Planning Announced For Temporary Location For Emergency Housing Shelter

Dutchess County announced the beginning of the planning for the usage of the Emergency Homeless Shelter to be built in the Dutchess County Jail once it is vacated. According to the press release, this build would be temporary until another location is identified. However, investment in infrastructure and employment opportunities is being made.

The portion of the press release outlining these plans has been republished below:

“Temporary housing units (PODS) were installed at the current jail site in May 2015 as a provisional solution to the costly practice of housing out inmates to other counties, due to overcrowding at the jail. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the PODS, which were no longer being utilized for inmate housing due to bail reform, were converted temporary emergency housing facility to provide safe haven for the homeless.

“The PODS have continued to be utilized as the number of homeless individuals has grown significantly since prior to the pandemic. However, the PODS have reached the end of their useful life, and ongoing wear and tear have required increasing maintenance and repairs. Additionally, the PODS must be removed for the completion of the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center (DCJTC), necessitating an interim facility for the shelter.

“With the 1995 section of current jail set to be decommissioned when the DCJTC opens later this year, that section of the jail facility will serve as temporary location for the Emergency Housing Facility. County Legislators had the opportunity to tour the 1995 section earlier this year and concurred that the facility is a significant improvement over the current PODS and authorized construction design funding. Design is set begin late this summer.

“Until a permanent shelter location is solidified and ready to welcome guests, the former jail facility will enable the County to safely house individuals and most importantly, begin the critical programming that is not possible to conduct in the current PODS location.”

Description Of Uses Of The Jail For Homeless Shelter Location With Programming

“The first floor of the jail facility will serve as office and programming space to begin providing critical wrap-around services, including mental health, substance use, housing case management and vocational assistance. This can begin as soon the jail facility is vacated this fall.

“The second floor will be the living area, including sleeping quarters, and will be the focus of the majority of the construction work.

“Once a permanent shelter location is identified and opened, the 1995 section of the jail will be repurposed for other uses including housing needs.”

Upcoming: Seeking RFEI for Emergency Housing Shelter Operator Organization

In their press release announcing a set of steps to be taken to set up the Emergency Shelter, Dutchess County announced it will be soon issuing a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEI) “seeking a highly regarded organization, experienced in shelter operations, that understands and appreciates the County's needs regarding the Emergency Housing Facility and the desire to implement a new, innovative model with qualified and established program management staff.”

The Operator will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the emergency housing facility including, among others:

  • Development of facility operational and security plans, and policies and procedures, in accordance with Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) regulations, and in partnership with and approval by the County’s Department of Community and Family Services.

  • Responsibility for intakes and discharges.

  • 24-hour on-site security, including screening with a metal detector and x-ray machine.

  • Offering a variety of activities that are available at the facility to help engage with guests and provide meaningful activities throughout the day.

  • Preliminary health screenings of guests.

  • Provision of three meals per day, prepared in a facility approved by the County’s health department.

According to the press release: “The RFEI is expected to be publicly posted in the coming weeks, and all eligible community providers are invited to express their interest. The RFEI incorporated comments and feedback from a public meeting convened by the administration in December 2022 to discuss the emergency shelter project with community members and local stakeholders. The RFEI also includes feedback from the Community Stakeholder Committee formed by the Dutchess County Legislature. The Committee’s recommendations were sent to the County Executive, in keeping with the resolution regarding the shelter project passed by the Legislature in 2022.”

Hiring: Shelter Director For Dutchess County's Emergency Housing Shelter

The Dutchess County Department of Community & Family Services is currently recruiting for the Shelter Director position with a public posting of the job specifications and qualifications. The Shelter Director is a County government position with responsibilities involving the administration, supervision and coordination of the County’s emergency housing shelter.

Among other duties, the Director will be responsible for ensuring the provision of a range of services to ensure safe housing and get people to independence and housing stability. The Director will also be a liaison between the shelter and the community.

The job description and qualifications were expanded and updated to incorporate feedback from the Legislature’s Community Stakeholder Committee. Based on the Committee’s recommendation, the qualifications for education/experience were enhanced to add an additional year of required paid case management and supervision experience.

  • Those with a master’s degree in public administration should have 2 years of experience, while applicants with bachelor’s degree should have at least 3 years of experience.

  • Additionally, based on the committee’s feedback, the posting includes the preference for the director to be a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply prior to the August 18th deadline. Read the full job description here.

Homelessness Addressed By Dutchess County With 4 Recent Action Items

On Wednesday of this week (8/9/2023), the office of Dutchess County Executive William F.X. O’Neil put forth a plan of action to address homelessness in the Hudson Valley.

