New Art Gallery Opens In Beacon "Super Secret Projects" Through The Hallway Of Hyperbole - Open 7 Days

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A new art gallery called Super Secret Projects has opened down the hallway behind the boutique Hyperbole at 484 Main Street on the east end of Main Street near the mountain. Says Carolyn Baccaro, co-owner of the space: “We did a small renovation, and now you can walk right through the shop. We're also open 11am-6pm daily, so this is a full-time art gallery in Beacon, yay!!”

The creator of Super Secret Projects, Diana Vidal, likens the space to a speakeasy since one accesses it by walking through the boutique and down a hallway to get to the gallery, she told the Highlands Current. The co-owners of Hyperbole, Carolyn Baccaro and Andrea Podab are known for their collaboration with business and artistic projects, which have involved a pop-up shop at A Little Beacon Blog’s former space before they opened their own shops Artifact Beacon and Wares (which merged into Hyperbole), and a partnership with Beacon Mercantile who later opened a storefront on Main Street until she needed to move out to help a family member with their health.

About “Duality”

The 100% artist-run and curated space will host a public reception for their first group show, “Duality,” on Saturday, January 14th, from 7pm to 10pm at 484 Main Street. The exhibition, which runs through February 4th, will feature the work of local artists Alyssa Follansbee, Darya Golubina, Allegra Jordan, Yunmee Kyong, Elin Lundman, Evan Samuelson, and Diana Vidal.

According to the press release: “Conventionally, duality is defined as an instance of opposition or contrast between two aspects of something. Within this exhibition, we will endeavor to creatively explore the multitude of ways that the conceptual ideas of duality identify themselves within our existential outlook, history, and approach to the world. Like two sides of a coin, or interchangeable roles, a dichotomy of reality exists within us all. The work shown here is our reconciliation.”

About Super Secret Projects

Super Secret Projects is an artist-run initiative created to foster community and facilitate opportunities for emerging and mid-career artists to collaborate, experiment, and share their work. Visitors can peruse fresh and exciting local art 7 days a week from 11am to 6pm with new exhibits every month.

Follow @HyperboleNY and @SuperSecretProjects on Instagram for more details.

To apply for membership, apply to the Open Call for artists, or sign up for a workshop course, visit www.SuperSecretProjects.com.

$1,000 Grants Open For Applications Until Nov. 28 - BeaconArts' Clara Lou Gould Grant Seeks Applicants

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You could fret about cooking a turkey and finding a gravy recipe, or you could put that stress aside to instead apply in time for the possible $1,000 you could be granted from the Clara Lou Gould Fund For The Arts, managed by BeaconArts.

According the BeaconArts: “The Clara Lou Gould Fund for the Arts funds arts projects in Beacon including individual artist’s projects, unique exhibition, performance or public art projects, arts education programs, and community programs that promote area artists and arts activities, drawing attention to the valuable role of arts and culture in our community.”

Clara Lou Gould was Beacon’s Mayor for 18 years. “BeaconArts created this special Fund for the Arts named for Beacon’s former Mayor, Clara Lou Gould in honor of her 18 years of service as Beacon’s Mayor, and in recognition of her support of arts and culture in Beacon.”

Applications for grants are being accepted until November 28th, 2022, and the application doesn’t look too complicated. “While this fund is directly administered by the Community Foundation of Dutchess County, a committee of representatives from BeaconArts makes funding recommendations based on its knowledge of community need and offerings,” says their website.

“We believe in the fluidity of the Hudson Valley arts community and as such this fund is designed to support projects and activities in the Greater Beacon community, including those that may be initiated beyond city limits.”

Apply now, and/or email Suzanne Ball Suzanne@beaconarts.org with questions.

WELCOME Hudson Valley Goldsmith To ALBB's Shopping Guide!

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Voted Best of The Hudson Valley, Hudson Valley Goldsmith has been in New Paltz for the last 10 years and has now opened a 2nd location in Beacon!!!

They are a full-Service Jewelry Store Specializing in Custom and Repairs. They create custom one of a kind fine jewelry including engagement and wedding rings using recycled precious metals, conflict free diamonds and unique gemstones.

Their workshop is headed by David who started making fine jewelry as a teenager. He is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz, receiving his BFA in Metals. He also worked as a stone setter and fabricator making high end jewelry for Tiffany and Co. They have been working hard to make sure their new Beacon boutique is well stocked with silver and gold jewelry, both with and without diamond and colored gemstones. You can see many of their original designs in their storefront where they also carry the work of several other designers. They pride themselves on having a range of styles from classic and trendy to totally unique, and at a wide range of prices!

Check them out in person or online here >

PS* We compiled a Shopping Guide that includes every single shop in Beacon for your shopping and bookmarking pleasure! If you run a shop or boutique in Beacon and want to sponsor this guide, See here about how to be a regular sponsor and supporter of this publication!

Level 2 Includes the following:

  • Storefront Photo: A square photo (your choice) of your business placed in the shopping guide + Logo.

  • Photo Gallery: A few pictures of your establishment.

  • Event Listings: List any and all of your events.

  • Newsletter Weekend Feature: Guaranteed placement in our weekend newsletter, known as the “Happening This Weekend Guide,” but during the pandemic, has been renamed to the “Retail Therapy Guide”

  • Weekly Instagram Post: We will pull a photo from your Instagram every week & re-share it to our Instagram! Sometimes, we will come in & take photos of things we love in your shop & share them with our readers as well. *If you have a photo & specific writing that you want us to share, please email it to us by Wednesday of each week.*

Local Events Happening This Month - Listed In ALBB's Event's Guide

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A Little Beacon Blog shares events happening in and around Beacon all the time! We are constantly updating our list & featuring it in our newsletter to keep you in the loop!

