City Of Beacon Hires Police Chief Search Firm For $24K And Appoints Citizen Committee

On July 20, 2020, the City of Beacon City Council voted in favor of hiring the search firm Public Sector Search to conduct the search for a new Chief of Police for the City Of Beacon after Chief Kevin Junjulas announced his retirement effective July 7, 2020.

In response, Mayor Kyriacou appointed a formerly retired officer, William Cornett, to serve as Acting Police Chief for 90 days, a decision that was met with controversy between citizens and the police union. Chief Cornett stepped down after 40 days in the position, and currently, Lieutenant Frost from the Beacon Police Department has been appointed Acting Chief.

The search firm will be paid $24,000, with additional expenses not to exceed $6,000 according to the firm's proposal. Included in the proposal are 2 Facebook Live Community Forums (60 minutes) and 2 community focus group meetings (60 minutes each). Additional forums and group meetings can be billed at $200/hr plus expenses.

For an additional $1,500, the firm was hired to put together a survey of the public, to provide input into what they want in a Police Chief. The survey has been open for a bit and concludes on September 4, 2020. Mayor Kyriacou released a robo-call two weeks ago informing the public of the survey, and it has been mentioned at City Council meetings. For an additional $1,500, a survey can be put together to survey the Police Department itself.

How The Search Firm Will Work

Details of how the search process will work are included in the firm’s proposal which can be found here. The timeline is a projection of 4 months (resulting in a November selection time).

The first month focusing on project management setup and interviews with local government leaders, key personnel, department heads, and other internal or external stakeholders to get a feel for the city’s culture and structure. The next phase is a community engagement report from the survey and any community forums held. The firm will then design a brochure and website landing page to display the job posting.

The firm will then advertise it at recommended locations it made like New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association, International Association of Chiefs of Police, Police Executive Research Forum, National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, National Black Police Officers Association, and FBI National Academy Associates. Qualified candidates will then be collected, and the firm stated that it will also rely on its own relationships and outreach to find a candidate.

The candidates will be presented to the Mayor and search committee, after going through a screening process. The Mayor and City Administrator will be given access to a background check report, and Mayor Kyriacou suggested that the search committee head, Terry Nelson, also have access to that background check. Terry accepted. Once finalists are selected, “the search committee work is completed,” according to the proposal.

Appointment Of Citizen-Based Police Chief Search Committee

The creation and announcement of the search committee was fast and not widely publicized. The announcement was made via press release on July 29, 2020, and was initially criticized by members of the public during the Public Comment portion of the meeting on August 3, 2020. Thirteen people were selected, 7 of whom are citizens only and not with any government appointed commission.

Community participants included clergy and school employees, as well as the locally based Beacon4Black Lives organization, which came together at the start of the racial protest nation-wide in response to police brutality and the call to make Black lives matter more.

One of the lead organizers for Beacon4Black Lives, Justice McCray, has been vocal about how the city should proceed with the selection of new leadership, and was not asked to be on the committee. However, one of his fellow leaders, Stefon Seward, was asked by Mayor Kyriacou, but Stefon voiced confusion during the City Council meeting, stating: “I think Justice Would have been a way better fit than me, and I don't know why he's not there.”

A Little Beacon Blog reached out to Justice for comment: "I was on the City Council call when they were voting to spend $24,000 to hire the police chief search firm. I called in and said they shouldn't. A lot of people did. The council voted to do so anyway."

Further communication ensued in social media around a miscommunication between the parties. A Little Beacon Blog reached out to Mayor Kyriacou to clarify what resulted in a misunderstanding about his feelings towards the protests in Beacon ending if a police chief was hired. His response to A Little Beacon Blog was: “No of course not. The call from Terry and me was about soliciting participants for the Chief selection committee. What I said was that selecting a Chief was incredibly important, because if we find the right one who shares the same goals for change, then change becomes easier. As I recall, Stefon put an interpretation on what I said, and I immediately corrected that interpretation. No one person, chief or otherwise, will address all the concerns, protests and need for change that have arisen.”

Mayor Kyriacou went on to say, in response to A Little Beacon Blog seeking clarification on his misunderstood statement: “Private comment not for any publication:  it’s incredibly important for any reporter to rely on the speaker making a statement, and not on hearsay, which is what someone else says that someone said. Hearsay just encourages miscommunication.”

A Little Beacon Blog does not grant blanket “off the record” situations by email or phone. We must agree to it first, before the speaker speaks. A definition of hearsay, spoken in response to the act of researching such hearsay, is on the record.

The committee members are as follows:

Chair:
1. Terry Nelson – Councilmember Ward 1

Community Participants:
2. Deborah Felder – school guidance counselor; involved in local NAACP chapter
3. Deacon Marty Mayeski – Saint John’s the Evangelist; Lewis Tompkins Hose Chaplain
4. Pastor John Perez – Faith Temple Church of God in Christ
5. John Rembert – former City Councilmember; retired U.S. Army veteran; ordained clergyman
6. Molly Rhodes – director, Teach for America
7. Stefon Seward – Beacon High School graduate; co-founder Beacon for Black Lives

Community Participants:
2. Deborah Felder – school guidance counselor; involved in local NAACP chapter
3. Deacon Marty Mayeski – Saint John’s the Evangelist; Lewis Tompkins Hose Chaplain
4. Pastor John Perez – Faith Temple Church of God in Christ
5. John Rembert – former City Councilmember; retired U.S. Army veteran; ordained clergyman
6. Molly Rhodes – director, Teach for America
7. Stefon Seward – Beacon High School graduate; co-founder Beacon for Black Lives

City Participants:
8. Air Rhodes – Councilmember Ward 2
9. Michael Deane – Chair, Human Relations Commission
10. Sands Frost – Beacon Police Lieutenant (currently the Acting Chief)
11. William Cornett – Beacon Acting Chief of Police (no longer the Acting Chief)
12. Anthony Ruggiero – City Administrator
13. Gina Basile – Human Resources Director

Chair Person Terry Nelson’s Vision For The Police Chief Selection

Terry has been outspoken in his goals for the selection of the new chief, which can include a promotion from within, but seems to be weighted for a broader search. In response to questions from A Little Beacon Blog, Terry explained: “I want the committee to look at the civil service definition of chief, which just lists the minimum requirements and then think about what are some other important characteristics they would want to see in a police chief. Together I want us to come up with a description of what we want to see in a chief.”