The press release stated that the county was following input from local stakeholders in taking next steps it said was an “evidence-based approach.” Also mentioned was a focus on the establishment of a permanent emergency housing facility, while the temporary one will be created in Dutchess County Jail. According to the press release: “The County’s approach includes comprehensive wrap-around services to help people move from homelessness to independence as quickly as possible.” Read more about those services here.

The following action steps were outlined in the press release:

  • New County Shelter Director Position For Hire
    Recruitment is underway for a new county Shelter Director position to oversee emergency shelter operations and accompanying wrap-around services, including contracted service oversight.
    Read More >

  • Day To Day Management Of Facility For Hire
    A Request for Expressions of Interest from qualified organizations to manage the day-to-day operations of the Emergency Housing Facility will be issued in the coming weeks.
    Read More >

  • Dutchess County Jail Construction For Shelter
    Construction design is about to begin for the temporary location for the emergency shelter operations at Dutchess County Jail once it is vacated. The current PODS have reached end of useful life and need to be removed for completion of the Dutchess County Justice & Transition Center project (DCJTC). Where did the PODS come from? From the press release: “Temporary housing units (PODS) were installed at the current jail site in May 2015 as a provisional solution to the costly practice of housing out inmates to other counties, due to overcrowding at the jail. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the PODS, which were no longer being utilized for inmate housing due to bail reform, were converted temporary emergency housing facility to provide safe haven for the homeless. The PODS have continued to be utilized as the number of homeless individuals has grown significantly since prior to the pandemic. However, the PODS have reached the end of their useful life, and ongoing wear and tear have required increasing maintenance and repairs. Additionally, the PODS must be removed for the completion of the Dutchess County Justice and Transition Center (DCJTC), necessitating an interim facility for the shelter.”
    Read More >

  • $15 Million Grant Sought
    The County is applying for $15 million in New York State Homeless Housing and Assistance (HHAP) grant funding to establish permanent location for the emergency shelter.
    Read More >

Additionally, County Executive William F.X. O’Neil has initiated conversations with the Governor’s Office about opportunities to collaborate with the State to create housing opportunities at the former Hudson River Psychiatric Center property to provide more opportunities in the housing spectrum and ensure the success of the County’s homeless prevention efforts.

County Executive William F.X. O’Neil said, “Dutchess County continues our plan to develop the Hudson Valley’s most transformative solution to homelessness. Taking these next actions builds more momentum as we seek our ultimate resolution to address the plight of homelessness and save lives. We have heard from the Legislature’s selected representatives on this issue, and we’ve used their contributions to craft plans that will ensure success. We look forward to moving this process forward to offer those experiencing homelessness a hand up and support to find safe and stable housing.”

Where To Vote For Beacon 2022 - Both Early and Election Day - Republican Commissioner Thinks Early Voting Waste Of Money

Early voting has been available for this election in 2022, and was in several locations, including the Fishkill Town Hall. If you’re trying to figure out where your polling site is now for Election Day, you’ll need to use the Dutchess County Board Of Elections Website or New York State’s Voter Lookup Elections tool. Finding your location is a little tricky. A Little Beacon Blog will walk you through it:

  • Go to https://elections.dutchessny.gov/ and click on the “Where To Vote” button in the middle of the home page, or “General Election Polling Places” from the top navigation. Or click right here to take you directly to the page.

  • From this 2022 General Election Polling Site page, you’ll see an alphabetical list of communities. Look for Beacon. Can’t find it? That’s because it’s listed with a C/ . Which means not much to most people, but here on this list, it might mean “City Of.” This code has placed Beacon and Poughkeepsie at the bottom of the list, which is also confusing because even if alphabetized by C, the name would be up with the Cs. Regular readers of A Little Beacon Blog know that we are not grammarians, and do make mistakes from time to time. We also like to make up our own grammar rules, and make questionable organizational choices. But this one takes the cake. We love cake!

  • Once you find C/Beacon, there are numbers listed as to where you belong. Not sure where you belong? Scroll back up to the top of the website and click the link that says to do the Poll Site Search. Or click right here to go directly to it.

  • Type in your address, and voila, you have your destination.

  • What time is voting for the General Election? That is on yet a different page, right here, and is from 6am-9pm. If you had done early voting, those times were on a PDF right here. Early voting is not available the day before election day.

Could this information have been consolidated better? Yes. It all could have been on one page. With big buttons to access important lookup tools.

