The City of Beacon Water Department will be flushing water mains throughout the City starting April 23 for a four-week period. The flushing will be conducted from 7 a.m. through 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Residents may experience periods of discolored water during this time and should refrain from doing laundry until the water runs clear. If your water is discolored, run the cold water taps until the water runs clear. If you have any questions call the Water Department at (845) 831-3136.
Week 1 – April 30
Alice Street Anderson Street Annan Street Birch Lane DePuyster Avenue East Main Street Exeter Circle Helen Court Green Street Jackson Street Linden Drive Louisa Street Mountain Lane Overlook Avenue Petticoat Lane Phillips Street Roundtree Court Robin Lane Spring Valley Street Spruce Street Summit Street Westley Avenue William Street Wilson Street Vail Avenue
Week 2 – May 7
Barrett Place Deerfield Place Delevan Avenue Dutchess Terrace Fishkill Avenue Franklin Avenue Kent Street Lincoln Avenue Mackin Avenue Memorial Park Route 9D near VanNess Townsend Street Verplanck Avenue
Week 3 – May 14
Beskin Place Coffey Avenue Ellen Drive Grandview Avenue High Goal Lane John Street Miller Street Newlin Mills Road Paye Street Rombout Avenue Simmons Lane Slocum Road Sycamore Drive Wodenethe Drive Van Dyke Avenue Victor Road
Week 4 – May 21
Bayview Avenue Belleford Lane Branch Street Dennings Avenue Fishkill Landing Long Dock Road Monell Place Riverfront Park Tompkins Avenue West Main Street
It's spring, and so begins the jam-packed weekends of annual events that define a season and Beacon's community. This weekend Beacon celebrates Earth Day, with a nine-location cleanup. Record Store Day is also upon us. Let's see what you decide to take advantage of... even if it's just one event!
PS: For those wandering around looking for something to do on a particular day, A Little Beacon Blog has a Guide for that! It's called the Repeating Events Guide (though we're looking for another name so send your ideas), and has events listed like the Bridge Club that meets every Monday at the Howland Cultural Center, or the Daytime Book Club that meets every second Tuesday at the Howland Library.
PPS: If you love these Guides and want to be super awesome, consider making your business or group a lead sponsor of them, which helps A Little Beacon Blog make them possible! See our Media Kit for details on how to reach our readership.
Movies That Matter: “SEED: The Untold Story”
Day: Friday, April 20, 2018 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church of Beacon - McKinley Hall, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY Information >
Earth Day! Celebration at Stony Kill Farm Day: Saturday, April 21, 2018 Time: 11 am to 1 pm Location: Stony Kill Farm, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY Information >
Record Store Day 2018 Day: Saturday, April 21, 2018 Time: An all-day affair. Plan accordingly! Location: Various locations, visit Events Guide for details Information >
The Third Annual Leap for Autism
Day: Saturday, April 21, 2018 Time: 10 am to 12:30 pm Location: Skydive the Ranch, Gardiner, NY Information >
The Inaugural Blacc Vanilla Black Tie Gala Day: Saturday, April 21, 2018 Time: 7:30 pm Location: Blacc Vanilla, 195 Front St., Newburgh, NY Information >
Puerto Rico Benefit Concert
Day: Sunday, April 22, 2018 Time: 5 to 7 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in ourEvents Guide.
Make & Take Workshop
Days: Saturday, April 21, 2018 Time: 1 to 3 pm Location: Knot Too Shabby, 155 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Workshop - Visioning for Change: Map Your Purpose and Change the World
Day: Saturday, April 21, 2018 Time: 6 pm Location: BEAHIVE, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Visible Mending (Beginner & Up)
Day: Saturday, April 21, 2018 Time: 2 to 5 pm Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes and workshops of all kinds, visit our Adult Classes Guide.
Art & Zine Club Meetup Day: Friday, April 20, 2018 Time: 3:30 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street www.luxeoptique.com (across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company) Ryon from Luxe Optique loves the non-glare coating on his glasses, especially for night driving. He says: "A premium non-glare coating is necessary for all eyeglass wearers - I couldn’t ever give up mine! Makes night-driving 👌🏼!"
This beautiful bohemian Lillian West gown is light and breezy with an allover geometric lace, a perfect choice for a hot wedding in the middle of the dry desert out west. Experience it now - in Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique!
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
The insurance agents at Antalek & Moore are independent agents. This means that they go out and find a great rate and fit for your car insurance needs. You don't need to do the homework - they do. Give them a call today if you are buying a car and needing new insurance or are switching. Call (845) 831-4300, or stop by their office on Main Street! Or contact them here.
Rhinebeck Bank
This weekend's event, The Third Annual Leap for Autism, should be inspiring and helpful. Rhinebeck Bank is a proud sponsor of the event. They interviewed parents and students at Greystone Programs about their experiences with the center. Greystone is dedicated to supporting children, adults, and families living with autism and other developmental disabilities by enriching lives one person at a time. Learn more about them here >
InHouse Design Media
The photographers and designers of InHouse Design Media can help you take amazing pictures to pump up your Instagram. This four-week private workshop is like an amazing fitness class, but for your photos. Details >
BeaconArts
Our most favoritest artist holiday of the year! Beacon Open Studios is coming, Saturday and Sunday, April 28 and 29, to artist studios all over town! Get the brochure here at A Little Beacon Blog’s Office, 291 Main St., First Floor, First Door. A Little Beacon Blog is a proud sponsor of Beacon Open Studios!
Tin Shingle Save the Date: Monday, April 30
Tin Shingle's business and artist member meeting is always held the Last Monday of the Month. We talk marketing strategies, what's working and not working. The focus this month: Facebook has been a Creative Crutch for your marketing, but it's now time to branch out. Join Tin Shingle's Community Level 1 Membership >
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Are you looking to get exposure for your business location? Host a Beacon Chamber of Commerce meeting! Click here for details.