Terry expressed during this week’s 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting that one of the biggest problems he intends to solve, or get closer to solving, is helping Black and Brown people and people of color not be afraid to call the police.

Terry further explained in an interview with the Highlands Current: “I’ve had people ask me, ‘Why are they protesting? Why are they bringing this stuff up again?’ But this stuff is my daily life. This stuff is me getting in my car and getting on the highway and being conscious of the speed limit, or having my headlights on, or, am I doing everything right? What if I get stopped? What do I do? It’s a conversation that is long overdue.”

Nation-wide, but in New York State in Rochester, another example of police brutality that happened in March has been revealed this week: Daniel Prude, who was asphyxiated while unarmed and not wearing clothes, after police put a bag on his head, according to this local news report at 13WHAM. “Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Prude’s death a homicide. Under the cause of death was listed ‘complications of asphyxia in the setting of physical restraint,’ excited delirium and acute phencyclidine (PCP) intoxication,” according to 13WHAM.

Police were responding to a mental health call that Daniel’s brother had made. During a press conference held today with Free The People, Daniel’s brother, Joe Prude, was quoted to have said that “he called first responders to get help his brother in the midst of his mental health crisis. In retrospect, Prude says he wishes he’d never made that call. ‘All I was trying to do was get him some help,’ said Prude.

Back in Beacon, the community, like all communities across the country, look to each other for examples of how to reform training, hiring, and cultural mindset, that currently, is playing out quite visually in the form of police violence, which speaks to underlying cultural issues which foster that violence, and normalizing it.

Might it be time for police officers themselves to speak up against other officers, even in other states, as a way to signal cultural awareness, acceptance, and protection? As a way to demonstrate anti-racism? Not just saying “I’m not racist,” but by showing it? Showing the solidarity to the Black and Brown community who watches their own get treated so badly? And therefore lives with a fear that a white person does not know?

What if police officers in Beacon marched in plain clothes in a local march?

Beacon City School District Superintendent (Grandfather To His Kids), Dr. Matt Landahl's Father Passes

On September 1, 2020, in between sending out correspondence to the Beacon school community about how the Beacon City School District will be opening an unprecedented hybrid learning program during the time of the pandemic, Beacon City School District Superintendent Matt Landahl shared via his Twitter that his father passed away.

Dr. Landahl, who prefers to be called Matt, has young children in the Beacon City School District, and is wearing both hats as a father and an educator. He stated in his message: “Rest in Power Paul Landahl. What an amazing dad, grandpa, and man! I feel so blessed to call him dad and can't believe he is gone. Our last conversation was about how he was so good at striking the balance between family and work. What a lovely man!”

Beacon's Long-Time Historian, Robert (Bob) J. Murphy, Passes From Cancer

Photo Credit: Diane Lapis

Last fall, Robert (Bob) J. Murphy was honored at the 2019 Beacon Historical Society’s Third Annual Beacons of History Awards, and by then, had retired his position of president of the Beacon Historical Society to longtime board member Diane Lapis. Bob Murphy had one of the deepest knowledge banks of Beacon in his mind, was usually surrounded by bound archives of newspapers and donated artifacts, is the author of two books about Beacon, and was the writer of the highly valuable monthly newsletter for members of the Beacon Historical Society.

On July 10, 2020, Bob Murphy passed away “after a courageous fight with cancer on July 10, 2020,” according to his sister, Diane Murphy, published on the Beacon Historical Society’s website.

Diane Lapis, president of the Beacon Historical Society, reflected on Bob’s many contributions to businesses, organizations and individuals who needed his connection points in a variety of projects in the July/August 2020 newsletter of the Beacon Historical Society:

“Without Bob, there wouldn’t be the strong sense of history that residents and visitors feel in this magnificent city of Beacon. Bob’s keen mind brought to the forefront the sense of time marching down Main Street, up Mt. Beacon and along the mighty Hudson. He did not discriminate in his topics of study and left no stone unturned. With a fresh eye and sharp wit, Bob examined social and cultural trends, religious institutions, schools, community organizations, buildings and monuments, and the people that built and made this city what it is today. His ability to ask questions, seek answers, and then write about it in a way that was engaging, eloquent, and humorous, made his readers always come back for more.

“Without Bob there would have been no books about the history of Beacon. Bob, alongside coauthor Denise VanBuren, wrote Historic Beacon and Beacon Revisited showcasing over 500 photographs and engaging stories of Beacon’s past. Both books guided us to understand and appreciate our local history. A third volume, a compilation of Bob’s written work, will be published by year’s end. Without Bob, there would have been no monthly newsletters or blogs, filled with articles sweeping the gamut of ideas and events over 300 years since our city’s founding.”

Bob’s obituary, written by his sister Diane Murphy, is published on the Beacon Historical Society’s website and elsewhere, is also here.

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Robert J. Murphy, son of the late Robert W. Murphy and Elizabeth Murphy, passed away after a courageous fight with cancer on July 10, 2020. Bob leaves behind five sisters, Barbara O’Leary, Beacon, Linda Murphy, Tivoli, Kathleen Zimmer, Queensbury, Maureen McInnis, South Glens Falls and Diane Murphy, Beacon. He was a wonderful uncle to fourteen nieces and nephews and all
their children.

A 1966 graduate of Beacon High School who earned his bachelor’s degree from Manhattan College and his Master’s Degree from the State University of New York at Albany, Bob served as president of the Beacon Historical Society (BHS) for 20 years (1998 – 2018). He wrote the popular BHS monthly newsletter for 38 years and co-authored two books, Historic Beacon and Beacon Revisited. He was working on his third book at the time of his death. He prepared dozens of presentations and contributed numerous articles about Beacon history throughout the decades. Bob was the recipient of the Dutchess County Historical Society’s prestigious “Dutchess Award,” recognizing his exceptional contributions as a local historian. In 2019 he was honored at the Beacon Historical Society’s Third Annual Beacons of History Awards.

He was an avid reader, writer, bread baker, photographer, gardener and woodworker. In his younger years, Bob was a talented baseball player and skater, who loved playing hockey beside his nephews. For the past 38 years, he and his sister, Diane, enjoyed daily walks and hikes to Mt. Beacon, Denning’s Point and other points around Beacon. He taught himself to develop negatives and made thousands of prints for the BHS archives.