Republican Commissioner Erik Haight Says Early Voting “A Colossal Waste Of Money”

The Beacon Free Press interviewed the Democratic Commissioner, Hannah Black, and the Republican Commissioner, Erik Haight, about Dutchess County Board of Election’s preparation for the 2022 election. They both felt well prepared and balanced when working with each other to ensure an accurate voter count.

When asked by the Beacon Free Press for their thoughts on early voting and if more people were taking advantage of it, Republican Commissioner Erik Haight said: “The facts show that it is a colossal waste of money. While it may increase the convenience of voting for a few people, it has not increased voting [participation]. It is the same in the other 33 states that have early voting. It spreads out the voting.“

For the 9 days of early voting now available, his statement implies no care for the people who do take advantage of early voting. Those people may include parents who have children in school, but since school is closed on Election Day, have their children at home, and need to either lug them to the polling site (good luck with a 5 year old who runs around, or a baby swaddled to the body of the parent, and two pre-pre teens who don’t want to be there, standing in a long line). Or a person with a job during the day who has 9 other opportunities to fit in voting around work shifts. Or a person caring for an aging parent at home and has limited times when they can be left alone.

This sharp disregard for the “convenience” of one’s life in an issue as important as voting is a spit in the face to any person who needs more time in their schedule to vote other than one day when schools and some jobs are closed.

Democratic Commissioner Hannah Black responded to the voter turnout number question by saying: “It fluctuates on the election, depending on voter engagement on the races within each year.”

Republican Commissioner Haight Notes: “We Have Kooks Who Don’t Believe That Trump Lost”

The Beacon Free Pressed asked the Commissioners about how “rampant FOIL requests” are impacting the Dutchess County Board of Elections, as they are across the country. Commissioner Black responded: “There has been an unusual amount of FOIL requests that have to do with the 2020 election,” she said.

Commissioner Haight explained: “Essentially, we have these ‘kooks’ - you can quote me on that; they’re kooks - who don’t believe that Trump lost.” He added: “I can speak for Dutchess County that the results that we certified in 2020 are 100% accurate.”

The Beacon Free Press went on to explain how the FOIL process works for the Dutchess County Board of Elections: “the commissioners will set the terms under which the documents may be viewed. The plan was to have those requesting the FOILs pay up front for the viewing of the materials; because the documents are secured in a bipartisan fashion, the Board of Elections needs to hire a Democrat and a Republican to oversee the viewing.”

Said Height: “They can handle the material, they can view the material, but they’re not allowed to copy it or take photos of it. It will cost the kooks about $40 an hour to view this material. I assume they’ll need a full work week to view the files - they’re required to reimburse the taxpayers for the folly of this task these folks are undertaking.”

Apparently the viewing session is coming. Commissioner Haight told the newspaper: “In the coming weeks, I’ll reach out to these FOILers and give them a little bit of time to get organized. All of our employees are tied up running this election. I will not jeopardize this election because these kooks don’t believe we ran a fair election in 2020.”

Mini-Soccer Fields (aka Pitches) Honoring USMNT Star Tyler Adams Unveiled In Poughkeepsie

Photo Credit: Dutchess County

Ahead of this year’s FIFA Men’s World Cup, 2 new mini-pitches were unveiled at Pulaski Park in the City of Poughkeepsie on October 12th at 3:30 p.m. The mini-pitches honor USMNT star soccer player Tyler Adams and were made possible thanks to his personal contribution and contributions from the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Target, the City of Poughkeepsie, and Dutchess County. 

Representatives from Tyler’s family, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the City of Poughkeepsie, and Dutchess County hosted the ribbon cutting ceremony with a video message from Tyler Adams, followed by scrimmages on the pitches with youth from the Poughkeepsie City School District’s soccer teams. 

“Building two new mini-pitches in Pulaski Park is such a unique way to give back to the game and to the community where I first started,” said Tyler Adams. “Through these pitches, more children in Poughkeepsie can learn values that they will take with them well beyond their playing careers – the same values that I learned through my support system. Thanks to my family’s support and to all partners involved in this amazing process and creating an environment where kids can blossom.”

According to Dutchess County, this project builds on more than 100 mini-pitches the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Target have installed together since 2018 and marks the latest development in the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s It’s Everyone’s Game national movement to ensure children in underserved communities can enjoy the health and youth development benefits of the game. To date, the U.S. Soccer Foundation has installed more than 500 mini-pitches nationwide. The goal is to install 1,000 by 2026. 

City of Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison said, “We are pleased to see the opening of the mini-pitches, a collaborative project that went from concept to completion within a matter of months. We thank our partners the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Dutchess County for their financial and staff support to help see this project to fruition. The mini-pitches are part of a much broader, multimillion dollar initiative by the city to make upgrades to the park system, and it’s fulfilling to see these projects getting completed for our residents to enjoy.”