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
A Little Beacon Blog receives more than 14,500 views/month, with over 3,100 followers at Facebook and 2,700 at Instagram. The support from every advertiser of A Little Beacon Blog helps make local news get produced. You can be part of what makes it happen, and get your business in front of the community.
Usually 4/20 means one thing to people, but this year, April 20 has officially become A National Day of Action Against Gun Violence, in a somber nod to the anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre nineteen years ago. The City of Beacon joined with cities across the country to set aside the day as a reminder to "call upon the state and federal governments to enact stricter controls governing the sale, possession and distribution of firearms and other dangerous weapons," according to the legislation. A local group of citizens co-organized by Julie Shiroishi and James Case-Leal met at Memorial Park in Beacon with an agenda that included a Student Soapbox, letter-writing campaign, voter registration, and a rally.
Meanwhile, in Philipstown...
Elsewhere and earlier, Philipstown responded to the gun reform movement by ending an 18-month legislative debate about a gun storage law, voting unanimously, 5-0, to enact a Safe-Storage Gun Law, requiring gun owners to lock away their firearms "when they are not in the residence and they know or have reason to know that that children are or may be present in the residence," as stated in the language of the law (click here to read), as first reported by the Highlands Current.
According to the Highlands Current, citizens who attended the public hearings "nearly filled the Haldane school auditorium as proponents and opponents made impassioned arguments," with Board members receiving letters from all over the country. According to the Highlands Current article, in a response to one letter from Nebraska, stating that gun owners are burdened with the cost of purchasing a lock, Philipstown Town Board Member Nancy Montgomery brought a basketful of gun locks to the meeting, stating that they would be free to pick up at the Town Hall, and would be replenished when gone.
For the State of New York...
At the state level, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the passage of legislation to remove guns from domestic abusers and "prohibits anyone with an outstanding warrant for a felony or other serious offense from receiving or renewing a firearm License."
Says the Beacon Day of Action co-organizer, Julie, of the New York State legislation: "That's good news. Of course, it's great to tighten laws in NY, but it's really got to happen nationally to be meaningful."
The co-organizers put out this video highlighting the students who demonstrated as part of the Day of Action. Students came from Newburgh and Cold Spring as well, because, according to co-organizer James Case-Leal, they “had nowhere else to go."
The 2018 Beacon Earth Day is taking place on Saturday, April 21, and is organized by the Green Beacon Coalition and the Beacon Recreation Department. Several city leaders - from business owners to nonprofit organizers to citizens - will be stationed at some of your favorite spots around the city, like Long Dock Park, Rocky Glen, South Avenue Park, Madam Brett, and so many other places. You can find all of the locations and start times here, or scroll down in this article to get a quick glance.
Can people pick up trash any day of the year? Not just on Earth Day? Of course, says Brian DiFeo, co-founder of Green Beacon Coalition and a member of the Conservation Advisory Committee for the City of Beacon, but people should take some precautions so as to stay safe. "It's wise to plan ahead - if you notice trash on the road or in the woods, next time you go by, bring a trash bag and some gardening gloves. Better yet - invite your neighbor to join you! Part of the spirit of a community trash cleanup is doing something good together with neighbors because it builds the ties that make a place like Beacon a wonderful place to live."
After-Party of the City Wide Clean Up at Recreation Center
The cleanup generally runs from 9 to 11 am (except for the Mount Beacon and Fire Tower with Hudson Valley Hikers portion, which starts at 8:30 am), there will be a BBQ with music, the return of the Repair Cafe, and a performance by Arm of the Sea Theater at noon.
Beacon Earth Day Clean Up Locations
Beacon Reservoir with Mountain Tops When: 9 to 11 am *might start earlier* Meeting Location: Pocket Road Trailhead Crew Leader: Katy Bell Behney
Long Dock Park with Zero to Go When: 9 to 11 am Meeting Location: Long Dock Park Crew Leader: Sarah Womer
Rocky Glen with Beacon Greenway Committee When: 9 to 11 am Meeting Location: Beacon Lofts on Front Street Crew Leader: Andy Bell
South Ave Park with Beacon Recreation Department When: 9 to 11 am Meeting Location: Recreation Center Crew Leader: Mark Price
Teller Woods / Madam Brett Homestead with Beacon Historical Society When: 9 to 11 am Meeting Location: Madam Brett House Crew Leader: Theresa Kraft
Mount Beacon and Fire Tower with Hudson Valley Hikers When: 8:30 to 11 am Meeting Location: Pocket Road Trailhead Crew Leader: Chris Pelaia + Aaron Sterling
East end of Main Street with the Conservation Advisory Committee When: 9 to 11 am Meeting Location: Trax Coffee Shop Crew Leader: Brian DiFeo
Pocket Road Trail + Fire Road with Friends of Fishkill Ridge (Local Hikers) When: 9 to 11 am Meeting Location: Pocket Road Trailhead Crew Leader: Kristen Pratt + Meghan Spiro
Fishkill Ave with Friends of Beacon Dog Park When: 9 to 11 am Meeting Location: Beacon Dog Park Crew Leader: TBD
The annual School Budget Vote and Election will be held on Tuesday, May 15, 2018, from 7 am to 9 pm. There will be two voting locations, so make sure you are going to the right polling place:
Voters who reside within the boundaries of the City of Beacon can vote at Beacon High School, 101 Matteawan Road. Voters who reside within the boundaries of the Town of Fishkill or Town of Wappinger can vote at Glenham Elementary, 20 Chase Drive, Fishkill, NY.