A prolific gardener, he took pride in his tomato patch and more so in sharing his crop with friends and family. He was a self-taught carpenter and his benches, bookshelves and birds are scattered throughout the Valley. More recently, Bob’s carving resulted in a series of creative birds which he took pleasure in crafting
and sharing.

Bob and his great sense of humor and gentle, quiet ways will be greatly missed by his family, friends and community.

Memorial donations in his honor may be made to the Beacon Historical Society, PO Box 89, Beacon, NY 12508 or to St. Joachim – St. John the Evangelist Church, 2 Oak Street, Beacon, NY 12508.

A private Mass of Christian Burial followed by burial at St. Joachim Cemetery in Beacon will be held. A memorial service is planned for the future.

To send a personal condolence please visit www.riverviewbyhalvey.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Patrick J. Halvey of Riverview Funeral Home by Halvey, LLC.

During the pandemic, the Beacon Historical Society has stopped its regular in-person fundraising programming, which included ghost tours and visiting hours at the building on South Avenue which holds their collection. The society is still accepting donations of artifacts, as well as memberships and donations.

However, the society’s biggest fundraiser is still happening, albeit on Zoom, in November. And you have the opportunity to participate: The Beacon Historical Society is are holding their 4th Annual Beacons of History Award Fundraiser on November 5 at 7:00pm hosted on Zoom. They will be honoring the Alps Sweet Shop and the Coris Family (from Dutchess Manor). The Beacon Historical Society has already grown out of its new South Avenue location, and is seeking a Special Use Permit to move across town. Says Diane Lapis: “We will certainly need the extra money for moving and permits etc.”

Start your membership today (business or personal) or make a donation.

Very Much Loved Rita Lynn Baylis Spicer, Cashier At Key Food, Passes

Many of you knew Rita from Key Food Beacon, who was a caring cashier for many years who completed your day at Key Food. Our last interaction with her was just days before her passing when she offered to let our little one scan his snack out to check himself out. Rita was always caring like that. Always knew what the weather would be. Always could read the mood for the day.

Rita’s passing was sudden, and Key Food published words of loss for Rita on their Junior Zayed’s Instagram, and created a prayer note on the plastic dividers at checkout.

From Key Food:
”It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we must share the sad news of the sudden passing of our great friend and our loving sister Rita Baylis Spicer. She was a great cashier, a great coworker, a great friend and most importantly a great human being. Working at Key Food in Beacon for so many years, she was loved by all who worked with her through out the years and loved by the great community of Beacon. She became a friend to everyone who came to shop and she became one of our family members. Always greeting friends and customers with a wide big beautiful and unforgettable smile. We are still in shock and still in disbelief. Our thoughts and prayers are with her mom, sisters, daughters and all her family and loved ones. May you rest in paradise, WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The First Wonderbar - 1930s

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

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

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

Grand Opening Of The Original Wonderbar

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

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

Art Deco Reigns In Beacon

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

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

Wonderbar Open For Business - With Dance Floor

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

The Original Wonderbar’s Exotic Cuisine

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

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

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

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

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

Now Swinging!

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

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

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

World War 2 And The Wonderbar - Letter Writing

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

Remembrances

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

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

Decline And Rebirth Of The Wonderbar

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

What Is The New Wonderbar In 2020?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SCHEDULE: Happening This Weekend In Beacon - 8/28/2020