About The U.S. Soccer Foundation

The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s programs are the national model for sports-based youth development in underserved communities. Since its founding in 1994, the Foundation has established programs proven to help children embrace an active and healthy lifestyle while nurturing their personal growth beyond sports. Its cost-effective, high-impact initiatives offer safe environments where kids and communities thrive. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit ussoccerfoundation.org or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Read the full press release at Dutchess County’s website for more details.

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

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.

Auction For Vehicles and Equipment (ex Mowers), Tools, etc. Available From Dutchess County Now Till October 18th

Surplus County vehicles and equipment items will be available for bid during Dutchess County’s Surplus Vehicle Auction and Equipment Auction, both being conducted online at https://www.aarbids.com/.  Various vehicles and equipment items will be included in the auction, including trucks, cars, tools, mowers, trailers, and more. The online auctions will start on October 4, 2022, and end on October 18, 2022.

Absolute Auctions & Realty, Inc. is conducting the online auction. All bidders must register online athttps://www.aarbids.com/html/register.htm and select “Dutchess County Surplus Vehicle & Equipment Auction.”  All items are sold “as-is.” All lots must be paid in full before picking up. Vehicles must be paid by cash, bank check, or money order only. Payment must be made by Friday, October 21, 2022 at the Absolute Auctions Center in Pleasant Valley.  Note: pickup location may vary.

For more information about the Dutchess County Surplus Vehicle & Equipment Auctions, including photos and specific details about each of the auction items, viewing and pickup locations, visit the website or call Absolute Auctions & Realty, Inc. at (845) 635-3169.

Dutchess County to Host ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY’ Sensory-Friendly Movie Day

Poughkeepsie … Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro invites residents of all abilities and their families to a free sensory-sensitive screening of Pixar’s Academy Award-winning film, “Inside Out,” on Saturday, Oct. 15th, at the Bardavon Opera House, 35 Market Street in Poughkeepsie. As part of this special “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” event, the theater will adjust both the lighting and sound to make the experience more enjoyable for those on the autism spectrum or who experience sensory issues. Individuals, families and support agencies are all invited to this free event.

County Executive Molinaro said, “It can be a challenge for individuals with disabilities and their families to enjoy what may seem like a simple outing to some, like going to the movies. We wanted to give all families an opportunity to have fun and take part in a movie experience. Dutchess County is thrilled to partner with the Bardavon to host this movie event, where everyone can relax and enjoy this award-winning movie.”
For additional details, residents can view the event flyer online.

The movie event is the first of three ThinkDIFFERENTLY events the County is sponsoring at the Bardavon in the coming months: “Talking Birds and Golden Fish: A Collection of Global Animal Tales” with David Gonzalez will take place on Nov. 10th, as well as an hour-long, sensory-sensitive performance of “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 9th.

Established in 2015, the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative seeks to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to individuals with special needs. Following Dutchess County’s example, more than 100 municipalities throughout New York State have passed ThinkDIFFERENTLY resolutions, committing to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals of all abilities.

Dutchess County remains committed to providing events to those of all abilities, hosting several such events in 2022, including ThinkDIFFERENTLY Thursday at the Dutchess County Fair – which gives individuals of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy the fair without the drawbacks that lights, sounds and crowds can cause – and ThinkDIFFERENTLY Fitness & Field Day at Bowdoin Park, highlighting health and nutrition for people of every ability.

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 >

To learn more about how to ThinkDIFFERENTLY, click here >

Applications Open For Funding For Youth Program Proposals From Dutchess County

This press release just in from Department of Community and Family Services Division of Youth Services:

County Seeks Proposals for Youth Program Funding
Grant workshops set for September 13th and 14th

Poughkeepsie… The Dutchess County Department of Community and Family Services’ Division of Youth Services is requesting proposals for youth development services from municipalities and non-profit, community-based organizations for calendar year January 1st to December 31st, 2023.  Program funding will be awarded in the following categories:

  • Youth Development Programs (YDP)

  • Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA)

Grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 will be awarded to programs that provide free, direct services designed to improve youth and community outcomes, as outlined in the 2023 Dutchess County Youth Board and Coordinating Council Funding Priorities document.  Programs must address one of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services’ six life areas, which are: Economic Security, Physical and Emotional Health, Education, Citizenship/Civic Engagement, Family and Community.