Please be aware that mailing addresses in the Beacon City School District do not always coincide with the city or town of residence. So if you have a Beacon mailing address, but your residence is located in the Town of Fishkill, you would report to Glenham Elementary to vote.
If you are unsure of your polling location, you may contact District Clerk, Kelly Pologe, at (845) 838-6900 ext. 2032 or email at pologe.k@beaconk12.org.
During the first whammies of the flu season, A Little Beacon Blog blogged about our own flu symptom prevention tea by sharing this recipe for our Sickness Miracle Tea. Nutritionists, however, are on the case all of the time in sharing their recipes, food tips and cleanses. When a flu prevention email from Beacon local Marika Blossfeldt showed up in our inbox, bearing several healthful recipes, we earmarked it and couldn't resist sharing them with you.
Of course, medicine can save lives, and food is not a replacement for medicine that can be prescribed by a doctor. Nutritious food simply builds the foundation for a strong body that can yield positive results, but you should always work with your doctor when addressing problems with your body. Please see your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of the flu, especially respiratory issues.
One day, Marika was holding a cooking class in the Chocolate Studio (thanks A Little Beacon Blog's Classes for Adults Guide!). It was at that class that Marika's book finally came home with me, and several promises to read and cook from it have been made ever since. Not gonna answer whether those promises have been fulfilled yet, but the picture for this article illustrates recent healthy purchases from Beacon Natural Market. We're committed to making one of Marika's porridges!
It's Spring now, and we're still hearing reports of people being knocked out for a week with the flu. Bonus! Allergy season has now arrived, and take it from this allergy sufferer - a bad case of an allergy can turn into a pretty bad cold. We're not out of the woods yet with the flu, so read Marika's remedies below in her own words. And do yourself a favor - just print this out and tape it to the fridge.
First: Sleep More!
To keep your immune system humming and strong, make sure you drink enough water and get plenty of rest. It is OK to sleep more in the winter – in fact, it is the smart thing to do. Our bodies crave it. So allow yourself to indulge in beauty sleep without any guilty feelings at all.
Spice Up Your Food & Use Spices to Make Hot Teas
Many common spices have antimicrobial, antiviral and expectorant powers. Use ground spices in your food and make tea from ginger and turmeric root, as well as cinnamon sticks. Boil them for 10 to 20 minutes, and sip on your brew often.
Ginger: anti-inflammatory, fights the flu, common cold and respiratory infections
Cayenne: detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, fights the flu and common cold
Cinnamon: anti-inflammatory, immune boosting, fights infections and viruses
Turmeric: anti-inflammatory, strong antioxidant
Pepper: treats sinus and nasal congestion, expectorant
Get Your Daily Dose of Lacto-Fermented Vegetables
Lacto-fermented vegetables are higher in vitamins than their unfermented counterparts, and boost immunity by providing live probiotic bacteria. Have 2 tablespoons daily. You can find unpasteurized sauerkraut and pickles in the cold section of your natural food stores. They are easy to make yourself. My recipe for Peppery Sauerkraut follows below.
Superfoods: garlic, lemon juice, raw honey
Garlic: antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal
Lemon juice: strengthens immune system, prevents viral infections like cold and flu
Honey: antiviral, boosts immune system
Use these powerful ingredients in food and drink. Make salad dressings using raw garlic, lemon juice, olive oil and honey. Add lemon juice to your drinking water. Use honey instead of sugar. To keep honey’s medicinal power intact, never heat it over 95 degrees F (or 35 C).
Recipe: Natural Antibiotics in a Jar This is a powerful concoction - take 1 teaspoon every day first thing in the morning on an empty stomach as a preventative. When already under the weather, take 1 tablespoon three times per day, one before each meal. This is strong stuff and meant for adults only. It is not suitable for children.
1 garlic clove 2 tablespoons ground ginger ½ tablespoon ground cayenne ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon ½ tablespoon ground turmeric ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/3 cup + 1½ tablespoons (100 ml) lemon juice 2 tablespoons honey
Press the garlic into a jar, add all spices and lemon juice and stir.
Add the honey and mix.
Let the mixture sit at room temperature for three hours, then transfer into the refrigerator.
Echinacea Tincture
At the first hint of a cold coming on, take a dropperful in a glass of water and drink 3 times per day between meals. You can find echinacea tincture at your health food store.
Vitamin C
Eat vitamin C rich foods such as black currants, red and green bell peppers, kiwi, broccoli, kale and parsley.
Food: Eat This Not That
Eat leafy greens on a daily basis. Besides being powerhouses for vitamins and minerals, they help reduce mucus and clear congestion, especially in the lungs. Their chlorophyll content supports the good gut bacteria, thus boosting immunity. You can sauté them with garlic or have them in a smoothie.
Many events are coming up in April, starting today with the Trustee Election and Budget Vote at the Howland Public Library, and the Citizens Preparedness Training tonight (includes prep for floods and long power outages). The next few weekends in April are jam-packed! So look ahead using A Little Beacon Blog's Event Guide!
But what about all of those events and meetings that happen on a regular basis, the same whatever day of the month? The Third Thursday? Or the Last Monday, or is it the First Monday? Who knows!? A Little Beacon Blog knows, because we started a Guide for that. It's called the Repeating Event Guide, or the Every X Day Guide. We can't decide. Got an idea for a name? Let us know in the Comments below!
Sponsor the Event Guide and reach our readers! It is one of our most popular and appreciated by the Community. Past sponsors of Guides have included the Beacon Flea Market. Thank you for your support! Find details here on our Media Kit page.
Happy Second Saturday, people of Beacon! This is one of the most art-action-packed Second Saturdays in memory, folks, so pause the seed sowing and spring cleaning, and go outside to take in some art. We've got it all covered in Beacon's most comprehensive Art Gallery Guide.