The final days of summer are here, and hurricane season is bringing us slightly less humid days (and hopefully no more power outages). Beacon City Schools are hard at work planning how they are going to teach the kids (article to come after they make their latest announcement). Enjoy these outdoor days, and visit your favorite restaurants outside while you still can! Ideas below... Story Screen Drive-In presents "Raiders of the Lost Art" and "Shaun of the Dead" Day: Friday-Sunday, August 28-30, 2020 Time: 8:15pm (Gremlins), 10:45pm (BHC) Location: The Park at USC, 724 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY Parking will be on a first come first serve basis. You can arrive up to 15 minutes before your screening's scheduled start time to be assigned a space. Please be aware that you must arrive no later than 15 minutes after your screening's scheduled start time to attend the movie. All admissions sales must be completed in advance by reservation on the website. Tickets sales end one hour before the start of the screening. There will be no tickets available at the Drive-In box office. Information > Free Drive-In Movie at Wilcox Park “The Secret Life of Pets 2” Day: Friday, August 28, 2020 Time: 7:30pm Location: Wilcox Park Route 199 Stanfordville, NY 12581 Information > Black August Celebration Protest Day: Sunday, August 30, 2020 Time: 12pm Location: Pohill Park, Beacon, NY March from Pohil Park to Memorial Park. From the organizers, Beacon4Black Lives: "We need more voices than ever at this protest. Come out and show the world that black lives still matter. Demand Justice for Jacob Blake." Learn more about Black August here. Information > Rage Against The Machine Rally Day: Sunday, August 30, 2020 Time: 11am-5pm Location: Flushing Meadows Park, Queens, NY Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!     EAT CHURCH 511 Fishkill Avenue, Beacon, NY Pop-Up Alert!!  Eat Church will be back this Friday and Saturday with another Masa Mission Revue. This week, they will also be featuring a special of Elote (grilled Mexican Street corn). Location: 3091 Route 9, Cold Spring, NY Date/Time: Friday & Saturday August 28-19, 2020 from 4:00-8:00 PM. Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY At Baja328, Sundays used to be for mimosas, now they’re for TEQUILA FLIGHTS! Tuesday - Thursday: 4-9pm Friday - Saturday: 12pm-10pm Sunday: 12pm-8pm Follow on Instagram > Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor! MEYERS OLD DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY At Meyers Old Dutch check out their Lamb Merguez sausage! 2 little sausages in their oversized hotdog bun, harissa aioli, and cucumber and sweet pepper relish. Grab one before they sell out! HOT TIP: MOD is doing Delivery!! Ask them about it when you call in your order. More > Meyers Old Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY ‘OK! MPR’ from Todd at @wildarcfarm. Homespun Foods are so excited to get this in, it is so delicious, and especially for this weather!! It either means Merlot Pet-Nat Rosé, or Melon Pomegranate Ranunculus, at least according to Table 4, aka @dirtybacchus, while playing in a Homespun Acronym Drinking Game (ADG) this past week. What do you think it means?  More > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor! HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY This kind of dish works for ANY time of the year! Steamed MoMo Dumplings (8 piece assortment $12) & Thukpa Noodle Soup ($12) from @momovalley2018 Plenty of outdoor seating is available around the corner from the front door of Hudson Valley Food Hall! Check out the rainbow colored picnic tables, or back patio with fans. Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor!   LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon Oh heeeeey! Check out @oejongkim of @loopymango doing what she does best in @sabinebe.eyewear . Sabine be has established itself as a designer of different glasses on the optical planet for only four short years. Go Shopping > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!   BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon The tiny food pantry’s been stocked twice already today by @fareground! Don’t forget that YOU are invited to drop by and stock it up (or leave an item or two) if you are able. Sometimes it’s helpful to think of the weight of the world as a local issue.  • And don’t forget, you’re welcome to drop by and take what you need if you need to. Information > Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon Check our InstaStories right now for a front porch delivery of this fragrance diffuser from Lewis and Pine! Delivered to us was the "xia" fragrance, which means: "Chinese; Rosy clouds; the glow at sunrise or sunset." Comprised of Cassis, Green Tea and Lime Leaf. It's a refreshing flavor that you can order online but better to... Come Into The Store! > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon Do you feel it in the air first thing in the morning? The days are beginning a little bit cooler, which means denim season is just around the corner! La Mére's best selling high waist destroyed denim is restocked and available now! As always, you can shop online 24/7 at lamereclothingandgoods.com HOURS: Wednesday- Saturday: 11am-6pm Sunday: 12pm-5pm Information> La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! beBhakti Yoga 89 Dewindt Street, Beacon, NY beBhakti Yoga is keeping it outdoors just a little while longer. There are parking lot classes nearly every day with the exception of Friday’s being over Zoom-only. Wednesday’s are at Long Dock. Social distancing rules apply to all of their in-person classes and they ask that you sign up in advance through the MINDBODY app. Information >   View more upcoming classes for in the Adult Classes Guide and Kids Classes Guide. ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 340 Main Street, Beacon A friendly reminder from Antalek & Moore: We try to practice good health by scheduling a yearly check-up with our Doctors. But when was the last time you scheduled an insurance check-up? Just like your health, don't wait for an accident to happen to ensure you have the right coverage. A review of your policies today can help prevent a lack of coverage when a situation arises and you need it. Contact their office by phone or email and speak with one of our agents today. Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you! TIN SHINGLE New TV series alert:  Twenty Four Seven, a drama starring T.I. Inspired by Notorious C.O.P.: The Inside Story of the Tupac, Biggie, and Jam Master Jay Investigations from NYPD’s First “Hip-Hop Cop,” will be produced by Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson. The series is currently in the works and the final pieces for the project will be produced by CBS TV Studios and Lionsgate TV. Dallas Jackson writes the series based on the book written by Derrick Parker and Matt Diehl and Curtis Jackson executive produces the series through his G Unit Film & Television. T.I. will play the role of Derrick Parker who was involved deeply in rap history, including, the first shooting of Tupac Shakur. Learn More > KATIE JAMES, INC. Need a new website? Whether it's for a COVID-19 antibody test, so that people can search for the brand of test on a Google Map, or if the website is for a retail shop, Katie James, Inc. can help. We work with businesses small and large. Website platforms out-of-the-box and custom designed databases. Even if you have the design already and just need a great team to build it for you, Katie James, Inc. can be your fit. Reach out with thoughts or questions! Learn More > CASTING CALL: Paid Gig: Documentary For Being Over 50 + Turning Your Dream Career Into A Reality A documentary is looking for people aged 50+ who are pursuing their dreams for a year long documentary. The pay is SAG Union scale, and starts at $2670 for participation, and compensation is available for people who join your story. The casting agency NINA DAY is taking submissions now, and would love to hear from you. PRO TIP: Record your submission on your phone as a video. NINA DAY needs your answers to a few questions. Because this is a casting call, they need to see and feel your energy! Say where you live; who you live with; what your dreams are; what your job is if you have one; or what early retirement has been like. Paint the picture! Job Details >

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Best Sidewalk Sign of the Week and MOD Is Delivering!

You read that right! Meyer’s Olde Dutch, sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, is now offering delivery through door dash!

Not only is the food beyond delicious, but they use the finest ingredients including local food purveyors such as beef from the Hudson Valley, cheese from NY State and produce from local farmers.

In addition to beef burgers, the menu offers chicken, hot dogs and vegan options with multiple toppings and house-made signature sauces, plus hand-cut fries, salads and daily specials. Their full-service bar features a large selection of NY craft beer, locally produced wine and house-crafted cocktails.

All items are available via counter service and serviced in open seating and a back open-air patio.

Also, did you know Meyer’s Old Dutch is named after Chef/Owner Brian Arnoff’s great grandfather Meyer, who once owned and operated Old Dutch Grocery across the river in Middletown, NY? Brian also owns Kitchen Sink Food & Drink, a casual, fine dining restaurant in Beacon.

Head on in and take a bite of Beacon! OR OR OR, order for DELIVERY!

Reader Question: Do Protests Need Permits?

A reader submitted a Comment on the “How To Submit A FOIL Request” article, where he mentioned he was looking to, or had submitted FOIL requests for, permits issued for marches made for Black Lives Matter and the Back The Beacon PD rally.

We checked with Council Member Dan Aymar-Blair, who studies protesting and knows the rules and guidelines very well, had this to say about if permits are needed: "Permits are required for marches and rallies in Beacon's public spaces; however, the spirit of our permitting process is for the city to facilitate protest, for example providing police protection from counter-protests. While mobilizing police and other city resources for a peaceful assembly costs money, it is a cost we must live with to ensure the safe practice of our constitutionally protected freedoms.

"Free assembly is a human right, not a state-sanctioned privilege.​ That's why I'd rather we do away with the permitting process in most cases, and allow prior notification to be at the discretion of protest organizers."

We followed up with an organizer with Beacon4Black Lives, Justice McCray, to see if that organization has asked for or been granted permits for the approximately 9 protests marches they held. This was his response:

“We do not get permits for any of our protests. City Council member Dan Aymar-Blair stated in a council meeting on 8/3/2020, in response to Theresa Kraft's complaint about the protests during the Public Comment portion of the call, that our protests don't need permits.

