalks or obstruct the walkway/roadway, so that people can move freely. We do not want to be shut down by the police.

“We will gather on the corner sidewalk area and, depending on turn out, line up behind the guardrail along Route 211 (in front of Chase & Red Lobster). We keep each other safe. Please do not provoke agitators or counter protesters that seek to deter our movement. We are the sum of our parts, and so we must show up with safety in mind, both for ourselves and for each other.

“IF THE WORLD WON’T STOP FOR RAFAH, WE MUST STOP THE WORLD. SHOW UP AND MAKE SOME NOISE WITH US! #FREEPALESTINEFOREVER”

Hudson Valley Activists Drop Banners Demanding U.S. and NYS Divestment From Israel’s War Crimes

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Early Wednesday morning (5/29/2024), a group of local Hudson Valley activists hung banners on four I-87 overpasses visible to northbound traffic. The banners call for the end of U.S. and NYS funding of Israel war crimes in Gaza, and bring attention to the slaughter of displaced civilians currently ongoing in Rafah by the U.S. funded Israeli military.

The banner that hung south of Newburgh read: “Permanent Ceasefire.” For Kingston, the banner read: “Divest From Genocide.” For Saugerties, the banner read: “Let Gaza Live.” For Leeds, the banner read: “Free Palestine.”

Over the last several days, the Israeli military invaded Rafah, a designated “safe zone”, and carried out massacres by bombing displaced families in tents, killing dozens of people, according to AlJazeera and other news outlets. The death toll is still rising.

American citizens have been pleading with their elected officials to stop voting for more military aid to Israel for over 8 months, and to support a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Yet, elected officials have continuously refused to listen to their constituents. “We call upon every decent human being to demand an end to U.S. military and financial support that has enabled the total dehumanization and genocide of the Palestinian people. As Jews, we are horrified by Israel’s brutality and total disregard for human life. We say 'Never Again is Now! Enough!' said two activists who are senior citizens of Beacon, NY.

"The massacre of civilians across Gaza, and now in Rafah, is a direct result of the Biden administration and Congress’ continued political and military support for Israel’s genocide in Gaza," say the activists. "Now is time for the U.S. to stop funding Israel’s genocidal campaign and to place an arms embargo against Israel in accordance with U.S. and international law, to end U.S. complicity with war crimes."

The activists pledge to continue demonstrating in different ways. "Hudson Valley residents will keep organizing to demand a permanent ceasefire, an end to the immediate horrors devastating Gaza, funded by U.S. taxpayers, and to end the occupation. We urge every person of conscience to join our demands to stop the genocide in Gaza and free Palestine.

A March, Storytelling and Poetry Commemoration For Nakba 1948 Happening May 15th From Train Station to Pohill Park

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The Beacon Ceasefire Coalition has organized a march to commemorate the 1948 Nakba of Palestine. According to Wikipedia: “The Nakba (Arabic: النَّكْبَة an-Nakba, lit. 'the catastrophe') was the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in Mandatory Palestine during the 1948 Palestine war through their violent displacement and dispossession of land, property, and belongings, along with the destruction of their society, culture, identity, political rights, and national aspirations. The term is also used to describe the ongoing persecution and displacement of Palestinians by Israel. As a whole, it covers the fracturing of Palestinian society and the long-running rejection of the right of return for Palestinian refugees and their descendants.” Israel celebrates this time as “Israeli Independence Day,” which began their sanctioned occupation of Palestine.

Locally, the Palestinian restaurant, Ziatun, is historically closed on this day.

Says the Beacon Ceasefire Coalition press release: “We will have storytellers, poetry, and community to remember the catastrophe that expelled over 760,000 Palestinians, wiped out 531 villages, and killed 15,000 Palestinians. The Nakba resulted in over 7 million present-day refugees and a global Palestinian diaspora. We welcome the Hudson Valley community to honor this day with us, and to march before sharing tea, stories and healing in the park followed by a candlelight vigil.”