It's the last weekend to see Paola Ochoa at Matteawan Gallery. Down Main Street a little, celebrate National Poetry Month with chapbooks at No.3 Reading Room & Photo Book Works. A recurring theme this month? The great outdoors. Related shows are at The Shed at Spire Studios (a farewell to photographer Ethan Harrison as he STRAYs out of the Hudson Valley 😢🎉), Hudson Beach Glass, RiverWinds Gallery, Bannerman Island Gallery, and the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries.
Short on time? Pack in variety with group shows at Marion Royael Gallery, the Howland Cultural Center, the new Mother Gallery, Beacon's schoolkids at the Howland Public Library. There's so much to see and plan for, that even if you miss, you can't miss. Check the Guide for details!
Rock and Roll Bingo Fundraiser
Day: Friday, April 13, 2018 Time: 6:30 to 9 pm Location: Sargent Elementary School PTO, 29 Education Drive, Beacon, NY Information >
Beacon Chamber of Commerce Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at the Beacon Historical Society
Day: Saturday, April 14, 2018 Time: Noon to 4 pm Location: Beacon Historical Society, 17 South Ave., Beacon, NY Information >
“Between the Lines” Beacon City Schools Opening Reception
Day: Saturday, April 14, 2018 Time: 2 to 4 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Howland Chamber Music Circle presents “Fresh Air” Outdoor Concert
Day: Saturday, April 14, 2018 Time: 3 pm Location: Mini-park on the corner of Cross & Main Streets, Beacon, NY (across from Hudson Beach Glass) Information >
Garden Center Grand Opening Party
Day: Saturday, April 14, 2018 Time: 5 to 7 pm Location: One Nature Center, 321 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Plan B “From Outer Space” LP Release
Day: Saturday, April 14, 2018 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps Annual Benefit Brunch
Day: Sunday, April 15, 2018 Time: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm Location: Dutchess Manor, 263 Route 9D, Beacon, NY Information >
Women's Work: A Stitch in Time Day: Sunday, April 15, 2018 Time: 3 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Beacon History on Tap: A 150-Year History of Bars and Drinking Establishments in Beacon Day: Sunday, April 15, 2018 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Dogwood, 47 East Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Beacon Sloop Club's Annual Woody Dinner
Day: Sunday, April 15, 2018 Time: Happy hour, 5 pm; dinner, 6 pm Location: Chalet on the Hudson, 3250 Route 9D, Cold Spring, NY Information >
Beacon Hosts Citizens Preparedness Training
Day: Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Time: Doors open at 6:30 pm, starts at 7 Location: Beacon Fire Station #2, located at 13 South Ave.
Beacon Hosts Citizens Preparedness Training at Fire Station #2 on Tuesday, April 17, 2018. You'll learn about what to do when the power goes out for days, flooding preparation, and you'll get an emergency Starter Kit! Read A Little Beacon Blog's Article on this >
Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
Thank you to Beacon Pilates for sponsoring the Classes for Adults Guide!
Make & Take Workshop
Day: Friday, April 3, 2018 Time: 4 to 6 pm Location: Knot Too Shabby, 155 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Master Class in Tap with Brenda Bufalino
Day: Sunday, April 15, 2018 Time: 11 am to 1 pm Location: Ballet Arts Studio, 107 Teller Ave., Beacon, NY Information >
Absolute Beginners
Day: Sunday, April 15, 2018 Time: Noon to 3 pm Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes and workshops of all kinds, visit our Adult Classes Guide.
Color-A-Thon at South Avenue School
Day: Saturday April 14, 2018 Time: 10:30 am to 1:30 pm Location: South Avenue Elementary School, back entrance Information >
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street www.luxeoptique.com (across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company)
The eye doctor is in at Luxe Optique! Appointments are avaialble every day of the week except Thursdays. Kids and adults are welcome!
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency ONLY 2 SPOTS LEFT!
Join Susan Antalek Pagones as she instructs this defensive driving course! The next Defensive Driving Class is Monday and WEdnesday, May 14 and 16, from 5:30 to 8:45 pm. Why take defensive driving?
May reduce up to 4 points on your driving record.
Save up to 10% off on a vehicle liability, PIP (Personal Injury Protection) and collision premium for up to 3 years off Principal Operator.
No formal tests!
Pre-registration is required. Only $35 per person and lunch is included. RSVP: Call (845) 831-4300 or email Thomasine at tsupple@antalek-moore.com.
Rhinebeck Bank
Newburgh gets a Newburgh Creative Neighborhood Loan Fund, a partnership between Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress and Rhinebeck Bank. Find out where the eligible area is, and get more details about the program here.
BeaconArts
Our most favoritest artist holiday of the year! Beacon Open Studios is coming, Saturday and Sunday, April 28 and 29, in studios all over town! Get the brochure here at A Little Beacon Blog’s Office, at 291 Main Street, First Floor, First Door. A Little Beacon Blog is a proud sponsor of Beacon Open Studios!
InHouse Design Media
The photographers and designers of InHouse Design Media can help you take amazing pictures to pump up your Instagram. This four-week private workshop is like an amazing fitness class, but to whip your photos into shape. Details >
Tin Shingle
Join Tin Shingle to talk shop about PR, marketing, social media, SEO, Google, newsletters, and other creative ways to reach your customers, existing and prospective. You can do this. Tin Shingle's supporting community and resources can help. Details >
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Celebrate the Grand Opening of the Beacon Historical Society's new location at the historic former rectory of St. Andrew’s Church. Show your support for a fantastic organization, whose mission is to ensure the preservation of Beacon's history. Explore their new exhibit space. Afterward, Society volunteers will lead a mini-walking tour of Beacon’s historic West End. Day: Saturday, April 14 Time: Noon to 1 pm Location: 17 South Ave., Beacon, NY
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Our most favoritest artist holiday of the year! Beacon Open Studios is coming to artists' studios all over town, Saturday, April 28 and Sunday, April 29! The kick-off party is the Friday night before, on April 27 at Oak Vino, from 6 to 9 pm, and you're invited! Get the event's brochure - with a map! - here at A Little Beacon Blog’s Office, at 291 Main Street, First Floor, First Door. A Little Beacon Blog is a proud sponsor of Beacon Open Studios!