Programs will be expected to demonstrate knowledge/trained staff in Positive Youth Development and show how the program addresses one of Dutchess County’s “Path to Promise” domains/value areas. Programs must serve Dutchess County residents up to 21 years of age for calendar year 2023. Eligible applicants should be either a county municipality or a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, community-based organization with a federal identification number and charity registration number, operating in Dutchess County with the ability to meet the County’s insurance requirements and have reliable access to email.

The Division of Youth Services has scheduled two grant workshops for non-profit agencies and municipalities – attendance at one of the grant workshops is required – at the Dutchess County Emergency Response Center, 392 Creek Road, Poughkeepsie; each workshops takes place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.:

Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022 Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022

Please contact Juliana Corbett at 845-486-3354 or Juliana.Corbett@dfa.state.ny.us to register for a workshop.  At each workshop, DCFS staff will review the step-by-step process of applying online through the Dutchess County Grant Portal and address any concerns or questions.

All grants are due to the Division of Youth Services on or before Wednesday, Oct. 5th by 5 p.m. 

Funding is made available through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.  In 2022, 20 programs were awarded a total of $266,691 in funding. The amount of funding will be subject to the availability of annual state appropriations, which have not yet been made.

Next Waste Disposal For Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Is 9/17/2022 And Open For Registration

Registration Open for Sept. 17th Household Hazardous Waste Disposal & Electronics Recycling Event

Paint no longer accepted, can now be disposed of at local retailers year-round

Registration has begun for the Dutchess County Division of Solid Waste Management’s next Household Hazardous Waste Disposal & Electronics Recycling Event, which will be held on Saturday, Sept. 17th from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Dutchess County Department of Public Works, located at 626 Dutchess Turnpike in the Town of Poughkeepsie; residents can access the event by taking Route 44 East to Burnett Boulevard. The collection is open to Dutchess County residents only.

Residents can register online or by calling (845) 463-6020. Registration is limited to the first 380 households; pre-registration is required for this event, and there is a $10 registration fee. The fee can be paid online using a credit card or paid by check; registration often reaches capacity quickly, so residents are encouraged to register promptly. Checks should be made payable to “Dutchess County Commissioner of Finance” and mailed to or dropped off at the Dutchess County Division of Solid Waste Management at 96 Sand Dock Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. This popular event is first-come, first-served, and residents should expect to experience wait times when they arrive at the location due to high demand.

County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “Dutchess County’s popular Household Hazardous Waste Disposal and Electronics Recycling Events give residents an easy opportunity to make an impact on our environment – a responsibility in which we all play a vital role. Dutchess County is proud to offer these events, which help us preserve our planet for future generations, and we encourage residents to register to join us on Sept. 17th.”

This will be the final of Dutchess County’s three 2022 Household Hazardous Waste Disposal & Electronics Recycling Events, which provide residents with a safe and responsible way to discard a diverse range of household items that cannot be disposed of through regular recycling or garbage bins. Acceptable items include television sets, computer monitors, telephones, pesticides, pool chemicals, and more. A complete list of acceptable items to bring to this disposal day is included below. Hazardous waste in containers larger than 10 gallons will not be accepted.

Dutchess County will no longer be accepting paint at its Household Hazardous Waste Events, as paint can now be recycled year-round at local participating retailers through New York’s PaintCare program. Residents can learn more at paintcare.org/states/new-york.

More information about the Dutchess County Division of Solid Waste Management’s Household Hazardous Waste Disposal & Electronics Recycling Events is available here >

Acceptable Items:

Product Containers Marked: “Warning,” “Hazardous,” “Flammable,” “Poisonous,” “Corrosive”

Photo chemicals, non-latex driveway sealer, pool chemicals, creosote, kerosene, flammable liquids, metal polish, turpentine, strippers, thinners, lead based paint, gasoline/oil mixture, brake fluid, antifreeze, auto fluids, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, chemical fertilizers, adhesives, resins, solvents, propane tanks, mercury containing devices, button cell batteries for watches & hearing aids, computer monitors, CPUs, fax machines, printers, TVs, stereos, telephones, lithium & sealed lead acid batteries, fluorescent tubes (please tape together or put in box to prevent breakage)

Do Not Bring:

Ammunition or explosives, asbestos products, latex driveway sealer & latex paint, oil- or latex-based paint, stains, varnishes, building or construction debris, tires, furniture, medical waste, pharmaceuticals, air conditioners, radioactive materials, smoke detectors, scrap metal, metal drums or empty containers, motor oil, car batteries, alkaline or rechargeable batteries

Emergency Housing Facility To Be Built By Dutchess County For $3.1 Million With Goal Of Opening Date Spring 2023

From the office of Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro, Dutchess County announced their planned acquisition, design, and construction for an Emergency Housing Facility using $3.1 million from the county’s allocation of the federal American Rescue Plan (ARP). This comes after Dutchess County reversed its decision to spend on a much discussed Dutchess County Stadium upgrade.

The press release has been republished in full below:

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro has announced the County is nearing the purchase of property at 26 Oakley Street in the City of Poughkeepsie, to serve as the Dutchess County’s new Emergency Housing Facility for single adults – transforming the County’s emergency housing response system, which will connect those needing housing and services with providers where they reside. New evidence-based programs and intensive services located at one facility facilitate the County’s new model for assisting those experiencing homelessness find permanent housing. The facility will replace the current temporary housing units (PODS) on the Dutchess County Jail campus, which have been used as an emergency shelter during the COVID-19 pandemic but do not have adequate space for the new services and programs and were not designed for long-term use.

County Executive Molinaro forwarded a resolution to the Dutchess County Legislature’s Public Works and Capital Projects Committee at its April 7th meeting to authorize $2.1 million for the County to purchase the 1.432-acre property and $1 million for the Department of Public Works to design the new facility; the $3.1 million total will come from the County’s American Rescue Plan (ARP) allocation from the federal government; the full Legislature will vote on the resolution at its May 9th board meeting. Following that approval, the Legislature will consider allocating additional ARP funds later this year for the construction of the facility. The new facility is one of several investments the County is funding with ARP funding, including, among others, a countywide Youth Opportunity Center (the YOU); a successful grant programs for youth non-profit organizations, municipalities and non-profit infrastructure needs, new parks equipment, countywide high-speed internet accessibility and other public safety investments.

The new facility will be the cornerstone of Dutchess County’s innovative and collaborative housing-first approach to emergency housing, providing those experiencing homelessness not only temporary housing, but also extensive wrap-around services co-located within the same facility to assist them in their path toward stable housing and independent living, with the County’s goal of preventing homelessness whenever possible and ensuring if an individual does experience homelessness, it is an infrequent and singular occurrence.

County Executive Molinaro said, “As housing instability continues to challenge too many, we are committed to a new facility – a sanctuary – and new model that addresses temporary emergency housing, provides referral to transitional and permanent housing opportunities, and offers intense service support to address the issues that lead to an individual’s homelessness. Experienced and compassionate service providers throughout our community make a real difference in people’s lives every day. Our new facility will connect these organizations with the residents we serve – all under one roof providing the most efficient delivery of services making the greatest impact helping individuals find their path to permanent housing and success. This sanctuary will be a place of safety and service for those we serve and the community around us.”

Based on the successful model implemented in Bergen County, NJ that has garnered nationwide accolades, Dutchess County’s facility will feature housing for approximately 100 adults in various types of accommodations that are ADA accessible; administrative office space for community partners, including common consultation and meeting rooms; as well as counseling, programming, activity, relaxation and dining spaces, utilizing both internal and external areas of the property – a design that embodies the County’s innovative new methodology for helping those experiencing homelessness find permanent housing. The PODS, which have been used as a temporary shelter, are scheduled to be removed as part of the County’s Justice & Transition Center construction project. Dutchess County has contracted with Julia Orlando, director of the Bergen County (NJ) Housing, Health and Human Services Center, to serve as a consultant and assist the County in making the project successful. Ms. Orlando discussed the project with leadership of both legislative caucuses at their February 2022 meeting.

Ms. Orlando said, “I’m excited to work with Dutchess County, which already has so many services in place to assist those experiencing homelessness, and help the County further develop its investment in its new facility, which will transform its emergency housing response system by bringing together community partners to meet vulnerable individuals where they are and help them succeed. Our facility and housing model have been transformative in Bergen County and are replicable for communities willing to make the commitment to change the lives of those experiencing homelessness – and Dutchess County is clearly making that commitment, as it has for years.”

In addition to the staff from the County’s departments of Community and Family Services (DCFS), Behavioral and Community Health (DBCH), and Planning and Development, local providers will be housed at the new facility to link guests to appropriate, evidence-based programs and intensive case-management services to help them secure and maintain stable accommodations – be it assistance in enrolling in state and federal medical and benefits programs, such as Medicaid or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); offering mental health and substance use counseling, as well as vocational and job preparation specialists; or help transitioning to permanent housing. Additionally, the County will work with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of the facility’s guests and local residents.

Hudson River Housing Executive Director Christa Hines said, “For years, Dutchess County has been an active partner in helping those experiencing homelessness find and maintain safe, stable housing – collaborating with local providers to bring about impactful change in people’s lives. Having the myriad County resources that have long been available, combined with the services local partners like Hudson River Housing provide, housed in a central housing facility has the potential to revolutionize the way we, as a community, care for those experiencing homelessness, and we’re eager for this life-changing facility to be built.”

The existing 24,640-square-foot, three-floor structure will require renovations as well as property modifications to ensure safety and security for both guests and neighbors. Among the renovations needed at the structure, the Department of Public Works will:

  • realign sleeping quarters;

  • expand the kitchen and dining area;

  • provide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access;

  • create a courtyard, including a screening garden wall; and

  • address code issues.

Through a recent Request for Proposals (RFP) process, Tinkelman Associates was chosen as the designer to work with DCFS and Ms. Orlando to plan and design the facility, as well as oversee its construction, pending legislative approval.

Andrew O’Grady, Chief Executive Officer of Mental Health America of Dutchess County, said, “We, as a society, must rethink the way we approach homelessness and not provide just a temporary roof over someone’s head, but meet them where they are and offer the resources to attain a permanent home. For this facility to succeed, people must know these accommodations are safe or they will not utilize it, and the community must be assured it’s safe to have this facility in their neighborhood – and Dutchess County is creating a secure model that satisfies both of those concerns. Mental Health America of Dutchess County is proud to collaborate with Dutchess County to create a model that will lead New York and be replicable in communities throughout the state.”

Earlier this month, the County released its 2022 Housing Needs Assessment, a comprehensive analysis of demographic and housing data and evaluation of trends over recent years, as well as projections for affordable housing needs over the next two decades. County Executive Molinaro said the creation of an emergency housing facility reaffirms the County’s commitment to addressing the housing needs of every resident.

“Throughout the nation, including Dutchess County, communities are working to ensure every resident can find safe, stable housing they can afford,” the County Executive said, “and providing those in need of permanent housing the resources and services to attain and keep it is a tremendous step that will help many in our County. This facility will undoubtedly save lives and offer a brighter future for the guests welcomed through its doors.”

The County’s goal is to take ownership of the property shortly after the Legislature approves the resolution at its May meeting, with construction of the new facility to be completed by late summer 2023, and the facility is expected to be occupied in fall 2023.

Dutchess County Pauses Big Stadium Spend; Invests In Housing Instead After National and Local Pushback

Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro amplified via his Instagram that the county has decided to shift federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds away from the planned minimum of $11.6 million that was dedicated for a renovation to Dutchess Stadium, as reported by Times Union and Daily Freeman. Instead, the county changed its focus to allocate $9.5 million for housing, as reported by Times Union after an announcement by Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro at a recent county legislature meeting.

The Highlands Current pointed out that using federal funds from ARP money for a stadium upgrade had grouped Dutchess County into a New York Times story highlighting projects that were being criticized for use of the federal funds.

The County Executive received pushback from the allocation of the funds towards tourism instead of the current housing crisis in the Hudson Valley.

The Times Union reported that “Dutchess County Comptroller Robin Lois released an audit scrutinizing the county’s plan, finding ‘investment in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure surprisingly low at $1.7 million, particularly compared to the stadium spending.’”

In the article, Dutchess County Minority Leader Yvette Valdés Smith (D-Fishkill) told the Times Union: "This should have been the case from the get-go. Our county needs so much assistance. Our housing market has really boomed, but it has really hit us hard as communities. There are a lot of renters in my own district … trying to buy their first home and simply cannot. Prices have really gone up.”

Dutchess County has received $57 million in federal ARP funds.

Dutchess County announced today that $3.1 million will be spent on an Emergency Housing facility with wrap around services for guests.

Honoring Ziatun And Palestine Land Day

We are honoring our friends Ziatun by reposting this post they did on March 30. After interviewing the owner, Jamel Kamal at our sister podcast Wait What Is That with co-host Brandon Lillard , we learned how emotionally difficult it is for Jamel and his wife Lena to stay open on heavy days like this one.

"Land Day (Arabic: يوم الأرض, Yawm al-ʾArḍ; Hebrew: יוֹם הַאֲדָמָה, Yom HaAdama), March 30, is a day of commemoration for Arab citizens of Israel and Palestinians of the events of that date in 1976 in Israel.

"In 1976, in response to the Israeli government's announcement of a plan to expropriate thousands of dunams of land for state purposes, a general strike and marches were organized in Arab towns from the Galilee to the Negev. In the ensuing confrontations with the Israeli army and police, six unarmed[3] Arab citizens were killed, about one hundred were wounded, and hundreds of others arrested.

"Scholarship on the Israeli–Palestinian conflict recognizes Land Day as a pivotal event in the struggle over land and in the relationship of Arab citizens to the Israeli state and body politic. It is significant in that it was the first time since 1948 that Arabs in Israel organized a response to Israeli policies as a Palestinian national collective.[1] An important annual day of commemoration in the Palestinian national political calendar ever since, it is marked not only by Arab citizens of Israel, but also by Palestinians all over the world.”
Source

Ron's Ice Cream Opens - Here's Your List Of Where To Find Scoops In Beacon - Vegan Too!

The tip came in on the Beacon Moms Facebook Group - Ron’s Ice Cream on Fishkill Avenue announced their opening day - March 25, 2022 - and are open! Readers and little kids alike have been asking: “When’s Ron’s opening!?!” as Beacon’s most visible ice cream hut, painted yellow and located across from a kid-busy Memorial Park, is the mile-marker to the official arrival of Spring.

Despite it being in the 50s today. Totally normal, by the way. Beaonites know that at least one more snow dump on pink and white magnolia blossoms is possible. For the sake of time, we re-published 2021’s Ice Cream Roundup, with the addition of Lick The Vegan’s Stuff’s new location - and is open now!

Lick The Vegan Stuff
at Végétalien

A Beacon favorite, and honestly, quite possibly a world-wide-vegan-ice-cream treasure. Located currently in the Vegetarian. This picture is credited to another Beacon gem, the vegan donut shop, Peaceful Provisions. Their description of this banana split: “We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming to bring you BANANA SPLIT news from @licktheveganstuff (yesss she’s back open)! We just had this and it was TOO GOOD not to share will y’all. Your choice of three ice cream scoops (we chose Strawberry, Cereal Milk and Death by Chocolate), organic banana, organic strawberries and your choice of oat or coconut whipped cream. Get it done right and make sure to order this with sundae toppings (chocolate sauce, pecans and sprinkles)🤤.”

Pictured: Mocha Crunch
Photo Credit:
Beacon Creamery via Yelp

The Beacon Creamery

The Beacon Creamery is located at 134 Main St in Beacon, NY and they have mouth-watering flavors that you need to try now! Some include, “New York, New York” which includes cappuccino Kahlua, hot fudge, whipped cream, and raspberry sauce. They also have floats, ice cream sundaes, specialties, tipsy shakes, and regular ice cream with an option to add WINE ice cream for $2.00!


Pictured: Blue Panda

Ron’s Ice Cream

Ron’s Ice Cream is located at 298 Fishkill Ave in Beacon, NY and they have all of the fun flavors you want like Birthday Cake or Cookies and Cream. And always sprinkles. Some special flavors include Chocolate Moose Tracks, Graham Central Station, Crazy Vanilla, Cookies n Cream, and many more! They also carry sundaes, specialty sundaes, flurries, milkshakes, slushies, and more. Oh, plus, they have hotdogs, burgers, snacks, sandwiches, and sides!

The parking lot is small for line crowding during a pandemic. Last year, Ron’s initiated a call-in service with no walk-up service. ALBB does not have word yet on how they will do it this year. Stay tuned!


Zora Dora’s

NOTE: Checking on their 2022 open status!
Zora Dora’s Micro Batch Ice Cream And Paletas is located at 201 Main St in Beacon, NY, and makes ice creams and sorbets in the form of paletas! If you don’t know what a paleta is, it’s a frozen treat on a stick! Their handmade products are produced in small batches every day and they source and handpick the freshest seasonal ingredients available. They also offer catering and cart rentals!


Pictured: Vegan Chocolate Orange

The Chocolate Studio

The Chocolate Studio doesn’t only have delicious chocolates and signature treats, but they also have ice cream! Vegan flavors too. You can pick-up vegan and gluten-free treats (or nonvegan/gluten-free) OR they ship nationwide! Sadly, ice-cream is excluded from the shipping part so you will have to stop in the store for that! But you’ll want to! So many flavors, you might have to get a few.


Yankee Clipper Diner

You can also stop in the Yankee Clipper Diner for ice-cream! They have a few sundaes on their menu, including the Waffle Sundae, which is a freshly baked Belgian waffle with 2 scoops of ice cream, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, sprinkles, walnuts, and a cherry on top! I mean, this could be your breakfast! Add additional toppings for only $1.


Shmuck’s Sweet Stuff

Shmuck’s is located inside the Hudson Valley Food Hall and offers delicious homemade ice cream, fresh cones, hot waffles, and other sweet stuff! They’re open year round, rain or shine, with great indoor seating if it’s cold or rainy!