”Usually (now Acting Chief, formerly Lieutenant) Frost or Lieutenant Figlia will contact me for details of our protest if I don't contact them. We're looking into training citizen marshals to help lead the protests and temporarily close off streets as we march. We don't ask the police to close the streets down and we'll gladly protest without them.”

A Little Retail Therapy For Getting You Through Your Wednesday!

Getting you through your Wednesday hump day! You need a little retail therapy right? Us too! That’s why we took the walk down to Raven Rose, whose storefront window is so alluring, and the decorative walls inside with her dried flowers hanging from antique ladders will have your creative wheels turning.

They bring together a variety of small makers to create an assortment of minimally designed goods for you and your home. In addition to the gift items, Raven Rose offers local flower delivery in Beacon and carry an array of houseplants and gardening items. For more flower delivery shops in Beacon, see A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide!

Need wedding flowers for your upcoming wedding that was maybe postponed? Raven Rose is your go-to! Their flowers have a unique character and beauty that can make your wedding yours! They will also work closely with you to create florals that reflect your style and personality.

Raven Rose is open Monday-Saturday from 11AM-6PM and Sunday 11AM-5PM. Hours are subject to change! Call to confirm 845-765-8660 - check to see if Milo is there too! Either in his dog bed or in further into the store. You don’t want to miss him…

5 New Job Positions In Public Health Available From Dutchess County

Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) has job openings for 5 Public Health Advisors, including a senior supervisory position, for up to 18 months. The positions are being funded by a grant of $917,000 awarded to Dutchess County from the New York State Department of Health to further build capacity for COVD-19 case investigation and contact tracing coordination. The grant funding will enable DBCH to hire Recruitment is now open and interested applicants can review job description and apply online at the County’s website at www.dutchessny.gov/jobs.

As the jobs are temporary, they do not require a Civil Service exam from the county. Additionally, there is not box to check for a criminal background check, as Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro participated in a “Ban The Box” movement years ago to remove that box from county job applications. This is often a hurdle for people with records - even for minor issues - to be considered for jobs.

Marc Molinaro said, “This grant enables us to bolster our public health team and ensure we can continue to deal with case investigation and contact tracing quickly to prevent spread. This is critically important as the reopening process continues, - particularly school reopenings - and greater interaction leads to case increases, we need to have the capacity to respond rapidly.”

About The Grant From New York State Department Of Health

The grant is intended to increase local health department staffing to conduct rapid and complete case investigations, including ensuing that once contacts are identified, they are reached within 48 hours and have access to testing. The additional staffing will also be available for daily monitoring of cases and contacts and ensure any social supports needs are being met and for effective isolation/quarantine.

DBCH Responsibilities Have Increased With Reopening Monitoring

The grant funding comes at a critical time as local health departments must take on an ever-increasing workload and the annual flu season approaches. Local health departments have seen their role greatly expanded beyond their normal areas of jurisdiction, particularly as the reopening process has continued.

For example, health departments were tasked with conducting gym inspections by the state as a requirement of reopening of gyms and fitness studios, though these businesses are not under the authority of local health departments. Locally, DBCH has been providing support and assistance to nursing homes, assisted living centers and developmentally disabled group homes, all of which normally work directly with NYS DOH.

Additionally, DBCH has been coordinating closely with colleges and school districts for their reopening planning. All of this goes beyond the normal workload of DBCH, which still continues and includes other disease and virus surveillance, such as Lyme disease and other tick-borne illness, as well as annual flu monitoring.

“Our public health team has been working non-stop for more than six months responding to the coronavirus pandemic, and I am exceptionally grateful to all of the extraordinary members of our team whose professionalism and dedication has been inspiring,” said DBCH Commissioner Dr. Anil Vaidian. “These additional Public Health Advisors will be welcome additions to our team and enable us to continue our fight against COVID-19, while ensuring we are also addressing other critical health concerns in our community including overdose prevention, tick-borne disease awareness, and much more.”

Rolls Of The New Public Health Advisors

The grant-funded Public Health Advisors will be responsible for performing investigations and advising on all phases of coronavirus pandemic control efforts. These individuals will be part of DBCH’s Rapid Response Team and take part in case investigation activities including index case and contacts interviews, provide education and public information, assist with data collection and creation of reports and analysis; and stay abreast of new techniques and information that can be locally adapted in the fight against COVID-19.

Interested candidates should have strong knowledge of public health communicable disease investigation as well as current trends relating to emerging techniques and treatment and must have strong interview and communications skills, with positive interpersonal skills to successfully inform and educate individuals and the public at large. Candidates should have the ability to prepare complete and concise reports. Candidates should have education and/or experience in nursing, social work, health education or a health-related field.

For full job descriptions and application information, visit www.dutchessny.gov/jobs. Application deadline is September 11th

City Of Beacon Publishes Names and Ranks Of Police Officers On City's Website

In following up to A Little Beacon Blog’s article last week about the intent of the City of Beacon to publish the names and ranks of police officers onto its website, which had not happened after a month since the announcement, Beacon’s City Administrator, Anthony Ruggiero, announced yesterday (Monday) that the names and ranks of police officers have now been published onto the City’s website in the Police Department section. Photos of the officers are to come, he told ALBB. We also suggested this enhancement to Mayor Kyriacou during a “Wait, What Is That?” podcast episode, who thought it a good idea.

With this information at one’s fingertips, it should be easier to get correct name spelling of an officer or detective, send an officer a Thank You note if they were helpful in a situation, and have better familiarity with who works for the City of Beacon.

You can find the list here on this PDF on the City of Beacon’s website. As of now, it is not dated with an “Updated” type note so as to see which officers no longer work for the City of Beacon, or which officer has been newly appointed. For instance, Officer Ryan Murphy was hired by the City of Beacon in early January 2020, and submitted his letter of resignation two months later on March 6, 2020. Ryan was part of a batch of new hires after the Beacon PBA and the City of Beacon agreed on a new contract which gave the officers retroactive raises of 2% for 2020, with an additional 2% raise slated for 2021 according to an article in the Poughkeepsie Journal. The contract also “decreases compensatory time from 48 hours to 40; compensatory time allows the officers to take time off instead of receiving overtime pay,” according to the article.