We highly recommend participating in this weekend-only event. It only happens once a year. You get to see inside the home studios of artists you’ve never heard of, who produce incredible work. See our past articles on Beacon Open Studios, including views into a few of the studios. Some participating artists are professionals in other fields, who commute to other places during the week, and only show off their passionate works in their studios here in Beacon. You never know who you will discover as an artist, or why.
Put this date in your calendar as a must-do. You can even check out the art while out walking, since the studios are all over Beacon. Planning studio visits is flexible and commitment-free! (Just make sure that you do in fact go.)
Citizens' Preparedness Training Day: Tuesday, April 17 Time: Doors will open at 6:30 pm and the training will begin at 7 pm. Location: Beacon's Fire Station #2, 13 South Avenue
In light of the recent shooting events and the early morning fire at Rombout Avenue, parents are looking for ways to be more prepared in an emergency situation. The Dutchess Country Department of Emergency Response and Beacon Mayor Randy Casale are inviting all parents to the Citizens' Preparedness Training, Tuesday, April 17, at Beacon's Fire Station #2 located at 13 South Avenue. Doors will open at 6:30 pm and the training will begin at 7 pm.
William H. (Bill) Beale, the Emergency Management Coordinator for the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response, says: “Through our countywide community preparedness assessment, we discovered the need for citizens' preparedness training. As a result, we can fund it through federal training."
Starter Kit of FEMA Recommended Items
At this training, participants will get a Starter Kit that includes FEMA-recommended items. "This kit and the ability to add to it is very important," says Bill.
Flooding Preparedness Training
According to Bill, “We’re seeing more flooding than we’ve seen previously.” Flooding is the No. 1 natural hazard that affects Dutchess County. "If you’re in a low-lying area, be aware that it could happen. Many people live in rural parts of Dutchess County," further from life-saving first responders.
Sustained Power Outages Training
Attendees will be trained in what to do during sustained power outages. Days after we moved to Beacon from New York City several Januarys ago, Beacon experienced a severe blizzard where we lost power for three days. Being city-folk, we didn't know what do to. However, if that had to happen, I think I'd rather be out here in a small-town city than up high in an apartment building!
"During the last Nor’easters," Bill explains, "many people were without power for nine days. This program trains in how to be prepared for sustained power outages."
Other Types of Emergencies
Among the goals of the evening training session will be making people aware of what types of disasters can affect Duchess County in case they need to evacuate the area or shelter in place. Situations that will be covered include severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, winter storms, public health emergencies, hazards materials (chemical and biological threats).
This training does not include what to do in active shooter situations. "Stop the Bleed does address that," says Bill, referencing the training program that is readily accessed through the Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps, who can bring their Stop the Bleed training to you if you organize a group.
Overall, Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response has found that Community Preparedness is lacking in Dutchess County, and has ramped up efforts to find and secure funding. "We have trained almost 2,000 people so far and have conducted 30 presentations.”
Tuesday's event is free and open to the public. You can get more information by visiting www.dutchessny.gov or calling (845) 486-2080.
A six-block radius of Newburgh has access to newly established capital through a program called the Creative Neighborhood Loan Fund, through the efforts of Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress and Rhinebeck Bank. According to a press release announcing the loan, Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress has launched an economic development plan with a goal of improving the business climate in an approximate six square block area within the City of Newburgh, near furniture maker and studio space rental initiative Atlas Industries, and SUNY Orange’s City of Newburgh campus. The zone roughly includes an area bordered on the north by Catherine Street and on the south by South William Street. To the west, it is bordered by South Johnston Street and to the east by River Road. See the full map here.
Rhinebeck Bank is enhancing the efforts of Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress on this project by "allocating $3 million of our loan portfolio to fund secured-term loans including commercial express loans, equipment and vehicle purchases, leasehold improvements and real estate transactions under favorable pricing, advance rates and terms to the prospective borrowers in the Newburgh Creative Neighborhood," according to their website.
Says Rhinebeck Bank's president and CEO, Mike Quinn in a press release from Pattern for Progress: “There’s a lot of great ideas, but just an idea doesn’t do it,” he said. “It needs financing [and] it needs advice.”
For more information on applying for this loan, reach out to Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, at rdegroat@pfprogress.org or call (845) 565-4900, or to Rhinebeck Bank's Richard J. Kolosky, Commercial Lending Director, Hudson Valley West, at rkolosky@rhinebeckbank.com or (845) 790-1538.
Editorial Note: Rhinebeck Bank is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, but this article is not related to their campaign. A Little Beacon Blog learned about the program and thought readers would like to know more about it, as more Beaconites look to Newburgh for business space innitiatives.
Pictured here is the City Attorney Nicholas Ward-Willis (at right), the Mayor Randy Casale (at center) and the City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero (at left). Photo Credit: Screenshot of the Workshop meeting. Video produced by Peter Skorewicz
Beacon has stepped up to the plate once again to consider creating legislation for short-term rentals in people's homes, also known as "home sharing," or "Airbnb-ing". Mayor Randy Casale has cited emails he has received from citizens who are opposed to short-term rentals in different capacities. Beacon considered legislating this in 2014 and created draft legislation in 2015, but never finalized it. Click here for a background of this Airbnb issue and why it is being discussed now.
