Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Photo Credit: Jean Noack
The child who was pinned under the car, and is being treated. Photo Credit: A Little Beacon Blog
As first reported by Hudson Valley Post, who credited Action News Service for some detail, a mother with her children was walking down Main Street with her own mother and father on Mother’s Day (Sunday), when 2 cars hit each other on Main Street in between the Beacon Public Library and Subway. Both cars completely spiraled upon colliding, with one car doing a 360 onto the sidewalk next to Subway on South Cedar Street, hitting the grandmother, and pinning the 6 year old son, Colby, under it after he had been walking and eating ice cream. His ice cream remained in his hand, but his hat flew onto the car. The boy and the grandmother have injuries and are fine; ALBB has not yet confirmed the condition of the people in the cars. UPDATE 5/11/2021: The Beacon Police Department Detective Beuro has issued a Press Release with some more detail.
According to a witness at the scene, screaming and shouting started, and a group of people rushed over to the car to lift it off of the boy. According Colby’s mother, Erica Bronner Alti, 5 men rushed over to the car to remove it from her son, a detail she posted to the Beacon, NY Facebook Group to raise awareness about speed on Main Street.
“I’m having a really hard time getting the thought of not seeing them near me and then only seeing his hat before finding them. I can’t shake it.”
— Erica Bronner Alti
Erica’s original post reads as follows: “I am the mother of the child and my mother was hit as well. They are both doing ok. Only bumps and bruises. We are beyond lucky. He was about 6 feet behind me walking with my mom when I saw the first car crash on the other side of Main Street. 10 seconds later I realized a car was on the sidewalk behind me. I did a quick head count seeing my dad and other 2 kids, but didn’t see my mom and 6 year old. I quickly walked around the car that was on the sidewalk and saw my son’s red hat on the trunk with his ice cream thrown on it. I thought the worst of course. We then walked around to find my Mother on the ground but conscious, and my son with the car on his foot. 5 men rushed over to move the car off of him. Amazingly he is a trooper and didn’t even shed a tear. How do we make sure people slow down on the Main Street? Others were eating outside very close to where this happened. Could’ve been much worse.”
Across the street via Main Street is Glazed Over Donuts, which has ample sidewalk space in front of it where people gather to eat their donuts. Across the street via South Cedar Street is Kumon, a tutoring center for children.
Details Of The Car Crash
According to the Hudson Valley Post, a blue Mazda was driving west (toward the river). A white Honda Civic making a left turn onto North Cedar Street from Main Street hit the blue Mazda, as emailed by Action News Service to Hudson Valley Post. The blue Mazda spun around in the middle of Main Street, and hit a parked car in front of the library, according to a witness. In these pictures, the blue Mazda has collision damage on both the left and right side of the front of the vehicle.
A person at the scene remembers seeing a wheel from the blue Mazda “completely torn off the car.”
A man presumed to be the driver of the blue Mazda was seen sitting on the ground rocking his head moments after the impact, according to a witness. He was later taken by an ambulance. A witness also said that police searched through his trunk and rear of the car, removing things from the vehicle. ALBB has reached out via email to the Beacon Police Department to confirm, but has not received reply yet, and left a voicemail with Detective Sgt. Johnson, who was the destination of the transfer from the desk officer who receives phone calls.
Upon impact, the white Honda Civic also spun around, and landed on the sidewalk of South Cedar Street, facing Main Street. According to Erica, the white Honda Civic “did a 360 after being hit on the rear passenger side and ended up facing towards Main Street. It bounced off the building or it would have hit all of us.”
The driver of the white Honda Civic was heard by people at the scene to have said that it was not her fault. ALBB has not yet confirmed her condition after the impact.
The rear of the white Honda Civic. A stuffed animal and drips of ice cream can be seen. Photo Credit: Jean Noack
Details Of The Boy And Grandmother
The cup of ice cream that the boy was eating. This is sorbet from the Beacon Farmers Market. It was left at the scene, and was still here on Monday. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
The grandmother was struck by the white Honda Civic, and the 6 year old’s foot ended up pinned under the tire of the car. According to his mother, he was not pinned to the building, as reported by the Hudson Valley Post. Erica told ALBB: “I found him with the car on top of his foot, and he was laying on the ground next to my mom. He was still holding the emptied ice cream cup. I can’t understand how the ice cream and hat ended up on the back of the car because they were on on the driver’s side.”
A person who was at the scene said they heard a child crying during the accident, saying he had never experienced anything like this. Erica confirmed that child to be her other son. Colby, who was pinned under the car, was calm and “did not shed a tear,” Erica said.
The brown drips that are on the rear driver’s side of the white Honda Civic are ice cream, Erica confirmed.
The white Honda Civic on tow truck. Photo Credit: Jean Noack
What Is The Speed Limit Down Main Street?
After driving Main Street in both directions today (Monday, May 10, 2020), there are no speed limit signs posted anywhere on Main Street.
A Police officer answering the phone at the general number today indicated that he thought that 30 miles per hour was the speed limit.
The speed limit on Wolcott/9D and on Fishkill Avenue/Rte. 52 (by the car dealership) is 30 miles per hour, as indicated on signs posted on those streets.
There are several other signs posted on Main Street, including parking limit signs, bus signs, One Way signs, and other signs.
Is There Traffic Safety Enforcement On Main Street?
Beacon’s Traffic Safety Committee is listed here. As Beacon continues to increase in popularity as a destination town, complaints made while out and about and in social media by locals about the traffic have increased. Beacon’s Mayor Kyriacou recently appointed a new member to Beacon’s Traffic Safety Committee who is a mother in town, and joined because she witnessed an accident at Wolcott and Main Street, and wants to make a difference with actions taken to reduce risk.
A Little Beacon Blog has reached out for comment from Mayor Lee Kyriacou, Chief Sands Frost, and City Administrator Chris White, but has not received a response yet. UPDATE 5/11/2021: The Beacon Police Department Detective Beuro has issued a Press Release with some more detail.
How Are The People Involved In The Crash Doing?
Erica told ALBB: “My son is ok, the other son, my dad and I have loads of anxiety about it all. My mom has neck pain and big bruises. She said she remembers switching places with my son Colby a few seconds before it happened, putting him on the inside of the sidewalk. She might have saved his life because she got the brunt of it. I’m having a really hard time getting the thought of not seeing them near me and then only seeing his hat before finding them. I can’t shake it.”
If you have more information or photos about this incident, please send to the Beacon police, and to A Little Beacon Blog.
Remember this time last year? Mother's Day Weekend? Most everything was shut down, the COVID-19 numbers in New York were high and scary, and pictures of flowers just felt weirdly depressing because they were so beautiful, but the pandemic was wreaking havoc. Do you remember how the floral industry rallied to bring you online ordering and delivery? That was the beginning of the hustle that every business owner on Main Street went through, like they had never gone through before.
Having a moment of gratitude for where we are now, and are not forgetting where we were yesterday, and where people in other regions and countries are now. Thank you for supporting everyone as you have, and we know you are going to continue.
PS. We updated our Summer Camp Guide (again) & registrations are bringing to open up! There's even one where a mermaid theme makes an appearance (Yanarella)! ATTN: Caregivers & parents! Start browsing ALBB's Summer Camp Guide now! We organized it with age ranges, dates, and a link for more info so you can register easily. We also created this handy dandy schedule list for you to stay organized. It's a PDF template for your weekly planning! SPONSORSHIPS: Advertisers are still welcome to participate! Parents want to know your social distance strategy, what your camp looks like, and why your camp is the best of the best!
THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
Caiming Cheung, Jewelry Designer & Katrin Reifeiss, Hand-Dyed Clothing Designer Days: May 7 - 9 & May 14 - 16 Time: 10 am - 6 pm Location: 44 Main St, Cold Spring, NY
Using metal as her canvas, Caiming Cheung’s handcrafted jewelry is infused with the care and precision that is characteristic of her personality and is both artistic and timeless. Her sterling silver pieces feature intricate details while the enamels on copper add vibrant splashes of prismatic color. Website >
Katrin Reifeiss is a maker of hand-dyed clothing and accessories made one at a time or in small batches, all with forever in mind. From crisp cotton dresses dyed using Japanese Shibori techniques to dip-dyed cotton linen caftans & canvas bags, all items are dyed by Katrin in Beacon & sewn locally in the Hudson Valley. Website >
Vernal Pool Exploration with Maggie Worden
Day: May 8, 2021 Time: 11 am Location: Woodland Trail at Stony Kill Farm, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 Information >
Bountiful Birds with Maggie Worden
Day: May 8, 2021 Time: 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Location: Stony Kill Farm, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 Meet outside the entrance to the Livestock Barn Information >
Hudson Valley 20th-Century Glass & Pottery & Accessories Show
Day: May 8, 2021 Time: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Location: Veteran's Memorial Bldg., 413 Main Street, Beacon NY 12508
All items made in the USA. Free Glass ID & Appraisal. Raffle entry included with $4 admission fee ($2 for veterans). We are a group of enthusiasts and collectors preserving our American glass heritage! We meet monthly on the 2nd Saturday at 10am at the Beacon VFW Hall to share knowledge and enjoy the fellowship and beauty that this glass imparts. Info: Debbie Siller 845-702-4770. Social Distancing Specifications: Compliance with NYS COVID-19 guidelines (100 persons or less at all times for indoor events). Face masks required for entry. 6' distancing to be followed and temperature check upon entry. Information >
“The Artichoke” Live Storytelling Series Returns to Beacon!