At that point, the number of police officers was 37, the highest it has been in years, according to then Chief Kevin Junjulas (since retired). A new hire also included Officer Michael J. Connor, a Beacon High School graduate who transferred from the City of Newburgh Police Department, who had been working for the City of Newburgh, who was let go along with 15 fellow officers and 14 firefighters when the City of Newburgh purged its public safety force due to budget constraints. As of today, according to Beacon’s list of police officers, there are 32.

Running for Human Rights: Beacon Woman, Tara Simmons Aims to Inspire Others by Running 100 miles This October in Pursuit of Crossing The Country in 2024

Starting Saturday afternoon on October 3rd, Tara Simmons will begin a 100mile journey from Albany to Beacon. She plans to run through the night in order to complete the race on Sunday afternoon, October 4th at approximately 4PM, finishing at Beacon Riverfront.

Who is Tara?

A Beacon native, Tara has been running since the 7th grade when she joined her middle school cross country team has since gone on to complete 5 marathons, and 2 half iron woman.

Tara decided she would use running across America to achieve her dream to raise awareness of Human Rights, calling her race FLIP IT 4 RESPECT. She said her run will be all about “educating, empowering and encouraging ALL people of the importance of receiving and giving respect to ALL, in each moment, because we ALL deserve it.”

Running Against Domestic Violence

For Tara, October is symbolic of her journey in discovering her own Human Rights. Tara said, “October is domestic violence awareness month. Domestic violence is part of my story, but today I stand strong. I am running this October to pay tribute to a local organization, Grace Smith House, for their help in my journey, for helping me regain my strength. I’m more than my past, I’m stronger than my past, I’m excited for the future. I want others to know their right for respect.” 

Tara plans to raise awareness of human rights by encouraging others to complete the United For Human Rights, free online e-course found at www.humanrights.com She will also be spreading the message through educational guides and conducting live workshops beginning this fall. 

The Flip It 4 Respect run strives to bring attention to this message, across the country, one step, one kilometer, at a time. Her ultimate goal is to run from Death Valley, California by traveling a 100K a day, to Beacon, New York. She will tackle her goal of running across country while raising awareness by completing milestone races over the next few years. This race in October, will mark her first milestone for in the journey. 

Along the way, Tara will be accompanied by a dedicated team of friends and family that will be on hand to support her with fuel for 100-mile journey. Among the crew will be Tara’s 3 children(ages 19, 14 and 11), who are among her most enthusiastic supporters. Her brother Rueben Simmons of Beacon’s Highway Department will also be running, cheered on by her sister Brooke Simmons of I Am Beacon.

While spending most of her time and energy planning her journey, Tara is also a middle school teacher and local fitness coach. She plans on sharing her experience with her students and hopes to inspire them to continue setting and reaching extraordinary goals. Tara hopes everyone takes her message of “Hope, Choice, Love. This 100-mile is a demonstration to myself and others, I’m more than the story I wrap myself in. If I can do it, you can too!”

Join Tara!

For anyone who would like to join in her efforts or to find out more about Simmons’ run, visit www.FlipIt4Life.com or find her on Facebook at Flip It 4 Life.

Contact Info:

Tara Simmons | 845.702.6273 | flipit4life@gmail.com

Flip It 4 Respect – Running for Human Rights

www.flipit4life.com | www.facebook.com/Flip-It-4-Life

Hours After ALBB's FOIL Article, City of Beacon Publishes 1st FOIL Results On e360Code Website

Three cheers for the first publication of FOIL requests by the public of the City of Beacon. We have been asking questions, and getting a lot of “Please submit a FOIL” type answers, and noted that the FOIL requests that were casually promised to be on the website, were in fact not there one month later. On a Friday evening, after we published this article wondering where they were, the first batch has been published! Under a tiny link on the City Clerk’s web page. Coincidence? Perhaps. Was this on a Friday afternoon agenda? Maybe.

Meanwhile, there have been 2 sets of FOIL requests published so far in the 8/21/2020 batch:

“FOIL Request: A list of all officers or administrators who have been employed by your department at any point since the start of 2010”

2010 was the last year of the Federal Investigation of the Beacon Police Department. Oversight by the Federal Government remained active until 2016. You can hear Mayor Lee Kyriacou recount those early days here on the “Wait, What Is That?” podcast.

A list of 34 officers has been published here.

“FOIL Request: The name of any probationary police officer who quit or was fired during their probationary period since Jan. 1, 2010, and any documentation reflecting that separation from service.”

A list of names was provided. Documentation for two of the names was provided. One letter of resignation was from Trooper Katelyn Ruffolo, who resigned in January 4, 2018 to went on to work for the New York State Police.

Officer Ryan Murphy was the second resignation letter provided with the FOIL. Ryan resigned on March 6, 2020, and had been hired in January 2020, as reported by the Poughkeepsie Journal. Ryan is a Red Hook High School graduate. He was hired along with two other officers during the time when Newburgh laid off 15 police officers and 14 firefighters (Beacon hired one officer from that round of layoffs - Michael J. Connor).

Former Beacon Police Chief at the time Kevin Junjulas said: “he would have hired as many Newburgh officers as possible, but the Dutchess County civil service exam has different requirements from the Orange County civil service exam, making it impossible for officers to transfer unless they previously took the exam.” This is an important note to remember as we discuss Civil Service rules and how they define a job, and make hiring, firing and demoting possible and even easy.

To learn how to submit a FOIL to get information that is otherwise denied to you after a simple email request, click here.

Beaconites don’t usually hear about resignations of officers during public City Council Meetings. These may be discussed during the Executive Session portion of the meeting, which happens after the public portion.