*Marchers will meet at 4:45 PM on the river side of the Beacon Train Station (near the Sloop Club - 2 Red Flynn Drive, Beacon) before marching together to Polhill Park (access details below)

*Those who prefer to not march may meet us directly at Polhill Park at 5PM (Main St & South Ave, Beacon)

*Event is fully outdoors & rain or shine so please bring rain gear and other comforts as needed

*Flyer by Parisa Karami

MAY 15TH NAKBA COMMEMORATION @ BEACON ACCESSIBILITY

MASKS & DISTANCING: Event is fully outdoors. Masking is encouraged, but will not be required. Masks will be available at both meetup spots (outside train station & at Polhill Park). Polhill Park is small so distancing might be challenging, depending on attendance.

PARKING & TRANSIT:

MARCH: Marchers will meet at 4:45 PM on the river side of the Beacon Train Station (Grassy area, with paved sidewalk close by, near the Sloop Club - 2 Red Flynn Drive, Beacon). There is very limited free parking there, with more nearby at Pete & Toshi Seeger River Park (paved 0.2 mile away). Parking within the train station is paid using the meters near the platform entrance.

POLHILL PARK: Non-marchers can meet at 5PM at Polhill Park (Main St & South Ave, Beacon). Parking available on nearby side streets and on Main St - just be mindful of signs indicating where not to park!

RETURNING TO YOUR CAR FROM POLHILL PARK: Organizers will be available to walk with marchers in groups back to our cars at the Beacon Train Station from Polhill Park, as it will be dark when the event ends ~8PM. Rides are also available back to the Beacon Train Station; please tap an organizer during the event or respond to this email if you’d like a ride back.

PUBLIC TRANSIT: The Beacon Train Station can be reached via MetroNorth, and the Beacon Free Loop bus services both the train station and Polhill Park.

MARCH: We will march up the paved sidewalk from the Beacon Train Station up Beekman Ave to Polhill Park. The walk is largely uphill and 0.6 miles long, with no stairs. Those who do not wish to march can meet us directly at Polhill Park at 5PM.

OTHER DETAILS: Event is rain or shine, so be sure to look at the forecast and bring rain gear if needed! Some folding/camp chairs & picnic table seating will be available at Polhill Park, and you can also bring your own chair. A single-seat, all-gender (but not accessible - 1 step up and narrow doorframe) bathroom is available across the street at Bank Square Coffeehouse until it closes at 7PM. We’ll have a family-friendly kite-making station.

Thank you to Celebrate 845 for their Accessibility Checklist!

New State Law Would Deny Financial Aid to Students Who Criticize Israel

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by Arvind Dilawar

Although the bills claim to protect Jewish students, they would in fact codify a definition of anti-Semitism that includes criticism of Israel.

Late last year, New York State Senator Bill Weber and Assemblyperson Ari Brown introduced Senate Bill S7752 and Assembly Bill A8399 in their respective chambers. The bills were cosponsored by two dozen other legislators, including Senator Rob Rolison and Assemblyperson Anil Beephan, whose districts include parts of Beacon. The bills — both misleadingly titled “The Combating Campus Antisemitism Act” — claim to be protecting Jewish students by prohibiting “tuition assistance awards to any student who has knowingly engaged in promoting antisemitism.”

In fact, both bills would punish students who criticize the Israeli government, whether in regards to its ongoing genocide in Gaza — which has claimed the lives of more than 34,596 Palestinains, including 14,500 children and 8,400 women, according to Al Jazeera at the time of this writing — or its occupation of Palestine more broadly.

While neither bill directly mentions Israel, both reference a definition of anti-Semitism from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) — which does mention Israel. The IHRA lists specific examples of criticism that it claims are anti-Semitic, which are broad enough to include any criticism of Israel’s well-documented apartheid regime in the West Bank (“claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor”) to its ongoing genocide in Gaza (“drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis”).

The IHRA is an inter-governmental agency, which now includes 35 member countries, including Israel, and nine observer countries. Although it was ostensibly founded to combat Holocaust denialism, the IHRA’s definition of anti-Semitism was in fact a response to the Second Intifada, an uprising by Palestinians against the ongoing Israeli occupation, as documented by the Foundation for Middle East Peace. Organizations committed to Zionism (Jewish ethno-nationalism) like the American Jewish Committee expressly sought a definition of anti-Semitism that would include anti-Zionism (opposition to Jewish ethno-nationalism) and the IHRA’s working definition gave it to them in 2016.