Day: May 8, 2021 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm Location: The Howland Cultural Center,477 Main St, Beacon, NY 12508 Information >
Celebrate Pete Seeger's 102nd Birthday
Day: May 8, 2021 Time: 7:30 pm Location: Virtual Information >
Bau Gallery Solo Shows: Lukas Milanak 'Sandbox' and John De Marco 'Schism'
Day: May 8, 2021 Time: 12-6 pm Location: 506 Main Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Information >
Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson Session 3: Monday-Thursday 5/10-5/13 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Session 4: Saturdays 5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Location: Virtual Information >
Caiming Cheung, Jewelry Designer & Katrin Reifeiss, Hand-Dyed Clothing Designer Days: May 7 - 9 & May 14 - 16 Time: 10 am - 6 pm Location: 44 Main St, Cold Spring, NY
While this Pop-Up is in Cold Spring, its designers are based in Beacon. This is a rare occasion to be able to shop their designs in person! This pop-up is in 44Main, a shop in Cold Spring dedicated to pop-ups! Caiming Cheung: Using metal as her canvas, Caiming Cheung’s handcrafted jewelry is infused with the care and precision that is characteristic of her personality and is both artistic and timeless. Her sterling silver pieces feature intricate details while the enamels on copper add vibrant splashes of prismatic color. Katrin Reifeissis a maker of hand-dyed clothing and accessories made one at a time or in small batches, all with forever in mind. From crisp cotton dresses dyed using Japanese Shibori techniques to dip-dyed cotton linen caftans & canvas bags, all items are dyed by Katrin in Beacon & sewn locally in the Hudson Valley.
May Factory Sale Days: May 7, 8 Time: 10 am - 3 pm Location: 18 West Main Street, Beacon, NY
Come shop for Mother's Day or restock your own SallyeAnder stash at our May Factory Pop-Up Event! All-natural soaps, balms, and more, handmade and trusted since 1982.
3 for $22 Essential Soaps is this month's promo for in-person shoppers. Sponsored, thank you SallyeAnder!
Hudson Valley 20th-Century Glass & Pottery & Accessories Show
Day: May 8, 2021 Time: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Location: Veteran's Memorial Bldg., 413 Main Street, Beacon NY 12508
All items made in the USA. Free Glass ID & Appraisal. Raffle entry included with $4 admission fee ($2 for veterans). We are a group of enthusiasts and collectors preserving our American glass heritage! We meet monthly on the 2nd Saturday at 10am at the Beacon VFW Hall to share knowledge and enjoy the fellowship and beauty that this glass imparts. Info: Debbie Siller 845-702-4770. Social Distancing Specifications: Compliance with NYS COVID-19 guidelines (100 persons or less at all times for indoor events). Face masks required for entry. 6' distancing to be followed and temperature check upon entry. Information >
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
In case you missed it, Eat Church is back at the Beacon Farmers Market every Sunday! They will be there from 10 am - 3 pm serving delicious foods like the one pictured - the Vietnamese Vegan Summer Roll. If you can't make it on Sundays, don't worry! they will be at the Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring on Thursdays & Fridays (yes! tonight!) with their famous dishes! Be prepared to order - We promise they sell out quickly. Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor!, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Hotdogs at Meyers! Instantly a craving once the weather is warmer. But so are the burgers, so really, we prefer one of each. The real hard question is deciding which burger! Always torn between the Double Dutch and New York State Special. Always add chili & slaw to the hotdog. Side of dirty fries is always a must. PS: The final pieces of the new HVAC and exhaust system got set into place! There is now upgraded filtration with Merv-13 filters and significantly improved fresh air. Still temporarily at 157 Main Street for another short while, 7 days a week 11:30-9 pm, outdoor seating, take out, and delivery. Order Now > Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Organic Baby Kale Ceaser Salad with Watermelon Radish, Parmesan, Croutons, & Hard Boiled Egg. Always fresh, always absolutely delicious. Homespun has everything from sandwiches and salads to breakfast and kids' foods! Not to mention, their wine subscription! Guarantee yourself 3 bottles of wine a month from Homespun’s exquisite selection from some of the most remote regions in the world. Only $49.99/month. What's better than that? Monthly wine subscription > (PS -discounts on orders over $100. Make your life easier, by subscribing to try new wines and bulk orders.) Order Food > Order Wine > Homespun is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Oyster CSA is back at HV Food Hall! Sign up now at www.worldsyouroysterco.com! There are weekly and bi-weekly options delivered over the course of 2 month seasons, and feature a different farm each week when supplies allow. All of the oysters are harvested in Maine and delivered directly to HV Food Hall!
Follow their foodies directly: Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina Momo Valley: Himalayan Spiced Hand-Crafted MoMo & More Barb's Fry Works: Gourmet, small-batch loaded fries. And salads. Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio! Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Can’t think of a better way to celebrate the weekend than with Tacos & Margaritas from BAJA! If you missed out on their Cinco de Mayo Signature Margarita, don't worry! They have the best margs all the time! Made at the bar or in their new pouches to go. What's better than that? Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
KAIGHT SHOP
512 Main Street, Beacon
The swimsuit of our dreams! The Olympia Bikini in blush with a soft cup underwire bra. Features a 90’s high cut bottom with medium back coverage. Yarn-dyed striped stretch fabric that is fully lined and made in Barcelona! This piece & many more from Kaight. They also have the most beautiful dresses to wear over the swimsuit if you're stepping away from the water for a quick lunch! Best part? Kaight sources goods that reflect a value system that respects humankind and the environment. PS: Check ALBB's stories for a possible sandal must-have if you're looking for something with lambswool, for the time between transitioning between your day shoe, and your evening slipper.
Shop In-Store or Shop Online > Kaight Shop is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
If you haven't planted those flowers/herbs yet, there is still time! And, there are lovely flower pots in all different shapes & sizes at Brett's Hardware! We actually think one of each color creates a beautiful palette together - neutral & minimal. Stop in & get yourself some before they sell out! Located at 18 W Main St. Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Luxe Optique is open for appointments:
Monday 10 AM–5 PM
Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM–6 PM
Refresh your glasses or contacts prescription, and shop the store for shapes and colors that frame your face. Luxe Optique can also order your contacts for you, including astigmatism. Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon
Emily and Matt Clifton, “The Ultimate Dutch Oven Cookbook: The Best Recipes on the Planet for Everyone’s Favorite Pot”. If you know, you know! But if you don’t, time to get in the know and get yourself a copy of this beautiful new cookbook from local authors Emily and Matt Clifton, whose previous endeavor, “Cork and Knife” have been steadily flying off the shelves since the day it landed. This & many more good reads/cookbooks from Binnacle Books! You can always count on them.
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
436 Main Street, Beacon
This outfit is dreamy! Ribbed knit top + Straight Leg Jean + Sandals and their Floral Bucket Hat are available online and in-store now! It's the outfit you can wear to get dressed up or to lounge in. Works for both! & that's what we love. Download their free app in the iTunes Store today Or stop in! Open Wednesday - Saturday 11 am - 6 pm & Sunday: 12 am - 5 pm
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
SPRING INTO DANCE Yanarella's new dance season started! PLUS, their Summer Camp Registration is now OPEN. Each day will have a different island adventure theme - from traveling through the jungle to mermaids and pirates! Register by June 1 to save $10. Register for classes today! 🩰 Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!
HIRING: Teacher Assistant At Care 4 Me, Inc. Details>
HIRING: Office Assistant At Gilded Audio Details >
HIRING: Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County Details >
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Prepare Your Home for Spring
Warmer weather here in the Hudson Valley also serves as a reminder to check off items on your spring home maintenance list.
Spring has arrived, which means the days of summer are on the horizon. We’re sure we’re not alone when we say we are looking forward to nights on the patio, cookouts, and chasing fireflies. Performing maintenance inside and outside your home now will help with more carefree days to enjoy your yard in the months ahead.
Here are some items to include on your spring cleaning list:
Take a walk around your house for an overall inspection.
TIN SHINGLE
Not only does Tin Shingle provide you the tool necessary to get the word out about your biz, but we can help boost your Instagram game with Instagram Service Add-Ons! Let's get your Instagram Story Highlight Circles pretty and on-brand! We will explore your branding, design the circles to match it, and can upload (or show you how to upload) them to your Instagram account! We recommend no more than 6* Information >
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Not sure how to update your website? Not sure how to make your website more on-brand? Not sure what tools are necessary to get people on your website?! Don't panic! Katie James, Inc. has your back. With our 'Pay As You Go Packages', we can cover a range of areas! Flexibility is key for a small business - based on what we find on your website, we will send you suggestions and recommendations. Pick the hours you need, in the discount bracket you like, and let’s get started! Contact us to tell us about your goals.