Apps! We Got Apps! And The Return To Gyms. Retail Therapy Weekend 8/21/2020

Hey Hey! So many things. Gyms are open! Your favorite yoga, pilates, fitness centers have been struggling, and Governor Cuomo has been reluctant to open. But an agreement has been reached, and Marilyn at A Little Beacon Blog has written all about it, so you can know what to expect. Meanwhile, if you go to a bar, and the bartender insists your order some kind of delicious app, even if it's on the house, this is why. Governor Cuomo clarified guidelines in July that require bars, restaurants, breweries and tap rooms to offer food to customers, in order to encourage people to sit down/still in one place and not mingle and shoulder rub, as is usually the case in a bar. Syracuse.com wrote a great article about it with lots of details. Scroll down for the rest of your Retail Therapy for the weekend in Beacon... PS: If you're visiting Beacon and forgot your mask (totally saw you today!), you can buy one in town! So many boutiques here carry them. Check A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide for ideas. Story Screen Drive-In presents "The Iron Giant" and "Back To The Future" Day: Friday-Sunday, August 21-23, 2020 Time: 8:15pm (Gremlins), 10:45pm (BHC) Location: The Park at USC, 724 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY Parking will be on a first come first serve basis. You can arrive up to 15 minutes before your screening's scheduled start time to be assigned a space. Please be aware that you must arrive no later than 15 minutes after your screening's scheduled start time to attend the movie. All admissions sales must be completed in advance by reservation on the website. Tickets sales end one hour before the start of the screening. There will be no tickets available at the Drive-In box office. Information > Fishkill's Summer Concerts In The Park With Cherished Memories (Doo Wop) Day: Wednesday, August 26, 2020 Time: 6:30pm Location: Mauer-Geering Park located off Geering Way in Fishkill Information > Story Screen & Beacon Recreation Presents Movie Night: Muppet Movie Day: Thursday, August 27, 2020 Time: 8:15pm Location: Green Street Park, Beacon, NY Information > Free Drive-In Movie at Wilcox Park “The Secret Life of Pets 2” Day: Friday, August 28, 2020 Time: 7:30pm Location: Wilcox Park Route 199 Stanfordville, NY 12581 Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!     EAT CHURCH 511 Fishkill Avenue, Beacon, NY Pop-Up Alert!!  It was so nice, they have to do it twice! Once again, Eat Church will be back this Friday and Saturday with another Masa Mission Revue. This week, they will also be featuring a special of Elote (grilled Mexican Street corn). Location: 3091 Route 9, Cold Spring, NY Date/Time: Friday & Saturday August 21-22, 2020 from 4:00-8:00 PM. Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY Have you stopped by @baja328 and tried their special taco, Blackened salmon with fresh spicy mango salsa served on a lettuce wrap? Their kitchen always uses the freshest ingredients for their dishes. Stop by this weekend!  Tuesday - Thursday: 4-9pm Friday - Saturday: 12pm-10pm Sunday: 12pm-8pm Follow on Instagram > Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor! MEYERS OLD DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY This week, Meyers Old Dutch would like to know if you ever tried their chili burger?! They make their chili completely from scratch with 3 types of whole dried chili’s, local cider and a special house blend ground beef.  More > Meyers Old Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY Yummm. Risotto with Arborio Rice & Oyster Mushrooms, cooked down with vegetable stock and white wine for our vegetarian friends, finished with Paolo Bea Olive Oil. Watermelon Salad with yellow and red watermelon, feta, cucumber, red onion, Brazilian little beak peppers pickled in house, red currants, torn mint and opal basil. Dishes by @mtropeano16 with @fabi.diego.96 in the kitchen all night holding it down More > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor! HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY You won't believe it...Hudson Valley Food Hall is serving Brunch on Sundays! Saturdays and Sundays. Food and drink from each of the vendors in side. Know This: You can eat outside at their multi-picnic table setup, or on their lovely back patio with several ceiling fans! Tell your friends. Time: 11am - 2pm Saturday's & Sunday's with Drink & Food Specials: This Weekend: - Made to Order Omelettes by Miz Hattie's BBQ - French Toast w/ Blackberries by MomoValley - Mimosas made w/ Fresh Squeezed OJ from The Roosevelt Bar Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor! BEACON HOTEL 424 Main Street, Beacon, NY WHAT PERSON DOESN’T LIKE PIZZA? A weirdough 🙃 . The Cauliflower crust pizza is Vegetarian and Gluten free, available at The Beacon Hotel Restaurant & Lounge. Don't worry meat eaters, you have the option to add chicken or shrimp to your pie! Beacon Hotel is an ALBB Sponsor!   LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon At Luxe Optique, they offer the highest quality eyewear at every price point. Another piece for Summer, check out these sunglasses from @leisuresociety . Leisure Society is dedicated to heirloom design and creating an object once with the intention of having it last forever.  Go Shopping > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!   BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon Copies of Colin Dickey’s latest book,  “The Unidentified” might just have some eerie doodles by none other than the unidentifier himself, @colindickey. If you haven’t picked this up a copy yet, do so today. “With the same curiosity and insight that made ‘Ghostland’ a hit with readers and critics, [in ‘The Unidentified,’] Colin looks at what all fringe beliefs have in common, explaining that today’s Illuminati is yesterday’s Flat Earth: the attempt to find meaning in a world stripped of wonder." Information > Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon The fragrance diffuser is back, baby! A fresh batch has just been made here in Beacon by Lewis and Pine. We know you missed them (we did too!) and wondered where they went. They were out of stock for ages simply because the creator Yali was pregnant, but the baby has arrived, and the batch-making has resumed. Pictured here is the Hygge scent, which is great for coy home vibes as we enter cooler Fall weather. Come Into The Store! > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon Well "Hello, Gorgeous!" - with new arrivals showing up regularly at La Mére Clothing + Goods, there's always a reason to come back. Check out their current Sandal sale - buy one, get one half off! As always, you can shop online 24/7 at lamereclothingandgoods.com HOURS: Wednesday- Saturday: 11am-6pm Sunday: 12pm-5pm Information> La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! SOLSTAD HOUSE 488 Main Street, Beacon After making the short move from East Main street, Solstad House is now settled in their new digs, come by and say Hi!  Solstad House is a unique mercantile and general store with carefully curated handmade goods from all over the country. Hours: Su: 11 - 6 M & T: Closed W - Fi: 12 - 6 Sa: 11 - 7               BEACON MERCANTILE 493 Main Street, Beacon Now available at Beacon Mercantile, these gorgeous floral card sets from @talfotostudio_ (because pretty mail feels like the absolute best kind of treat right now!).  Floral photography by award-winning Brooklyn artist and photographer Tal Shpantzer. A delightful and personal way to send flowers of a different sort. Boxed set of 6 blank 5 x 7 cards with envelopes.  Information > View more upcoming classes for in the Adult Classes Guide and Kids Classes Guide. ANTALEK & MOORE 340 Main Street, Beacon We sure do have lots of options here in the Hudson Valley when it comes to camping. From renting a cabin to reserving a spot for a little RV glamping or an event setting up a tent in your backyard . Antalek & Moore asks what is on your list of camping must-haves? Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you! TIN SHINGLE Co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, Alicia Garza, has signed with talent agency ICM Partners for representation. Look for big things to come from her. New-ish to the scene is her podcast, Lady Don't Take No, where she has interviewed Kamau Bell and other great leaders, content creators and organizers. Tin Shingle is getting the Media Contact Information for this podcast for those who think their brands are a fit for possible feature. Pitch it! Tin Shingle is an empowerment platform that trains you in how to pitch the media. Learn More > CASTING CALL: Paid Gig: Documentary For Being Over 50 + Turning Your Dream Career Into A Reality A documentary is looking for people aged 50+ who are pursuing their dreams for a year long documentary. The pay is SAG Union scale, and starts at $2670 for participation, and compensation is available for people who join your story. The casting agency NINA DAY is taking submissions now, and would love to hear from you. PRO TIP: record your submission on your phone as a video! NINA DAY needs your answers to a few questions. See this job listing at A Little Beacon Blog to get the questions, and directions for how to apply. Deadline is 8/20/2020 but don’t wait ‘till the last minute. If you know of someone 50+ who is pursuing their dream, tag them or tell them about this job listing. Job Details > Luxe Optique Is Hiring Private Airbnb Manager For Apartments The owners of Luxe Optique own their building with 4 apartments above the storefront. These have been redesigned and include washers/dryers for the short term rental market using Airbnb’s platform. Job Details > Luxe Optique Is Hiring Cleaner of Airbnb Apartments Luxe Optique is hiring a regular cleaning person or service to clean 4 apartments between Airbnb guests. Job Details >