Here’s what we JUST updated and added to our events to fill your October with the best festivities:

Serious. Comedy Theatre Presents Open Mic Stand Up Show
Day: Friday, October 14, 2022
Time: 8pm
Location: 22 Kent Street, Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508 (Old Beacon High School)
Information >
Serious. Comedy Theatre is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog. Thank you!!

Haunted Huguenot Street
Days: Friday & Saturday Nights (October 14, 2022 - October 29, 2022)
Time: 5pm-9pm
Location: 81 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY, 12561
Haunted Huguenot Street will run from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday nights, from October 14th-October 29th. The cost for pre-registered tickets will be $25 for general admission and $20 for discounted admission (for HHS members, seniors, students, active and retired military personnel, and children under 13). Children under 6 will receive free admission. Those expecting to register upon arrival on the evening of the tour will be charged a flat fee of $30 per registrant, space permitting.
Information >

Serious. Comedy Theatre Presents Fire Sale! Comedy Show
Day: Saturday, October 15, 2022
Time: 8pm
Location: 22 Kent Street, Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508 (Old Beacon High School)
Information >
Serious. Comedy Theatre is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog. Thank you!!

Complimentary Screening of Pixar hit “Inside Out”
Day: Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022
Time: 11am
Location: Bardavon 1869 Opera House, 35 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY
Seating is limited; registration is required and can be completed here >

The Beacon Sloop Club Annual Pumpkin Festival
Day: Sunday, October 16, 2022
Time: 12:00pm-5:00pm
Location: Pete and Toshi Seeger Park, 1 Flynn Dr. Beacon, NY
Hudson Valley Pumpkins all sizes & shapes! Fresh homemade baked pumpkin pie with homemade whipped cream, cider, and other delights. Food and craft vendors, children's activities, environmental displays. Free sails on the Sloop Woody Guthrie. Two solar powered music stages. Performers include Betty and the Baby Boomers, The B2’s, Rick and Donna Nestler David & Jacob Bernz, The Judith Tulloch Band, Last Minute Soulmates, Spirit of Thunderheart, Beacon High School Chorus Singers, Beacon Songsmiths, Cosby Gibson and Tom Staudle, Bindlestick Bill, Pat Jones & Laurie Siegel, The Neverly Brothers, Lydia Adams Davis At Pete and Toshi Seeger Park, 2 Flynn Drive, Beacon, NY Free Admission.
Information >

BeaconArts - Now accepting artist submissions for our 2022 Member Exhibition [Must be a current Artist Member to apply]
Deadline: October 20, 2022
Days: Saturdays & Sundays - November 5-27
Time: 12pm-6pm
Location: KuBe Art Center, 3rd fl. Gallery, 211 Fishkill Ave. Beacon, New York
Opening reception & performance: Nov. 5, 4-6 p.m. Second Saturday Meet the Artist reception: Nov. 12, 4-6 p.m.

Beacon Film Society presents... BATTLEGROUND
Day: Thursday, October 20, 2022
Time: 7pm (doors at 6:30pm)
Location: StoryScreen Theater, 445 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
‘Battleground’ is an urgently timely window into the intersection of abortion and politics in America, following three women who lead formidable anti-abortion organizations to witness the enormous influence they wield. As the nation faces the end of Roe, the film also depicts those on the front lines of the fierce fight to maintain access.
Information >

Serious. Comedy Theatre Presents Improv Witchy Jam
Day: Friday, October 21, 2022
Time: 7:30pm
Location: 22 Kent Street, Room #109, Beacon, NY 12508 (Old Beacon High School)
Information >
Serious. Comedy Theatre is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog. Thank you!!

Hocus Pocus Parade
Day: Saturday, October 29, 2022 (Rain date Oct. 30th)
Time: 2:00pm — line up begins at 1:30pm
Location: Bank Square, Beacon, NY
All are welcome to join in costume and walk down Main St. to the Dummy Light. Trick or Treating at participating stores along the way. Beacon School of Rock will have a band playing Halloween music at the Roundhouse Patio at the end of the parade.

Murder Mystery Night
Day: Saturday, October 29, 2022
Time: 6pm
Location: Veterans Memorial Bldg, 413 Main St, Beacon, NY
Tickets are $40 per person. Free snacks and refreshments available. Proceeds benefit Castle Point VA Wheelchair games. Call 203 at 845-831-7750 for tickets or visit below link for more information.
Information >

Harvest Festival
Day: Saturday, October 29, 2022
Time: 3pm-5pm
Location: Memorial Park Pavilion
All are welcome to this free event at Memorial Park hosted by Goodwill Church Beacon! Join us for games, refreshments, face painting, hot chocolate, and more
Information >

 

If you have an event you'd like to submit for consideration, please fill out the Event Submission Form. If you would like to sponsor this guide, or upgrade your event promotion, please click here for details. *Please note, we are a mighty small team and receive multiple emails a day for event submissions. We may not be able to list them all, but you can guarantee a listing by purchasing here >

If you have multiple listings a month, you can subscribe as an advertiser and share a photo/flyer of your events.

The Spirit Of Beacon Day Is OPEN!

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Everyone!!

The "Spirit of Beacon Day is alive an well," said former Chair Gwenno James to the City Council during a meeting back in July, during her final appearance as Chair. She was there to present the new Board who volunteered after she put out the call across different channels, which was also published by A Little Beacon Blog.