In January and February of 2018, Beacon discussed short-term rentals at a City Council meeting, and held a Workshop discussion on the subject in February. In April, members of the public were invited to voice their opinion at a Public Hearing, at which over 20 people spoke favorably about their experience with short-term rental via Airbnb. They also expressed their reactions to the proposed restrictions in the proposed new law put together in 2018.
A handful of people showed up to speak out against short-term rentals, and voiced their desire for rules to be enforced - even though no local law exists yet in Beacon to be enforced. The law on the table right now is new. There are zoning laws at the New York state level, which include fire safety requirements such as installing sprinkler systems or breakaway windows. Those requirements can be a financial burden to homeowners, who also rent out their homes to earn extra income to keep up with their mortgage or rent payments.
Those in opposition of no regulation at all included a citizen, Elaine Ciaccio, who submitted a petition she started which had 70 signatures on it asking to "1. Ban non-owner occupied whole home short-term rentals and 2. Require registration and establish regulations that maintain the zoned character of our residential neighborhoods." Airbnb has submitted their written response to Beacon's legislation, which was to argue against many of the proposed restrictions. Neither the petition or Airbnb's testimony were read aloud at the Public Hearing, but around 30 people voiced their opinions, a majority of whom were homeowner/landlords of short-term rentals who were in favor of short-term rentals, and in favor of the least amount of regulation - if at all.
Legislation on the Table Now
LEGAL NOTE: Please know: this summation does not constitute as the draft legal document. You can find that legal document right here at this link. The information has been summarized so that you can see the points quickly. You should read the draft legislation yourself if this area of legislation concerns you. The people of a municipality do not have a lawyer representing them, as a city hires an attorney to represent itself. Council members may not necessarily be lawyers or specialized in a type of law being legislated. As a citizen, homework is involved.
Here is a summary of the law that the City Attorney has drafted as of April 4, 2018. Please see the actual draft of the law at the City of Beacon's website in their PDF here at this link. This draft is an edited version that the attorney made prior to the Public Hearing on April 2, 2018, and includes "track changes," which means that you can see what was originally proposed or how something was worded, and then was revised based on feedback.
Men's Rights
Before we begin, it is noted that women were not always included in the legislation wording. Women and men have since been written into the draft with both pronouns, "his or her." In prior draft laws, the male pronoun has been used, such as "his property." Being that married women used to not be able to own property at all in the United States prior to the 1830s, with different states coming on board with allowing women to own property through the 1840s '50s, and so on until the late 1800s (see Wikipedia for all the details).
In this latest April 4th draft, one possible loophole remains for women in this line item: "A short-term rental permit has been issued and the owner fails to continue to occupy the premises on a continuous basis as his primary residence; or..."
Additionally, the proposed legislation assumes that the Building Inspector, who is currently a man, will always be a man. The legislative wording reads as this: "The applicant shall be given an opportunity to present evidence why such denial of application, or such suspension or revocation of the license, shall be modified or withdrawn. The Building Inspector or his designated agent may also present evidence."
Who is an Owner?
According to the draft legislation, an owner would be defined as: "An individual or group of individuals who are in possession of and have a fee interest in real property. The term 'owner' shall not include entity corporation, limited-liability company, partnership, association, a trustee, receiver or guardian of an estate, or mortgagee, lien holder, or other business entity."
Owner Occupied would be defined as: "A one-family or two-family house or multiple dwelling building used by the owner as his or her or their domicile or principal residence."
The short-term rental space would be defined as: "An entire dwelling unit, or a room or group of rooms or other living or sleeping space, made available to rent, lease or otherwise assigned for a tenancy of less than 30 consecutive days. The term “short-term rental” does not include dormitories, hotel or motel rooms, bed and breakfast inns or lodging houses, as permitted and regulated by the City of Beacon Zoning Ordinance."
Permit would be required, would last for 2 years, and would be able to be renewed.
The application of the permit would be submitted to the Building Department. Several pieces of information would be required, including a notarized certificate from all property owners.
A broad requirement of the City requiring anything: The proposed law also has a line that broadly gives the City the ability to require information not defined in the legislation, with this wording: “Such other information as the City may require.” When two parties are negotiating a contract, statements like this are inserted by a party who wants to cover a large ground of protection. It can be argued that it is up to the other party to accept that or negotiate that statement out of the document.
Permits may be revoked if specified conditions occur, such as an owner not occupying the premises as the owner’s primary residence, or if the property “creates a hazard or public nuisance or other condition which negatively impacts the use and/or enjoyment of surrounding properties, or threatens the peace and good order, or quality of life in the surrounding community.”
Violation fines could be up to $500 per offense. “Any owner who fails to obtain the permit required herein, or otherwise violates any provision of this section, shall be guilty of an offense which shall be punishable by a fine of not more than $500 per offense.”
Attics and cellars would not be allowed to be rented “unless it meets the requirements of the International Fire, Residential and Building Codes or successor law.”
Short-term rentals could be in any zone of the city, and would not be dependent upon the zoning type your house or apartment was in.
Advertised locations: The owner would have to show where they are advertising the listing.
Proof of rental bookings required. The number of days rented would have to be printed out from home-sharing listing websites and shown to the Building Inspector when the property owner(s) want to renew the permit.
Inspection by the Building Department would be required at the time of initial application, and any permit renewal.
Primary residences only are eligible. Owners of short-term rental properties would only be able to rent out that property that they call their primary residence. If it is not their primary residence, they cannot rent out. If they have a second home or house or apartment in Beacon, an owner could not rent it out as a short-term rental.
Campers, sheds, vehicles parked on property, tents, recreation rooms, garages, temporary structures, or other things could not be rented out from the homeowner's property.
Wedding, concerts or other commercial situations would not be able to be rented.
