The first thoughts of quarantine were scary: How will I get my things? How will I get my groceries? How will I get my special shampoo (admit it - you thought it, and then you remembered that most brands and boutique hair salons are shipping). Beacon Mutual Aid has emerged as a group of volunteers who are helping to connect those dots - your need, and how to make it happen. Help is available in Spanish and English.
The deeper thoughts are scarier: What if I get sick? Who will care for my kids if I’m a solo parent? What if I’m too sick to feed myself? How will I get my prescriptions? Grocery delivery via Peapod isn’t as fast or well stocked with brands (two-week wait time is common), so insta-in-person-to-friend requests are faster for getting what you need. Volunteers have offered to help with deliveries, so at this time in Beacon, you are surrounded by help. All you need to do is ask.
While Governor Andrew Cuomo has been trying to address these needs as he leads us to the apex by strongly encouraging that pharmacies deliver medications (a recent agreement 3/29/2020… if you’re hiring delivery people, post your job for free here on A Little Beacon Blog), Beaconites were ahead of the curve.
Beacon Mutual Aid Group Pops Up - To Help Anyone
An example of a request made by a Facebook member of Beacon Mutual Aid, in search of an item for a neighbor. Photo Credit: Screenshot of Beacon Mutual Aid
Beacon Mutual Aid was spearheaded by Dara Silverman and developed by many, including Virginia Beata, who stepped in to help manage. At first it was based on Facebook, and then grew to have a website so that more people could request help, and has been taking requests for help from anyone who lives in Beacon. The number of volunteers in the group quickly rose from 80 to 200, and now possibly more. According to the website, the concept was based on similar community-need models in other states: “Thank you to Mutual Aid Medford and Somerville, Community Care and Mutual Aid Milwaukee, Mutual Aid Solidarity Network of Seattle and others who are models for this work.”
Requests that come in can be for anything: a grocery request from a quarantined mom who wonders how to do meal pickup (answer: arrange for delivery with the Beacon City School district! email landahl.m@beaconk12.org to sign up for delivery), to a request on behalf of someone’s neighbor who broke their foot and needs a standing wheel scooter.
While people can officially make a request for help from Beacon Mutual Aid via a form on Beacon Mutual Aid’s website, people in-the-know can connect with each other quickly via Facebook to ask questions or put out a request - even on behalf of their neighbor who has no connection to computers or the Internet. But you don’t need to be on Facebook to use the group. You don’t even have to know how to use the Internet to use the group.
“Do I Need To Know Someone To Use The Group?”
The beautiful thing about the group is that it spurs a person to think about their neighbor. While Mayor Lee Kyriacou encourages citizens to check on their neighbors in his COVID-related robo-calls to residents, this group has split into “pods,” where people coordinate with their own neighbors or blocks to be vocal in the group to ask for something on behalf of their neighbor who may have no access to Facebook, or the Internet, or be comfortable with asking others for help at all. You don’t need to have a “pod” to use the group. You can be a random, unaffiliated person in Beacon.
Personally, I have been calling my slightly senior citizen neighbor to ask if she needs grocery pickups. Recently I have been letting my younger (40s) solo neighbor know that should he get sick and have no one there, to text me. Call 911 in an emergency of course, but text me, too. Keep me in the loop for any needs. As for my divorced single mom neighbor, of course she knows I am there for her for anything, but recently, I planted the seed of: “What if your ex-husband gets sick, and we know his parents are too old to physically care for him? Have you considered this scenario, since he lives alone?”
No one wants to feel alone in this quarantined, social-distanced life, and the Beacon Mutual Aid Group has helped aid in that.
How To Use The Beacon Mutual Aid Group
Anyone can use it, and no request is too small. According to Dara’s quote in The Highlands Current, they get a lot of requests for soap and groceries. I personally have used it to find experts in certain fields for quotes and resources for articles here at A Little Beacon Blog. They are also very connected to the handmade mask movement that started weeks ago to address known shortages for masks (yes, Governor Cuomo said today that they did not predict this shortage, but this had been a known fact inside of hospitals if you had any friends who were working the front lines in hospitals, despite the White House saying that shipments were coming from whatever large company contributing to the cause).
Activating Help Within The Beacon Mutual Aid Group
Organize a neighborhood “pod.” Check out the directions and examples here. It even includes a flyer you could print out just to familiarize people with the concept. Paper printouts always ground people. The concept is as follows, from Beacon Mutual Aid’s website: ”As things get harder, we show up for our neighbors. As a neighborhood point person, you’d take on the responsibility of reaching out to your neighbors, checking in on what needs are arising on your block, coordinating a neighborhood group chat or phone tree, and staying in touch with the point people from other neighborhoods for resource pooling. We are trying to build a network of many neighborhood pods across Beacon.”
This may be a new concept for skeptical New Yorkers, who aren’t used to having anyone in their business. Even if you don’t sign up for this, or put in a request, you still could act as a point person for one or two of your neighbors.
Regardless, the Beacon Mutual Aid Group is here for you.
Fill out your request on their website, or if that’s too much, call or email: beaconmutualaid@gmail.com (845) 206-9836
Donating To Beacon Mutual Aid
More and more, Beacon Mutual Aid is behind some pretty amazing initiatives. Like Free Groceries at the meal pickups for Beacon City Schools parents. This is huge. It is open for anyone, and targeting those in need. Those of us who have just lost jobs, client projects, and had income freeze, the extra head of lettuce and bag of rice has been a welcome take-home as bills pile up. Says Dara: “All the donations have been used to buy groceries for people who can’t afford them.”
Donate to Beacon Mutual Aid via venmo via mutualaidbeacon, as they tap into farms and other organizations to make this happen. If you don’t have Venmo (as this blogger does not use Venmo) then email them at beaconmutualaid@gmail.com to see how to send a check.
Actual question from the reader. ALBB delivered! Photo Credit: A Little Beacon Blog
A reader reached out and asked for suggestions on ways to support locals for Easter this year. We took a deep dive into A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide, which lists all of the shops on Main Street in Beacon, and found the BEST items for a “Spring Hunt.”
Lots of Main Street shops are shipping or personally delivering, so you can check out their websites, and order in time for the Spring hunt!
Candles, Handmade Earrings, Scrub, Hand Rescue, Matches, Body Wash, Soap, Essential Oils, etc.
All can be purchased via Instagram message, Facebook, or email: info@blackbirdattic.com Or, call (845) 418-4840 Free local delivery available or curbside pick up at 442 Main St., Beacon, NY Some items shippable - follow Blackbird Attic on Instagram HERE for updates and videos.
It's a busy Friday. It's a Friday where some banks opened to take applications from businesses applying for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), but there's a flood of applications and some banks are delaying in order to prevent fraud. The new owners of Homespun Foods have been on it like bonnets from the beginning, trying to save their restaurant, and applied today, and have a hopeful response. We'll send you their story soon.
In the Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) department, masks are being talked about in a big way for a variety of reasons. There's the shortage of hospital-grade ones. Beacon Makers, organized by the Mutual Aid Beacon and Beacon Moms Group (and possibly others) have also been on it like bonnets and have been making CDC-approved emergency masks for weeks to try to help the front lines at the hyperlocal level in Beacon and beyond. The making continues, as a lot more masks and gowns are needed.
All of these articles are going to come to you, but after our regularly scheduled Retail Therapy Guide. Get this guide, know how to get your wine delivered, treat yourself to a new shirt or pair of glasses, and then continue on with the harder stuff.
BUT FIRST, A THANKS TO OUR ADVERTISERS
As best we can, people are trying to pay in place - keep the system moving as if money is still flowing. A Little Beacon Blog has some advertisers who have stayed on, and we appreciate them so much. Their support helps us report on the virus, and business developments in town. To those businesses who needed to pull out, we get it! And we support you too, and know that we are cheering for you to make it to the other side of the apex.
Advertisers trying to continue to support us (give them extra love!):
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agents.
As you juggle which bills to pay, pay your insurance bill if it's through an agent. If people skip their insurance premiums, the good people at Antalek & Moore don't get their commissions. Antalek & Moore employs several people, and they work hard doing homework to make your home and business insurance life easier. If you aren't in their good hands yet, call them today to transfer your insurance to them. Honestly. They do the work for you. They find the right fit with an insurance carrier, and they do the rest. Need a new Workers Comp policy? They are on it. Change of address? Done.
Binnacle Books.
Huge supporters of many movements. Order your books through their easy web page. The fact that an independent bookstore even opened in the past few years is amazing, and now they're riding out a pandemic.
Eat Church.
Bless them. Their food truck is powered down for now and they are still supporting ALBB. They are also involved with Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF), so any extra love we can throw ARF's way to encourage you to donate to help the dogs and cats, we will. Donate here. Or adopt!
Luxe Optique.
Another huge supporter of local, and thinking outside the box to make things work, and make you happy with your vision and your style. We miss their faces and energy so much!
PTACEK Home.
Newbies to Beacon from Garrison, and they dove right in months before the pandemic shut them down. They have the custom-made furniture shop off the beaten path, but really they make homes and custom-designed furniture. See below for ideas.
LLTO (Live Light Travel Often).
Partners with PTACEK Home in the shop only, Tamara Reynolds is the founder of LLTO and its curated stock of beautiful products from her travels to Japan and knowledge of artisan-made goods.
Virtual Benefit Concert - Howland Chamber Music Circle Presents
Day: Saturday, April 4, 2020 Time: 8 pm ET, 7 pm CT, 5 pm PT PURCHASE TICKETS > OurConcerts.live, a new venture dedicated to supporting and promoting classical music, will bring together some of classical music’s biggest stars in a virtual benefit concert. Proceeds will go to the Artist Relief Tree, a new fund created to financially support artists who are affected by cancellations due to COVID-19.
OurConcerts.live is pleased to present an evening of extraordinary music. Streaming live from their homes, pianists Emanuel Ax and Jon Kimura Parker, mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges, violinist Rachel Barton Pine, clarinetist Anthony McGill, harpist Bridget Kibbey and others will give an intimate view into some of their favorite pieces. The artists are graciously donating their time to benefit their colleagues. Information >
Malfatti Glass: Free Giveaway
Day: Saturday, April 4, 2020 Time: 12 to 2 pm Digital Location: 10 Willow St., Beacon
Malfatti Glass is a local glass-blowing shop right here in Beacon, who is loved nationwide. Also, one of the glass-blowers, Jill, is your local representative on the Zoning Board. She and her husband Joe are giving away 50 pairs of Prosecco "Seconds" (glasses that for one reason or another would be included in their annual seconds sale) to show their support for the community during this time of anxiety and uncertainty. You can pick up, BUT you have to maintain social distance. Grab and go, don't linger, and wait for the person in front of you, six feet away, to leave first. The glasses have been sanitized, wrapped in clean tissue, packed in cardboard tubes, and the tubes wrapped in more tissue by a glove-wearing packer following best practices. Glasses will be available for pick-up from a box at the end of the driveway. Malfatti Glass: Raise A Glass for a Toast (digitally) Time: 8 pm Location: Instagram @malfattiglass or Facebook
Streaming
Day: All Day, Every Day Location: Your House
Local Beaconite Gwynne Watkins is an entertainment and culture journalist for Yahoo Entertainment, Vulture, Elle Magazine, and GQ. She gave A Little Beacon Blog recommendations for family-friendly TV watching. Get Details > SXSW Film Selections Will Stream On Amazon Prime For Free For 10 Days Get Details > HBO To Stream 500 Hours Of Free Programming, Including Full Seasons Of ‘Veep,’ ‘The Wire,’ ‘Silicon Valley’ Get Details >
A Little Beacon Blog updates our Restaurant Guide constantly. When we see changes on social media, or get a tip from a reader, we dive in and update. To cut to the chase of who is delivering and needs your biz: 2 Way Brewing (select days), Baja 328, Bank Square Coffee, The Beacon Daily, The Pandorica (good menu! great desserts), Big Mouth Coffee Roasters, BJ’s Soul Food, Melzingah Tap House, Miz Hattie’s BBQ, MoMo Valley (Himalayan), Max’s On Main, Quinn’s, Enoteca AMA, Roma Nova, Trax Coffee, Végétalien (check IG for dates).
Fundraisers have also been posted to the Guide, like for The Yankee Clipper's GoFundMe and Chill Wine Bar Gift Cert. Rumors of a few new openings may be around the corner, so keep refreshing that Restaurant Guide!
VÉGÉTALIEN
This weekend, Végétalien is doing a test run with DoorDash/Curbside Pick-Up/Takeout starting Friday, April 3, through Sunday, April 5, from 10 am to 3 pm. You can call to order at (845) 765-1943, send a message on their Instagram, order through DoorDash, or email at vegetalienbeacon@gmail.com. They will only be accepting cards or exact cash. If this weekend goes well, their takeout hours will be extended. Follow their Instagram for updates. Information > ARTISAN WINE SHOP
Wine and spirits delivery. Need we say more? Order online. In advance. Delivery or in-store pickup available. Start Browsing >
EAT CHURCH (Closed For Now)
Eat Church shared a super easy recipe for making bread at home. Here's what owner Mark says: "This is the most stripped-down bread recipe I've got, as it makes a great standard white loaf but requires so few ingredients and so little effort. Great one to make with kids as most folks have the ingredients in the pantry." Get the ingredients here > Eat Church is a Sponsor - thank you!
MIZ HATTIE'S - CURBSIDE DELIVERY
(inside Hudson Valley Food Hall)
We ordered it last week. There was so much food, we had lunch well into the next day, and snacks into the night. Bottles of wine are also available. A Little Beacon Blog has written about Miz Hattie's before. Order from Miz Hattie any day of the week.
BEACON FARMERS MARKET OPEN
The Beacon Farmers Market opens for pre-online ordering (Friday afternoon order deadline) and Sunday pickup. Normally, pre-ordering ends on Fridays for Sunday pickup, but you could maybe still try! Now also offering delivery. Details Here >
LUXE OPTIQUE
We know you are in Luxe Optique withdrawal. We are, too. We miss their energy. More importantly, you miss your next pair of frames. Here's what you need now: an easy pair of glasses that don't need the expert touch of Laurie or Ryan for adjusting. You need a pair of La Fonts, which may sit just right from the beginning. This Luxe Optique customer loves jogging in her leopard La Fonts. They never need fixing. Shop Now, Call Later! > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor - thank you!
THE CHOCOLATE STUDIO
Did you know that The Chocolate Studio also offers vegan and gluten-free brownies, vegan/GF cheesecake, cookies, vegan donuts, vegan mini-lemon bundt cakes, and vegan/GF raspberry bars? Order and pay online now! Delivery is FREE! Available on their website!
BINNACLE BOOKS
Binnacle Books is keeping their Instagram updated with books you can purchase online. They'll be delivering stock from the store directly to local customers or special-ordering new books from their distributors, which are shipped directly to your mailbox, whether you’re local or not. Order anything through https://www.binnaclebooks.com/order-books, and reach out via their Instagram DM with any questions! Get Details > Binnacle Books is a Sponsor - thank you!
PTACEK Home
See all of the looks created at PTACEK Home, and start dreaming. These looks can be in your home, too. Either from the showroom store in Beacon (when it re-opens), or custom-built or designed just for your space. Start Dreaming > PTACEK Home is a Sponsor - thank you!
LLTO (LIVE LIGHT TRAVEL OFTEN)
With all that is happening in the world, LLTO is grateful to practice and promote minimal living, rich with connection and quality. They can help you create your home sanctuary, with items that have meaning and purpose, and take advantage of their FREE SHIPPING*. These are naturally scented bath flakes from Tosaryu. Aromatic hinoki (Japanese cypress) chips. Sustainably made from recovered byproducts of the hinoki wood manufacturing process. Includes two pouches. $10. Made in Japan. Buy Online! > LLTO is a Sponsor - thank you!
ZAKKA JOY Shop online, with free shipping on all orders over $50 with coupon code EWGERMS, and free Beacon no-contact doorstep delivery with coupon code SHOPLOCAL.
SALON DAE with DANIELLE
Got transitioning hair? Are you a new curly girl? Not sure how to shampoo and condition? Danielle's got you, over at virtual Salon Dae. In this video, she treated one side of her hair with conditioner and she shares tips for the other side. Watch the video.
People have been craving schedule and routine in their lives. Fitness centers have been providing that. Here are a few:
BEBHAKTI YOGA
Tune into kids yoga on Tuesdays at 3:15 via zoom with BeBhakti Yoga! A great way in which our children can interact in a safe and fun manner, while being physically active and stimulated! And bonus, this can count as P.E. for home schooling! Parents, feel free to join in on sleepy pose at the end of class. Information >
FIREFLY YOGA
Digital yoga classes are also available through Firefly Yoga in Fishkill. Our Managing Editor, Marilyn Perez, teaches Slow Flow (Gentle) class Fridays at 11:30 am via Zoom. Open to all levels! Drop-in rate is $10. Sign up through the MINDBODY app at least an hour beforehand so you can receive the meeting room link.
ANTALEK & MOORE
Antalek & Moore has been hard at work (remotely) researching opportunities for small businesses and sharing them on their Facebook page - such as a recent SBA Webinar on YouTube about Economic Injury Disaster Loan Basics. Be sure to follow them also on Instagram! Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor - thank you!
We got a suggestion in from a reader, who wanted to know how to send financial support to A Little Beacon Blog to help us continue to produce. Even just $5. First of all: THANK YOU to that reader for wanting to do this!
If you are feeling like you want to contribute to ALBB as a reader, then visit thenew link in the ABOUT tab, called: “I Want To Support ALBB!” Different amounts are available, starting at $5. Clickhere or on the graphic above to learn more about how you can help! Support Here >
People Who Have Given Reading your comments about what ALBB means to your life has been humbling and keeps us going. Thank you. See Who Supported >
This evening, Dutchess County sent out its notification that four people had passed today, Thursday 4/2/2020, due to coronavirus complications. Their announcement in full is below. Also this evening, Beacon Mayor Lee Kyriacou and Councilperson George Mansfield robocalled with several COVID-19-related announcements, including that Beacon currently has 44 cases of the novel coronavirus. You can track the numbers here at Dutchess County’s Dashboard. Announcements by Dutchess County such as this one may be ahead of the dashboard.
Of today’s deaths, three of the four people who passed were men, and one man was young - 28 years old. All had underlying conditions.
It should also be noted that a letter was issued to the White House today by Dr. Harvey Fineberg, chairman of a committee with the National Academy of Sciences, who stressed that coronavirus can be passed by breathing, or in conversation. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the physician and immunologist who has served as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and advises the White House, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and the U.S. via television appearances, did not disagree, and agreed that the U.S. was considering use of masks for people doing their errands, especially if they don’t know that they have the coronavirus.
The reason for the masks would be to help prevent the virus from leaving your own mouth via droplets to float in the air or onto someone else. If a person is asymptomatic, and doesn’t know that they have it, they might be talking to someone and spread it. Dr. Fauci stresses that the best deterrent is for people to stay 6 feet apart (social distancing). He and the other White House medical advisor, Dr. Deborah Birx, warned today that the use of masks could cause the wearer of a mask to become lax in their social distancing. They may think they are protected/harmless, and will walk near people, and continue to touch their eyes, ears and nose. All points of entries for the virus, despite wearing a mask. This issue is being evaluated currently for an official recommendation of mask-wearing, Dr. Birx said today during the White House briefing, and Dr. Fauci said later on CNN on Anderson Cooper’s show.
In Putnam County, the Putnam County Commissioner of Health has issued a “stay-at-home” order, aka Standing Isolation Order, to people testing positive for coronavirus, according to the Putnam Daily Voice. People face fines of $2,000 for not obeying the order. There are many details to this order, especially concerning whether a person was ill, or is asymptomatic, which you can read about here.
The Dutchess County death briefing is below:
The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) has confirmed four additional Dutchess County resident deaths relating to COVID-19 as reported by local hospitals and the Dutchess County Medical Examiners Office. All patients had underlying conditions that were risk factors; none were under DBCH monitoring.
Age and gender of the deceased are as follows:
83-year-old female 79-year-old male 82-year-old male 28-year-old male
County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “Today brings more heartbreaking loss for Dutchess County and we extend our prayers and condolences to the families and friends of these four neighbors. We have a long battle ahead of us and we must all do our part to end this pandemic. Dutchess County Government, healthcare professionals, first responders and other essential workers are fighting on the front line to support those who need health during this crisis. We need the support of every citizen to keep doing their part – stay home; stay healthy; stop the spread.”
Behavioral and Community Health Commissioner Dr. Anil Vaidian said, “Testing is more widely available in our community. If you believe you have symptoms, especially if you have other health risk factors, please contact your primary-care physician to be tested and ensure follow-up monitoring. Just as importantly, for all those who are healthy – stay home to stay healthy and keep others healthy. It is possible to have COVID-19 and not be experiencing symptoms, which is why staying home is critical – so you don’t pass it along to someone with a weaker immune system. Stay home and save lives."
There are now more than 590 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Dutchess County. There have been a total of nine deaths to date as well as nearly 40 people confirmed as recovered (individuals who have resolved symptoms and are no longer being monitored by DBCH).
Pretty soon the death notices sent by Dutchess County for very precious lives will be coming in even more quickly. We are publishing them here to serve as a reminder to all of us to stay home. It is so hard to do. It is so hard for this blogger to do. But on your toughest day, or a tough day, when you just want to go out there and hug the world, remember these lives that were lost so quickly. Prayers to those cases and passings we hear about via text from friends who are grieving or worried. Keep the faith, stay strong, stay safe, stay home.
Many people of all ages do have underlying conditions, which is what the virus is seizing: cancer, diabetes, heart conditions, asthma. For those who do not have these underlying conditions, the virus still hurts. Governor Andrew Cuomo’s brother, Chris, has the virus and is speaking openly about his symptoms. His daily high fever. His shakes. His hallucinations. Watch his show on CNN from 9 to 10 pm, as he has broadcast from his basement for two nights in a row, and has dedicated the show to the inside and front lines of the virus. And then of course, shut off the TV, the devices, and do things that make you happy. Retail therapy. Reading. Movie. Petting your furry friend. Weeding outside.
The main messaging has been to protect the elderly, but it also needs to get louder that younger people as well are at risk for not having an easy go with the novel coronavirus AKA COVID-19. On Wednesday, Gov. Cuomo closed the state’s public playgrounds because young people were gathering too much. In Beacon, some young people continue to gather for driveway hangouts. Otherwise, Beacon locals have been pretty good about social distancing. Very respectful of each other.
“We implore residents who think they have symptoms of COVID-19 to call their primary-care physician and remain in constant contact to ensure follow-up monitoring can continue. ”
— Behavioral and Community Health Commissioner Dr. Anil Vaidian
The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) has confirmed the death of a fifth Dutchess County resident related to COVID-19. DBCH confirmed a 68-year-old female died at home today, April 1, 2020. The patient, who had a history of underlying conditions, presented at Vassar Brothers Medical Center's Emergency Room late last week after not feeling well. She returned home and was later informed of a positive COVID-19 result after a test during her hospital visit. The individual had not yet been transferred to DBCH monitoring. Further specific information cannot be provided for privacy reasons.
County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of our Dutchess County neighbor, and we as a community mourn the loss of another resident to this global pandemic. As we released yesterday both countywide coronavirus statistics and information about every local municipality, we remind residents no community has been spared from this virus, reinforcing the message we have spread for weeks: Stay home; stay healthy; stop the spread. As a county, we remain dedicated to fighting the spread of this virus, employing every resource available, and we thank all those — healthcare professionals, first responders, county personnel and others — who have worked tirelessly to protect our residents."
Behavioral and Community Health Commissioner Dr. Anil Vaidian said, “We implore residents who think they have symptoms of COVID-19 to call their primary-care physician and remain in constant contact to ensure follow-up monitoring can continue. As this pandemic continues to affect hundreds in our community, and will impact even more in the coming days and weeks, we must all take an active part in keeping ourselves healthy and saving lives."
As testing in the county expanded last week, there are now more than 460 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Dutchess County, and the numbers are expected to continue to increase. Staying home remains critical to stopping the spread of COVID-19 and flattening the curve so as not to overwhelm the local healthcare system and ensure everyone can get the care they need.
EDITOR’S NOTE: As you may have discovered, each day - each hour - is emotionally different during this Time Of The Coronavirus. What the governor and other authorities say during the news briefings can pivot our moods drastically. And tweets - one never knows when one will fly and cause total emotional chaos.
The more research and planning we do here at A Little Beacon Blog, the better we feel about the state of things. But still, everyone will have their moment. Something may trigger you to orbit in one direction, and then someone’s response to you, like say your spouse or partner, in an effort to calm you down, may send you into a double orbit in a different direction.
Solution? Tap into your comfort zones. Izdihar Dabashi is one such comfort zone here at A Little Beacon Blog. She is witty, perceptive, sharp, and gentle, as you may have discovered through her articles. She has guidance for you in the mental health department.
Who Is Izdihar Dabashi?
“We’re experiencing whiplash from the rapid change, with an unstable present and an uncertain future, we are understandably overwhelmed. ”
— Izdihar Dabashi
I have been described by none other than myself as an integration of Bob Ross, Mrs. Frizzle from “The Magic School Bus,” and any odd enchantment being on the brink of eccentricism in nostalgic cinema; a slightly unhinged character with an ambient presence, I often find myself engaged in conversations easing other people’s worries. As a creative writer of the current 2020s, I am perceptive to the troubles of our world’s dark sci-fi fantasy era.
What Is Your Mental Health Background?
I am studying psychology with a focus on neuropsychology, with aspirations of continuing a career relevant to the field of psychology. I work with children diagnosed early with emotional/behavioral disorders and families coping with challenges including raising a child with high-stress situations.
“Cognitive dissonance can be compared to that foggy feeling we sometimes find our minds clouded with, as though we are the star of a horror movie, the creep lurking in the shadows could suddenly jump out and we would simply stare at him in dismay with lucid boredom.”
— Izdihar Dabashi
Lately, I have found myself utilizing my knowledge gained from my current studies and work experience in casual conversations. We’re experiencing whiplash from the rapid change, with an unstable present and an uncertain future, we are understandably overwhelmed.
I gathered common signs of distress that could transform into a severe problem as well as a number of tips to ease a state of unease. We are hyperaware of the influx of negativity, but we will persevere. We have been through the Britney and Justin denim-on-denim and frosted tips era, we'll get through this.
What Are You Doing During Remoteness?
During this moment of remoteness, I plan to work on a comedic script, complete a draft of a collection of poetry for a novel, further my psychology research projects, and mess around with digital art designs. I am attempting to maintain the perspective that this is a retreat and not a sign of destruction. People may be beginning to experience cognitive dissonance, in which we are going through daily routines disassociated from our external environment.
Cognitive dissonance can be compared to that foggy feeling we sometimes find our minds clouded with, as though we are the star of a horror movie, the creep lurking in the shadows could suddenly jump out and we would simply stare at him in dismay with lucid boredom.
I notice other people around me experiencing this mental state. I called a friend the other day in an attempt to shake her out of her fog. I created an elaborate story about a neighbor with a secret life as an exotic fish breeder and when she did not react I carried on to a different story about a little purple alien named Jumo that excretes shimmery tears but Sis. Was. Not. Having. It.
Describe A Dark State Of Mind
In all seriousness, falling into a dark state of mind can lead to worsening symptoms and affect our relationship with others, thus creating a detrimental cycle polluted with pessimism and harmful habits. So, whether you’re suddenly on the brink of tears because someone questioned your taste in snacks (excuse me, roasted spicy pepper quinoa crackers are an acquired taste) or whether you have been laying on your couch for the past couple of hours and for some reason still feel completely exhausted, I listed some tips below to help detect these negative signs and provide insight to alleviate tension.
I cultivated my advice based on my studies of psychology, which involved courses in therapy and counseling theories, and my experience working with children with special needs and their families during high-stress situations. The list is not to be regarded in any particular order, and please remember these are potential signs. If you feel your mental health is at a higher risk, please contact a medical professional. I am not a psychologist yet, people. If you don’t know where to start, you could call the New York State Mental and Emotional Counseling Hotline: 844-863-9314. The hold music is pretty good, and the people are friendly.
Signs You Are Falling Into a Negative State of Mind
Fogginess
Fogginess is marked by feeling as though you’re amid a haze in which time is blurred and days morph into nights without awareness. You want to be creative and productive but your mind lacks clarity.
Unmotivated
Despite a healthy energy level, you may not want to physically get up or you’re experiencing a mental state susceptible to procrastination. Nothing seems to warrant enough importance for you to practice productivity.
Disengaged
Perhaps you are feeling disconnected from people around you and you are distancing yourself from social interaction, even if that interaction is virtual. You are not actively communicating with those around you and neglecting phone calls and texts.
Excessive Daydreaming
Your attention is fleeting and you find yourself slipping into daydreams as your body continues to function on autopilot. This may appear as driving and passing your set destination, frequently zoning out when sitting down to perform a task, even losing focus when watching TV shows. Our brains have associated areas dedicated to this feature known as the Default Mode Network; studies suggest higher activation of the Default Mode Network is common among those with depression. Daydreaming is normal but concern is valid when you're easily and increasingly becoming untethered from the physical world.
Irritable
If you find yourself quarreling with your partner too often, or likely to snap at your siblings for the slightest irritation, you may be experiencing agitation related to high stress levels.
Fatigue
Relevant to lack of motivation, fatigue is a sense of chronic tiredness and maybe even feeling heavier.
Sleep
A disruption in our circadian rhythm, through a sudden change in typical sleep hours or an unhealthy amount of sleep, disturbs our well-being. Sleep deprivation may promote a weak immune system, increase agitation and mood swings, and heighten difficulties in concentrating and memory.
These are also symptoms of a Netflix binge, seriously though, we get it, you LOVE “The Office.” Please move on.
Tips to Relieve Negativity and Promote Positivity
Now, here are some tips to alleviate tension without having to leave your house or convince yourself to order an ounce of organic matcha grown in a remote village in Japan with a precise amount of shade and classical music that supposedly influences the effects of relaxation when consumed. Yeah, I don’t know either… but I must admit it’s already in my Amazon account.
Feel
Allow yourself to feel. Bring the anxieties simmering in the back of your brain to the forefront and truly allow yourself to experience the sensation. What’s bothering you? Whether our conflicts manifest as an internal conflict within ourselves or an external conflict with someone else, we are quick to distract ourselves with television, social media, or reading. Verbalize your thoughts, expel them from your mind through writing or another creative mode. Express your emotions.
Meditate
Meditation can be practiced in the form of yoga, prayer, or even simple breathing exercises. Taking a relaxing bath or a calming shower can also be meditative.
Exercise
YouTube offers plenty of brief 25-minute home workouts for all levels. Whether you want a hardcore abdominal workout or an invigorating yoga session, the internet offers endless free options. Going for a brief walk around the neighborhood can also feel refreshing. Beacon fitness businesses have also quickly gone online to reach you, and you can find that list here in ALBB’s Business Directory.
Mindfulness
Implement purpose to your actions. This can be done through creativity by writing, art, even cooking/baking can be mindful. That potted plant you’ve been meaning to tend to? Tend to it! Not to get all “Avatar: The Last Airbender” with you, but connect yourself to the earth’s elements if you can. Energy is present everywhere; we’re constantly taking in the earth’s energy and distributing positive energy. Establish a period of time to commit to a task with little interruption and distraction.
Satisfaction Over Instant Gratification
Our current situation may be a retreat from the fast pace of society, but we are left to surrender to our minds. The sudden awareness of consciousness may begin to infiltrate our minds, and suddenly there’s chaos like the little beings from Disney’s “Inside Out” coming to life and going haywire. It is easy to give in to the desire to procrastinate, attempting to convince yourself you’ll get it done later or start over again tomorrow. We’re only human, we all experience this urge to give in to our distractions. With that in mind, time mandatory activities and if you really, really want to watch that next episode on Netflix, find a way to fit it into a task you need to get done. Do your chores while watching an episode such as laundry, dishes, organizing your closet, etc. That way you're being productive while allowing yourself to indulge a bit.
A friend of mine sent me this video on a particularly bad day and it's the tough love we all need from time to time.
Schedule a Break
Schedule your rest time so you have an incentive to look forward to. If you plan on working on something from the afternoon until evening, schedule a time slot after to be able to do whatever relaxing activity you wanted to get done such as watching cartoons, painting - retail therapy if you’re feeling a little dangerous.
Sleep
Sleep is the solution to the problem of sleep. Philosophical? Obviously. In all seriousness, attempt to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Try to sleep early and wake up early, experience sunrise in peace if you haven’t done so before.
I asked a handful of friends what they do to alleviate tension and I’ve gotten plenty of responses including working out, sleeping, having a good cry, CBD (now available in tea form!), long drives, herbal teas. Other long-term solutions include eating fresh (if possible try making a smoothie everyday), research studies also suggest turmeric to be effective in reducing stress levels. The most complex feelings can be eased by the simplest of solutions.
The silver lining to the pandemic has been the incredible amount of generosity and the giving spirit that has been ignited. Several fundraisers have popped up - this one in a neighborhood in Beacon by a family who wanted to do a Super Bowl pool-style collection. Beacon resident Tom Virgadamo, who is a teacher at Haldane and soccer and baseball coach in Beacon, and his kids collected 100 donations of $30 each. They randomly selected six winners to donate $500 or $250 to various local businesses of their choice. One winner even donated an additional $250 on top.
Said Tom in his Instagram: “We reached out to every location and everyone was extremely appreciative! Six have received payment thus far. Due to an increase in interest, the kids are working on creating an ‘Easter’ themed raffle to continue spreading positivity and hope to your favorite local shops in your community. We plan to raise another $3,000-$6,000 starting Thursday and will end Good Friday,” April 10.
Businesses included Beacon D’Lites, Stinson’s Hub, Beacon Performing Arts Center, B. Hair Studio, The Blushery, Story Screen Beacon, Twins Barbershop, and Utensil.
Interested in giving? Keep it tuned to Tom’s Instagram, @teddybeartommy17 for an announcement.
A Little Beacon Blog has updated our Restaurant Guide with links to GoFundMe campaigns that some restaurants like the Yankee Clipper Diner and Chill have created to raise money. This is a great way to financially reach businesses who are temporarily closed and are not doing delivery.
When things get thick, it is helpful to slow down and make a list of important things you would need to take care of just in case something serious happens. If you are a pre-planning sort of person, you probably already have this list.
If you aren’t, then perhaps you are making this now. When making this list, we have a list of FAQs to ask yourself for different scenarios. If you are feeling symptoms of coronavirus, you are to call your doctor first, as recommended by the CDC, Dutchess County and New York State. health officials
You can only get tested with a doctor’s prescription. As of now, 3/31/2020, the tests do have a turnaround time of more than one day. So you need not panic, you just need to call your doctor, monitor your symptoms, and help yourself stay comfortable as you fight it out. Lots of people self-resolve (get better on their own, without involving formal medical treatment).
They include: Hudson River Healthcare Beacon, Cornerstone Family Healthcare, and Mobile Health Vans 1, 2 and 3.
What if I am calling after my doctor's office’s regular hours?
Unless you are in an emergency, call in the morning. If you want to talk to someone to point you in a direction, you could call the New York State Coronavirus Hotline: 888-364-3065. If you are in an emergency, call 911.
As of 3/31/2020, a representative at the New York State Coronavirus Hotline says that testing is not instantaneous. “Because of how high the demand is,” the representative said, “it is limited to highest-risk groups. Like medical staff, or people who have been in direct contact.” If you’re curious, you can see the list of current testing sites here at Dutchess County’s website.
If you are feeling extra anxious, you can call Mental and Emotional support hotlines that New York State set up:
New York State COVID-19 Emotional Counseling Hotline: 844-863-9314 Open 8 am to 10 pm, seven days a week (this has really nice hold music!) Call and talk about your feelings. They will listen, and give you resources if necessary.
Tele-mental-health, 24/7 (stress, anxiety, depression, drugs and alcohol): 888-692-9355
What do I need on my doctor list?
For anyone calling the doctor for yourself or your family, you will need this basic information, maybe a little more. But have at least this information for each member of your family in a convenient place, maybe on a piece of paper on your refrigerator:
Full legal name (your name or that of your partner or children)
Date of birth
Social Security number
Doctor’s name
Doctor’s phone number
Keep in mind, lots of people self-resolve. Be sure to look at the people who have recovered, who left the hospital, who maybe never went to the hospital, etc. Being prepared in your own house is a great first step to feeling at ease.
Several options are available when you call the Dutchess County Coronavirus Hotline. If you are seeking testing, you are advised to call your doctor first. You will need a doctor-prescribed test. If you do not have a doctor, free testing is currently only available to people in high-risk groups, including medical professionals, according to a person working at the New York State Coronavirus Hotline, (845) 486-3555.
HOURS: Open Monday to Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm
If you need help after those hours, you may still call the New York State Coronavirus Hotline. They are there to answer questions, but cannot prescribe you a test. They are very helpful with information.
DUTCHESS COUNTY HOTLINE OPTIONS
When you call the Dutchess County Coronavirus Hotline, the call is also available in Spanish. You can press different buttons to reach the following options. As of 3/31/2020, the following options are available. If you need to:
Learn more about novel coronavirus and what you can do to protect yourself.
Reach the COVID-19 call center.
Obtain food because of the COVID-19 situation, you can find information at this option.
Find transportation to a pharmacy for pickup and drop-off of prescriptions, a food shopping center, or a doctor’s office or health care center for medical needs only.
Volunteer for the COVID-19 response.
If you are feeling symptoms of coronavirus, you are encouraged to call your doctor.
From Dutchess County, via their listserv, Dutchess Delivery:
Fourth COVID-19-Related Death Confirmed in Dutchess County
3/31/2020: The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) has confirmed the death of a fourth Dutchess County resident relating to COVID-19. DBCH confirmed a 52-year-old male died today, March 31, 2020 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie. The person was admitted to the hospital the previous week with shortness of breath. He was tested for COVID-19 which was confirmed positive. The individual had not been known to DBCH until his hospitalization. Further specific information cannot be provided for privacy reasons.
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “To the family and friends, we are heartbroken for your loss. To the rest of the residents of Dutchess County, please take this to heart. Stay home. We all have a responsibility to stay healthy in order to protect the most vulnerable among us. As the death toll rises, remember that our smallest actions can be lifesaving, or life-threatening. The death of a fourth neighbor here in Dutchess serves as a harsh reminder that there is nowhere in our County untouched by coronavirus."
County Executive Molinaro continues to ask residents to stay at home to limit community transmission of the virus. When it is absolutely necessary to go out, do so with caution and follow proper social distancing protocol from others by staying at least six feet away and washing hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Behavioral and Community Health Commissioner Dr. Anil Vaidian said, “We have an incredible team of public health professionals who are working around the clock. We’re coordinating with hospitals, doctor’s offices, testing facilities, schools, local officials to coordinate our efforts. Our department is using every resource available, but we need residents to do their part to assist us in our efforts. To help us protect the safety of every resident, please stay home."
There are now more than 390 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Dutchess County, over 2,300 tests have been administered, and four deaths related to COVID-19, while many others are beginning to be considered as recovered. All of these numbers are expected to continue to increase, which is why remaining at home is critical to stopping the spread of COVID-19 and flattening the curve, so as not to overwhelm the local healthcare system. Let’s help ensure that everyone can get the care they need.
The deadline to file federal and New York State taxes has been extended to July 15, 2020. This includes individual returns, trusts, and corporations for both state and federal, as well as estimated tax payments for tax year 2020 that would otherwise be due on April 15, 2020. The decision for states to extend state filings is up to each state, and New York is one such state that has issued the automatic extension. This extension is automatic, meaning you do not need to file for an extension, or call the IRS to qualify, according to the IRS federal website, and New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Excellent. One less thing to apply for.
But should you wait to file your taxes? If you have been paying your taxes throughout the year, either as an employee taxed in the W2 classification, or as a business owner who pays taxes in payroll, or has been making estimates, if you’re all caught up, should you keep pressing along and file your taxes?
Both the state and federal taxation websites say yes, file now: “The IRS urges taxpayers who are owed a refund to file as quickly as possible,” says the federal site. At the New York State level, the language is the same: “Taxpayers who are due a refund are urged to file as soon as possible.”
A local accountant agrees. A Little Beacon Blog checked in with Arthur DeDominicis, CPA for his guidance. Here is what he had to say: “We are still encouraging people to file especially if they have refunds coming. I’m sure they can use this refund money for their immediate needs. Self-employed taxpayers may not know if they are getting a refund or owe unless they actually do the return. Just another reason to get it done.”
In a slightly morbid direction, should anything happen to you, or to your spouse if filing jointly, you may want to have this task complete. If you are taken sick in a month or during the apex, this portion of your life could be done. Estate-planning is not fun to think about, but sometimes, during times of stress, preparation can bring focus and calm. That you are doing everything you can to put things into place around you; taking care of the things that you do have control over.
Households can respond to the 2020 U.S. Census online, by phone, or by mail through August 14, 2020.
If you have seen the April 1, 2020 date a lot, it is only the reference point by which they are asking you to count from: how many people are living in your house as of April 1, 2020.
The deadline to complete the census is August 14, 2020. Some municipalities have been telling residents that the deadline is April, but the law firm representing the census reached out to A Little Beacon Blog to clarify that. According to Beth McLaughlin, Assistant Account Executive at burson cohn & wolfe: “April 1 is not a deadline, it is Census Day – a reference date to help households know who to count on their census questionnaires. Households can respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or by mail through August 14.” You can see a revised schedule of census steps here, in response to COVID-19.
The Census 2020 was doing a big push to get everyone to do it online before the time of the pandemic. Many presentations were made at Beacon’s City Council to educate people, and talk about plans to have free stations at the library and such to get people to fill it out - all of that gone now.
The Census is what gets money to your city. Grants. Money to do things. If there is still money in the federal or state budget after this pandemic (Gov. Cuomo is currently very upset about this, as the federal package to help New York State only included COVID-19 reimbursement money, and nothing, he says, for the rest of the budget, a majority of which is education, he said during today’s and yesterday’s briefings).
The census gets Beacon money via “federal funds to local communities for schools, roads, and other public services” according to the census website, and in past presentations by people at City Council meetings.
Take The Census Online. It’s Easy - Promise
The people who presented at City Council meetings were pushing hard for online submissions. However, you can write in or call in your answers.
Here’s how you do it:
To go online, you could use the letter you got in the mail. That has a special code that you’ll type into the website, and it automatically pulls up your address. However, if you don’t have that card, you can find an alternate link below the code boxes where you will be taken to a different page, where you can input your address.
Type in your special code. The website will pull up your address.
Don’t have the code? No problem. Click the alternate link below that to be taken to a page to input your address.
You begin by putting in your name.
You put in the names of other people living in your house. Any type of person who regularly lives in your house should be counted.
You’ll put in their names, gender, and nationality.
That’s it.
If you’re afraid of telling the government where you live… they already know. So you could just fill this out and be a part of funneling money to Beacon. Results from the 2020 Census will be used to determine the number of seats each state has in Congress and your political representation at all levels of government.
County Executive Marcus Molinaro sent a video message to the Dutchess County listserv (aka Dutchess Delivery), announcing that Dutchess County plans to add more data to its coronavirus website, in order to list COVID-19 related numbers per municipality (city, town, etc.). Earlier today, A Little Beacon Blog reported that this information was not included on a website, but that they were considering reorganizing data.
His message, which you can also listen to on the video below:
“Over the last several weeks, we have been telling you a very simple message:
“Stay home. Stay safe. Stop the spread. We know it's hard. But we all must do our part to stop this pandemic.
”Large-scale testing began last week in Dutchess County, with more than 2,000 tests administered so far. As the results of those tests come in, we are seeing, as expected, the number of positive confirmed cases rise, with more than 320 current cases.
”We've also tragically seen our third death from this virus. A stark reminder that we must all remain vigilant in protecting ourselves, and each other.
”While we continue to remind you that the safest approach is to always assume that everyone has coronavirus, you can expect to see a new dashboard on our website soon with more information about the number of confirmed cases in each municipality, countywide testing numbers, and other important information.”
UPDATE 7:30 pm: Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro issued a video announcement that Dutchess County would be including this data on their website “soon.” Get details and watch the video here.
While this seems obvious to most people, there seem to be some people who are waiting for an official answer on whether there are confirmed COVID-19 cases in Beacon. If you have any friends at all, who have access to texts and emails, you will know that this answer is yes, there are confirmed COVID-19 cases in Beacon. But as for an official number on a website, you will not find that web page as of today, 3/30/20.
When the first email came into A Little Beacon Blog of a confirmed coronavirus case being exposed to a facility in Beacon, we emailed the mayor’s office for confirmation. The answer we got was that the City of Beacon was waiting on confirmation from Dutchess County. When a text arrived the next day of a friend who had tested positive for coronavirus, we did not pursue seeking confirmation, nor did we publish it, because it is not an official number.
When a reader wrote in yesterday, asking a similar question, A Little Beacon Blog pursued the question again. The reader asked: “Do you know if there is a town-by-town breakdown of COVID-19 cases in Dutchess County or how we find out that info?”
We reached out to Jean-Marie Niebuhr, coordinator of Prevention and Harm Reduction Services at Dutchess County Department of Behavioral and Community Health, who urged people to visit the New York State website for county-by-county breakdown and encouraged people to call the COVID-19 hotline at (845) 486-3555.
“There are several confirmed cases in Beacon. Every single town, village and city in Dutchess County has been impacted by cases of COVID-19. ”
— Colleen Pillus, communications director for Dutchess County Executive's Office
But that doesn’t answer questions about Beacon specifically. So we asked again. Because some people, who are believers and practicers of social distancing, like my own husband who fears the virus because of his age of 56 and his family history of diabetes, and my and our children’s history of asthma cough, said to me moments prior to me pursuing official confirmation that cases are in Beacon:
“I can’t believe it’s not here (Beacon). Until I hear it officially, I will believe that,” he said.
Jean-Marie connected me with Colleen Pillus, Communications Director of the Dutchess County Executive Office. I asked Colleen one more time:
“Can you do anything to give us these city numbers, as an official count?”
Colleen’s response:
“Not at this time, but I can tell you that the case count by town reflects population density – so there are several confirmed cases in Beacon. Every single town, village and city in Dutchess County has been impacted by cases of COVID-19. There are currently (as of 3/30/2020) no particular hot spots or clusters.”
Dutchess County’s Message In Full About Location Of Coronavirus
Said Colleen in an email to A Little Beacon Blog on 3/30/2020:
“We have been trying to get everyone to understand that coronavirus is everywhere and act accordingly – staying home to stop the spread.
“Too many people think that a given town or area is ‘safe,’ when in reality every single town, village and city in Dutchess County has been impacted by COVID-19.
“Today’s (3/30/2020) current count of positive cases is 320. I actually had a woman ask about case count because she wanted to monitor it to determine ‘when it was no longer safe to go out’ – It is no longer safe to go out NOW!!
“The important thing to remember is that the case count reflects the known cases – those are the ones you should be least worried about, as those individuals are quarantined and being monitored.
“It is the ones who don’t realize they have it that we have to worry most about. Knowing that one town may have X cases while another town has Y cases makes no difference.
“The message to the public continues to be a very loud – Stay Home! Stay Safe! Stop the Spread! If you must go out, assume everyone has coronavirus or has been in direct contact with someone who has – and be very diligent about personal hygiene – handwashing, not touching your face, and serious social distancing of at least 6-foot radius around you.
”While we will not stray from this messaging – we are looking at reorganizing some data for the public to share later in the week or early next.”
Thank you, Colleen for sharing this information. Social distancing is very hard. Even if you are being strict with it. One constantly needs reminders like these. Myself included.
Confirmed Case In Cold Spring By Haldane Superintendent
According to the Highlands Current, “Haldane announced that a student in the district has a confirmed case of COVID-19. It said the student is resting at home and that the symptoms, which first appeared after schools had been closed, have been mild. “It is inevitable that we will continue to have cases,” said Superintendent Philip Benante in an email to the community. “I will not be able to inform you of each one during our closure; however, I felt it was important to bring this first known case to your attention. It reinforces that our children are vulnerable to this illness and that we must take the necessary precautions as a community to stop its spread.”
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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.
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