A Little Beacon Blog's publisher, Katie Hellmuth Martin, felt the role a natural fit for her, being that she had produced 2 floats for South Avenue Elementary School (and decorated 1 drive-by car in the parade during the pandemic), as well as her experience hosting pop-up shops and other community events in her former office space on Main Street.

Junior (Zayed) Dabashi of Key Food had also volunteered to serve, with his experience running many community events for Key Food's family grocery stores in Beacon and in Milford, PA, including car shows (one of his favorites), and open-to-the-community cookouts at the Mosque in Beacon.

Ali T. Muhammad volunteered as well, and as a Beaconite who served on Beacon's City Council, his commitment to Beacon runs deep. You'll see him on the day of the event with a microphone in his hand, serving as a Board Member and MC.

Nickeya Allen pulled in as Treasurer, eager to serve, as her two young children had attended the parade and festival in year's past, and she has participated with ALBB before via Juneteenth.

The reaction from friends and community members has been consistent, and in two forms:
1. "You are crazy!"
2. "Amazing, thank you!! You might be crazy!"

It is true. Anyone who steps into these roles knows that they have a marathon ahead of them. The difference is this is a group marathon where many in the community want to also dive in, get creative, and express what is Beacon.


This Year's Theme: "The Origin Story"

The theme of this year's Spirit of Beacon Day is: "The Origin Story," and here's why:

Event organization wasn't the only reason the role felt right to Katie. In her introductory speech at City Council for the public to hear, she stated: "When the pandemic blossomed into the racial reawakening across the United States and even in Beacon, NY, I started covering the protests down Main Street that marched to Memorial Park and Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park to listen to people's stories during the open mike sessions.

"As a reporter, I got out of my comfort zone and spoke with neighbors I had never spoken to before, heard their stories about their lives in Beacon, and reflected. In 2020, when September rolled around, I thought the Spirit of Beacon Day was the perfect time to kaleidoscope this. To shine the light on the origins of why the Spirit of Beacon Day was created in 1977." But the pandemic happened, and squashed all in-person events. Gwenno and her committee did all they could to produce a virtual version of the day to keep the spirit alive.

According to an article in the Beacon Evening News from 1985: "For a number of years, the students from the Beacon School System and the community were having some problems that had racial overtones. It was during the winter and early spring of 1977 that, for several days and nights, racial problems became severe. The Sheriff’s department was called into the community to help bring the situation under control. A community meeting was held at the Howland Library."

During that meeting, a solution arose: a community day to bring the people together to better understand each other. This day was called The Spirit of Beacon Day.


The 45th Year For The Spirit Of Beacon Day

In early Committee discussions, the Board members expressed the importance of opening up the day to new organizations to participate. The Committee is so excited to dive into this project to bring it to you, with you. We encourage all of you to apply for a Table and/or to participate in the parade. if you have developed something in the last few years, let's see it! Show it to the people so that more young people can experience it. If you have had something for decades, but never considered participating in this day, please do so now!


Let's Gooooooooo!

Below are all of the ways you can help. Thank you Highlands Current and Beacon Free Press for covering the initial change in leadership! Please follow Spirit of Beacon Day on Instagram for latest announcements.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

VOLUNTEERS
Yes, we need so many Volunteers! Volunteering can include helping parade floats and marchers get lined up the day of the parade, helping vendor tables get set up, connecting with non-profits, speaking to Main Street business owners, putting out yard signs in advance, going to collect those yard signs once the day is over, emailing businesses for sponsorship opportunities, producing Instagram art and posts, running the Facebook page, etc.
Learn More >

GOFUNDME FOR SPIRIT OF BEACON DAY!
The Spirit of Beacon Day now has a GoFundMe drive! Producing this event does cost a bit. Our goal is to raise funds needed for the essentials, and have stipends that we can offer to the schools for decorating their floats, as well as a few other ideas. We do want a cushion so that we are not starting with a low balance at the start of the planning phase. Due to time, we are not having a Fundraising Event this year because August is when everyone goes on vacation, and September is Float Building Time!! All hands on deck.
PS! If you are a business wanting to give, please see our Sponsorship option to get promotion .
Donate Now >

SPONSORS FOR SPIRIT OF BEACON DAY!
Businesses in Beacon are one of the keys to holding the community together. They provide employment, enjoyment, and entertainment. This year, the Committee has developed Sponsor Levels that include logos on T-Shirts, yard signs, bathroom signs (yes! we are encouraging people to use our porta-potties rather than the bathrooms inside of businesses!), and more.
Learn About Sponsor Levels >

TABLE APPLICATIONS
The Spirit of Beacon Day is everything with its vendor tables and experiences. Which non-profits and social entities making a difference can the community reach out to and meet at a table? Vendor tables are limited, and we are keeping it to non-profit and social groups or entities only. Application required, and if accepted, a $35 Table Fee is needed to secure the spot. Food businesses are encouraged to reach out to partner with a non-profit if they want to offer food. We are encouraging After School Clubs to apply to represent at a table, and other groups not normally seen but need the exposure to reach our young people. Non-profits and groups can serve/sell food as usual! Otherwise, we encourage everyone to also visit our brick and mortar restaurants in Beacon, in addition to the rare street food you'll find from the organizations.
Apply Now >

PARADE APPLICATIONS
The Parade for the Spirit of Beacon Day is everything! Open to both Beacon businesses and organizations, this parade does require application so that we can keep track of everyone, and curate the lineup. Consider marching, rolling or both! Show your colors.
Apply Now >

PERFORMANCE APPLICATIONS
We want to hear you play! We want to watch you dance! If you have never performed at the Spirit of Beacon Day before, please apply now. Past and future performers are encouraged to apply. The event is known to attract 3,000 people.
Apply Now >

CRAFTS & ENTERTAINMENT APPLICATIONS
The Spirit of Beacon Day is looking for activities for Kids we will curate throughout Main Street. This includes face painting, hair braiding, hula-hooping, whatever you got going on. The Salvation Army has graciously donated their space again for a Kids Section setting, and we have a few other places in mind for Pop-Up Experiences.
Apply Now >

KEY FOOD FIRST SPONSOR AS "BEACON OF LIGHT SPONSOR"
In addition to being a Board Member, Junior Dabashi surprised the Committee with a Sponsorship as our first "Beacon Of Light Sponsor" ($2,000) Sponsor. Key Food Beacon is a longtime participant in the Spirit of Beacon Day as a donor and table participant. This capital enabled the Committee to secure the porta-potties - with an extra ADA compliant unit that fits wheelchairs. We were also able to begin securing a bagpipe band. Thank you JB Said and Junior Dabashi!
Learn About Sponsor Levels >

LAST OUTPOST SUPPORTS AS FIRST "SPIRIT SPONSOR"
As Junior and Katie were walking around Main Street, saying hello to business owners and touching base with them, the Last Outpost store voiced their strong support for the Spirit of Beacon Day, and came on as our first "Spirit Level Sponsor" ($250)! They carry amazingly rugged things in there, and do check out their custom Beacon made merch.
Learn About Sponsor Levels >

ROUNDHOUSE SUPPORTS AS "BEACON OF LIGHT SPONSOR"
One of the most historic buildings in Beacon, and a longtime major sponsor of the Spirit of Beacon Day, the Roundhouse has signed on as a "Beacon Of Light Sponsor" ($2,000)!
Learn About Sponsor Levels >

LOGO DESIGN CONTEST FOR SPIRIT OF BEACON DAY
The Committee for the Spirit of Beacon Day is launching a Logo Design Contest for the design of the Spirit of Beacon Day logo, now celebrating its 45th year. The winning logo will be awarded $300, and be used on all signage, website, social media, merchandise, etc. All entries will be published for viewing, so that everyone can see the range of ideas.
Get Design Direction >

 

Guides To Beacon

When you come to Beacon for the Spirit of Beacon Day, use A Little Beacon Blog's all-inclusive Restaurant and Shopping Guides to prepare you for where to shop and eat. You will buy food from the organizations in the festival who are serving up their own fundraising-based food, but you will also be walking into restaurants for more delicious dishes you don't want to miss. And the shopping....oh the shopping in Beacon is so good!

Staff at Dia Announce They Want To Unionize: Want Higher Pay and More Job Security

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On Monday, a representative from the union UAW Local 2210, which is a union for technical, office, and professional workers, announced that the staff at Dia Foundation for the Arts are the latest group of arts and culture workers to unionize. Local 2110 UAW also represents workers at the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MASS MoCA, the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Brooklyn Museum, Columbia University, Film Forum, Teachers College, ACLU, Center for Reproductive Rights, The New Press, and many more.

Staff unionization would be for professional and non-professional staff of Dia Art Foundation. The unit includes approximately 135 full and part-time staff located in New York City, Beacon, NY, Long Island and New Mexico. According to the press release, staff members cite low pay, job insecurity, and lack of recognition as reasons for unionizing.

"Until this month, gallery attendants at Dia Beacon site were paid a maximum of $15.30 per hour, even for those of us who have been here for over a year,” said Joel Olzak, a Gallery Attendant at Dia Beacon stated in the press release. “We just got a one dollar raise, but it still leaves us below a livable wage for a single person in Dutchess county. According to MIT data from this year, we need to be earning over twenty dollars an hour."

Alex Vargo, who has worked in Dia’s Learning and Engagement Department for seven years, said in the press release: “I work in art education because I believe that museums can be sites for transformative learning opportunities. All workers at Dia contribute to making art accessible to the public, and unionizing recognizes the importance of our contributions and gives staff a greater collective voice in shaping Dia's future."

According to UAW Local 2110, the last few years have seen thousands of workers in cultural institutions decide to unionize. Employees at the Jewish Museum, the Guggenheim Museum, Whitney Museum of American Art, the Brooklyn Museum, the Hispanic Society of America, Film Forum, Anthology Film Archives, MASS MoCA, Film at Lincoln Center, Studio in a School, the Portland Museum of Art, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston voted to unionize with Local 2110 since November 2020. Many reference similar issues of low pay, and lack of job security or opportunity.

“How can Dia, with its prestigious Board and reputation, justify paying us so much less than a livable wage,” Olzak added in the press release. “Dia’s development in Beacon has actually driven up the cost of housing here. Most of us can’t afford to live in the area, not on Dia wages.”

Vernon Byron who has worked at Dia for eleven years, adds. “I am unionizing to ensure that my colleagues and I have more opportunities for development in addition to achieving a living wage and more sensible working conditions.”

Dia Art Foundation is a contemporary arts organization with a major collection site in Beacon, NY, an exhibition and programming space in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, and several site-specific installations across Manhattan, Long Island, New Mexico and Utah.

On Friday, July 15, Technical, Office, and Professional Union Local 2110 UAW petitioned the National Labor Relations Board for a union election of professional and non-professional staff of Dia Art Foundation. The unit includes approximately 135 full and part-time staff located in New York City, Beacon, NY, Long Island and New Mexico. The union has a reputation for its successful organizing and bargaining.

GoFundMe Donation Page Created For Amy's African Braids; Business Lost In Fire At Mr. Bell's Salon

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Amy’s African Braids was located inside of Mr. Bell’s salon. A Little Beacon Blog has been writing about Amy’s African Braids ever since she was open in Sexy Nails (now the cat cafe after the nail salon moved out during the pandemic), then in a spot in the strip at the car wash which she moved out of in 2019, and into Mr. Bell’s.

On the afternoon of the fire, one of Amy’s stylists had just left for the day, before the fire broke out. She returned to the salon after being called about the news that everything was destroyed in the fire. When A Little Beacon Blog asked her if she lost assets that she needed to braid customer’s hair, she stared blankly, and could only answer that she was thankful that she was not inside when the fire started. When asked where she would continue her braiding, she remained bewildered and thought maybe from her home.

Now that some time has passed, Amy’s Braids has launched a GoFundMe page. A Little Beacon Blog is in direct contact with Amy. After all of these years, our paths have crossed, as one of ALBB’s children is best friends with Amy’s nieces.

To learn more about her business, Amy answered a few questions. She’s looking for chairs, mirrors, hair, and products. Usually different hair is purchased in advance, and some is in stock at the salon for the stylists to braid into different styles. Both men and women come in from every 2 weeks to a month to have their hair braided in protective styles, depending on the occasion. Braiding starts at $40 and goes up.

ALBB is finding out where people can find Amy’s African Braids now, for those who need her for style refreshes or new designs. This article will be updated. As of now, to be out of work and all tools and products lost, the GoFundMe is the most important.

Click here to donate now >

GoFundMe Page Created For Mr. Alvin Bell. Wife Shirley Bell Confirms She Is Connected! Donate Now (Or Again!)

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UPDATE!
Mr. Bell’s GoFundMe Fundraiser >

Amy’s African Braids Fundraiser >

When Mr. Alvin Bell’s decades old and beloved salon burned in a fire last week, destroying everything including professional tools and memory markers, the community rushed to want to help him. A GoFundMe page couldn’t have been created fast enough to satisfy the amount of people who asked A Little Beacon Blog if a donation page had been started yet.

Ears to the ground, we waited to hear. It was slow going at first (a 24 hour turnaround in this case was too long). Mr. Bell is in his 80s, so things might take a while. Taking to the streets to find the answer, we found a family member of Mr. Bell, who had heard something was in the works. The following day, word spread that a GoFundMe page had been created, but nobody knew who the creator was.

Beaconites, and New Yorkers in general, are a skeptical bunch. ALBB got Mr. Bell’s phone number, and even he didn’t know about the GoFundMe page. He asked that we wait until he learned more.

According to the GoFundMe, the creator, Nathan Chackerian, had created the page with deep concern for getting Mr. Bell back into a salon, and was working with Mr. Bell’s wife, Shirley, to make this happen. According to Nathan’s Facebook, which he confirmed to ALBB, Nathan moved to Beacon around March 2022, and is ninja warrior full stack developer who is currently developing a new social media app.

Nathan told ALBB: “My mom is the person that knows him the best. I like Beacon so far and am trying to get to know more people my age in town.” He says he has been to Bank Square often.

Nathan set the goal for $6,500, and many Beaconites began donating. ALBB called Mr. Bell again, who this time, handed the phone over the Shirley. With confidence and enthusiasm, Shirley confirmed that Nathan and a person named Alexander were helping, and that the GoFundMe page is legit.

Nathan has already updated the page by saying he hadn’t expected such a generous turnout, and did not know the true cost of recreating a salon. According to his update, he is going to post itemized assets provided by Shirley that they would need. “They are hoping to stay on Main Street,” Nathan told ALBB.

Said Nathan in an update about the low-ish goal: “The $6500 number was an off-the-cuff estimate from someone who knows nothing about what they do (me)- it might be somewhat low. They had six chairs - three for braiding and three for barbering services and wash stations and cabinets with mirrors plus equipment. At the time we started this campaign, I had no idea we could get anywhere near that number... but now that we see what extraordinary kindness is possible, we might increase it here - or otherwise ask private donors for help purchasing any remaining items.”

The power remains off at Mr. Bell’s as well as John the Cobbler next door, whose shop also endured smoke damage. Said Nathan in an update on the donation page: “I am told that this week they may have access to the space to see what, if anything, can be salvaged - I will plan to shoot a quick video of the interior to post here-- and then leave them alone at what is likely to be an emotional time. Thank you again for your outstanding generosity.“

You can learn more about the donation campaign here, and make your donation! >

If you donated once, maybe donate again!

Mr. Bell's & Amy's Braids Salon Businesses Destroyed In Fire On Main Street In Beacon

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UPDATE 7/12/2022: GoFundMe fundraisers have been created!
Click here for Mr. Bell’s GoFundMe Fundraiser.

Click here for Amy’s African Braids GoFundMe Fundraiser.

On Wednesday afternoon (7/6/2022) at around 3pm, several fire engines pulled up to Main Street and Willow Street, and did not leave. Several more fire trucks from other fire engine companies pulled into town, including Rombout Fire Company, an all volunteer company serving the Town of Fishkill, as well as multiple trucks from Central Hudson.

With such a collection of trucks over the course of several hours, one might have expected to see flames billowing out of a building on Main Street. But no such flames were seen, nor billows of black smoke against the blue sky.

However, inside of Mr. Bell’s Unisex Main Street Beauty Salon, a line of fire had spread up a wall to the back going up the ceiling, with smoke coming out the bottom of the front door, according to a local person who spoke with the woman who first reported the fire.

Mr. Alvin Bell’s shop, before the fire. Read all about his decades-long history with Beacon.

No one was inside the shop, and no one was hurt. Mr. Alvin Bell and his wife Shirley were at home, done for the day, and the stylists of Amy’s Braids had left the shop and locked up, according to Mr. Bell and a stylist from Amy’s Braids. If you don’t know Mr. Bell, he is iconic, and a deep part of Beacon, having opened his shop decades ago after being laid off as the lead pressman at the Nabisco box printing factory, which is now Dia. He restarted his career at the age of 54, following his wife in hair styling, which was his passion at a very young age.

According to a local person, a woman was handing out free pizza from Big Vinny’s, the new pizza and cannoli shop (not new to New York, however), and noticed a line of fire traveling up the right side wall and up the ceiling, with smoke pouring out of Mr. Bell’s and called 911.

The fire engines arrived and worked to control and put out the fire. According to a firefighter, Beacon’s Chief Gary VanVoorhis will put out a media release soon, as the investigation is ongoing.

According to a neighbor, some smoke spilled into neighboring units, including John’s Shoe Repair, the cobber ALBB has blogged about before. When approached to see what of his business assets were damaged, the cobbler was the most concerned about retrieving customer’s shoes for them, rather than commenting about any loss.

After the fire was put out, Mr. Alvin Bell and his wife Shirley stood outside of their shop, bewildered. Shriely what as a total loss, saying they had lost everything. Furniture, photos, memorabilia. On the walls were photos of their lives as they grew the salon business in Beacon, as well as Shirley’s career. She started as a stylist, and pivoted to West Point, where she retired as a government inspector. The photo of that retirement, she said, seemed to be gone in the now rubble of the shop.

Mr. Bell was chipper as usual, in his ever-dapper clothes, but he expressed the most concern about his photo with Pete Seeger, as well as his boxing gloves. A Dutchess County Fire Investigator brought to Mr. Bell a stack of jewelry boxes, with at least one containing cuff links. His next recovered item was a suitcase that Mr. Bell was quite excited about.

However, the inspector could not yet find the photo of Pete Seeger, but suggested that a pair of boxing gloves might be salvaged.

The stylist at Amy’s Braids was equally stunned, amazed this had happened. When asked if she lost anything, she only commented that she was simply grateful she was not inside to get hurt. When asked where she could be found braiding again, she slightly shook her head and suggested her home.

Business Directory Update: Personal Shopper - Abijah Spence

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Abijah Spence is a self employed gig worker who reached out to A Little Beacon Blog about being included in ALBB’s Black Owned Business Directory for his Personal Shopping & Delivery service. That’s the kind of hustle it takes to start and run your own business. After years of working in the Gig Economy, and experiencing the pros and cons of several delivery apps, Abijah’s favorite delivery app to use is the Dumpling app. “This is the only app that lets me set my own price for delivery charges, doesn’t take my tips like other big delivery companies have tried to do to me, and gives me control over how I grow my business,” Abija told A Little Beacon Blog.

Abijah is a Personal Shopper who can get things for you from stores that are synced with the app like Key Food Beacon , Aldis, Hannaford, CVS, Home Depot, and more. But the app also allows for you to type in your own store not in the list. We tried it with Brett’s Hardware for leaf/lawn bags that we have been needing for weeks but keep forgetting to pick up and need them now but can’t get to the store. Abijah will be on his way! Schedule him now.

“Honestly, the Dumpling app is very easy,” Abijah told us. “Anywhere you want me to go, you type in the store if it’s not already in the list, and type in what you want. The app stores your credit card, and when I go in to pick up your things, the store charges your card that’s on file with the app. I don’t see your card - only Dumpling holds that info. I bring you the receipt of exactly what you purchased, if it was on sale, etc.”

To get Abijah, visit ALBB’s Business Directory where we link directly to him. You’ll need to download the Dumpling app. Easy.

Thank you to all of the business who list their services as sponsors of ALBB. If you want to list your business and become a sponsor of ALBB’s Business Directory, you can find out more information here! >

It's Official! Second Saturday In Beacon Is BACK! BeaconArts Has Spoken.

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You all have been asking: “Is Second Saturday still going on in Beacon?” and ALBB’s answer has been: “The spirit of Second Saturday has never left. The art galleries are still having their openings. There just hasn’t been, like, a banner hanging over Main Street or something like that. But go! Go to the galleries!”

This week, the organization who originated Second Saturday in Beacon, BeaconArts, announced that Second Saturday was officially BACK. BeaconArts announced to its newsletter community: “A full calendar of events is on its way! We’re also in the process of adding more benefits for BA Membership on every level. Perks will include discounts, workshops, and exclusive member-only events.”

So far, BeaconArts will promote Second Saturday on their Instagram, which you can follow here.

The galleries and shops exhibiting art that BeaconArts is promoting for May 14th include: Garage Gallery Beacon, Hudson Beach Glass, Fridman Gallery, Bau Gallery, Mariala Gostudio 502, Marion Royael, Silica Studio 845, Rick Rogers Studio, Hyperbole, Clutter Magazine, and Landmark Beacon (this is the former Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church that currently serves as an event space).

You can join BeaconArts here as an artist, individual or business.

Beacon does not disappoint with being able to not contain itself for excitement! The Pink Unicorn has been spotted at Marion Royael Gallery with a bubble machine for Second Saturday pre-game. ALBB was lucky to have met the person behind the costume at a recent I Am Beacon mixer at Homespun this week. We know the story behind how they got their costume. They’ll need to chime in to let us know if we can share the behind-the-scenes story.

Next Event From BeaconArts

In their own words: “Our first member meet-up! This event will include a special musical performance. We encourage all members who attend to bring a non-member guest. If you’re not sure if you are still a member, please email treasurer@beaconarts.org. Renewing your membership or joining online is super easy! These meetings/gatherings will be held bi-monthly for all BeaconArts members. If you’re not a member yet, you can sign up on the spot. We’re easy, no pressure! Come check it out. This is a chance to meet like-minded artists and local businesses. Each get-together will include the latest BA news and updates, member announcements, a brief artist talk or performance, and ample time to network and grab a drink. The first round is on the house, followed by a cash bar.”

New Board Members Announced For BeaconArts

Along with the announcement for upcoming networking events, BeaconArts announced their new board member lineup:

President: Matthew Agoglia
Vice-President: Damon Banks
Treasurer(s): Christine Olivier, Aaron Ketry
Secretary: Becky Eaton
Board Members At-Large: Samantha Palmeri, Suzanne Ball, Denise Gianna, Marilyn Mitchell

World Keffiyeh Day Celebrated In Beacon By Ziatun & Others :: Turns Into Tragic Day As World Mourns Killed Palestinian-American Journalist

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Palestinian merch for sale at Ziatun.

It’s World Keffiyeh Day, and in the little city town of Beacon, this is being greatly celebrated by the Palestinian restaurant, Ziatun on Main Street. Owner Kamel Jamal’s sister, Khitam (who used to go by Kate and reverted back to her Palestinian name last year after Palestine was particularly annihilated in the escalated conflict with its occupier Israel last May), contacted ALBB to spread the word that the keffiyeh scarf, which started as a farmer’s scarf for protection against the sun but was adopted as a resistance scarf to occupiers, was being celebrated today, May 11th.

You can buy keffiyeh scarves at Ziatun, or order online at Handmade Palestine, who still has a factory in Palestine. Many Palestinian businesses are destroyed or strangled by Israeli forces by way of cutting off water or electricity or limiting shipments, so supporting local business in Palestine matters.

Says Kamel about what the keffiyeh means to him: “Every day the keffiyah means something different. Today the keffiyeh means ‘unapologetically Palestinian’”

The Embassy for the State of Palestine - South Africa, commemorated World Keffiyeh Day with this statement: “Today is World Keffiyeh Day, a global movement to bring awareness and show solidarity with the Palestinian cause and struggle. The commemoration educates the world about the ongoing occupation of Palestine, by wearing a Keffiyeh. #FreePalestine #KeffiyehDay #worldkeffiyehday”

While there is an embassy and many official records recognizing Palestine, Kamel says that sometimes people walk into his restaurant, take a look around at his homages to his homeland of Palestine, and then tell him that Palestine does not exist. He shared this reality in passing the other day while sauntering down the sidewalk with ALBB after giving us a tour of the new building he just bought (!!!). “People come in and tell me that Palestine doesn’t exist. They ask why we show it on the walls.”

It’s a confusing statement to receive, as Kamel was born there and left at the age of 2 when his family was sponsored by a friend to come to America. Listen to his podcast here to learn all about it. But in online reviews for Ziatun, there was a person who left a bad review because they were so offended by the Palestinian decor. They stated that they preferred Israel only for that region. Israel is generally viewed as an occupier of Palestine, who encroaches on Palestinian land over the years.

While some people may prefer for Arab people to disappear, as we saw with the slice and dice treatment of Arab-owned Key Food Beacon in the series of mis-steps and entitlement they endured at the hands of a customer, legal system, local newspaper, possibly Beacon Police, and a complete dismissal by Beacon’s current City Administrator, Arabs are not going anywhere. Obviously. They would just prefer that if you were going to enjoy their authentic food, that you stick up for them a little bit.

Palestinian Journalist Murdered By Israeli Forces On World Keffiyah Day

Dedication to the iconic journalist Shireen Abu Akleh by World Keffiyeh Day on Twitter.

In an unexpected and tragic turn of events, Al Jazeera Arabic’s iconic journalist, Shireen Abu Akleh, was shot in the head today while covering the current escalation in the West Bank. Word has been spreading to Western media outlets, as outrage in social media swells. Especially after the New York Times ran the headline of her simply having “died.”

According to fellow reporters who were with her, as reported by Al Jazeera: “We were four journalists, we were all wearing vests, all wearing helmets,” Hanaysha said. “The [Israeli] occupation army did not stop firing even after she collapsed. I couldn’t even extend my arm to pull her because of the shots being fired. The army was adamant on shooting to kill.”

The New York Times that outraged many for its neutered headline.

During Ramadan as Muslims prayed at Al-Aqsa Masque in Palestine/Israel, journalists released videos of themselves being shot at as they tried reporting on Muslim people praying at that mosque being dragged away by Israeli forces. A source to find those videos is Muslim Daily on Instagram.

As reported by Al Jazeera, here is a background on Shireen:

“Abu Akleh, who was a dual Palestinian-American national, was one of Al Jazeera’s first field correspondents, joining the network in 1997.

“Grief and sorrow filled the Al Jazeera offices in downtown Ramallah as the news quickly spread and dozens of colleagues, fellow journalists, friends, and Palestinian figures poured in, including Palestinian politicians Hanan Ashrawi and Khalida Jarrar.

“Palestinian MP Khalida Jarrar said that Abu Akleh was the voice of Palestinians and was killed by ‘the monstrosity of Israeli colonialism and occupation’.

“Shireen was always my voice from the prison cells,” Jarrar told Al Jazeera, adding that a month into her last detention by Israel, Shireen was the first person she saw at her court hearings.”

Last year at this time, Al Jazeera’s Gaza building was blown up by Israel military.

ALBB Takes A Trip To Homespun Foods Backyard Patio For Lunch - Those Crispy Onions - Those Tulips!

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ALBB took a Lunch Date over in the garden at Homespun Foods! Teslie (Program Manager) got the citrus salad and added salmon (good choice)… “refreshing and so delicious”, and Katie (Owner of ALBB) got the burger because “those crispy fried onions are too hard to resist!” We got to flip through the wine list that the writer, sommelier and owner Joe hand-stitched together. Love this about business owners who let their passions overlap into each other.

Teslie and Katie don’t make many appearances here on the blog, but we wanted to show you the tulips. The backyard garden is gorgeous and so relaxing! Learn about all of the restaurants in A Little Beacon Blog’s Restaurant Guide here.

A Little Beacon Blogs sister company, Katie James, Inc., designed Homespun Foods website and created features that allow them to bring their restaurant to life and offer their beer store online! And a beer subscription for craft beers! Yup, you can subscribe to beer right on their website. You can also view their full menu online and order for pickup right through their site. Definitely make sure to check out their daily specials page and keep up with all they have going on!

UPDATED Monday's First Incident At Sunoco As Man Allegedly Fights Himself

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Updated 6/2/2022: The Police Report came in via FOIA and has been expanded upon below.

As first reported by a 10 year old who was shopping the well-stocked candy section of the the Sunoco on Main Street, a man entered the store on Monday, May 2nd at 6pm and allegedly began knocking things over while employees remained calm and called the Beacon Police, who came an took the man away. A Little Beacon Blog has reached out to the Beacon Police for comment, but has not received a response. A FOIL has been submitted requesting the Police Report.

According to an adult with knowledge of the event, the man appeared to be young, in his 20s, and possibly Hispanic. He was hitting and fighting with himself to the point of bleeding, knocking over displays, and cursing to himself. An employee stood back to be safe, and the Beacon Police were called. The incident was recorded on the store’s surveillance video.

This incident was a week prior to the next major incident at Sunoco that was seen by several people and discussed in social media.

Details According To The Police Report

According to the Police Report CR-00370-22, Blotter/CC 002503 sent to A Little Beacon Blog via FOIA request, the following details were learned:

Officer Tyler Rath was one of the responding officers and wrote the Police Report, which described the scene with the man, later identified as SU Gevork Muradyan, who was wearing a backpack and seemed to be under the influence. According to the report, there as gas station property destroyed and littered throughout the store. An itemized report detailed the items included flare ammunition, spare phone battery, toothbrush t-shirt, and other items.

According to the officer, Muradyan’s face was in ice cream cooler, and he was "writhing around." Officer Garofolo assisted Officer Rath with approaching the man to remove him from the store and place him into handcuffs.

"Muradyan was observed to be bleeding from a laceration on his forehead and was moaning incoherently and not responding when asked by officers to what he had taken.” Muradyan was unable to walk and had to be escorted out of the gas station by officers where his backpack was removed.

When the officers searched Muradyan, they retrieved a loaded flare gun from his right pants pocket. Officers put him into the car, as they stated that he could not put himself into the car "due to his current mental state."

When Muradyan reached police HQ in their marked unit #5, EMS had been called to evaluate him. His vitals were fine, but he still seemed under the influence. When asked what he had taken, he responded "Meow meow."

Officer Rath rode with Muradyan in the ambulance to St. Lukes for further evaluation. Detective Sergeant Jason Johnson and Sergeant O'Connor processed the scene, and Officer Rath retrieved Muradyan's bicycle that was left in the front of the store. The bike was placed into the Beacon Police Department's Evidence Room "for safe keeping."

It was estimated that there was in excess of $1,500 in property damage which included a damaged cash register and gas station property. The officers got statements from the gas station for a future arrest warrent.

Man Pursues Woman On Main Street; She Runs For Help To Sunoco; A Man Arrested On Willow Street

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In at least the second incident this week involving the Sunoco gas station that A Little Beacon Blog knows about, a woman was chased by a man on Main Street on Friday morning near the Sunoco gas station. According to someone who saw it but does not know exact details, the man was allegedly trying to get the woman into a car. The woman was wearing pink, may have been Puerto Rican, and may have been in her 40s. The person familiar with the incident thought the car may have been hers, and that she and the man pursuing her knew each other. These details have not been confirmed by Beacon Police.

According to one ALBB reader in Instagram comments, “There was a man dragging a woman in the parking lot and she was yelling that he was violating her and didn’t want him to hit her again. I asked her from my car if she needed help and she shook her head. He gave me dirty looks and I bounced because I had my kid with me and she said she didn’t need help.” A very brave thing for a mother to do - shout from her car to increase attention to the situation.

According to a witness, as the man pursued her, the woman ran from him into the Sunoco gas station seeking help. The man grabbed her at the door and threw her back onto the ground, according to a witness. Beacon Police were called and came right away. The man apparently ran away, with police in pursuit.

A Little Beacon Blog has left a voicemail with Detective Johnson of the Beacon Police. Should he respond with details, this article will be updated. ALBB will also submit a FOIL for the Police Report, and is assuming that it will take some time before it is available, if the report remains open during the investigation, as the reports are typically not released to FOIL requests before they are closed.

A Man Arrested On Willow Street

Sidewalk where the man in the tan shirt and black backpack was arrested.

In a possibly unrelated matter but during the same morning, at about 8:45am-ish, a bald man in a tan shirt and black backpack was pursued and arrested on Willow Street, according to witnesses. Just before his arrest, neighbors could hear yelling on Oak Street and Willow Street, where backyards intersect.

Willow Street is behind and a few short blocks away from the Sunoco gas station. Several police officers were at the scene. Some officers searched the area after the man was taken into the police car in handcuffs.

After the man was in the police car, a different person on a bike peddled up to a police officer to give the officer a small black pouch, and left.