100-day rental limitation has been scratched out. In last month’s draft, there was a proposed limit of 100 days rented per calendar year. Comments from the public indicated this would impact their income, and in some cases, prevent them from making their own mortgage or property tax payments. In the proposed law, there is a strikethrough line through the verbiage, indicating that it is off the table as a restriction.
Timing to get permits: If approved, “This local law shall take effect immediately upon filing with the Office of the Secretary of State. Any short-term rental in existence prior to adoption of this local law shall have 45 days to file an application to obtain a short-term rental permit and 90 days to receive such short-term rental permit before any violations are issued, unless a delay is caused by Building Department in not issuing said permit.”
General Tone of the Legislation is Assumptive of Rowdiness - But Airbnb-ers Have Attracted Quiet Renters
In this proposed law language, the City's position takes an approach that defends the citizens, and one that assumes that renters are likely to be disruptive. Setting the stage for the legislation, the following is written into the introduction of the proposed law: "There is a greater tendency for Short-Term renters to fail to conduct themselves during their occupancy in a manner that respects neighbors and the community as would persons with longer standing relationships to their neighbors. In addition, studies have shown that short-term rentals are linked to increases in rent and housing costs because rental units are taken off the market and used as short-term rentals."
Studies, or supporting documentation, mentioned in this statement have not yet been provided or presented to the public for the creation of this law.
During the Public Hearing, all of the people in favor of short-term rentals credited Airbnb itself with creating a good-neighbor environment thanks to Airbnb's background checking and self-governing rules that publicly grade short-term rentals, as well as factor in private feedback. Said a citizen and homeowner landlord, Dennis Mendo, "From renting out an Airbnb for the last 3 years, I have not had one complaint. Not one thing broken. And I live in a cul-de-sac."
During the Public Hearing, it was revealed that people who are renters through Airbhb have to:
Pass background checks from Airbnb.
Can be denied a booking by homeowner short-term rental landlords.
Jessica, a woman who spoke at the public hearing and has a legal long-term rental on the property, also rents a part of the home as a short-term rental. She commented about the neighbor safety in place created by Airbnb's rental marketplace, stating: "I know more about my Airbnb guests than I do about my own tenant."
She went on to explain: "Guests have to go through a three-step verification process that the hosts sets the limits for, that ensures that [the guests] are who they say they are… If anything isn’t fit or isn’t how it was described or is unsafe in any way, shape, or form, they let other potential guests know by giving a lower number of stars and/or giving public feedback or private feedback."
Another attendee of the Public Hearing, Eva, rents her family's home on a short-term basis, and had this to say about her selection process about who books: "We do not accept every booking. We only accept [guests] who are willing to follow our rules. And this is why we only have 10 guests so far since 2017."
The next discussion of short-term rentals is on Monday, April 9, 2018. This will be a Workshop, where the City Council discusses the points it is considering. The workshop is open to the public to watch, but not to participate in. The next opportunity for the public to comment would be during the Miscellaneous Comment period of City Council meetings in general, which usually happen the following Monday.
For those who like auto-updates via RSS, A Little Beacon Blog has been re-publishing Agendas and Videos in our "Easy Access" City Government section of this website. There, you can easily find videos posted with each meeting, and links to the accompanying Agenda items, which can include useful information like drafts of laws, letters of testimony, maps, and more.
What weather forecast? We heard about some snow coming while we were out at the grocery store, and to that we say... Bahhhhh. Winter broke our weather app, so we're headed outside no matter what!
Have an event you wish to share? Visit our new Event Submission Page for consideration. We can't list them all, but we do read them all! There are so many wonderful things going on! Plus, if really want your event promoted, consider our Event Promotion Package. That helps you promote an event, and A Little Beacon Blog can keep promoting everyone's goodness! Thank you to all of our advertisers thus far who make this publication possible!
Artist Members of the Howland Cultural Center Opening Reception
Day: Saturday, April 7, 2018 (exhibit April 7-26, 2018) Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Doctor Who Improv Theater
Day: Saturday, April 7, 2018 Time: 7:30 to 10:30 pm Location: The Pandorica, 165 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Howland Cabaret presents Songwriter Circle
Day: Saturday, April 7, 2018 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Parker String Quartet w/ Charles Neldich, Clarinet Day: Sunday, April 8, 2018 Time: 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in ourEvents Guide.
Thank you to Beacon Pilates for sponsoring the Classes for Adults Guide!
Introduction to Moroccan & Tagine Cooking
Day: Sunday, April 8, 2018 Time: 3 pm Location: Beacon Pantry, 382 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Cooking & Pairing Class
Day: Monday, April 9, 2018 Time: 6 to 8 pm Location: Olive U, 896 Main St., Fishkill, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes and workshops of all kinds, visit our Adult Classes Guide.
Beacon Junior Baseball Registration
Day: Registration is open now! Location: Games take place at Memorial Park Registration Information > Thank you, Beacon Junior Baseball, for sponsoring this Kids Classes Guide!
Workshop: Caring for Baby Animals This Spring Day: Saturday, April 7, 2018 Time: 10 am to noon Location: Beacon Institute Gallery, 199 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Babysitting Course
Ages: 12 & up Day: Saturday, April 7, 2018 Time: 9 am to 4 pm Location: All Sport Health & Fitness, 17 Old Main St., Fishkill, NY Information >
Babysitting Course
Day: Saturday, April 7, 2018 Time: 9:30 am to 1:30 pm Location: Fishkill Recreation, 792 Route 52, Fishkill, NY Information >
Color-A-Thon Fundraiser - Registration Open
All Kids, From Any School, May Participate
Day: Saturday, April 14, 2018 Time: 10:30 am to 1:30 pm Location: South Avenue Elementary, 60 South Ave., Beacon, NY
South Avenue is holding its 2nd Annual Color-A-Thon, and all kids, attending any school, are able to participate! This is a celebration of color as kids run around the block while getting brightly colored powder thrown on them. It's very low key, and kids can even walk the block. Festivities include a bouncy house, food, and crazy colors. This is a fundraiser for South Avenue Elementary's outdoor play area. If you see your little South Avenue friends fundraising, consider giving them a boost with a donation! Non-South Avenue Kids Register Here > South Avenue Kids should register via their packet or online for additional fundraising options.