The IHRA describes its definition of anti-Semitism as “non-legally binding” — but that hasn’t stopped the Israeli government and lobbyists like the American Legislative Exchange Council from trying to make it into law in the United States. ALEC is a notorious right-wing “bill mill” that brings together special interests and politicians to craft “model legislation” to lobby for in federal and state legislatures. The Center for Media and Democracy, a government watchdog, recently published audio from an ALEC meeting in 2021 at which Elise Steinberg of the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles and others urged the assembled legislators to codify the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism into law through their respective legislatures.

Prior to October 7, the Israeli government and ALEC had limited success in pushing states to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism. From 2018 to 2023, only nine states — Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas — passed laws adopting the definition, according to FMEP. Since October 7, Georgia joined that list; seven more states — Indiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and South Dakota — are considering similar legislation; and no less than 15 related bills are before Congress.

Since being introduced, neither Senate Bill S7752 nor Assembly Bill A8399 has advanced beyond committee, meaning they remain far from law. However, one of the bills before Congress, HR 6090, advanced through the House of Representative on May 1, with Representative Mike Lawler, whose district includes parts of Dutchess County, cosponsoring and Representative Pat Ryan, whose district includes Beacon, voting in favor. Notably, both Lawler and Ryan have received thousands of dollars in campaign contributions from pro-Israel lobbyists.

a little gaza news :: The University Students and Faculty Join The Push For Palestinian Liberation - Gaza Solidarity Encampments (A Link Roundup)

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The American news coverage of the growing number of university protests called Gaza Solidarity Encampments is not being well-covered. For example, when the news broke that there were snipers at Emory University, and then at Ohio State University, someone made the assumption that civilians were the ones holding and pointing the rifles. However, the police were called by the universities to come be placed onto the roof, and point rifles at the students and faculty, who were engaging in sitting and setting up their tents. Violence occurred if police or pro-Israeli civilians came in to agitate.

Also not covered as much are Jewish students and faculty participating in these Pro-Palestinian protests. Like this night in the streets for Seder for Passover.

Several professors have joined the students to protect them and serve as witnesses. Some parents have voiced how proud they are of their child. Despite the tuition that may be going to these universities. NBC New York reported: "The students' plight has become a central part of protests, with students and a growing number of faculty demanding their amnesty. At issue is whether universities and law enforcement will clear the charges and withhold other consequences, or whether the suspensions and legal records will follow students into their adult lives."

Presidential candidate Jill Stein was arrested at an anti-war protest at Washington University, held, and charged with assault of a police officer, as reported by Al Jazeera. She is 73 years old, and was arrested with 99 other people. “It was kind of scary to tell you the truth,” she said in an interview with local news station KSDK as reported by Time.

In depth accounts to follow on the Encampments at Universities are Ahmed Eldin, Wear The Peace, Everyday Is Juneteenth

a little gaza news :: University Encampment Edition

This roundup for "a little gaza news" highlights some moments of the Gaza Encampments, as well as emerging testimony from IDF (Israeli Defense Forces aka Israeli Occupation Forces).

ALBB Talks On 91.3 FM Independent Radio About The Shutdown Of The Newburgh Beacon Bridge On April 15, 2024

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Thank you to the Trova & Mas Show and Carolina on 91.3FM, Independent Radio at Vassar College, for having us on to talk about the shutdown of the Newburgh / Beacon Bridge on April 15, Tax Day for the Economic Blockade from 8-9am organized nationwide to send a message to federal and local governments to Free Palestine and to stop investing in (aka divest from) Israel’s killing of so many Palestinians (which is bleeding into Lebanon). ALBB did not organize that and didn’t even know about it! But we did report on it.

Co-host Carolina asked what points we wanted to cover, and some of these points were made:

  • Participating protesters on the bridge included Palestinians, Jews, Arabs, Non-Arabs, Muslims, Non-Muslims, Whites, and other allies.

  • Protests in have been held on sidewalks in Beacon, Poughkeepsie, Newburgh, and Kingston.

  • Pat Ryan was demonstrated against in Beacon at the City Council Swearing In Ceremony at the Memorial Building by demonstrators who wanted a silent protest with a banner that said Ceasefire, but Beacon’s City Administrator and some managing Veterans blocked the banner and physically touched the demonstrators, causing the event to escalate and get loud.

  • The first demonstration to Pat Ryan was at his Poughkeepsie office near Vassar College.

  • Some Beacon Jewish citizens organized their 8th night of Chanukah lighting at his Newburgh office.

  • Ceasefire Resolutions were passed in Beacon and Newburgh. A ceasefire resolution still needs to pass in Poughkeepsie. Poughkeepsie needs to show up!

  • A woman from Poughkeepsie is from Palestine and lost at least 20 of her family members in Gaza from Israeli bombardment.

Trova asked what final message we wanted to get out, and we said that while this is a global issue, we see how our United States Government is treating Brown people in Palestine, at a very shocking level by allowing this to happen and is in part funding it, and that translates back here to our local communities. Systems aren’t broken, they are working as designed. Those systems need to change.

Elizabeth, NJ Is Location For Protest Against Zim Shipping Company On A15 Economic Blockade Day

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Photo Credit: Alexa B. Wilkinson

Editor’s Note: Formerly Beacon-based now Newburgh-based photographer Alexa B. Wilkinson documented and reported on the vehicle protest against Zim shipping Company today on this A15 Economic Blockade day. All photographs by Alexa B. Wilkinson.

Wrote Alexa:

“As part of the @a15actions, early this morning in Elizabeth, NJ Port Workers For Peace with @nyclaborforpalestine and @palawda led a caravan of vehicles through the Port of New Jersey to denounce the Zim shipping company’s support for Israel’s genocide in Gaza. Zim CEO Eli Glickman has pledged that his ships will assist Israel’s campaign, even as it leads to mass starvation and the killing of over 17,000 children.

Photo Credit: Alexa B. Wilkinson

“Many port workers are horrified at what’s happening in Gaza,” said Chino May, one of the caravan organizers. “Our labor is being exploited to enrich corporations that uphold mass murder. But we make these companies go, so we can make them listen to us. The killing has to stop.”

“The caravan received mostly honks of support and a few agitated truck drivers. Police flanked the lead car and the group, and at some points attempted to break the line of cars up by merging in between them. At one point the port authority police asked how long they would be there and if there were more coming, to which the police received one word answers and vague responses.

“As we see global action taking place today across thousands of cities and economic choke points, the news will be flooded with Trump and Iran…don’t take your eye off the ball. This is focal point. All eyes on Gaza.”

Free Palestine 🇵🇸

Pro-Palestine Protestors Shut Down Westbound Hamilton Fish Newburgh Beacon Bridge As Part Of An International Coordinated Economic Blockade On Tax Day

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HAPPY MONEY MONDAY!! That’s what we celebrate at ALBB’s sister business, the media resource Tin Shingle (hey Anonymous, Cowardly Letter Sender! You missed one of my businesses!! And it won’t by my last!!)

Happy Tax Day Economic Shutdown Day. Free Palestine.

Repost @hv4freepalestine :
BREAKING: Pro-Palestine protestors have shut down the westbound Hamilton Fish Newburgh Beacon Bridge as part of an international coordinated economic blockade on Tax Day with @a15actions to compel the U.S. government to divest from the genocide happening in Palestine. Hudson Valley organizers join over 50 cities around the world in disrupting the global economy in response to a call from Gaza to fight for a liberated Palestine.

From the Hudson Valley organizers: “Tax Day is a reminder that the Biden administration has made over 100 transfers of taxpayer dollars in military assistance to Israel since the beginning of the genocide in Gaza. We refuse to allow business as usual to continue while Palestinians are murdered by Israel using American weaponry and tax dollars. Those committed to Palestinian freedom in the Hudson Valley have tried many tactics—we’ve demonstrated, we’ve lobbied our representatives, Pat Ryan and Marc Molinaro, for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, we’ve visited their offices, we’ve educated the public. Those on the highway today are done waiting on congressional representatives. We are committed to keeping up the pressure until the genocide ends and Palestine is free.”

April 2 Leave it Blank on Primary Day, PK & New Paltz Actions, Newburgh Iftar, and More

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This Press Release was distributed by the Beacon Coalition:

The Beacon Coalition was formed while trying to pass the Ceasefire Resolution in Beacon. They continue to send out updates. Below is their latest update:

“As the U.S. continues to undermine progress made towards a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, it is all the more important that we keep up local pressure. There are lots of ways to show up for Palestine this week at the ballot box, in local parks, online, and beyond. Starting with…”

LEAVE IT BLANK NY: Did you know that you can submit a blank ballot in the New York Presidential Democratic Primary on April 2nd (and in early voting), to send a strong signal to Biden that New Yorkers want a permanent ceasefire? While there is no uncommitted or write-in option in New York, blank ballots are counted, and we strongly encourage primary voters to use this powerful opportunity to make our voices heard for a ceasefire. Find out more information on the Leave it Blank Campaign here, and sign up to phone bank here The campaign needs all hands on deck between today and the April 2nd primary, and phone banking is a great way to connect with other New Yorkers about how our tax dollars should be invested at home, not funding the destruction of Gaza. 

THIS WEEK:

  • SATURDAY 3/30 at 8PM: Land Day Vigil (Peace Park, New Paltz). In solidarity with the liberation of Palestine. Flowers & masks encouraged. More info here. 

  • SUNDAY 3/31 from 12-3PM: Poughkeepsie Protest. Gather at Harriet Tubman Park (72 Market Street, Poughkeepsie) in support of Poughkeepsie’s ceasefire resolution.

  • FRIDAY 4/5 at 7PM: Community Iftar at the Newburgh Masjid (25 Washington Terrace, Newburgh). Community event organized by the Newburgh Masjid board and congregation. All are welcome regardless of faith, affiliation, etc. Please be sure to RSVP to info@newburghmasjid.org so that the Masjid can prepare enough food for all to enjoy.

Finally, we’re still looking for folks who wrote to the Beacon City Council and/or who spoke during public comment in support of Beacon’s ceasefire resolution to submit their written letters and speeches to this email address (beaconceasefirecoaltion@gmail.com). These submissions will be compiled and distributed in a public forum that may serve as a reference for other municipalities who are writing letters and speeches for their own councils. So, please be sure to include in your email whether you’d like to be named as the author of your piece in this public compilation (and by what name if so), or if you prefer to remain anonymous. 

Chalk Art For "Free Palestine" Message Gets Splattered With Possibly Permanent Paint - And A Reminder As To "Welcoming City" Meaning

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“Free Palestine” message created by the artist Ryan Manzi, in addition to signs for Beacon, a shamrock for St. Paddy’s Day, and Scooby Do.

The irony of the permanent desecration of the brick building in order to cover up a temporary message of freedom with a layer of a bright blob of permanence is one for poets to ponder.

It is a wonder if the City of Beacon will pursue the graffiti blob maker (graffiti blobs are not art or expressions), or if they will instead pursue the chalk artists, who they are already in hot pursuit of on a regular basis, and have arrested in the past for making chalk art. An arrest that failed, since chalk is temporary, says one of the arrested artists and Beacon resident Ryan Manzi.

This article includes a video interview with Ryan as he pops up to chalk another message of freedom and justice just down the brick from the tagging signed in paint drips. Be sure to scroll down to watch/listen.

Forensic Discovery Of The Paint Over The Chalk

Ryan and his friend Steve first started chalking Beacon last Spirit of Beacon Day. His goal was to chalk spirit all over town. His work has been seen on the sidewalk outside of Towne Crier, outside of the Beacon Car Wash and the Beacon Fade and Shave, and on the big green construction fence/wall at the development site on Main Street that went bankrupt and has been standing still. That chalk space has since been covered up by another artist, in paint however, which may have come with permission, which was done for Beacon Bonfire, without a nod given to Ryan’s original chalk art that started there.

The paint covering the pro-Palestinian CHalk.
Photo Credit: Katie James Inc.

Ryan latest chalk art piece is on the building that used to be Pizza and Stuff, and is the back of Sun River Health. He chalked out FREE PALESTINE with the Palestinian flag. When this happened, ALBB was sent the photo by several people, all of whom were excited to see such expression.

Just days later, the chalk art was covered up by what seems to be splattered paint, maybe from a spray can, or a brush. Said Ryan to ALBB: “I know my chalk, and that's somebody deliberately covering it up.”

The person covering up the chalk used a paint-like substance, than ran down the building in drips. “It's literally spray paint. The running streaks are spray paint. In other words, LITERAL graffiti.” Recently, Ryan and his painting partner Steve have been arrested for their chalk art. Ryan says a call was made by someone who saw them chalking. Ultimately, charges were lifted because chalk is temporary. Ryan’s preferred brand of chalk is Crayola from local boutique Zakka Joy.

THe shamrock, left untouched by the Free Palestine cover-upper. The rain has already begun to wash away the chalk naturally.

Upon the discovery of his chalk work being covered in paint, Ryan took to being a forensic artist to figure out what happened. Ryan pointed out the drips. Another paint stroke on a brick looked like a deliberate stroke, versus spray paint. Additionally, he noted, his other chalk art of a shamrock, Scooby Do, or the words BEACON were not covered up or deleted by the paint.

“It shows clear and deliberate hatred and bigotry,” Ryan told ALBB. It is not known if Beacon Police will pursue the permanent paint thrower, or only focus on the chalk artist because he is always out on Main Street and is recognizable by most people who live here. Ryan is easy pray for the Beacon Police to come and get.

April Article from the Poughkeepsie Journal

As Ryan popped up to chalk a new message, a person walking by said “I like it,” and another said “Looks awesome!” Some Beacon elementary school kids walking by raised their fists in solidarity.

A white man also approached, eager to take a picture. ALBB wasn’t sure if he was taking a picture for evidence against the chalk art, as he mentioned not liking trash on the ground, saying nothing about Palestinians, but he stood by nonetheless to chat while Ryan finished his work. A Black man approached next, fist bumping Ryan, the two of whom later discussed Ryan’s latest nail polish.

In the video interview with Ryan, he mentions a Poughkeepsie Journal article, which reported on the time in 2017 when Beacon signed a resolution declaring itself a “Welcoming, Safe and Inclusive City.” Ryan had this to say, in 2024, about where the City is now: “Please remind them of their own doings, and then tell me where it doesn't add up, because its nothing new, thanks 🫶🏽💯”

Revisiting The “Welcoming, Safe and Inclusive City” That Beacon Resolved Itself To Be in April 2017

Ryan is not the only one who recalls Beacon’s resolution during the time of Trump’s Muslim Travel Ban, where Beacon and other cities sought to send signals to the federal government and all community members that it did not discriminate based on race or religion.

Palestinian Beacon business owner Kamel Jamal also mentioned this passage during his speech at City Council Meeting in 2024, urging City Council to pass a Ceasefire Resolution, demanding an end to the death and destruction going on in Palestine at the hands of Israel, with aid and support by the United States Government, and several of its local leaders at the state and municipal levels.

This time, in response, Mayor Kyriacou has been trying to “correct” the 2017 recollections of Beacon citizens. During the 2024 night of the passage of the ceasefire resolution by the mostly reluctant City Council Meeting (where Paloma Wake was the lone Councilmember steadily urging that the issue get recognized and pass), Mayor Lee “reminded” the community that he wrote the “Welcoming, Safe and Inclusive City” resolution, and stressed that its purpose was for police directive.

The city was divided then, and remains so. The Poughkeepsie Journal article that Ryan referenced captured the essence of the time. The article quotes below reflect the time, but read the full article here:

Published on April 4, 2017:
“In the City of Beacon, city officials and employees cannot interrogate or arrest someone based on their citizenship status, and will not help enforce federal immigration law.

“Those provisions are among several aspects of a resolution declaring Beacon a “welcome, safe and inclusive city” and designed to help individuals living in the U.S. without legal permission. But while the resolution was passed by the city council by a unanimous vote, the language used in the resolution was meticulously debated, and it proved divisive among area residents who attended Monday's meeting.

“Of 23 residents who spoke during two public comment sessions, 13 supported the resolution and 10 opposed it. Many in attendance wore red or blue to signify their stance on the issue.”

The article continued, describing the resistance to the wording and relevance of the resolution. Relevance is something Mayor Lee Kyriacou continues to push for today, in order to avoid discussion of these sorts of things, which center around racism, Islamaracism and bigotry. He mentioned wanting relevance again during last evening’s City Council Meeting, when he was discussing proper forum and decorum at City Council Meetings and topics taken up.

Back to the 2017 article. It further highlighted an effort by then City Councilmember, Ali T. Muhammad, who is currently participating in protests and ceasefire resolution pushes as a citizen, to include the word “sanctuary,” but received pushback by other councilmembers. As background, the term “sanctuary city” was punished by Trump when he put federal restrictions on funding for such cities:

“While not in name, the resolution offers many of the same protections as designated sanctuary cities. The resolution itself makes no reference to the term ‘sanctuary city,’ and a motion by Ali Muhammad, 4th ward council member, to add the term to the resolution name failed, 4-2.

"Peggy Ross, 1st ward council member, argued that the term ‘sanctuary city’ implied that Beacon would provide food or shelter in some way, which the resolution does not call for. Muhammad, however, said that choosing not to use the term "whitewashed" the resolution.

"Opponents challenged that the resolution was not a matter for the city council.

"‘What sort of benefit does this resolution have to protect our citizens or our police officers?’ asked Joe Galbo, of Beacon."

A Reminder Of The Legal Implications Of Beacon’s 2017 Welcoming, Inclusive and Safe City Resolution:

As reported in the Poughkeepsie Journal: "Under the resolution, city officials and employees cannot ‘stop, question, interrogate, investigate or arrest’ someone based on their immigration or citizenship status or a civil immigration warrant, administrative warrant or an immigration detainer.

"Officials and employees cannot inquire about an individual's immigration or citizenship status unless necessary to investigate a criminal activity by that individual, nor can they engage in the enforcement of federal immigration law, the resolution said."

Demanding Ceasefire Protest Moves To Poughkeepsie For Their Council, Since US Can't Get Their Ceasefire Resolution Right

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Since The United States can’t get their Ceasefire Resolution right (hear from Guyana on what is wrong with the resolution) the protesters demanding a local ceasefire has moved to Poughkeepsie to demand a resolution and vote from their council.

Where: Harriet Tubman Park, 71 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY (off of East-West Arterial, aka Church Street, aka Route 44).
Time: 12-3pm

Protesters will safely occupy the wide, flat sidewalks. There will be cars driving by, so please stay on the sidewalks if you are protesting. If you cannot stand, but can drive through, do honk your horn!!

If you need more reasons to be vocal about liberating Palestine, visit A Little Beacon Blog’s Instagram. All of our posts have been there in the essence of time. We are doing our best to bring them here to the blog for you, for longevity, and for ease of use for sharing to people who aren’t on social media.

These messages were gathered and posted by @sarahofmagdalene.

Ceasefire Resolution Passes In Beacon

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Ceasefire Resolution passed in Beacon! The entire night was dedicated to hearing from the public (except for the decision on what fencing company to award the bid to for Wee Play Tot Park, and the Fire Department Volunteer Members who Qualify for Length of Service Award Program Contribution for 2023.)

The council then debated from 10:30-11pm on a different draft of what was made available to the public, and then voted.

Councilmember Molly Rhodes: Yes
Councilmember Jeffrey Domanski: Abstain
Councilmember Amber Grant: Yes
Mayor Lee Kyriacou: Abstain
Councilmember Paloma Wake: Yes
Councilmember Pam Wetherbee: Yes (after a long think)
Councilmember Dan Aymar-Blair: Yes

Public City Council Meeting Tonight March 4 - Wee Tots Playground, Fire Department, And Call For Immediate And Permanent Ceasefire

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Happening tonight, March 4, 2024, at 7pm!

Peek at the agenda below…

1. Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute an Agreement with WBE Fence Company, Inc. for the Wee Play Tots Playground Fencing Project

2. Approving the City of Beacon Fire Department Volunteer Members who Qualify for Length of Service Award Program Contribution for 2023

3. Calling for an Immediate and Permanent Ceasefire and Uniting for Peace

More details here >

See you there?!