ALBB's Business Directory is a Deep Dive List of services you need right now in Beacon and the Hudson Valley. There is a lot of talent here in the 12508 and beyond and we want to highlight all of them. Check out the Business Directory HERE.
The Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccinations need 2 doses for maximum effectiveness. However, some Beaconites have questioned getting their 2nd dose, after getting pelted by any anti-vaxing friends in social media or text. That and, the semi-vaccinated might want to skip out on the expected symptoms. While India is begging for vaccines, and the world is pressuring the United States and the UK to release the vaccine patents so that the vaccine can be made more widely for greater accessibility, it seems silly to skip the 2nd dose of the vaccine.
How are we doing in Dutchess County? As of today 5/6/2021, 48.17% of Dutchess County has gotten at least one dose of any vaccine, according to the Dutchess County Tracker. If you’re one of those anti-vaxing people who is thinking “All you people are getting vaccinated, so I don’t need to,” then you can know that less than half of the population is not vaccinated, and that is not great for you. So check with your doctor on the best course for you, get a plan, and maybe get vaccinated!
Here is a snapshot view of people returning to the JCPenney vaccination location for their 2nd shot, as supplied to ALBB by Colleen T. Pillus, Communications Director, Dutchess County Executive Office. This is a snapshot of 2 vaccination events: one on February 11, 2021, and one on March 30, 2021.
February 11th at our JCPenney Fixed POD: 290 Moderna vaccine 1st doses were administered. 274 Moderna 2nd doses were administered at the corresponding 2nd dose clinic on March 11th.
March 30th at our JCPenney Fixed POD: 1294 Moderna vaccine 1st doses were administered. 1263 Moderna 2nd doses were administered at the corresponding 2nd dose clinic on April 27th.
At each and every other event, the 2nd dose appointment is made when you are at your 1st appointment. There is no online booking and clamoring for a spot for the 2nd dose. You’re already in. Though it may involve a QR code. However, if you or your loved one has not the technology, there are volunteers on site who can make an appointment for you the old fashioned way - by typing it into a computer.
You’ll book your 2nd dose while at your 1st appointment. You don’t need to do this online.
Vaccines are free right now. Even if you don’t have health insurance.
Governor Cuomo signed legislation requiring NY Employers grant 4 paid hours to employees to get the vaccine. More info here.
If you think that not getting vaccinated is a good idea, your theory is playing out horrifically in India, Brazil and other areas with low vaccination rates. Countries are begging for vaccinations. Use yours.
Dutchess County has recently made their signup links for vaccine appointments public, meaning, people no longer need to wait to be emailed by the county for a slot to open up. People can visit Dutchess County’s Vaccination page for upcoming appointment opportunities. Some of the events are being called Pop-Up events, which are popular in shopping and retail, and now in getting vaccinated for COVID-19. Additionally, the brand of vaccine is indicated with the date, so you can pursue the brand you want if that is important to you.
This is a major shift in the process from where Dutchess County made appointments available for anyone eligible to sign up to (when there were higher age restrictions), and pivoted to an email list after signups disappeared within 5 minutes. Demand for the vaccine has waned in New York State, and Dutchess County has since made the appointment links open again, which is easier for people to access.
After publishing the article, “Governor Cuomo Continues To Skip Dutchess County As A NY State Partner Vaccination Site - Why That Matters,” a friend sent what was then an underground appointment link to a direct online signup website for Dutchess County’s JCPenney location at the New York State booking website. This was confusing, as Dutchess County was sending press releases to inform the media that Governor Cuomo would not add Dutchess County as a Partner Site, which he did not, but the booking software did reside on the New York State website.
To confirm how the direct link existed, ALBB reached out to Colleen T. Pillus, Communications Director for Dutchess County Executive Office to find out how a public link was possible, when Dutchess County still kept them behind a registration email. She confirmed that the county was balancing stress from the public, and keeping signups within the county.
“People from much further away would have booked. People found it exceptionally stressful and disconcerting,” Colleen said. “They asked us to be put on lists. We did the list. We send it out. We randomly pull, if we have 500 doses, we pull at least 500 names. People now are wonderfully getting vaccinated from other places, and we send out an email to let one know that the person is eligible and to use a link that you can book an appointment.”
The vaccination event that the underground link was connected to had filled slower than other events, Colleen told ALBB. “We will probably start transitioning to having links on the County website. We just don't know when we keep getting doses.”
One month later, and one vaccination pause and release later, Dutchess County has put direct links to vaccination event signups on their website. These include dates for Dutchess County’s mass vaccination sites, JCPenney store at the Poughkeepsie Galleria and at the former CVS, 3081 Route 22, Dover. According to Rep. Sean Patarick Maloney, vaccination enthusiasm has declined in New York State. ALBB has emailed his office for his source, and has not yet received the source of the data. Though his office has responded to ALBB’s requests for pictures of the event at JCPenney where he mentioned this stat. If you have this information, please submit.
The Dutchess County vaccination website also includes links to Community Pop-Up events in Beacon, Millerton, Beekman, and others. Some events offer walk-in availability. Still, other pop-up events that the Beacon School District learn about in Kingston or other locations have been shared by Beacon’s Superintendent.
An email from CareMount Medical, allowing existing patients to sign up for a vaccination, sent on 4/29/2021. However, the link is private and cannot be forwarded.
Private locations still offer their own signup links, like Sun River Health Systems on Henry Street in Beacon (being a patient is not required). CareMount Medical is offering vaccinations, but to current patients only and continue to use “Do Not Forward” type links.
Technology exists to connect all of this, so that there can be one central page at the New York State level for everyone to click and book. Why centralizing this signup process has not happened is not clear.
The public bathroom at Memorial Park. It is normally closed to the public, and is treated as a mural space for community art commissioned by Wee Play, who maintains and fundraises for equipment in the Memorial Tot Park and the Wee Woods behind it. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
An 18-year-old Beaconite who grew up in a relative’s house in Beacon near Green Street Park recently moved with her family to Newburgh, as they could only afford to buy a home in Newburgh. The teen and other family members continue to work in Beacon, so she is on this side of the bridge daily. The 18-year-old Beaconite couldn’t remember when, if ever, the Green Street Park bathroom was open when she lived nearby.
Said a longtime Beacon resident, Danielle Soto-Eckert: “The bathroom at Memorial Park has been closed literally my whole life. I’m 30 years old and can think of less than 5 times that it’s been open while I was there as a child, and now an adult with kids. I take my kids to Bowdoin Park (in Wappingers Falls) because their bathroom is always open.”
The Beacon park bathroom issue is not new. People who use the public parks, including teenagers, caregivers and parents, have lived with them for the most part closed, with some people having access to a key maintained by the Recreation Department for a birthday party or volunteer clean-up day.
The Bathroom At Memorial Park Is So Pretty - But It’s Been Closed? It’s Just A Mural Space?
A celebration of the painting of the mural at Memorial Park in August 2019, commissioned by Wee Play, to cover the public bathroom, which had been closed for years, and continued to be, closed after the community painting project, which included special guest, then Mayor Randy Casale. Photo Credit: Wee Play
The grassroots organization Wee Play Community Project has been maintaining the public tot parks, mainly Memorial Park, in a volunteer capacity for a number of years. Wee Play is instrumental in fundraising for, purchasing, and designing the play structures at the parks like Memorial Park. In fact, they are working right now on their biggest fundraising event of the year - the Ree Play Sale - an affordable way to buy used kids clothing and gear.
In August 2019 while Raquel Verdesi, Margaux Lange and others were on the Wee Play Board, Wee Play commissioned artist Joe Pimentel to paint the closed bathroom at Memorial Park. Everyone got in on it, as Wee Play sought out volunteers for a community contribution experience.
Then Mayor Randy Casale painted as well, and was a Special Guest at the Celebration unveiling event. But his administration, which included then City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero, cited vandalism as the reason why the bathrooms couldn’t be re-opened. Beacon’s current Mayor Kyriacou was a City Councilmember then, as were several current Councilpeople George Mansfield, Amber Grant, Terry Nelson and Jodi McCredo.
While the mural project was happening, Wee Play Board Member Raquel Verdesi told A Little Beacon Blog that they got several inquires about using the bathroom: “Wee Play gets a lot of, ‘hope this means they'll open the bathrooms!’ whenever we are working on a new project at the park. Wee Play would like them open, too! We encourage folks to write letters to their representatives on the City Council if they want open bathroom hours.”
The Key To The Bathrooms - The Literal Key
Because Wee Play maintains the Memorial Park tot park, they were given a key to the bathroom by Recreation Director Mark Price. Wee Play could open the bathroom during the commissioned mural project so that the artist could use running water, for example, said Board member and artist Margaux Lange. During regular, volunteer-based cleanups of the park, the bathrooms might be opened then for all to use, while the volunteers are there.