Scholarship Opportunity:
Apply now for the South Avenue PTA Scholarship! Graduating Beacon High School students who also graduated from South Avenue are eligible. Two $750 scholarships are available. Deadline: Friday, June 1, 2018 Details >
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street www.luxeoptique.com
New frames in from the expo! Check out these wild shades by Thom Browne. Go in and try some on! The Thom Browne line is very hard to find in retail locations. But here they are, in Luxe Optique on Main Street!
INSIDER TIP: The eye doctor is in at Luxe Optique just about every day, including Saturday and Sunday (but not on Thursday, boo)!
BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main by the Hudson Valley Brewery and use the back walkway entrance to come up to Main Street!
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3 www.lambshillbridalboutique.com (near the dummy light)
Can we talk about the layers on layers of luxurious textures here? Lots of new samples in Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique from Lillian West, Justin Alexander and more!
Where can you get your hair done in Beacon? Or have a beard trim? Find out in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide! TIP: Amy's Hair has moved a few blocks down! These days, you'll find her near the car wash on Main Street.
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
Hit the road! Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency can find a great rate for the insurance on your camper. To learn more, call them at (845) 831-4300, or stop by their office on Main Street, near Beacon Natural Market.
Rhinebeck Bank
This week on Rhinebeck Bank's latest video series, Michelle Barone-Lepore featured Greystone Programs Inc, a school dedicated to supporting children, adults, and families living with autism and other developmental disabilities by enriching lives one person at a time. Their after-school programs and other programming have been integral to several people who need additional support they can trust. From a parent of a child in the after-school program: “The people who work here - you can see that the people who work here really enjoy what they do. It’s not just a job.” Michelle also interviews an older child, who expressed his feelings about Greystone: “I met a lot of new friends here… It’s about how people treat other people… Everyone gets along together.” Watch the 2-minute episode here. SAVE THE DATE: The Third Annual Leap for Autism
Rhinebeck Bank is a proud sponsor and will be filming the event. Date: Saturday, April 21, 2018 (Rain date: Saturday, April 28, 2018) Location: Skydive the Ranch in Gardiner, NY Details >
BeaconArts
Beacon Open Studios is in one month! Mark your calendar for the weekend of April 27-29. During that weekend, you will be able to experience a city-wide art gallery walk, and get to enter some of the private studios of artists that are not normally open to the public! A Little Beacon Blog is a proud sponsor. Get more information here.
InHouse Design Media
The photographers and designers of InHouse Design Media can help you take amazing pictures for your Instagram feed. This four-week private workshop is like an amazing fitness class, but to whip your photos into shape. Details >
Tin Shingle
Tin Shingle puts the power of PR, Social Media, SEO, and Design directly into the hands of business owners, makers and artists by way of a custom-designed, DIY PR subscription membership platform. Join our online community to ask questions, get feedback, and get courage to go big. All Access Pass members get unlimited streaming of educational videos called TuneUps, Media Contacts, and Magazine Planning Tools for those who want print PR. Bonus for Hudson Valley People: In-person meetings every last Monday of the month! Learn more about it here >
Beacon Chamber of Commerce YOUR RIBBON CUTTING!
Do you have a Ribbon Cutting you want to set up? The Beacon Chamber of Commerce would love to host it for you! Become a member and reach out to them!
A Little Beacon Space
Private Bookings of A Little Beacon Blog's Space are available for your event, workshop or gathering. Do you have a retail itch? You'll love our Pop-Up Shop Package, which includes a shop takeover by you, and a dedicated article from us to help you promote it. Learn more here >
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It’s happening...a hardware store is opening in Beacon! Nichols Hardware was the last hardware store here on Main Street, and closed several years ago.
Brett’s True Value opens on Thursday, April 5, 2018, and is located down on 18 West Main Street, which is just a hop, skip and a jump over 9D/Wolcott towards the Beacon Metro-North train 🚂 station. There are all kinds of other businesses down in that mini-complex, including BCAP, 2 Way Brewing, Beacon Pilates, The Cinehub, and others. An apartment building is also going up across the street.
Beaconites now have two hardware stores to shop at - this one located right in town, and Home Depot in Fishkill, which employs many Beacon neighbors and frequently offers classes.
Brett’s True Value has additional locations in New Windsor and Newburgh, and boasts of carrying household tools, hardware, and other products, many of which, they say, are from family-run companies; the store is independently owned. Owner Brett Feller felt it was time for Beacon residents to have their own hardware store again: "I live in Beacon. I love Beacon. Beacon is fun! The town told me they wanted a hardware store. I was told over and over again, 'We need a hardware store in Beacon.' "
You will notice the building itself has a newer look, as some renovations were made in order to optimize the space for retail. Why would someone put a store here? Brett says, "Most people could not understand how we were going to open a store here. The landlord did a great job transforming the space for us. The front was dug out and a large concrete patio was installed and new cedar planks were put in to create the façade. Inside, multiple walls were knocked down and new ones went up. All new lighting [was installed]."
Get your DIY on! At the moment, I have a flat tire in my driveway ready for fixing, so it's good I can walk to Brett’s True Value for an air compressor!
Support for this publication comes in part from these businesses. We have highlighted what makes them special on their own dedicated pages. Want your business listed here? See the "Sponsor Spotlight" or "Event Promotion" option in our Advertising Page.
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The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