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How To Submit A FOIL/FOIA Request To Beacon's Government

Lately, as we cover more police related news, and job fairness news, we have been asking what seem to be straightforward questions that have answers in the public domain, but have been given answers of: “Please submit a FOIL,” by the City Manager, Anthony Ruggiero. Normally super helpful with providing information, this answer has been surprising. A FOIL is the Freedom of Information Law (Public Officers Law, Article 6) (FOIL) grants members of the public access to the records of government in accordance with its provisions.

In Beacon’s case, it means that while Anthony might have the answer in a filebox behind him or down the hallway, we need to go to a website to officially submit a FOIL request, which may get sent to Beacon’s City Clerk, Iola C. Taylor, who also works down the hallway from Anthony (or maybe on a different floor, we actually don’t know this part), who then goes through a decision process on if the request can be granted, and sends us an estimate for any paper copy fees, and may or may not provide the answer to the question.

In Putnam County, an actual Secrecy Law was enacted which allows any public document or contract to be marked confidential for any reason. The Highlands Current has fun submitting FOILs to get the information, but we are not sure on their success rate.

Such questions of late have been:

• What was the salary for Reuben Simmons when he was the Superintendent of Streets?

• What was the salary for Michael Manzi when he replaced Reuben as Superintendent of Streets about a year after Reuben was hired?

These questions seemed straightforward because when expenditures are being discussed, salaries are presented. Like last year, when Beacon was hoping to hire an HR person (has since happened) at $65,000. An Human Resources (HR) Director was hired. Or a Climate Smart Coordinator at $9,500. Or the Deputy City Clerk as full-time in the City Clerk budget (1410) for $18,685.

In fact, the salary of the new Human Resources Director, Gina Basile, which was dubbed as a “shared service” with Fishkill, in that she is Fishkill’s Human Resources Director as well, is $88,000. We will have to follow up to see if that is a split cost with Fishkill, or if that is Beacon’s share. Perhaps the answer to the question will be: “Please submit a FOIL.”

As of now, the salary language in the contract is here: “Your annual compensation will be Eighty-Eight Thousand ($88,000) Dollars. Salary increases shall be at the discretion of the City Council and similar to other non-bargaining unit members. Under no circumstances will the salary in a subsequent year be less than the year before unless imposed as the result of discipline or a reduction in required work hours.”

Yay for great salaries, but the application of providing the information is inconsistent. The salaries for the Highway Superintendents were not stated in their Resolutions, however, when Reuben was hired to replace his successor, Anthony Thomaselli, Anthony was hired to stay on as temporary position of part-time Street Superintendent for $50.90 for 8 hours per day, for 3 days per week, from January 17, 2017 through February 28, 2017. This rate detail can be found in this Resolution agenda dated 7/17/2012, here in this Resolution. Payment detail doesn’t seem to be noted in Reuben or Michael’s Resolutions.

Salary and negotiated contract rates are usually in their Resolutions. But when they aren’t, why aren’t they? Sometimes the attorney forgets to include details. For example, when Gina was hired, her name was left out of her contract/Resolution. An oversight that was acknowledged and fixed in the 7/6/2020 City Council Meeting.

Next questions:

What are the names of Beacon’s female police officers?

What are the names of Beacon’s Black or mixed race officers, or officers who are Hispanic or have origins from South America?

The answer to these questions were: “Please submit a FOIL.”

The next question will be:

“What is Beacon’s Police Chief salary as of 8/17/2020, which is when the new acting Police Chief Frost was appointed. The new Acting Police Chief is paid a portion of that salary. While the proposed 2020 budget had it as $147,733. Time will tell what the answer is when confirmation is requested. FOIL? Or easy email response.

How To Submit A FOIL/FOIA

You visit this website: https://www.justfoia.com/

UPDATE 3/7/2022: You could download this PDF, fill it out, and give it to the City Clerk at City Hall.

As of the writing of this article, Anthony sent over a link to a new place on the City’s website where you can find it as well: UPDATE: 3/7/2022: the new link is: https://beaconny.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest

There are directions on the page at JustFIOA.com. For police or fire related questions, you’ll choose the "PDFD" form for all requests having to do with the Police or Fire Departments. (** Standard motor vehicle accident reports may be obtained directly from BPD. Please contact 845-831-4111 for further info**). The "Clerk" form is to be used for all other departments.

Keep in mind: Start with the City first. Ask your questions. If you get a “Talk to the FOIL” type response, click those links above. Form your question as precisely as you can. Consider submitting several questions if your question is covering too much ground.