Says Wee Play Board Member Raquel about bathroom key procedure: “The Beacon Recreation Department has opened the bathrooms for tournaments, park events, and parties. The City cites the expense of having them cleaned and repaired due to repeated vandalism as to why they are closed, except by appointment. They would have to hire someone to monitor them. It would make sense for the City to hire more help to be able to maintain the bathrooms.”
The bathroom at Green Street Park, which has been closed for years. Before opening in 2021, it will undergo repairs to fixtures, City Administrator Chris White said during a City Council Meeting. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
Over at Green Street Park, some people who have booked birthday parties have spoken of a key they get so that their guests could use the bathroom. Said Pheobe Zinman, who writes a column for A Little Beacon Blog, had experience organizing use for the key for more people to use. Pheobe told A Little Beacon Blog: “In 2017, I did a fundraiser for trees in Green Street. Beacon’s Recreation Director Mark Price helped me plant them. One is still there, the other was damaged by careless mowing and then vandalized.”
She continued: “Then I threw a big party to celebrate with music and potluck and a lot of neighbors came out. At that time, I scrubbed both bathrooms, which were filthy despite not ever being unlocked unless someone got a permit/key for a birthday party or gathering. We made a big list of things everyone would love to see in the park. I passed it on to City Council. There were supposed to be murals painted on the bathrooms, but that never happened. Mark said anyone could get a bathroom key as long as they signed up and made sure it got locked up etc... I tried to publicize it, but I don’t know if anyone signed up. I used to have a key, and then someone in the Recreation Department couldn’t find theirs, so I gave mine back. Everyone is still peeing outside behind the bathrooms, which is pretty unfortunate.”
In 2017, then Highway Superintendent Reuben Simmons proposed a plan to have the Green Street bathroom regularly cleaned by Beacon staff. Nothing happened with that proposal. Reuben was later stripped of his job title and salary due to a Civil Service technicality in Job Titles, and is currently a Maintenance Worker, who is on paid leave since the end of January 2021, as he fights to keep his job with the City of Beacon after receiving repeated complaints made about him by his supervisor, Michael Manzi, who replaced Reuben as Highway Superintendent of Streets.
Who Cleans The Bathroom, Anyway?
Beacon’s current and new City Administrator, Chris White, explained during a City Council Meeting on 4/26/2021 that he approached City staff to clean the bathrooms for overtime, but only 1 person said they were interested. The Highway and Parks Department work the City’s public parks to maintain the grounds and facilities. “We tried to figure out a system to use our own staff to clean them, but our hours were weird. We had staff who did not want the overtime. Only 1 staff [showed interest] and that is not sufficient.”
It is unknown at this time who the 1 interested staff person was, who was denied the overtime opportunity. Reuben Simmons, a longtime employee of the Highway Department who started working for the City of Beacon’s Parks department in 2002 as Summer Help, says he remembers cleaning the bathrooms: “In the past, I cleaned park bathrooms as Summer Help when assigned by then Park Foreman Dave Eraca.”
Reuben later served City of Beacon staff as the CSEA Union President for staff. He had this response to A Little Beacon Blog’s inquiry regarding job assignments: “I didn’t know employees had options to choose what work they would like to do and what they don’t want to do. What does CSEA (Union) say about all this? As a Union Leader, I was never a fan of contracting out work. Contractors tend to not take pride in public service. They seek financial benefit from public dollars. I'd look at the numbers and consider the option to pay our everyday hard working employees overtime before paying an outsider. You might just find it to be cheaper.” Paula Becker is the current CSEA Union President for Beacon, and works in the City of Beacon’s Finance Department.
Since the City Administrator Chris White said that Beacon’s staff wasn’t interested, he has hired Millers Touch Cleaning Service, “a minority-owned business” out of Newburgh, he described them, who he said cleans his own condominium during the 4/26/2021 City Council Meeting. Chris confirmed: “The contract is for $14,500 for 6 months. Maintenance of the facilities will be through Beacon’s own staff.” Chris said that he hopes cleaning can start the first week of May. “Then we’ll implement it as soon as Latreece Miller [of Miller’s Touch] can get his crews here.”
When Councilperson Dan Aymar-Blair asked when the bathrooms would be open, City Administrator Chris responded: “7am or 8am ‘till 5pm or 6pm. They will start at one of the parks and then shift over. Will be clearing some of the garbage from pavilion areas as well.” Additional collection of trash and recycling was an issue raised at City Council meetings in previous years as well.
It is not clear at this time what days of the week the bathrooms will be open on, and what the cleaning schedule is.
The Revised 2021 Budget submitted by Mayor Kyriacou states: “There will be $14,000 for trash and recycling collection from parks on Saturdays and Sundays. Park bathrooms will be open, maintained and cleaned regularly from March to November thanks to $25,000 in new funding.”
City Administrator Chris says there will be a delay at opening Green Street Park’s bathroom because “we are still working on fixtures,” he told the Council.
“Remind Me Where We Are At With A Bathroom At Loopers Park / South Avenue Park?”
After the Memorial Park and Green Street Park bathroom discussion, City Council Member Air Nonken Rhodes followed up with a question about the bathrooms (or lack thereof) in their ward, at the Loopers basketball court, tennis court, and kids park at Loopers/South Avenue Park. “Remind me where we are at with having a bathroom at South Ave. Park?” Councilperson Air asked City Administrator Chris. He responded: “I don’t think we have public restrooms. Just portajohns.”
John Galloway Jr., current Beacon City School District Board of Education Member and frequent basketball player at Loopers, confirmed to A Little Beacon Blog that there have not been accessible bathrooms at Loopers/South Avenue Park: “For as long as I have lived here (all 24 years), there has never been an accessible bathroom for the kids at the Loopers basketball courts at South Avenue Park. We always had to pick a tree or use the one in Sal’s Pizza. He always lets us use it even if we aren’t a customer because he indeed also knows that there isn’t a bathroom provided for the community that uses the basketball court.”
The new porta potty at Loopers Park/South Avenue Park. According to John Galloway Jr., there has not been an accessible bathroom at Loopers in the 24 years he has lived in Beacon.
Councilperson Air persisted: “Was cleaning the portajohns part of that schedule? Just an update on where we are at with that process.” City Administrator Chris confirmed that he would check and get back with an answer. Councilperson Air responded: “I don’t want South to get left out.” City Administrator Chris reminded Councilperson Air that a new retaining wall was getting put in for Loopers. Councilperson Air responded: “Bathrooms too.”
City Administrator Chris responded: “I wish we had more bathrooms in place. Starting from scratch is diffilcult. Portajons I know we can have clearned more frequently. I know they are not the best choice.” Mayor Kyriacou responded by suggesting that City Council looks at the “fancy ones” used by Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. “The Shakespeare Festival has some really cool ones,” the Mayor stated. “Maybe we'll take a look.”
The porta potty at Loopers arrived last week, as reported by City Administrator Chris during this week’s 5/3/2021 City Council meeting. “We did put a portajohn at South Avenue Park and it is being cleaned 2x/week. We did get that installed.”
The video of the new porta potty at Loopers Park / South Avenue Park is below.
Why Now? Why Are The Bathrooms Opening Now?
Beacon4Black Lives Summer and Fall Protest Budget Demanded Investment In Community Services
After decades of not being regularly opened and cleaned, with known complaints and longing by constituents, why open the bathrooms now? During a COVID-19 semi-shutdown?
In response to the protest, Mayor Lee Kyriacou, then-City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero, and the city’s Finance Director Susan Tucker defended the budget by saying that there was planned increase to the Police budget. Collective bargaining with the Police Union (PBA) conducted earlier had guaranteed raises for the Police Department.
Reversely, the Recreation Director, Mark Price, had on purpose cut the Recreation budget in order to stay slim during the pandemic. The cuts came from the After School Program, which was not operating due to the shutdown, and he did not feel it necessary to financially plan for an opening in 2021. However, when he hired back his staff for an opening in 2021, he did so with a raise to those After School Program employees, he told A Little Beacon Blog at the time of he budget protest.
Public Comment In Defense Of Funding Community Services
Public Comments about Police funding and cuts to the Recreation Department was not lost on the City Council or Mayor Kyriacou. During the 2020 budget protest, one of the organizers with Beacon4Black Lives, Justice McCray, emphasized the importance of investing in the community. Justice called in on the Public Comment line to the City Council meeting from the protest on the street, and stated:
This increase to the Police Budget has been a slap in the face to all of us, to this entire community. (Justice called back to other attendees: "Can you guys shout for me?” They respond: “BLACK LIVES MATTER!”) We are asking you to invest in the community. The last thing that we need is for you to spend more money in policing. We need you to put the $24,000 that you took out of the Recreation Department and put it back into the Recreation Department. We need you to fund community safety programs that focus on community’s actual safety, rather than having the police department outside of your house right now having police circling around your community as if they are going to attack? We want to feel safe in this community, and we don't feel that right now. (Another person shouted over the phone: "You are being protected against us right now!") This entire summer, all we have been asking is for our Black lives to matter. That means investing in community safety options, that don’t shoot us, that don’t kill Black people. We are asking you to invest in community wi-fi, community housing, community food, community fridges. Invest in your community, not in the police.”
Justice McCray has taken their protest to the ballot box by way of putting their name on the ballot. Justice is currently running for Beacon’s City Council.
Community member Tina Bernstein, who does serve as Secretary on Beacon’s Commission on Human Rights, but was calling in as a citizen, was the next caller during Public Comment to contribute a reaction to Beacon’s 2021 budget presentation. Tina stated:
I want to express very significant concerns about the proposed budget for the City of Beacon. A city's budget should be determined with serious consideration of the needs of the entire community. It should prioritize much-needed services, and should be based on a vision for maintaining equity and quality of life for all of its residents.
It should be responsive to concerns that have been expressed for several months now, by Beacon4Black Lives as was just expressed, Mutual Aid Beacon, as well as a variety of community members. The current budget includes an increase for police funding, while it calls for a net shortfall in recreational programming.
Our mayor has, in defending the budget, cited the rationale that we pay less for police services than other municipalities in the Mid-Hudson region. In addition to the fact that it ignores the express sentiment that no more money should be spent on policing, this is the same rationale that has been stated before in response to concerns for the need for more affordable housing options.
It is irrelevant what other municipalities are doing. Beacon's budget should reflect what matters to the residents in the community, and the services we need… We no longer have a community center…. We haven't invested in an expansion of programs, pavilions, or open spaces that protect youth from the elements... There is no money in this budget to support such efforts.
At this point, Mayor Lee Kyriacou cut Tina off, as callers have a 3-minute maximum. Mayor Kyriacou stated: "Her time’s up, come on."
Future Spending
The protest and the number of residents calling in their reactions in defense of the Recreation budget during subsequent City Council Meetings outlining details of the budget in different departments was enough to push the Council and Mayor to allocate funding to the opening of existing bathroom facilities.
In his Revised Budget published in the City of Beacon’s website, Mayor Kyriacou said, “This year’s budget involved greater scrutiny and community participation than any in past memory. I’d like to thank all those involved – city staff, the council and many residents who came and voiced their views. I believe this budget properly uses city reserves to keep any tax increase to a minimum, while funding needed one-time programs for these difficult times, as well as continued improvements in quality of life community programs.”
Other financial allocations included, as stated on the City’s website:
“$25,000 for emergency supplemental grants” from the CARES ACT managed by Dutchess County “to strengthen Beacon’s food distribution programs and provide groceries to hundreds of families.“
“Another $70,000 were earmarked for alternative policing – which can be used for community mental health services.”
“The Council dedicated $30,000 for a study of municipal broadband.”
“The Recreation Department will issue income-based fee waivers for programs thanks to a budget dedication of $20,000.” While this is unclear at this time in how it is intended to be used, residents may want to ask for payment plans or financial assistance on childcare programs like Camp @ The Camp or the After School Program.
Meanwhile, the City of Beacon is considering a years long renovation project of the dilapidated Tioronda Bridge for over one million dollars, which may double if the Council agrees to renovations required to keep the bridge on the National Registry. In 2017, the City of Beacon was granted $500,000 towards the project from the New York State Department of Transportation.
The City of Beacon has entertained plans for various bathroom renovations at Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park and the Settlement Camp, but those fall by the wayside and have not been put to bid for construction estimates.
One of the Beacon residents who spoke during various Public Comments during budget season was James Case-Leal, a former Board of Education Board Member, who was commenting as a resident. A Little Beacon Blog followed up with him to confirm that he asked specifically for the opening of public bathrooms. His response in part is below:
I was definitely one of the voices calling for opening the bathrooms as part of Beacon's reinvestment in community services and reimagining public safety. That was part of a set of demands put together by a collective of community organizers that I'm involved with working on the city budget. This issue was something I had heard numerous times from parents as something that would make their park time feel more accessible.
There are so few places to safely be in public, so it's really great that the city is finally providing sanitary bathrooms for parents and children. It's a small step, but a little bit of proof of how good we'd have if the city spent even just half of the $5.5million dollar Police budget on services we actually need.
We could expand the summer camp so parents aren't scrambling online the second slots become available. We could have an indoor All Sport style rec center where kids and seniors cool off during the summer. We could give residents priority for reserving University Settlement for parties. We could keep our bathrooms clean all year round. I really hope this trend continues.
More Bathrooms
The bathroom issue is big in Beacon, as there are several public bathrooms that are used on different days, at different time. In Memorial Park, there are 2 more bathrooms: one at the baseball field and one at the football field. At Sargent, there is one at the soccer field that is opened during some soccer game weekends and possibly maintained by the soccer league.
The bathroom at the Visitors Center on Wolcott and Main Street is maintained by a volunteer with the Chamber of Commerce.
The bathroom at the Settlement Camp pool is maintained by the pool staff, and as a structure, is more like an out-house. Plans have been designed to improve it, but they were shelved, as they were connected to a larger renovation.
There is a row of porta potties at Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront park. That park also has a renovation planned, which includes bid-ready drawings. It is earmarked in the Capital Plan, but has not been sent out to bid, as the Recreation Department is waiting for the right time to get the best price.
Beacon local authors and cooks Emily Clifton and Matt Clifton have done it again, with the release of their second cookbook, The Ultimate Dutch Oven Cookbook: The Best Recipes on the Planet for Everyone's Favorite Pot, published by Page Street Publishing and available at Binnacle Books, Split Rock Books, and other incredible places books are sold. This topic of perfecting cooking in the Dutch oven could not have come at a better time - during a pandemic - when people want creative and flavorful dinners at home with no-fuss.
All photos of the food have been taken by the Beacon-based authors, who live within the foothills of Mount Beacon, surrounded by their yard garden, where they develop the recipes.
The Dutch Oven Provides For Layers Of Flavor
If you could only pick one kitchen tool to use for the rest of the time what would it be? A shallow frying pan? Probably not. A cookie sheet? Meh. A versatile, long-lasting Dutch oven? Ding ding ding! We have a winner. As every home cook knows, Dutch ovens are the ultimate cooking tool, and as one of the most reliable vessels in your kitchen arsenal, the recipe options are endless.
Under Emily and Matt’s tutelage, who began their cooking and food photography careers with the blog Nerds with Knives, readers will find this cookbook to be the perfect compendium of tried-and-true Dutch oven favorites combined with some very unique recipes for making the most of your favorite tool.
Traditional favorite recipes such as “Soy and Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs with Pickled Red Cabbage” will make a scrumptious dinner one night, and then you can spice it up with “Indian-Chinese Sweet and Spicy Fried Cauliflower” the next.
Are you a bread lover? With a whole chapter dedicated to bread baking, Emily and Matt have pulled out all the stops, showcasing exactly how the Dutch oven can do it all. Emily and Matt have shared a recipe with A Little Beacon Blog readers: “Chicken And Dumplings,” and we are so excited to try it - with some indigenous chives that come up every year in the yard. At least, we thought they were chives…
Matt chimed in to clarify: "Most often, when you see those chive-like clumps start coming up in spring, you’re seeing field garlic, a very common wild allium. The leaves are absolutely interchangeable for chives, and are a great forage provided you know the soil is not chemically-treated. Use them in our Creamy Chicken Stew with Chive Dumplings!"
Creamy Chicken Stew With Chive Dumplings Recipe
Say Emily and Matt: “Our version of this classic recipe results in tender chicken; a rich and creamy broth; and chive-flecked, light-as-air dumplings. While not traditional, popping the pot under the broiler for a few minutes gives the dumplings a beautiful golden-brown crust, a great contrast to their pillowy center. This is Southern fine dining.”
FOR THE STEW
4 tbsp (56 g) unsalted butter
1 large yellow or Spanish onion, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 medium carrots, diced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, as needed
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups (1.4 L) Golden Chicken Stock (page 84) or store-bought stock
1 tsp minced fresh thyme leaves
1 bay leaf
3 lbs (1.4 kg) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
6 tbsp (48 g) all-purpose flour
1 (12-oz [355-ml]) can evaporated milk
4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature, cut into cubes
FOR THE DUMPLINGS
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp (6 g) baking powder
1⁄4 tsp baking soda
1 tsp kosher salt
1⁄4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1⁄2 cup plus 2 tbsp (150 g) buttermilk
3 tbsp (45 ml) melted unsalted butter, cooled
1⁄4 cup (12 g) finely minced fresh chives, plus more for garnish
DIRECTIONS
To make the stew, melt the butter in a large Dutch oven set over medium heat.
Add the onion, celery, and carrots, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened but not browned, 8 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
Add the stock, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken, making sure all the chicken pieces are submerged. Bring the liquid to a full boil, cover the pot, turn the heat down to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let the chicken continue to poach in the hot broth for 10 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it sit until cool enough to handle. Shred the meat and cover it with foil to keep it warm. Set it aside.
Add the flour to a small bowl and whisk in the evaporated milk until the mixture is completely smooth. Turn the heat under the Dutch oven back to low and slowly pour the milk-flour mixture into the chicken stock, whisking constantly. Add the cream cheese, stirring until it melts. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, while you make the dumpling dough.
HOW TO MAKE THE DUMPLINGS
To make the dumplings, in a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
In a small bowl, stir together the buttermilk, butter, and chives.
Slowly pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix it, or the dumplings will be tough.
Drop tablespoon-sized (15-g) dollops of dumpling dough on top of the stew, leaving a little room between each one. Cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes.
The dumplings should have grown in size by roughly fivefold, and the interior should look like a soft dinner roll. If they’re not fully cooked, cover and cook for 2 minutes more.
If you like browned dumplings like we do, preheat your broiler while the dumplings are poaching. Once the dumplings are puffed, place the pot in the oven, uncovered, and broil until their tops are golden brown, 2 to 5 minutes, depending on your broiler.
Divide the chicken stew and dumplings among bowls, and top with more chives, if desired.
Reprinted with permission from The Ultimate Dutch Oven Cookbook by Emily and Matt Clifton, Page Street Publishing Co. 2021. Photo credit: Emily and Matt Clifton
Happy weekend! Can you believe it's going to be May!? You know what that means... more flowers, more beautiful trees, more hiking, outdoor dining, walks up & down Main St, safe picnics at Long Dock Park. So many fun things to do! And, so many fun things happening in-between! Plus, parklets are back! And in order to have a safe and successful indoor dining experience for everyone involved, including staff and patrons, several restaurants are opting to keep their windows and doors open. Read more about it here.
PS. Have you been keeping an eye on The Beacon Hood Chicken aka Bea Conhood-Chykn? Between today & tomorrow, her eggs, all named Christopher, are due to hatch. There are nine eggs, three are definitely fertile- one is a question mark (the shell is too dark to see), and four looks unlikely. We will know more as time goes on! Tune in here!
THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
Into the Woods the Musical
Day: Saturday, May 1, 2021 Time: 11:00 am - 12:15 pm Location: University Settlement Lawn, 724 Wolcott Ave, Beacon NY
Beacon Performing Arts Center is thrilled to present its first LIVE show in over a year! 8 Performances over two weekends (May 1, 2, and 9. Rain dates: May 14, 15, 16). Social Distancing Specifications: Bring your whole family and any friends that are in your pandemic "Bubble." Please bring a blanket, lawn chairs, etc. to enjoy the show! They will be spacing out Pods by 6 feet so households can sit together. Face masks must be worn during check-in and whenever exiting your POD spot. Actors are spaced 6 feet apart on the stage. More Information >
Newburgh: Muchattoes Lake Cleanup Day: Saturday, May 1, 2021 Time: 10 am - 2 pm Location: Muchattoes Lake, 136 Lake Street, Newburgh, NY 12550 Information >
Craft Fair
Day: Saturday, May 1, 2021 Time: 11 am - 3 pm Location: VFW Post 170 Vail-Wolff Mc Kenna-Frye Post, 1 Violet Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Information >
Fridman Gallery Opening
Day: May 1 Time: 12 pm - 9 pm Location: 475 Main Street, Beacon, NY 12508
The Fridman Gallery is opening their 2nd location in Beacon (formerly Jeffrey Terreson's spot next to the Howland Cultural Center). Their original gallery is in NYC. An outdoor performance involving space debris orbiting above Beacon is slated for Saturday. Read all about the artists here. Information >
POP-UP Sound Shack - Newburgh
Day: May 1 Time: 11 am - 3pm Location: Newburgh Vintage Emporium Ware-House, 10 Rt 17K, Newburgh, NY
The Sound Shack keeps spinning! In a new spot of the Vintage Emporium: The Blue Room
Volunteer Workday - I Love My Park Day
Day: May 1 - May 2 Time:see info for different times Location:see info for different locations Information >
Bau Gallery Presents: Plague - Faith Adams Solo Show
Day: May 1 - May 2, 2021 Time: 12-6 pm or by appointment. Location: 506 Main Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Information >
Fairy House Hunt in the Garden Day: Sunday, May 2, 2021 Time: 10:30 am - 5 pm Location: Locust Grove Estate, 2683 South Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Search the nooks and crannies of the Locust Grove grounds to find 20 hidden fairy houses on an enchanted walk. Check out some old favorites, as well as houses created new this year! We'll supply a map and instructions, you should bring your imagination (costumes and fairy wings encouraged!). Kids under 4 are free, tickets required for everyone else. More Information >
ALIVEmusica Presents at the Howland Cultural Center: Pianist Terrence Wilson
Day: Sunday, May 2, 2021 Time: 8 pm Location: Streaming live from the Howland Cultural Center Information >
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Exciting news!! Eat Church is back!! You can now visit them at the Beacon Farmers’ Market each and every Sunday from 10 am-3 pm for some of their greatest hits!!! This will be in addition to their food truck being at Marbled in Cold Spring. They are spreading out! Get in line :) Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor!, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Tofu is back! Miso maple glaze, pineapple slaw, and a dusting of togarashi. Drooling yet? Because we sure are... Meyers has options for everyone! Stop in or order online for takeout/local delivery. In case you wondered, MOD is totally OPEN during their renovation, which is almost complete. They are operating out of Kitchen Sink, which has Parklets for outdoor dining. PS: MOD is open 7 days a week 11:30-9 pm. Order Now > PPS: MOD is looking for back-of-house cooks! Find details here > Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
It’s been a year plus! But indoor dining has returned at Homespun! They are operating at a limited capacity indoors, and they will still have the dreamy garden open outback, and a few tables out front. Safety protocols to follow! But can you get over these chairs? Homespun's famous chairs and tables are back. PS: Homespun offers a monthly wine subscription, and discounts on orders over $100. Make your life easier, by subscribing to try new wines and bulk orders. Order Food > Order Wine > Homespun is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Hudson Valley Food Hall is back on the gram! The Instagram account formerly known as hvfoodhall is now @hudsonvalleyfoodhall. Give them a follow because they have Pop-Up news coming soon!
Follow their foodies directly: Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina Momo Valley: Himalayan Spiced Hand-Crafted MoMo & More Barb's Fry Works: Gourmet, small-batch loaded fries. And salads. Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio! Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Can’t think of a better way to celebrate the weekend than with Tacos from BAJA! So many different tacos to satisfy everyone. Join them for lunch! The open garage doors with the view of Main St. is the best way to welcome May! Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
KAIGHT SHOP
512 Main Street, Beacon
This must-have statement bag at Kaight Shop is begging to be yours, and is in limited supply. The Beck's Cross Body Bag is back in stock now in the Beacon shop, or your can snap it up online! For all you travelers and walkers, in search of outdoor dining, farmers marketing, photo shoots, marches, and picnics, this bag with zippers, pockets and a soft strap will keep you hands free and in style. Shop More Bags > Kaight Shop is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Need a refresh from your chairs last year? The Adirondack chairs from Brett's Hardware are the only thing your cozy yard is missing! Picture this - lounging on one of these wrapped in a blanket, sitting by the fire (fire pit also at Brett's), roasting some smores,.. should we keep going? Head into Bretts Hardware for all of your home needs! They never disappoint and they are always there to help! Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Wow wow wow! These sophisticated frames with gradients of color from Emmanuelle Khanh are absolutely dreamy! Sophisticated to wear out and be fancy or sophisticated enough to be chic & "comfy-casual". We need to add these to our wardrobe... and think you need to too!
Luxe Optique is open for appointments:
Monday 10 AM–5 PM
Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM–6 PM Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon
Who needs Amazon books when you have Binnacle Books?! For those who haven’t been in to visit Binnacle Books yet, please do so soon. They have some of the best narratives, stories, & the greatest connection. They're there for you! To help you pick out the book that you'll never want to put down. PS: This photo was one of our most popular in ALBB's Instagram, because of Binnacle Books' ongoing and consistent work in the Black Lives Matter, social and racial justice movement. PPS: You can help with their Prison Project by paying for postage. Learn more here.
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
436 Main Street, Beacon
Bucket hats from La Mere! So many different patterns to go with all of your outfits. We are loving the long black shirt with the dainty brown belt and white blouse that is accessorized with a letter necklace and fringe bag. Yup, you need the entire outfit! Feeling more casual? Not to worry! Check out the outfit on the right with the ripped jeans, fringe top, and the draped cozy cardigan. Shop online now or in-store: Wednesday - Saturday 11 am - 6 pm & Sunday: 12 am - 5 pm
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Starting this week, Yanarella is offering a new class added for ages 4-6. Ballet, tap, and jazz combination class! The classes will be on Thursdays from 5:00-5:45 pm. Keep in mind - Yanarella dances all summer! This is a great way to keep your little one active and engaged over the summer months. Classes will also be streamed via Zoom if you’re unable to make it due to summer vacation plans! Register today! 🩰 Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!
HIRING: Teacher Assistant At Care 4 Me, Inc. Details>
HIRING: Office Assistant At Gilded Audio Details >
HIRING: Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County Details >
ALBB's Business Directory is a Deep Dive List of services you need right now in Beacon and the Hudson Valley. There is a lot of talent here in the 12508 and beyond and we want to highlight all of them. Check out the Business Directory HERE.
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Protecting Man's Best Friend from Antalek & Moore
They are always there for you, let us help you be sure you can be there for them!
Regardless if you identify as a dog person or cat person, have a love for horses, or smaller animals you want to be sure your furry friends are protected at all costs. However, if your pet runs ill or your concern for their health is growing a trip to a vet’s office might break your bank. This financial burden is an unfortunate reality for many pet owners. If you’ve ever found yourself making the decision between your pet’s health and your financial stability consider enrolling in pet insurance. Our consultants would be more than happy to help you find a solution that makes your pet, yourself (and bank account!) happy and healthy.
From serious illnesses, broken legs, or concerning cough, regardless of the severity any vet visit can ring in a hefty bill. Be sure your pet is covered for the treatment needed with Pet Insurance. Typical cancer treatments, for example, can run $5,000. Pet insurance is there for you and your pet in these situations. Some pet insurances include Pet’s Place, ASPCA, Embrace, and Pet Plan-just to name a few. There are insurances that cover accidents only, accidents and illnesses, preventative policies to help your pet. Pet insurance often operates in a way that will reimburse you the bill of the vet, instead of providing deductibles. There also is typically an annual limit. If you have a lower annual limit, you will have a smaller monthly payment. To explain policies and insurance procedures be sure to stop by our office to speak with a representative about what coverage plan would best suit your needs as a pet owner.
If you worry about your pet’s future and health, protect them from the uncertainties of their world. Insure them long healthy life, starting now with the help of our team.
Give Antalek & Moore a call today: 845-831-4300 and visit their website. Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!
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The Fridman Gallery, based on Bowery in New York City, is opening its section location in Beacon on Saturday, May 1 from 12 - 9 pm. According to the Gallery Director and former Matteawan gallery owner, Karlyn Benson, the inaugural exhibition will feature Nanette Carter, Athena LaTocha and Wura-Natasha Ogunji. “Its title,” says Karlyn, Land Escape, refers to the artists’ use of a variety of media to create—rather than represent—landscapes.”
The Fridman Gallery has stepped into the space that artist Jeffery Terreson once occupied for a few years in Beacon. Prior to that, it was known as The Back Room, serving as a gallery for the artist who lived there in the apartments above. Art supplies were sold out of the space.
As with the artist previously in the space, the Fridman Gallery, owned by Iliya Fridman, has befriended the Howland Cultural Center, Iliya tells the Highlands Current in an interview, which has warmed the outdoor green space that exists between them. The opening will culminate at 8pm with an outdoor audio-visual performance by Victoria Keddie, using NASA’s live feed of space debris orbiting above Beacon. The performance is the first in a series of outdoor events presented on the first Saturday of each month with The Howland Cultural Center, located next door.
About The Exhibit
Carter applies layers of paint, markers, and pencil on Mylar to produce textural and luminous fictional worlds. Her new series, The Weight, alludes to land, sea, sky, underwater and outer space and pays homage to the mysteries of nature, human nature, and the contemporary burdens we bear in the 21st century.
LaTocha uses the power of weather and time to develop the intricate textures and undulating surfaces of her works, often employing unusual tools such as shredded tires, bricks, and stones to create new geological forms. LaTocha will present Studies for Bulbancha, a recent series of works made with earth and moss from the natural environment of the Mississippi delta.
Ogunji’s drawings in ink on architectural tracing paper often include subtle, hand-stitched details. Her compositions explore memory, history, and impossible moments in time. For Land Escape, in addition to the drawings, Ogunji will create a site-specific installation of vibrant hanging threads in the gallery's street-facing windows.
About the Artists:
Nanette Carter is a mixed-media artist who works, primarily, with oils on frosted Mylar. Working with intangible ideas such as the advancement of technology, the pervasive use of social media, and social injustice, Nanette Carter employs an abstract vocabulary of form, line, color, and texture to chronicle the issues of our time.
Athena LaTocha's works on paper explore the relationship between human-made and natural worlds and incorporate a variety of materials: inks, ash, lead, earth, wood. LaTocha’s immersive process responds to the storied and, at times, traumatic cultural histories that are rooted in specific places, such as the Mississippi River, the World Trade Center, or the Trinity Site in New Mexico.
Wura-Natasha Ogunji’s drawings and stitchings on tracing paper, videos and public performances are deeply inspired by the daily interactions and frequencies that occur in the city of Lagos, Nigeria, from the epic to the intimate. Ogunji's performances explore the presence of women in public space, often at the intersection of labor, leisure, freedom and frivolity.
Friends who are considering the vaccination have asked me to write about my experience. Some feel severe push-back from their anti-vaccination friends, and they have their own questions. Therefore, I will write about my experience, if it helps anyone make a decision.
For the writing of this vaccination testimonial, which will be fully in the first person, I am playing Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” on repeat, as she was an investor in the Moderna vaccine, which was the one I happened to take.
I was hoping for the Pfiezer/BioNTech one, when I learned that two of its driving forces in development were a married Muslim couple who were Turkish living in Germany (reading about them from different media sources is fascinating, like the New York Times article who doesn’t mention they are Muslim until the end of the article by way of mentioning that they won the Mustafa Prize, or this one from the MuslimMirror who refers to them as “The 55-year old physician and his 53-year old wife” when the “wife,” Özlem Türeci, M.D., is a is a physician, immunologist, and cancer researcher.
Some Stats
To give you an idea on what kind of testimonial you are reading, here are my stats as they pertain to COVID-19 and vaccinations:
I have never taken the flu shot (based on no science, just my thoughts), though I did take the H1N1 vaccine because I was pregnant at the time and my doctor begged me to take it because of the complications from H1N1 to pregnant women and their fetuses. I had not given my children the flu shot until last year, after my son kept getting the flu so badly. The February 2020 version was the worst (I suspect it was COVID-19). They now will get the flu shot each year.
I got antibodies! Test revealed that they were there.
I have asthma.
Social Pressures
My family was pretty concerned that I would not take COVID-19 jab, as they call it at the BBC, based on my flu shot tendency. My brother lovingly told me that my antibodies weren’t good enough. With a laugh, I told him I resented that statement, as I worked hard for those antibodies!
My sister and brother told me of a trend of women who were tending to not want to get vaccinated, perhaps due to gender-based medicine development that does not always look at how the female body will react. This was not a trend I wanted to be part of. I was fine with the COVID-19 vaccination. One stat that keeps me on board with it is the flu vs COVID-19 death rate, which pandemic-deniers held on to in the beginning of this pandemic, thinking COVID-19 not that bad.
Now that the data has been posted by the CDC, for the week of April 18, 2020, USA deaths involving the flu were 265. The number of COVID-19 deaths was 17,125. The week of April 3, 2021, USA deaths involving flu was 8. USA deaths involving COVID-19 was 2,350.
As for vaccine development in the same year as the virus it is trying to crush, I look at polio, and that rocky vaccine rollout, but remember that today, people generally don’t get polio because they are vaccinated. It used to be an every summer kind of thing, and kids had a good chance of getting paralyzed or dying. My grandmother got polio, and had bad arthritis ever since. I’ll be part of the group that tries for the vaccine.
My circle of friends are mostly ardent mask-wearers and waited with baited breath for the vaccination. They tend to do a lot of research of science (versus living through meme education - as much as I love memes).
I knew I was going to get the vaccination. It was just a matter of when.
Qualifications Of Who Can Take The Vaccination And When
Qualifications of who can get the vaccine when added to the social divide that the pandemic has also revealed. A friend who is Puerto Rican was getting their vaccination during the time of 50+ age group, which gave them the green light to get vaxxed. At the vaccination event, an elderly gentleman in line questioned my friend, stating: “You don’t look old enough to be here.”
It was not said in a positive way, as volunteers managing the vaccination event quickly approached the elderly man, stating an excuse for him that he is a Veteran and had been giving others trouble as well. Both the Puerto Rican friend, and another couple who was African American who he had also offended, had moved away from the gentleman, who was privileged enough to be able to stay where he was, while those around him did not want to be party to escalation.
Conspiracy Theories Scaring People About The Vaccination
I don’t understand the theories, especially the Bill Gates ones. That guy - and all of the tech giants - have had our data for quite some time. When the school lockdown happened, some parents were very afraid of Bill Gates taking over at that point. So far, no Bill Gates is in our Remote Learning, and we are still in Google Classrooms and Meets and on Google Chrome Books (Google is not owned by Bill Gates, and he’s probably always been jealous of Google and Apple). It’s Zoom safety I worry about! Which is totally different. I stick with GoToWebinar.
I can cook up a few good conspiracy theories, too. And do have some regarding the start of this entire pandemic, but none that influence the benefits of a world-wide vaccination. I’m in for the vaccination.
I think of India who lost control of the pandemic due in part to low vaccination rates, and other countries who are begging for vaccinations from other nations.
When To Get The Vaccination
While I am in the media, technically, I could have gotten it a little sooner. But I wasn’t comfortable doing so, with all of the emphasis on the vulnerable populations. This gave me time (an excuse) to wait. Wait to see how it was playing out in others. Which is a selfish position, being that we are all in this together, uncertain. It’s not like pandemics happen all of the time. Every one hundred years or so.
A friend who teaches part time at a college suddenly got an alert that they could get a shot. “Shall we make your appointment?” they asked. My friend froze - now confronted with the choice. This friend also was banking on more time to wait as they made up their mind, and as the qualifications blocked so many from getting vaccinated.
Finding The Appointment - Underground Link Passed Via Text
My friend passed me a direct link to sign up with Dutchess County’s vaccine booker that my friend got from a friend, who got it from a friend, who got it from a friend. I never signed up with Dutchess County (had intended to, just hadn’t yet). When my friend passed me the link. This gave me no excuse but to sign up (I also pursued Dutchess County to ask why this easy link wasn’t made public, and that is a entirely different article). There were 118 slots left. I signed up myself and my husband, who is over 50. That day, people over 30 became “qualified.” I also qualified because of asthma and being in the media. I passed the link to another friend, but I don’t know if they pursued.
The Buddy System - Texting Buddies During Symptoms
During my actual COVID-19 episode, I was so grateful to be able to text close friends my symptoms as they happened. Friends and family would reach out, which made me feel safe. The friend who passed me the underground vaccination link had also signed up for the same event, so we were vaccinated on the same day. We stayed in text touch throughout, stating the different symptoms we were feeling.
My friend fully expected to be wiped out and got ready for bed, but was up all night. I ended up sleeping that night, but was jumpy the next day, and literally ran up and down my driveway to get my wiggles out. On the second vaccination shot, my friend was thoroughly wiped out, and took to the bed covers on the beautiful spring day we had this week to sleep away the fever.
Anti-Vax Buddies Who Do Not Support
Reports from 2 friends stated their their anti-vaccination friends went on the aggressive to convince them to not vaccinate. One friend stated that they were afraid to tell their anti-vax friend (this friend also would not get tested in order to travel out of state, back when the state-border lockdown was happening). After my friend confessed that she was getting her 2nd shot - which was her first confession of getting vaccinated at all - the anti-vaxx friend took to social media posting all of their own thoughts not based on science.
That friend has since calmed down, and the two of them went on a friend-date with a third friend. The third friend was vaccinated, and those “I’m vaccinated” statements went around before masks came down. The anti-vaxx friend stated that they had COVID-19 in the past and were all good. Which was a bold-face lie, as they had never even been tested, and refused tests. SMH.
My other friend was all signed up for an appointment, and told her friend the good news. That’s when this friend discovered that the other friend was an anti-vaxxer: “My friend turns out to have become an anti-vaxxer, and they sort of went nuts on me, and now I feel totally stressed out about it. Sorry to throw that at you, but I don’t know many people who are able to get the vaccine our age group yet, so I have to ask the people who already had it.” This was prior to the qualification dropping to 16+.
Symptoms During And After The 1st Vaccination Shot
My first shot wasn’t bad. My arm was completely stiff, and it just made me mindful of arthritis, that I needed to keep moving like I would in physical therapy if I needed mobility in the shoulder. It worked. Little movement to the shoulder throughout the day was all it needed.
Days prior to the first shot, my asthma was active for spring. During jogging sessions, I wanted my inhaler. After my shot, I had ghost feelings of my chest tightening, like I did during my real COVID-19 episode. After the vaccination got through my body, however, all of that went away. And my chest was actually more clear for a few weeks! I would go jogging and not need my inhaler.
My husband also got the shot when I did. He also had COVID-19 when I did. For the first vaccination, he had almost no reaction. Weeks later, however, a cyst that has been on his back for 20+ years got infected for the first time in decades. Coincidentally, he had a regularly scheduled appointment with his dermatologist, who declared that she had seen infections before with other people who had been vaccinated. She treated it with an antibiotic, and told him that she was still glad people were getting vaccinated. All is well with it.
Symptoms During And After The 2nd Vaccination Shot
I did pretty well, but I also had client meetings, so was up and prepared to be functioning. My body was sweating even if I was sitting still, so I wanted to move. I ended up running in the afternoon, to encourage the sweating (I love saunas and running in dry, hot weather!), and wow was I glad I was able to do that. Felt much better. But I was wiped out after. Ready for bed.
Even during the real COVID-19, my body craved outside fresh air. And stretching. Lots of stretching. After my run, however, my cramps kicked in, even though my cycle finished days prior. Perhaps that estrogen doing its good thing!
My texting-buddy friend fared worse. My friend was in bed with a 100 fever, saying “My whole body is one big cramp.” Lots of sleep later, and the symptoms were gone.
My husband also fared worse this round. He was super sweaty and had a fever of 100+ with Tylenol. I treated him with cold wash cloths while I fed the kids.
Public Health Messaging To Prepare For Expected Symptoms Of Vaccination
What has helped me take the COVID-19 vaccination was the amount of symptoms I was told to expect, both by public health professionals and friends via social media. Usually, people say with the flu: “I took the flu shot but I still got the flu.” Well, maybe you got symptoms of the flu to get it less. I will be taking the flu shot in the future.
As for known symptoms of COVID-19 that also appear in the vaccination - like blood clotting - these are important factors to talk to you doctor about and develop a plan. Research may still be coming as to what people with known conditions should do with regard to the vaccination. Multiple talks with your doctor would be wise.
Any Time I Doubt Precautions Like The Vaccination, I Think Of India, Brazil, Italy, New York in March-May
Fortunately, loved ones immediately around me are in good condition during this pandemic. Neighbors do not all have this situation. Beacon Councilperson Air Nonken Rhodes speaks frequently and frankly and with concern about the risks, mentioning when their neighbors are sick with COVDI-19, and how two of them in Beacon have died so far.
When I mention the high death rate in New York to some locals in Beacon, they rebut by saying that New York changed the cause of death. But the reality of overcrowded funeral homes and crematoriums is the ending fact. How do you rebut that?
In Beacon, our local funeral homes were crowded. One funeral director reached out to A Little Beacon Blog to confirm that they were very crowded.
Managing Your Symptoms During Your Vaccination
If you get vaccinated, here are some tips on how to feel as best as possible. Talk to your doctor, first of all. Second of all, everybody’s body is different.
Drink the water. Hydration is key. As your body fights, it uses water. Dehydration can deplete your energy and cause other problems.
Move your body. If you feel up to it. Ask your doctor, and if you’re too dizzy, don’t do it. But moving my body in a safe space helped me during COVID-19 and the vaccination. The blood flow from doing push-ups, for example, was really useful to bringing me to a place of feeling better for a bit. If I slumped back down, I’d do another set of Downward Facing Dog stretch, and pushups. A few leg lifts, and I was back to semi-normal.
Sleep. Do let yourself sleep.
Take the day off from work or school. Allow yourself to rest and your body to process.
A reader wrote in: “Do you have ideas for what to do with school-age children on Remote Wednesdays?”
A very good question, and one we do not have an immediate answer for! So - reaching out to you the community, on if you have tips on what to do, or if you run a business or organization who is offering something. Events need to be socially safe of course.
Visiting Beacon’s Public Playground Parks & Recreational
South Avenue/Lupers Park, 23 West Center Street: This playground behind the Beacon Recreation building is fun for all ages, and has equipment for taller kids as well. The basketball court is down below, as are tennis courts. In warmer weather, there is a volleyball net, but ALBB is unsure at this moment on when that goes up. Snacks: Sal’s Pizza is nearby, as is a convenient store for snacks and drinks. Bathroom: There might be a porta-potty there. Parking: There is parking by the basketball court, or in the parking lot of the Beacon Recreation building.
Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park: There are 2 playgrounds down here, which are good for little kids. Basketball courts are also down in this park, but are in bad shape. Still usable tho! Snacks: Bring your own. Bathroom: There is a porta-potty there. Parking: There is parking by the basketball court.
Memorial Park: This park has 2 playground areas, and is great for the littlest ones. Surrounding it are fields for kicking soccer balls or flying kites. Nearby is the home-built Skate Park, for skateboarding on the planks, and a baskeball court. There is a shaded pavilion for picnic table eating. Snacks: Ron’s ice cream is across the street. Talk about perfect. Bathroom: There are 2 bathrooms (one by the playground, and one by the baseball fields), but neither are open. Yet. Plans are in the works for May to open them. There are porta-potties instead. Parking: There is parking by playground or baseball fields.
Green Street Park, 25 Green Street: Located near Mount Beacon, this park has been renovated to include a tall, rocket-ship like structure that is good for middle-school and elementary school kids. There is a basketball court, and swings. Green grass is available for sitting or playing.
Remembering To Go To Already Scheduled Programming At The School
Wednesdays are tricky, because the kids are at home, and need to follow their school schedule. If parents and caregivers are also working and needing to show up for their own meetings, then it can become difficult for everyone to remember where they need to be.
Jobs At Home - