Pre-Pandemic Art Gallery Closure: Interview With Erica Hauser of Catalyst Gallery

Back before the time of COVID, there was unease on Beacon’s Main Street, as a turnover of retail establishments was happening, and the drumbeat against landlords was beginning at City Council, spearheaded by Councilperson Terry Nelson, who represents Ward 1. Because business is personal, reasons for businesses closing can be numerous and not always obvious (see past article about the cupcake shop Get Frosted and Underground Beacon - who was saved, but now recently closed due to COVID).

Catalyst Gallery, formerly at 137 Main Street, run by husband and wife team Erica Hauser and Jon Reichert, was a gallery based on a pop-up model. An artist could rent the space for the month or longer, and host a show. Catalyst was one of the first locations for the For Goodness Bake fundraisers, and Catalyst’s small-works sales.

When Catalyst announced their closure in February 2020, A Little Beacon Blog reached out for an interview, got it, and then the pandemic hit. Our publishing cycle got loopy, thereby delaying this piece. With the opening of 2 new businesses where Catalyst was (the smoother store Blend just opened in the storefront next door, and a pottery studio has just opened where Catalyst was), we are running this article.

Erica was often the face of the gallery, and is a voracious artist herself, when not helping stack wood for her family’s wood cutting business. In February 2020, just before COVID-19 was declared a pandemic and everything shut down, Catalyst announced they were closing. At first there was sadness, which possibly turned to relief after the unexpected shutdown happened.

As a background to this location, the Catalyst Gallery was in a block of buildings that had been owned by one family in Beacon - the Piccone’s - who sold it to a new family of Joe Donovan of Hudson Todd LLC.

A Little Beacon Blog reached out to Erica to gain some insight into the “Why” behind their decision. Her interview is below.

ALBB: How was your landlord? Did you get pushed out with high rent?
“Our landlord has been good to us and I want to convey that. The owners before that were On The Square. They were good too because they kept our rent affordable, I can't speak to how they were for any other tenants. To be completely at the mercy of owners, I mean we could have been gone in two years. But it worked out and we were able to really establish something. For a while. :)

“We were lucky in that our rent increased very gradually over the 7 years, even after a change in building ownership. If it had gone up drastically, we would not have been able to sustain it. We could have managed 1 more year at the slight rent increase for 2020. It was still below ‘market value’ as far as current comparison with other spaces, because our landlord valued us as a tenant, but it would rise again in 2021. We felt that we would be unable to meet our expenses. It would be challenging to support artists and do what we had been doing for the community, for our own shows and for special events (such as local fundraisers and benefits we hosted) if we continued in the same way.

ALBB: Did you consider a business pivot in order to stay in your location?
”I considered changing the model in order to generate the funds, but this seemed to go against the spirit and mission I had started with. While missions can change, I felt that in this case the original idea - providing artists affordable opportunities for exhibitions and creative events in a great, well-maintained location - had run its course. These words were still accurate except ‘affordable’. Over the years Beacon got busier on weekends and the space felt more valuable, as artists could potentially sell more work to more people, but how much more could we pay without asking, who is supporting who?

“Beacon and its visitors did support us, and we were able to make a strong impression in the art community - that a gallery could sustain itself over time, and that artists could create their own opportunities in a more direct way. It’s still a true idea I will keep in my mind and heart for the future, but I began to feel challenged by the efforts and energy required, and distracted from the potential for new projects either here or elsewhere. So we weren’t forced by the rent or the planned renovation that would reduce our space (which they gave ample notice about and had agreed to postpone). I was able to make the difficult decision based on all factors combined.”

ALBB: Where can we imagine you next?
”As far as what I plan to do with the time I am longer spending the gallery, after resting for awhile…

I am a painter and I do some sculpture and mixed media. I lived in Beacon 2007-2013 and in Newburgh from 2014-present. I used Catalyst to show and sell my own work, to curate group shows, to meet collectors or curators in a space that wasn’t my cluttered studio, and to connect with artists and friends. I will miss having the gallery as my home base in Beacon, but I am still involved in the community and have already been offered several options to curate shows and exhibit in different spaces in the Hudson Valley. So that’s exciting to think about.

“I’ve done some local public art installations - [at the time were] on view are ‘Chromatic Substation’ at Beekman and High St in Beacon, a collaboration with Jon - and ‘Colorgarden’ on Carpenter Ave in Newburgh - and would like to do more, including murals. I have been working with a design studio that produces my prints for West Elm, and am doing an artist pop-up with Madewell; I am focusing on new ways to support my work and reach a wider audience. I will be speaking to a college class about my use of color, and perhaps teaching art to teens. Some people know that I stack firewood as a seasonal job, as that slows down by winter’s end I will be able to allocate more time to painting and finding opportunities to keep making, connecting, living a creative life.”

See pictures of what did happen in Catalyst’s life here.

Find Erica Hauser’s Art Here

“Chromatic Sustation” by Erica Hauser and Jon Reichert.
Photo Credit: Erica Hauser

'Colorgarden' for Terrain Biennial Newburgh and is at Downing Park Urban Farm.
Photo Credit: Erica Hauser

'Chromatic Substation' (at Beekman St near High St on way to train station) was originally done for Beacon 3D last June - November. The owner of the property on which it was installed - who also owns the building Catalyst's used to be in - offered to keep it up through March 2020. “They were effectively leasing it from us, so it is not really any longer part of Beacon 3D,” Erica tells ALBB.

Erica installed 'Colorgarden' for Terrain Biennial Newburgh and is at Downing Park Urban Farm, 207 Carpenter Ave in Newburgh.

At West Elm, you can buy Erica’s wall art, follow her on Instagram, and support her in various ways.

The easiest way is to visit her website for latest works!

Erica Hauser’s wall art at West Elm.

New Smoothie and Salad Bar Opens In Beacon: Blend. Here's What They're All About

Blend Smoother and Salad Bar on Main Street, near Lewis & Pine.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Shopping and eating healthily just got a little easier on the west end of Main Street (the end near-ish the train station) with the opening of the new smoothie and salad shop, Blend. Just up the block from long-standing Bank Square Coffeehouse, and in between and across the street from incredibly niche boutiques (Lewis & Pine, a new pottery shop, Colorant, among other retail destinations), eating to-go acai and smoothie bowls, avocado toast paninis, and blended fruits and vegetables just got easier.

But wait - have you seen Blend before in other towns? Yes you have. Blend owners Alaina James and José Medina are from New Windsor, NY, where they opened their first Blend, located at 357 Old Forge Hill Rd. Other locations include Middletown, Monroe, Mohegan Lake (inside of ShopRite), “Blend is not a franchise as many think we are,” says Emily Dolan who works at the Beacon location via email with A Little Beacon Blog. ”Our goal is to make the Hudson Valley a healthier place and we are doing so by expanding locally within different regions of Hudson Valley.”

Why Beacon? ”Blend has always wanted to have a location in Beacon,” says Emily. “It's a small city that is filled with fun, culture, authenticity and diversity. When it comes to eating healthly this is what it's all about; food that's eclectic and great for the body.”

Beacon is not hard-pressed for healthy eating options, as many sit-down eateries offer creative menus with Hudson Valley farm fresh food, including Kitchen Sink (farm fresh rotating menu), Meyers Olde Dutch (burgers), Zaitun (Palestinian), Homespun, Vegetalien (on the east end of town) and many others. Beacon Natural mixes smoothies and offers pre-made menu items, and Studio Beacon has a fresh smoothie and bowl bar.

However, a specialty store just for fresh smoothies, salads and acai bowls is new to Beacon. Emily told ALBB: "We cater to all of our customers individual needs. We care about what we are putting into peoples bodies. All of our fruits and vegetables that we use are 100% fresh and we do not add any sugar or added substitutes. People come into Blend with cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and just want to know what is best for them and that’s why we are here. Not only to make delicious smoothies but also to help our community become a healthy and more health knowledgeable place."

What’s On The Menu?

Fresh flavors are available on this menu of both solid food and juiced. Here’s a sampling:

AVOCADO & TOAST SAMPLINGS:
The Tuscan
Mashed Avocado •Spinach •Tomatoes •Parmesan •Grilled Chicken

Zesty Pesto
Mashed Avocado •Spinach •Pesto •Mozzarella

Green Krunch
Mashed Avocado •Mixed Nuts •Craisins •Chia Seeds

SMOOTHIE SAMPLINGS:
Banana Berry
Strawberry •Banana •Nonfat Vanilla Yogurt

Peanut Butter Delight
Peanut Butter •Apple •Banana •Strawberry •Almond Milk

JUICES & SHOTS
Stress Minimizer
Spinach •Apple •Honey •Banana •Green Tea

Daily Detox
Carrot •Cucumber •Apple •Ginger •Lemon

Fat Burner
Cucumber •Celery •Apple •Ginger •Lemon

ACAI & SMOOTHIE BOWLS SAMPLINGS
Tropical
Granola •Pineapple •Coconut Flakes •Banana •Honey

If you’re a local who wants a quick and healthy bite, a run down to Blend is quick, easy and worth it. If you’re visiting on the weekend and find yourself waiting in line to enter a boutique who is observing social distancing requirements, then you now have a new place to snack and stay fueled up for your Beacon shopping, day to day living, and early voting!

Right now, Blend is aiming to be open into the night, so that evening commuters walking up from the train can grab a snack before dinner. Morning hours start at 7pm or 8am depending on the day. Hours change frequently for stores in Beacon, so always check their website or Instagram first.

3 City Of Beacon Employees Tested Positive For COVID-19; City Hall Remained Open During Individual Quarantines

On September 30th and October 5th, three employees of the City of Beacon tested positive for COVID-19 and were quarantined for a mandatory 10-day period, according to a press release issued by the City on or around October 13th. According to this week’s edition of the Beacon Free Press, City Manager Anthony Ruggiero confirmed to the newspaper that the last person to test positive returned to work on Friday, October 16th. He also confirmed to the paper that “City Hall continued to be open the whole time.”

According to the press release reported on by the Highlands Current, Poughkeepsie Journal and Times Hudson Valley, the City hired Servpro to “thoroughly disinfect all of City Hall on Sunday, October 4th.” The administration notified the Dutchess County Department of Health, and followed all protocols, including engaging New York State contact tracers, according to the release.

According to the Beacon Free Press: “In the release, City officials underscored their ongoing commitment to public health and the safety of its employees, residents, and visitors. City officials remind everyone to continue to take COVID-19 seriously and follow the proper protocols. The need to continue to maintain social distance of 6 feet and continue to wear masks when appropriate and wash and thoroughly was noted.”

As of October 20th, there were 12 positive cases in the City of Beacon, according to the Dutchess County Dashboard. According to Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro, “the Hedgewood Home for Adults in Beacon Assisted Living Facility is considered resolved, with no new positive cases reported and no active cases within the facility,” he stated in a virtual Town Hall Forum. He also reported that Bard College announced a precautionary closure of its Annandale campus to visitors, but the Dutchess County Department of Health (DBCH) confirms there are no active cases of COVID-19 associated with the school.

As for the Marist cluster, Molinaro stated: “The cluster reported at Marist College relating to an October 3rd gathering has run its course, with a total of 30 cases in the cluster, according to DBCH. Marist College lifted its precautionary campus pause on Saturday, Oct. 17th.”

The press release issued by the City of Beacon to various news media has not yet been added to its website with other press releases. A Little Beacon Blog seems to have been left off the distribution list, which we have been included on prior for other releases, like the new business cards for police officers and new initiatives like Hope Not Handcuffs. It should also be noted that the Mayor issued a robo-call during the uptick earlier this month at Hedgewood, but not for this instance.

UPDATE 11/3/2020: The press release has been published to the City’s website, and can be found here.

Wishing everyone the most health and full recoveries.

UPDATE 10/29/2020: City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero says that the employees have recovered, and that there are just over 30 employees in the building on average.

More Good Leaves Beacon Storefront Space - Bottling Business and Syrups Brand To Continue - A Look Back and Forward For This Brand

Longtime Beacon-based business, Drink More Good (DMG), is leaving Beacon. The spacious storefront next to Towne Crier Cafe and Oak Vino, is for rent. Oak Vino had been for sale prior to the pandemic, and all through the pandemic, and continues to be (but has had tasty nibbles…our sources say it may be selling soon). Announcement to come on what that space will become, or if it stays the same.

Jason started as a bartender and mixologist, and began his bottled syrups company with a big vision and a g-chat message (gmail chat…back in the olden days) with an early investor. The brand More Good earned shelf space on several retail stores including Whole Foods, Key Foods, and several boutiques across the country. Jason’s businesses endeavors continued to expand, as he partnered locally with businesses including Ella’s Bellas, Story Screen, and even the Roosevelt Bar in HV Food Hall, as well as other brands in New York and elsewhere. Generosity-wise, his business has always given a portion to Generosity.org, an organization that brings clean water to people who don’t have access to it.

The Expansions Started In Beacon

We first wrote about the syrup company, More Good, when they were moving out of their 500 square foot space on Main Street in the little space across from Homespun, that was used by Homespun for their catering, and shared with More Good (the space is now up for rent) to go further down the street to what has been More Good’s long-running location at 383 Main Street. That location opened with 2,000 square feet as a tea shop with a commissary kitchen in the back. Owner Jason Schuler’s syrup business was growing, and he was using the space to bottle the sweet stuff.

“I took the risk with that expansion because I needed more production space, and I saw a value add for the community as a resource for accessible organic herbs and spices and teas,” Jason told ALBB for this article. “We also opened our doors to other local food and beverage entrepreneurs to help with overhead, and to fulfill the need for a commissary kitchen in our area. We knew there was one because we needed it and it wasn't available.”

While keeping the Beacon tea storefront, he outgrew the space for bottling his own brand, and expanded again into the Old East Fishkill IBM building in 2017. According to a feature in The Valley Table, the new space enabled Jason to take on more bottling clients, where he was “co-packing,” where he assisted other entrepreneurial companies with ordering, manufacturing and fulfillment.

From The Valley Table’s article: “Schuler was producing his own products as well as those of 8 other emerging beverage companies in a 10,000-square-foot space in the former IBM complex in East Fishkill. Early in 2019, the company, in the midst of its first major capital drive, began planning to expand to 27,000 square feet and increasing its production capacity to more than 10,000 gallons per day, up from its current production of 5,000 gallons per week.”

Local insurance agency, Antalek and Moore, produced a client-feature video about More Good, where you can see parts of the build-out of the IBM location.

The expansion was a success, and outgrew itself in a way where one of the co-packers bought the facility. Says Jason to ALBB for this article: “We opened that space in October of 2018 and immediately saw massive growth in our manufacturing business, so much so that our resources were focused on growing that side of the business instead of the syrup or retail side of the business. It was an exciting opportunity and relentlessly difficult. At one point we had over 30 employees and were producing for 10+ companies across several product categories. In 2019 one of our clients realized massive growth, and we wound up selling our manufacturing side of the business to them and vertically integrating our Hopewell facility with their business.”

Jason went on to work full time for that company, and his wife, Morganne Frazier, a pilates instructor and gym owner of Warwick Pilates Gymnasium, took over operations at More Good.

The Pandemic And The Beacon Storefront

“COVID decimated the DMG business, and forced us to rethink and restrategize our entire business plan,” Jason told ALBB. “Evolve or die, they say. Morganne has been rebuilding the vision for DMG ever since. Unfortunately, with the way the economy has panned out, the retail store and commissary is no longer a financially viable option for DMG to sustain. It served its purpose for the company, and I hope for the community too. I built that place with my bare hands and next to no money, literally. There were many days where I didn't know how we would survive to the next, but we did, and we built something beautiful out of it.”

New directions for the syrup company seem like they are revisiting their roots, and tapping into the creative side again, rummaging around in smaller spaces and dirt of the earth, as Jason and Morganne have move out to Warwick, and the syrup shop will once again share a space with another retail business.
”DMG will live on as a brand as Morganne continues to restructure the organization to be focused on online sales and the DTC business, our wholesale business for distribution, as well as reopening a small 300 sq ft shop in a shared space with her Pilates studio in Warwick,” Jason tells ALBB.

“Earlier this year, we also invested in a 1948 Chevy Pickup truck that we converted into a farmstand and Cocktail truck for special events and weddings. COVID has put our big plans to rest on that for a while, but we will be utilizing it as we see opportunity to do so.” Each year, Jason has hosted or co-hosted a fundraiser, and this pandemic year is no exception. A Trunk or Treat 2020 is planned at their new farm, Goodmaker Acres in Warwick, NY, with all proceeds going to Generosity.org.

Meanwhile…

Jason and Morganne are working on a homestead project on their 7 acre farm in Warwick, called Goodmaker Acres. “It will be our next passion project over the next 3-5 years as we build it up to be a sustainably farmed practice that supports the DMG business by growing our own seasonal produce. We will be opening that property up to the public for Upick orchards and berry patches as well. More to come on that as we are in just the beginning planning phases.”

Anybody who watched Jason’s early Instagram photos after he moved into the 383 Main Street space could see how much he enjoyed working with and crushing the ingredients that went into the syrups. The brand leaving Beacon is a loss of a vibe locally, but the beat goes on elsewhere in the world, and Beacon will continue to feel it.

Wishing Jason and Morganne the very best as they expand their family and businesses!

Sexy Nails Leaves Beacon - Replaced By Beans Cat Café - Coming Soon

Left: The writer Izdihar Dabashi holding her newly adopted cat. Right: The storefront of Beans Cat Cafe, formerly Sexy Nails. Photo Credits: Izdihar Dabashi (left), Katie Hellmuth Martin (right).

Editor’s Note: This storefront, 325 Main Street, is in the Ritter Building, owned by Beacontie and photographer Frank Ritter. This location used to be Sexy Nails, the nail salon that many Beaconites went to regularly. In the middle of the shutdown, Sexy Nails left. A couple months later, rumors of the cat cafe started, and A Little Beacon Blog’s writer Izdihar Dabashi pursued the story, which you can read below.

Cats and Coffee… Hey All You Cool Cats and Kittens

Quarantine has been a whirlpool of Netflix binges, seemingly spontaneous pet adoptions, and baking addictions. A majority of us have fulfilled our destinies of becoming Betty Crockers or Crazy Cat Ladies. Personally, I have become a plant hoarder and while most of my plants are thriving, a few have crossed over to the great unknown. Maybe more than a few. At this point, I no longer need to eat or drink or sleep, I simply photosynthesize.

Izdihar’s newly adopted cat, Aladdin, striking the pose for the recent “adoption photo” post. Photo Credit: Izdihar Dabashi.

I will admit, I fell victim to the cute adoption posts posted all over my socials. I am now a proud aunt to a 6-month-old kitten. I love the little troublemaker so much, that I would love more little clumsy kittens teetering around my living room like the Rugrat toddlers. Sadly, there are far too many cons outweighing the pros on my list.

If you have also been thinking about adopting a cat or simply want an adorable cat to cuddle with, then you will be excited to hear about Beacon’s first-ever cat cafe, Beans Cat Cafe, a concept seemingly straight out of a dream (or nightmare for all you Tiger King fanatics). Beans Cat Cafe hopes to create an experience for people unable to welcome cats in their own homes perhaps due to living space restrictions, allergies, whatever the reason may be. New to the idea of cat cafes? They have been trending for a while now, and in 2018, there were 40 across the country, according to The Sauce.

Coming Soon-ish

Beans Cat Café plans to open on Main Street this October, and set a GoFundMe fundraiser to help make it happen. The actual opening date may be later in the year, because it takes a lot to open a business. Owners Jessica Cruz-Strika and Justin Strika were inspired by their own love for cats, and were introduced to the idea of a cat café through various articles. Both owners graduated from Highland and have maintained connections to the Beacon community. While Justin grew up in a cat household, Jessica became obsessed with cats after adopting her first cat, Luca, a few years ago and started regularly visiting Dutchess County SPCA (DCSPCA).

Luca, aka Bean, is credited with the origins of the name of their cat café. The day-to-day operations of the cat café will mainly be run by Jessica, who has experience in the food/beverage service industry, while Justin will continue to work as a Direct Support Person working for the Anderson Center for Autism.

How This Cat Café Will Work

When visitors enter Beans Cat Café, they will be greeted with the café side that includes baked goods from Frida’s Bakery and Café in Milton, NY, as well as a wide variety of beverages that will only be served in the café area. Guests who wish to include the cat lounge in the experience will be offered entrance through the partition walls for a small fee and are welcome to bring their food with them.

The cat lounge will have seating, board games, and up to 8 cats at a time that are all adoptable through Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (HVARS) in Poughkeepsie. All portions of the adoption including the fee are exclusive to HVARS.

Beans Cat Café is currently completing construction in anticipation of their opening later this year. Currently, there is not a set date to open, but guests who have contributed to the business through GoFundMe and Bonfire will receive invitations for a soft opening. There are even Cat Café face masks for sale as part of the fundraiser. More information will hopefully become available as we approach the end of October.

Board Of Education Opens Application Process For 1 Board Seat Appointment - And Do The Qualifications Need A Refresh?

Two Board member seats on Beacon’s Board of Education were open as of last week. One seat was filled with the appointment of Jasmine Johnson, and the second seat is open for applications, the deadline for which is October 9, 2020. Click here to apply to it.

The creation of that process was made during the evening of the September 29, 2020 meeting, at which Board President, Meredith Heuer confirmed via email: “We decided to restart the appointment process for the newly open seat. Applications for that will be due 10/9. Applications that we already received will be automatically rolled over if the applicant wants. Applicants will be invited to make a public statement at the 10/13 meeting and we will finish the process at the 10/26 meeting.”

At the September 29th meeting, Board member Elissa Betterbid added that she thought that the applicant who was appointed that evening “should be part of the decision to appoint for the second seat.” You can watch live and past Board meetings here.

As of the September 29th meeting, there were 4 applicants: Jasmine Johnson (a mother who is Black and went through the Beacon school system), John Galloway Jr. (a young adult who is Black without children who went through the Beacon School system) and Barb Fisher and Travis Fisher (a young couple who are married to each other with children in the Beacon school system).

Regarding The 3 Remaining Candidates

Jasmine has since been sworn onto the Board, and John confirmed via email to ALBB that his application is still active. He said he intends to be a candidate for the appointment again, and would run in a public election if necessary, stating to ALBB via email: “I plan to make any kind of impact I can within the community regardless of if I get a seat or not! I love doing community work and giving children someone to look up to. I clearly have a better chance if I go the election route which is very strange to me but that’s just the circumstances to the situation right now. With a seat on a school board, I can possibly make real changes surrounding youth development. Our city hasn’t focused on it in almost 15 years as far as I’m concerned and it’s time to make it a priority.”

Travis withdrew his candidacy the day after the meeting, stating to the Board via email to them, which he shared with ALBB via email: “It seems clear you will have at least one energetic candidate who brings diversity and much-needed community connections. If I would stay in the running it would be mostly to make sure again you have a choice of candidates with different strengths. But at this point I think it is clear that the strengths I offer are not what the Board most needs in the current moment.”

Barb also withdrew her candidacy the Saturday after the meeting, stating to the Board via email to them, which she shared with ALBB via email: “With regards to the new vacancy, I believe there are other people who are well qualified and willing to serve. So, I respectfully request that my application be removed from consideration.”

During the first appointment meeting on September 29, 2020, members of the Board alluded to another person who intended to apply, and that they wanted to give them a chance. ALBB does not know the name of that person, or if they have since applied.

How To Apply

Links to the application have been posted to the Beacon City School District’s website.

Basic qualifications of a member of the Board of Education are listed in the packet and include:

• must be able to read and write;

• must be a qualified voter of the district; that is, a citizen of the United States, at least 18 years of age or older, and not adjudged to be an incompetent; (Note: a convicted felon is barred from running for a seat on a board of education if his or her maximum prison sentence has not expired or if he or she has not been pardoned or discharged from parole)

• must be and have been a resident of the school district for at least one year prior to election;

• may not have been removed from any school district office within the preceding year;

• may not reside with another member of the same school board as a member of the same family;

• may not be a current employee of the school district; and

• may not simultaneously hold another incompatible public office, including, but not limited to Superintendent, clerk, tax collector, treasurer or librarian, or an employee of the Board. Board members may not hold any city office other than that of police officer or firefighter.

A few readers have asked about the relevance of people who are married and living in the same house running for Board seats at the same time. People asked this prior to the reading this list of qualifications. So, we reached out to the Board Presdient, Meredith Heuer, for clarification. She answered: “We would not have been able to appoint both Barbara and Travis but it is not illegal for them to both apply.”

As for the rest of the applicant requirements, the first one regarding reading and writing is surprising that it is still here. Language requirements were part of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that John Lewis (of “good trouble”) fought to remove, as a barrier to voting. It is also not clear if a Beacon parent were to apply who is fluent in Spanish, but not English. Is there an English literacy test they would take? And if so, would a person who is fluent in English even pass it? Or for parents who are deaf, is there an interpreter provided?

According to Wikipedia:

“The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is a landmark piece of federal legislation in the United States that prohibits racial discrimination in voting.[7][8] It was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson during the height of the civil rights movement on August 6, 1965, and Congress later amended the act five times to expand its protections.[7] Designed to enforce the voting rights guaranteed by the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution, the act secured the right to vote for racial minorities throughout the country, especially in the South. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the act is considered to be the most effective piece of federal civil rights legislation ever enacted in the country.[9]

”The act contains numerous provisions that regulate elections. The act's "general provisions" provide nationwide protections for voting rights. Section 2 is a general provision that prohibits every state and local government from imposing any voting law that results in discrimination against racial or language minorities. Other general provisions specifically outlaw literacy tests and similar devices that were historically used to disenfranchise racial minorities.”

It is also noteworthy that no person serving in a government position can also serve on the Board of Education, except for police officer or fire fighter.

Is it time for a refresh of these qualifications?

Click here to find the application links.

Click here to find the Board of Education videos at YouTube, where you can subscribe to watch them live, and watch past meetings.

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Editorial Transparency Note: Barb Fisher is the owner of Barb’s Butchery, which has been an advertiser with A Little Beacon Blog in the past. The business is a website design client of our parent company, Katie James, Inc. This did not influence the reporting, or the how or why this article was produced.

Beacon's Original Wonderbar From The 1930s :: Open Now :: The Original Story

Photo Credits: Top Left Beacon Historical Society; Top Right: Wonderbar Beacon; Left Bottom: Wonderbar Beacon; Right Bottom: Collection of Barbara Schell Rowan.

Editor’s Note: Back before the Wonderbar that we know today in 2020 was being built, extensive efforts were made to bring a high quality renovation to the movie theater it is connected to, restoring several original details and creating new ones. The current movie theater, Story Screen Theater (formerly known as the Beacon Theater) has temporarily gone back to its roots as an outdoor pop-up movie theater during the pandemic-induced movie theater closure. Subscribe to ALBB’s newsletter because we’re including showtimes when we know about them.

Part of the dream of the movie theater was to have it be connected to food and drink. Right next door! In what was formerly Harry’s Hot Sandwich and several other eateries, now is The Wonderbar, which brings the space full circle to its original namesake from 1934. The owners hired interior designer Nicole Ashey of Burlock Interiors to restore a lounge vibe, and worked closely with the Beacon Historical Society in order to restore as many original details to the Wonderbar as they could.

Diane Lapis, president of the Beacon Historical Society, and coauthor of Cocktails Across America: A Postcard View of Cocktail Culture in the 1930s, 40s, and 50s, with Anne Peck-Davis, has written for A Little Beacon Blog an in-depth history on the original bar..

This article was supposed to publish after the Wonderbar’s long-awaited opening in February 2020, but then the pandemic hit, forcing the temporary closure of every bar and restaurant in New York State.

The anniversary of the Wonderbar’s original opening in 1934 is August 30th. Right now in history, the Wonderbar in 2020 is open in a way it has never seen before during a pandemic, with limited seating inside and a beautiful parklet outside. As you explore its current history, add to your Beacon trivia the Wonderbar’s sprawling early years, written and researched by Diane Lapis:

THE WONDERBAR
THE STORY BEHIND THE ORIGINAL BAR
AND ITS MODERN NAMESAKE COCKTAIL LOUNGE

By Diane Lapis,
Co-Author of Cocktails Across America: A Postcard View Of Cocktail Culture In The 1930s, ‘40s, ‘50s,
and president of the Beacon Historical Society.

Beacon’s offerings of amazing eateries and drinking establishments delights visitors and locals alike. The new addition of the Wonderbar cocktail lounge at the east end of Main Street will remind us of why Beacon is considered one of the “cool small towns in America.” Located in the Story Screen Theater (formerly known as the Beacon Theater) the Wonderbar, opened its doors in February 2020.

The First Wonderbar - 1930s

The original signage painting on the original brick of the original Wonderbar in Beacon.
Photo Credit: Jason Schuler

If you could time travel to one place on Main Street, it would be the original Wonderbar in the 1930s. There, “dressed to the nines,” you could sip a cocktail and dance to the music of Searles Stretch and His Aristocrats! While few folks are alive today to reminisce about this once glamorous restaurant and bar, you can still see the white hand-painted “Wonderbar” sign on the brick wall outside the Theater that beckoned funseekers so long ago.

The repeal of Prohibition on December 5, 1933 changed the drinking and dining experiences across the country and on our Main Street in Beacon. Thanks to Franklin D. Roosevelt signing the 21st Amendment into law, the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol became legal for the first time since 1920. The repeal allowed new opportunities for hoteliers and restaurateurs to open legal drinking establishments where customers could satisfy their thirst for beer, wine, and spirits. Beaconites did not lack for a place “to have a few.” In a town with a beer joint on almost every corner, the Wonderbar stood out above the rest.

Grand Opening Of The Original Wonderbar

Opening on August 30, 1934, the Wonderbar’s co-owners Julius Ginsberg and Thomas Hanlon sought to create a luxurious venue and elegant atmosphere never seen before in Beacon. Fashioned after cocktail lounges and hotel bars in Manhattan, it offered an exotic menu and large dance floor. The restaurant’s location above the old Beacon Theater at 445 Main Street, was the perfect go-to place for the after-theater crowd. [Editor’s Note: See the historical recount of the old opera house that was here, which was connected to the Beacon Hotel across the street].

As a sidebar, part-owner Thomas Hanlon got his start in the food service business in the late 1920s, when he and his wife Anne owned the popular Owl Lunch Diner on North Elm and Main Street in Beacon. The local newspaper praised this small 10-seat burger joint as a “lunch wagon known throughout the state.” Anne’s pies, made fresh at home and brought to the diner in wicker baskets, were highly sought after. The small quarters and good food brought hordes of patrons willing to wait outside the door for their orders. The Hanlon’s moved their business to the theater in 1934 and the diner continued operating under new management through the late 1930s.

Art Deco Reigns In Beacon

Returning to the Beacon Theater and Wonderbar...it was noted moviehouse architect William I. Hohauser who designed the building in the Art Deco style. Nineteen other theaters across the country bore his mark, two of which are in operation today: the Avon Film Center Theater in Avon, Connecticut and the Directors Guild of America Theater in Manhattan. Prior to the Beacon Theater, Hohauser redecorated the famous Rosoff’s Restaurant located at 43rd and Times Square. Other extant buildings include the 30-story Franklin Towers at 331 West 86th Street and 307 Fifth Avenue in New York City.

Photo Credit: Beacon News ~ August 30, 1934. Courtesy of the Beacon Historical Society.

Wonderbar Open For Business - With Dance Floor

The Wonderbar, a winning combo of a tap room, restaurant, and dance floor, was described in glowing terms by the Beacon News after it opened. The News was particularly impressed with the Wonderbar’s “modernistic” designs and beautiful entranceway arch. The spacious dining room was arranged around a specially built dance floor and stage area for the orchestra. The architect’s choice of colors: peach and silver walls, lemon yellow ceiling, and Chinese red banquettes added to the ambience. The taproom’s mahogany decor included 6 booths and tables of varying sizes.

The Original Wonderbar’s Exotic Cuisine

Photo Credit: Beacon News ~ advertisement July 3, 1935. Courtesy of the Beacon Historical Society.

The Wonderbar’s menu, with its attractive rich orange-flocked cover, listed a varied menu in both pricing and selection. One could enjoy a ham sandwich for 15 cents or filet mignon for $1.15. Of even more culinary interest were the exotic food preparations from chef d'extraordinaire Harry Maik, an expert in both Chinese and American fare and formerly of Broderick’s in Manhattan.

The original orange menu of the Wonderbar.
Photo Credit: Wonderbar Beacon

Later, replacement Chef Wong Fu’s specialties were the ever popular egg foo young and chow mein plates, reasonably priced between 40 and 75 cents…unusual dinner fare for Beacon at that time.

The restaurant also served large gatherings, including community groups, political clubs and family celebrations. The Society section of the local paper reported on various parties: one in honor of local celebrity Melio Bettina, for winning the World Light Heavyweight title at Madison Square Garden in 1939; another for the Beacon Democrats’ victory dinner celebrating Roosevelt’s reelection in November of 1940; and farewell suppers to soldiers leaving for active duty. For these large dinners, a “Thanksgiving” meal was served, with all the trimmings.

Now Swinging!

Jim McCabe behind the bar. The orchestra was fitted with a striped canopy like the one above the back bar. The new Wonderbar from 2020 features a rounded mirror behind the bar… reminiscent of the mirror and archway in its namesake bar.
Photo Credit: Photo from the collection of Barbara Schell Rowan.

One of the features that made the Wonderbar so… well wonderful, was the entertainment. A striped canopy constructed over the “stage” created an enchanting space in which vaudevillian acts, singers, comedians, and 6 to 8-piece orchestras performed. Searle Stretch and his Aristocrats, Irwin Banks and his Musicians, the Melody Kings, and the Wonderbar Orchestra, an in-house ensemble played Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The Poughkeepsie Vagabonds included Eddie Mandel, golden-voiced tenor and Johnny Laporis and his guitar.

When the restaurant first opened, Falace’s Orchestra played nightly. Swinging and swaying the night away enabled patrons to forget their troubles and enjoy a night on the town. Jazz, swing, and country music peppered with the popular hits of the day such as Cheek to Cheek, Over the Rainbow, or Mona Lisa made for a special evening. Hanlon was a consummate host who created a fun and lively atmosphere for his patrons.

World War 2 And The Wonderbar - Letter Writing

Through the war years, Hanlon sponsored the “Letter Writing Club,” one of the functions of the American Women’s Voluntary Service. Meeting at the Wonderbar, the local chapter of the AWVS would write letters and collect local newspapers to send to Beacon, Fishkill, and Glenham soldiers in army camps throughout North Africa, the Pacific, and England. Hanlon supplied stamps and stationery. After receiving a package, one soldier wrote back to the club stating that, “the picture of Beacon is a nice one to paste on the wall. Some of the other soldiers might like to show their friends what Beacon looks like if only on a picture postcard.”

Remembrances

Tom Hanlon with an unknown patron. Salty snacks like lamb’s tongue (featured on the right) were typically served at bars during this time period.
Photo Credit: Photo from the collection of Barbara Schell Rowan.

While Hanlon commandeered the bar, it was his wife Anne who captained the ship. The Hanlon’s granddaughter Barbara Rowen fondly remembers her grandparents. “Grandma Anne oversaw all aspects of the establishment knowing that if she wasn’t there 24/7, someone would rob the till. Grandpa Tommy had a big personality and was very friendly with all the customers. While Anne loved people and loved entertaining them, she was very conscientious and made sure that everything ran smoothly.” Barbara recalled that her uncle, Anne’s brother Jim McCabe ran a taxi service. “During the war, McCabe would drive to the Beacon ferry dock to pick up soldiers who were stationed at Stewart Air Force Base in Newburgh, and bring them to the Wonderbar for a night’s entertainment. After grandpa died in 1947, Anne, her two sisters Francis and Nelly, her brother Jim, and Chef Wong ran the business.” The Wonderbar closed 3 years later in 1950.

Decline And Rebirth Of The Wonderbar

The Beacon theater survived another decade until new and larger movie complexes in the surrounding towns appeared, and expensive digitalization forced it to close. From 1968 through the 1990’s the space became a storage facility, then later used by the Church of the Everlasting Covenant. In 2010, 4th Wall Productions produced theatrical productions and performing arts programming at the theater. Five years later, project developer Brendan McApline reimagined 455 Main with a big nod to the past. The restored black and white marquee beckons movie-goers once again! While part of the building was converted into residential units, three modern theaters with an inviting lobby, concession stand and lounge delight the community and cinephiles near and far (read all about it here).

What Is The New Wonderbar In 2020?

The Wonderbar’s parklet, to accommodate diners during the 2020 pandmic.
Photo Credit: Wonderbar Beacon

As part of the remodeling, the retail space to the east side of the theater’s lobby was converted to an intimate cocktail lounge inspired by and named after its predecessor, with a modern take on the Art Deco Style of the 1930s. While Beacon is home to a host of great eateries and bars, the new Wonderbar, owned and operated by Marjorie Tartar, is a welcome addition to this city’s food and drinks scene.

The Wonderbar’s new interior for 2020.
Photo Credit: Wonderbar Beacon

You won’t have to “dress to the nines” to enjoy the Wonderbar’s classy decor. The use of black and white creates a stunning and dramatic effect throughout the restaurant, from the tiled floor to the painted walls, columns, and crown molding. The room’s “loungy vibe” features a magnificent marble-topped bar and a striking backlit curved mirror. Mementos and photographs of the original Wonderbar and the Beacon Theater, including the orange-flocked menu, adorn the walls courtesy of the Beacon Historical Society and Barbara Rowen. Currently, the Wonderbar is offering cocktails by mixologists Lynette Marrerro and Jess Gonzalez, and small plates under the direction of Chef Adam Sternberg. Guests can choose to sit Indoors, dine outside under the theater’s marquee, or order take-out.

Eighty six years later since its original opening, the Wonderbar’s faded white-painted sign on the outside of the Theater beckons passersby once more. Traveling back in time is possible… at the new Wonderbar!

About The Author: Diane Lapis loves to visit and write about historic places. She is president of the Beacon Historical Society and the coauthor of Cocktails Across America: A Postcard View of Cocktail Culture in the 1930s, 40s, and 50s, with Anne Peck-Davis.

Today’s lettering on the window. Designed by Rabe and Co.
Photo Credit: Wonderbar Beacon

Coming Up! Podcast Interview With Beacon's Subway Franchise Owner, Joy Carden

So excited to have the owner of Beacon’s Subway franchise, Joy Carden, as a guest on our next episode of A Little Beacon Blog’s sister podcast, “Wait, What Is That?”

Joy has been in Beacon for a while, but as a franchise owner, she nor her business are usually featured or recognized in a support-local movement. We didn’t even know about her until we started A Little Beacon Blog’s Black Owned Business Directory that Izdihar Dabashi edited (official announcement of that to come with logo design from The Hyacinth Group !) . In Tin Shingle land, we know all about the importance of franchises and big box stores in terms of the opportunities they offer to women like Joy who want to take a calculated risk in opening a business, and makers who want their products bought wholesale and sold in big stores. It’s a big world out there, and Joy is part of it.

She’s going to talk to us about how people treat the store, how she feels as a local business (hint: invisible), her last experience on many boards during her corporate life, and other revelations. Tune in!
Co-Hosted by Katie Hellmuth Martin and Brandon Lillard

Gyms, Fitness Studios Given Green Light To Re-Open in New York State - What’s Happening in Mid-Hudson Valley?

After two months in limbo that we reported on earlier, Governor Cuomo announced the reopening of gyms and fitness centers, and released guidance for reopening gyms and fitness centers, including facilities located in hotels, and in apartment and condominium complexes. The announcement was made on Monday, shortly after a class-action lawsuit was filed against Cuomo, the state, and the State Attorney General to not only get these businesses to reopen, but also compensation for lost revenue over recent months. Several local businesses group-funded this lawsuit, including Beacon Pilates.

According to the Dutchess Business Notification Network, if you follow the guidelines, and submit your Affirmation, you are eligible to open as early as Monday, August 24th. The County or its delegates can perform inspection prior to the 24th or up to two weeks after your opening.

What Must Gyms And Studios Do To Comply?

These businesses must do the following:

1) Review and follow the Summary Guidelines HERE.

2) Review and follow the attached Detailed Guidelines HERE.

3) Complete and implement the Business Safety Plan Template HERE and maintain on-location for inspection.

4) Go to the link HERE and complete the Affirmation and hit submit, which will go to the state of New York. The State will notify the County within 24 hours of the receipt of the Affirmation. The County will then send you an acknowledgement email using the address provided in the Affirmation, and contact you to arrange an inspection.

Indoor Classes And Swimming Allowed By Dutchess County

The governor has given New York counties the option to opt-out of indoor group fitness and aquatics classes. In NYC, Mayor de Blasio has already declared that gyms will not reopen before September 2nd. However, Dutchess County will allow indoor group fitness and aquatics classes with the mandate that the County reserves the right to opt-out at any time for any reason, including an outbreak at a gym or fitness center, or locality, or an increase in the County’s infection rate.

How Are Businesses Responding?

In an announcement from All Sport Health & Fitness in Fishkill, they state “When we first received word that we had to close the doors to the club back in March, we could have never imagined we’d be closed for five months…While we can’t give you back those 5 months, we’ve sure taken those 150+ days to improve our club, implement new protocols, and provide you with a fitness facility that you feel comfortable returning to.” They installed new ventilation purifiers (REME HALO) and filters (MERV13), using electrostatic sprayers and cold foggers to deep clean and disinfect surfaces, just to name a few of the steps they’ve taken to keep their 80,000 square feet space clean and safe. They will reopen on Monday, August 24th.

Gold’s Gym also announced on their Instagram that all of their locations will also reopen on the 24th including Fishkill, Poughkeepsie, and Newburgh.

Closer to home, The Studio At Beacon plans to reopen August 31st pending the new air purifiers being installed as part of the new guidelines. Some of the news measure they will be taking are limiting class sizes to ensure social distancing, have gym wipes available to clients who wish to wipe down any equipment before or after use, and will schedule classes so that clients have ample space in the locker area before and after class. BeBhakti Yoga Center will continue to keep their classes outdoors in their freshly paved parking lot along with Wednesdays evenings at Long Dock Park. They have chosen to wait a little longer before hosting indoor classes again.

Required Face Covering To Work Out with 33% Capacity

This is a tough pill to swallow for fitness businesses and may face some resistance from members. In larger gyms, members can roam more freely between equipment use, face covering is understandable - like having to put your mask on if you leave your table at a restaurant. However, when your facility is only classes like Spin or Yoga, this can be more challenging as you are stationary in one space and the mask can get harder to breathe through as you sweat into it.

Gyms are allowed only a third of occupancy at a time - that’s 33%. For many gym goers, they will need to let go of the idea of just showing up when they feel like getting a workout in and instead, reserve a specific time. This is normal for specialized gyms who are used to reserving spots for a scheduled session or class.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

There will be a zero-tolerance policy as it relates to compliance. If an establishment is found to be out of compliance with regard to indoor group fitness and aquatics classes, the local government will issue a Cease and Desist order which will prohibit the activities indefinitely. Keep in mind, the Governor can amend his determination and guidance at any time.

All About The Prison Books Project That Opperates Out Of Binnacle Books

Photo Credit: Binnacle Books

The Prison Books Project is an initiative from Binnacle Books, here on Main Street in Beacon. Launched in early 2020 with a bunch of postcards blasting into prisons in New York State prison facilities, Binnacle Books has been getting requests in and sending the books back out. Who buys the books for the prisons? You do! Anyone can be a sponsor. It’s a great way to give in a specific way.

The Prison Books Project is an outgrowth of the Beacon Prison Rides Project, which is a free way for people to be driven to visit their loved ones in jail from the Beacon train station stop. A Little Beacon Blog interviewed Mark Trecka of Binnacle Books to see inside of the project a bit more. Mark was published in the Rivernewsroom describing the intricate requirements of visiting a prisoner, and how much can go wrong to prevent a visit (like your own wardrobe violation).

ALBB: How do the imprisoned people make requests?

The basic principle is that we distribute postcards into New York State prison facilities, and then incarcerated people use them (or send letters or emails) to request books. We then acquire the books via one of several channels, whether it's Binnacle's distributor or Binnacle's shelves or we put a query out on Instagram. If the books were not donated, we post them on the Binnacle Instagram and then Binnacle's customers / followers sponsor them, title by title. The books are then mailed directly to the person who made the request.

ALBB: What are they thinking about? What kinds of requests come in? Do they know what books they want? Or do they want a subject, like “I want to learn accounting” or “I want a biography of someone”?

“There are approximately 1,700 people incarcerated at Fishkill Correctional, which is in the City of Beacon. Between 200 and 250 of those people are in solitary confinement at any given time. Incidentally, people in solitary confinement can and do request books from us.”

— Mark Trecka, Binnacle Books

Folks have requested all kinds of books. Sometimes the request is very specific, by title, or they might request anything by a particular author. Fiction, poetry, non-fiction, comic books, academic books. We also certainly get requests for subjects, yes like accounting or finance, abnormal psychology. Sometimes we'll get a request for a book that we can't source and then we send other books that we think they might like, always encouraging the person to pass the books along. Some examples of requests: "a biography of someone who made it out of prison," "a book on how to speak Creole," Shook One by Charlamagne Tha God, Black's Law Dictionary, Haiti: A Slave Revolution, "a book of love poems."

ALBB: Has there been an increase in requests since visitation has been banned due to the pandemic?

There has been an increase in requests lately, but actually it's a bit hard to say if it's directly related to visitation suspension or if the project has just been gathering steam. Regardless, we feel that it is deeply important to acknowledge and support the nearly 6,000 people who are incarcerated within an approximately 30-minute drive from Beacon's Main Street––not to mention the more than 50,000 people incarcerated in this state.

There are approximately 1,700 people incarcerated at Fishkill Correctional, which is in the City of Beacon. Between 200 and 250 of those people are in solitary confinement at any given time. Incidentally, people in solitary confinement can and do request books from us. According to one person who is currently in solitary, reading is one of the only things he can do to keep himself occupied. We sent him a bunch of books.

So, all that is to say that Fishkill Correctional Facility accounts for more than 8% of the population of Beacon. Those people are our neighbors. Fishkill Correctional also has the highest number of COVID-19 related deaths of any facility in New York State. So folks there are feeling it hard. Although getting a free book in the mail cannot solve these systemic problems, we feel that this work is valuable, both as an expression of humanity and also as important material support.

Books can do a lot.

Homespun Moves Mountains (Well, Counters and Doors) To Increase Customer Safety When Ordering

Photo Credit: Homespun

The new owner of Homespun, Joe Robitaille, took over the gem of Homespun, one of Beacon’s most well known restaurants, in November 2019, which included the cafe location down at Dia as well as the business’ thriving catering business also for Dia and other private events. A Little Beacon Blog featured them in January 2020, And then the pandemic hit and he had to shut everything down. During the shut down, he and his three small children would walk to the restaurant where his kids would scooter around the empty back patio during the cold Spring mornings, and he would resist scary visions of what might happen to Homespun if they could not open soon. Throughout, however, in the name of safety, Homespun was the first to close, and one of the last to open. And when they did open, it was with changes.

Homespun opened cautiously as others around them opened doors soon after they were allowed to. Homespun started by selling wine and specialty farm groceries. Joe is a sommelier, and introduced a deliciously curated wine selection (and their new $20 and Under wine table!).

Now with more and more outdoor parklets opening up, Homespun got in on the expanded dining experience by adding a beautiful parklet and opening their back patio. But not before making changes on the inside first. The pandemic made businesses do many things that were on the to-do list that never got done, and Homespun’s minor inside renovation was one of those.

To increase ventilation, the main counter where everyone ordered, and was often a bottleneck, has been moved to the left (see if you can see the difference in coloration on the floor). Orders would go from the register to the prep cook right behind the person taking your order. But now, that prep station has ben moved to the kitchen, with a new food window built for easier food delivery when it’s ready, as well as increased ventilation.

Diners cannot yet eat inside of Homespun, as Joe wants to keep everyone safely outside. As we reported with his neighbor Ziatun, the double outdoor dining space has helped them not rush to open the inside seating. For rain, umbrellas are at most patio tables, and full-coverage tents in the front of the parklet.

Watch our video interview with Joe as he takes us through the changes. News Channel 12 also ran a business story on the changes Homespun has been working on to stay open.

SCHEDULE: Happenings, A ReOpening, A Menu Revamp, And More... 7/24/2020

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Thank You! So many of you last week contributed financially as readers, bought a tote bag, and came on board as a sponsor. Please welcome our newest sponsors to A Little Beacon Blog's super special Guides, where we can bring more about them to you: Lewis & Pine: The adorable shop on Main Street from the designer Yali Lewis who designs the jewelry inside. Beacon is very fortunate to have her, as her style is sleek and stellar. Beacon Mercantile: Your answer for your summertime aromas and perfumes. Toni Hacker handcrafts all of her products right in the store, and even has secret collaborations with other makers. Find our all of this in more in this weekend's email edition! Communities Unite: A March For Justice Day: Saturday, July 25, 2020 Time: 11am Location: Memorial Park Organized by Ali T. Muhammad, sister cities are encouraged to attend, from Newburgh, Cold Spring, Poughkeepsie, etc. From the organizers: "Calling all Black, Indigenous & People of Color (BIPOC): We need you to share your voice in this demonstration of excellence and community." Club Draw Beacon is leading a solutions-oriented sign making session open for all and kid friendly at Memorial Park. Beacon4BlackLives will be leading the March down Fishkill Avenue and then down Main Street, stopping at PohIll Park and walking through the police station. They will stop for a 8:46 second pause and continue marching down through the train station. Then they walk to river front and have speeches at 1:30/2pm and then breakout sessions 3pm. Information > Howland Cultural Center Member Art Show Day: Saturday, July 25+26, 2020 Time: 1pm Take a peek into the Howland Cultural Center this weekend with their Member Arts Show. Mask up, social distance, and enjoy the art. Information > Towne Crier: Stories & Songs with Jeff Daniels Day: Sunday, July 26, 2020 Time: 7pm Location: LIVESTREAM - The Towne Crier, Beacon, NY Price: Tickets $15 (Please note that Towne Crier is NOT selling tickets for the live stream. They are being sold by Jeff Daniels via Crowdcas). The Towne Crier is presenting a live-streamed show with award-winning actor and singer-songwriter Jeff Daniels for an intimate concert experience full of original songs, personal stories from his stage and movie career that only he can tell - and plenty of smiles. Stick around for a 15-30 min audience Q&A following the show. The questions submitted will be reviewed, with some then passed along to Jeff for reply. Tickets > Beacon's Summer Concerts In The Park Day: Tuesdays, July 28, 2020 Time: 5-5:45pm Performances at Pete And Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park. Come out for a free evening of performance, song and magic brought to you by Beacon Recreation. Performances from Compass Arts & Gwen Laster of Creative Strings Improvisers Orchestra. Each week, different performers will be bringing different experiences for all ages to Pete And Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park Information > Fishkill's Summer Concerts In The Park Day: Wednesday, July 29, 2020 Time: 6:30pm Fishkill's Summer Concerts in the Park Series. Each week features a different local band. All concerts are free to the public. Concerts are held on Wednesdays (Thursdays will be the Rain Date). From the organizers: "Please wear a mask or face covering whenever you are not in your seat such as when you are using the restrooms, to and from your car, and whenever else you are unable to practice social distancing. You do not have to wear your mask to dance but we recommend doing your best to distance yourself from the closest dancer." Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!   Visit A Little Beacon Blog's Restaurant Guide for updates on who is open and delivering! EAT CHURCH 511 Fishkill Avenue, Beacon "I don't know how you do the voodoo that you do so well...!" That fresh flavor voodoo that Eat Church is known for is going back to the kitchen for a menu re-do, or menu-refresh - to deal with all of this hotness weather. Keep it tuned here for when they are BACK. Stalk Them In Instagram > Eat Church is a ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon New Temporary Hours! Looks like it's dinner during the week (closed Mondays), and lunch and dinner during the weekend. Pictured here: The Baja Paella. Tuesday - Thursday: 4-9pm Friday - Saturday: 12pm-10pm Sunday: 12pm08pm Order This > Baja 328 is a ALBB Sponsor! The Pandorica’s 6th Anniversary 165 Main Street, Beacon Day: Saturday, July 25, 2020 Time: 6pm The Pandorica invites you to join in helping  celebrate their 6 years of bringing fans together for a unique experience that pays homage to their favorite show, Doctor Who. Participate in the fun and come in  cosplay, there will be prizes!!! The Pandorica Open's/The Big Bang with a live introduction from Jon Davey, the man behind the mask. Jon has played over 40 characters on Doctor Who including but not limited to the headless Cyberman in The Pandorica Opens, he will follow up his introduction with a Q&A from you the fans. RSVP: Seating is limited. Reservations only. Call (845) 831-6287. Call right now.   LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon Here we have Brendon effortlessly styling a pair of Jacques Marie Mage, and guess what...you can front that style pretty easily too. The stylists at Luxe Optique make you feel amazing every time you are in there, and are looking forward to helping you find the right next pair of frames for your personality and face. Go Shopping > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!     BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon Binnacle Books is filling up their Prison Project initiative! This project brings books to prisoners. Each book can be sponsored (bought) by you, and Binnacle Books sends it along to the right person. See details here, and get on their newsletter or follow their Instagram for alerts on when the next batch is available to participate in. Subscribe > Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon Lewis & Pine is reopening! Located steps away Bank Square Coffee, it's that cute little shop that you always want to go into, but has been closed because...designer Yali was having her first baby with her husband Steve! Liora is their daughter's name. Welcome her to the world by treating yourself or your someone special to any piece of  jewelry from Lewis & Pine. Featured here is the "Transformer Necklace." is minimal and elegant, but it's not simple. Their signature design hides a secret: it's actually two necklaces in one! Wear the center bar vertically to create an elegant v-shape or turn it horizontally for a unique crisscrossed style. The perfect necklace for every day, the Transformer goes with everything but looks like nothing else. Designed to transform your outfit. Materials: Sterling silver, Oxidized (darkened) sterling silver, 14K Gold-filled Price: $89 Sale! Use the code: REOPENING for buy one, get one at 50% off on all jewelry purchases! Start Shopping > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you!               BEACON MERCANTILE 493 Main Street, Beacon Beach house vibes on tap? Yes, please! Beacon Mercantile's scent collab with @salt.and.umber is inspired by the perfect beach day. Sun warmed skin on sand. Crashing waves at sundown. Salty beach clothes left to dry in the sun. Pop by the shop today and catch a W A V E. Start Shopping > Beacon Mercantile is a Sponsor, thank you! View more upcoming classes for in the Adult Classes Guide and Kids Classes Guide. ANTALEK & MOORE 340 Main Street, Beacon Antalek & Moore works with a lot of different insurance carriers. One of their favorites is Travelers, who has published a few pool safety tips you'll want a refresher on. Get it...refresh...in a pool... Get These Tips > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you! TIN SHINGLE Tin Shingle is a resource and empowerment platform for business owners, artists and makers to get the word out about their business. This is done through webinars (called "TuneUps") to be watched on replay any time; an online safe-space forum to ask questions and get answers and support; and in-person opportunities to bounce ideas off experts in a live video format. Learn More > KATIE JAMES, INC. Couture branding boutique, Katie James, Inc. has started the redesign of the website for Barb's Butchery. She has outgrown her current one, and wants to be able to work the website herself more. Using Squarespace, elements of ecommerce and blogging are going to be used to sell her new candles and merch, as well as upload videos of her viral TikTok videos. Keep your eyes here. Reach out if you need a new website too! Consulting also available if you're going it yourself. Learn More > Luxe Optique Is Hiring Private Airbnb Manager For Apartments The owners of Luxe Optique own their building with 4 apartments above the storefront. These have been redesigned and include washers/dryers for the short term rental market using Airbnb’s platform. Job Details > Luxe Optique Is Hiring Cleaner of Airbnb Apartments Luxe Optique is hiring a regular cleaning person or service to clean 4 apartments between Airbnb guests. Job Details > Readers: OMG - when some of you asked to contribute financially, we were so humbled. To date, we have raised over $1,500 from YOU, and that has made a huge impact on paying our team. You can contribute any time - from $5 to $1,000 - any amount is appreciated. You can remain anonymous or have your name listed. One Time Contribution > Monthly Subscription Contribution > Promotion Package For Main Street Retail: For $200/month, your boutique or restaurant can be featured in this newsletter and the Guides too, with a new message each week. Get into the lovely details of what you got going on! Did you just put up a parklet? We want to talk about it.  A Little Beacon Blog will continue to promote online classes for fitness studios, who remain closed. Shopping Guide Signup > Restaurant Guide Signup > Beauty Guide Signup > Submit Events Free For Consideration Here > Got questions? Email Teslie@alittlebeaconblog.com. She's super friendly and has great ideas on how to make things work.

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How Sales Tax In Beacon Is Collected - By Dutchess County - And Redistributed

As business in Beacon began to increase years ago, with commercial rents and home prices inching up, A Little Beacon Blog grew curious about the sales tax, and if Beacon was benefiting from any increased sales tax. Furthermore, we wondered, how Beacon was benefiting tax-wise from the growing short term rental market from website platforms like Airbnb.

Nick Page, a local resident and Dutchess County Legislator, as well as managerial worker for his family’s commercial and residential property development company, Hudson Todd, LLC, in Beacon, was wondering the same thing. He embarked on a search, and A Little Beacon Blog brought on research assistant Yvonne DeMoss to pursue finding the total sales tax generated for Beacon. Despite following up with numerous offices, we were unable to find the sales tax number. Instead, we are publishing what we have found so far that helps clarify how Beacon earns back the sales tax generated here.

“Surrendering Of Rights Of Preemption With Respect To Sales And Use Tax As A Source Of Revenue”

Decades ago, Beacon, Poughkeepsie, and some other surrounding municipalities, agreed to surrender all sales tax generated in their communities to Dutchess County to manage. Dutchess County is then contracted to pay out a fixed sum from that collection of money, negotiated over the years through different contracts and mayors, back to the municipalities. You can see the contract originally signed between Dutchess County and Beacon (as well as other municipalities) here that started as far back as 1989 and was renewed in 2013 to go through 2022.

How Much Sales Tax Is Generated In Beacon?

When A Little Beacon Blog started this research project last year, we were looking for the total number of sales tax dollars generated in Beacon, so that we could see if the number was going up or down. Instead, we learned that Dutchess County pays Beacon a fixed sum over a scheduled period of time. Once we learned of the flat rate Beacon was paid by Dutchess County, we wanted to see if Beacon was getting a good deal or not, since the flat rate is one that is negotiated. In June 2019, we reached out to Beacon’s City Administrator, Anthony Ruggiero, to see if he knew Beacon’s sales tax total generated in Beacon, as compared with the flat rate Beacon receives, but he did not: “I am sorry, I would not have that information. We believe it is a pretty good deal.”

When A Little Beacon Blog inquired with then Mayor Randy Casale about it also in June 2019, he stated: “I’ve been looking for the number for 4 years!” Randy did indicate that by having a flat rate that does not change, it could put Beacon in a good position of guaranteed income, should it face a slump or dark period as is has before. This makes the annual budget more predictable. New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli said after issuing a sales tax performance report in 2018: “As history has proven, sales tax can be an unpredictable revenue source for our local governments.”

We have confirmed that the Department of Taxation collects the amount of sales tax generated in Beacon, but will not release it, stating that tallying a total dollar figure would be difficult, as online sales gets tricky when items are purchased from a store and shipped out of state.

Jeff McLauchlin, Senior Administrative Analyst for the New York Department of Taxation, explained it this way: “Sales tax vendors collect the tax and remit it to the State Department of Taxation and Finance and the department distributes the revenue. Sales tax in New York is a destination based. One quick example: A business in Beacon sells to a customer online who lives in Saratoga. The sales tax rate is that for Saratoga and the return filed by the business should reflect the breakdown of sales to different jurisdictions properly. Purchasers who aren’t charged the correct rate or no tax at all are still responsible for paying the sales tax.” Saratoga County also collects sales tax for municipalities, but Saratoga City, a tourist destination, collects its own separately. A finance transparency tool can be found here.

Dutchess County Legislature Nick Page submitted a FOIL to the Department of Taxation and Finance in July 2019 in order to get clear numbers, and was told that the answer would take time to process, might be completed in August 2019, would have a fee for printing pages, and was not guaranteed to be approved.

The New York State Comptrollers office also states that they are not apprised of what the incoming dollar figure is, but does track the total amount for payments paid out (aka “distributions) by Dutchess County to each participating municipality. The State Comptroller’s response in May 2019 by way of Katelyn Israelski, with the Office of State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, was: “Our Local Government and School Accountability division has informed me that OSC doesn't typically monitor monthly or quarterly sales tax distributions by counties, but that data is reported annually by both the county and those local governments receiving funds.”

Katelyn then attached the historical data that they have available for Beacon for Sales Tax Revenue Distributions from Dutchess County. “Unfortunately,” she continued, “we do not have data on the sales tax generated, for which NYS Dept. of Tax and Finance is the primary source.”

The fixed dollar amount that Beacon receives from Dutchess County is as follows, as per the most recent contract through 2022:

The County shall distribute to the Cities of Poughkeepsie and Beacon, collectively, a fixed amount of money from the $25 million dollars referred to in Paragraph 2 above pursuant to Section 1262(c) of the Tax Law. The City of Poughkeepsie shall receive $9,566,212 and the City of Beacon shall receive $4,158,686 subject to the provisions of paragraph 6 below.

Beginning in 2014 and continuing through 2022 the County shall make 21 equal payments of $198,032.66 to Beacon and $455,533,90 to Poughkeepsie with such payments to be made between February 1st and December 31st of each year. Such payments by the County shall be made directly to the Cities on the next business day after receipt of the County's share of the sales tax proceeds from the State Commissioner, by wire to a designated account or by check of the County Commissioner of Finance, at the option of each City.

Beacon will not exercise its right of preemption to impose a local Sales and Use Tax pursuant to Article 29 of the Tax Law of the State of New York to be effective for each year of the term of this agreement as long as the County's Sales and Use Tax remains at no less than 3.75%.

What About Airbnb Tax Revenue?

In terms of taxes collected from Airbnb renters, of which there is a healthy market in Beacon, which was just legalized in June of 2020, Dutchess County again receives the revenue from that tax, known as the Hotel Tax, or in some cases, Bed Tax or Occupancy Tax. Says County Legislature Nick Page: “Airbnb began collecting 4% Bed Tax from Hosts using the Airbnb platform on March 1, 2017. Airbnb remits one payment to the County by the 20th of each month for the preceding month’s activity. The County received $221,918 from Airbnb in 2017. The payments are not broken down by municipality and the County does not have access to the addresses from Airbnb.”

It is unclear at this time if Dutchess County sends a payment to Beacon for a portion of the bookings made in Beacon. According to James Gazzale of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, the collection and tracking of the Hotel Tax resides with the county: “This is strictly a local county issue. It’s separate from our regular sales tax. The state authorizes this hotel tax, but the county imposes, administers and collects it. Your best bet is to reach out to the local county Commissioner of Finance.”

Onward! Consider this story ongoing as we learn more about taxes and where they go.

Dutchess County Projects $20-$50 Million Revenue Decline - 41% Comes From Sales Tax - Of Which Beacon Pays In

County Executive Marcus Molinaro released 2020 projections for a severe decrease in revenue to Dutchess County due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the release, it “includes a projected sales tax revenue decline of $20-50 million in 2020. Sales tax accounts for 41% of the County’s 2020 budget,” County Executive Molinaro said during his June 10, 2020 online Town Hall. The City of Beacon and other municipalities like Poughkeepsie pay into Dutchess County’s sales tax collection. Beacon does not keep the sales tax generated here, and is instead paid out a distribution of a fixed, negotiated amount from the cumulative sales tax collected across municipalities each year. A Little Beacon Blog conducted research into this, and reported on it here.

According to Molinaro’s statement, 3 of the sales tax payments Dutchess County has received from New York State in 2020, reflecting sales tax revenues since March 1st, have been lower than 2019. You can read about where which municipalities Dutchess County collects sales tax from in New York State, which include Beacon, Poughkeepsie and smaller surrounding municipalities.

Molinaro went on to describe a furlough program for Dutchess County employees: “In the wake of a projected $40-80 million revenue loss, Dutchess County Government has offered its workforce a voluntary furlough program, which 66 employees across various departments have volunteered for, and implemented freezes on hiring and non-essential spending. Funding from New York State accounts for 16% of Dutchess County’s annual budget and Governor Andrew Cuomo has suggested the pandemic may result in as much as a 20% cut in state aid to local counties, resulting in a projected loss of $15-20 million to Dutchess County. County Executive Molinaro continues to advocate for state and federal aid for counties like Dutchess to avoid being forced to eliminate critical services and programs.”

Park Your Tuchus In That Spot. "Parklets" In Beacon's Street Parking Spots Are Filling Up

Not gonna lie, turning right from N. Walnut onto Main Street has a new obstacle: people. Instead of a parked car blocking your view as you turn out onto Main Street, you now have a clear view, but actual people sitting in chairs at tables! Not that you would hit them, because you don’t normally drive into parked cars, but the new “parklet” option for restaurants in Beacon is bringing a new awareness of car safety, as well as a much pined for dining experience at our favorite restaurants.

Using the parking spaces is optional, and businesses need to apply with the city. They are then given cones to set up around their parking spots, at no cost to the business (provided by the City of Beacon). Ziatun and Max’s both opted in, and Ziatun added a decorative pallet/patio underneath their seating. Says Kamel Jamal, owner of Ziatun: “The additional parking spaces for dining has been a tremendous help in so many ways. We are more visible, and we are able to showcase our services at a different level. Our rush to reopen indoor dining is no longer a priority, so we can help slow the spread and protect our team from getting sick. Sales have been climbing and nearly our entire staff at Ziatun is back at it and loving every minute.”

Ziatune’s “parklet” with additional pallet patio. Max’s On Main is next door. Isamu sushi, also next door, did not opt for a “parklet” as of yet. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Dining at Meyer’s Old Dutch (MODs) offers the “parklet” experience, as well as dining in their back patio (not shown).

BJ’s opted to not do the “parklets” but does offer new outdoor dining on their sidewalk.

Royal Crepes has always offered sidewalk dining outside, but opted into the “parklets.” Find sweet crepes here, as well as salads and meal type crepes with chicken or cheese.

The bar Draught is taking the step outside to the “parklets.” Normally a narrow standing or sitting closely next to someone experience inside, this will be a way to spread out for the little bar.

The Wonderbar is owned by the same co-owners of the Story Screen movie theather, which took a double hit. Movie theater closed (with recent opening news of Phase 4 put on hold due to ventilation concerns in New York) with the totally renovated, back to its bast, Wonderbar. Shortly after its opening, the pandemic forced it to close. Now diners can enjoy the cocktails and food outside on the newly installed picnic tables. Says co-owner Marjorie Tarter about the “parket”: “We’re making it work! It hasn’t been easy, but these city “parklets” will definitely help us serve more folks in a safe way.”

Across the street, The Vault expanded onto their parking lot. The Vault enjoys an outdoor patio, and a parking lot.

Have we ever seen outside dining at Brothers? While they have a healthy delivery and pickup business, tables outside is a welcome addition.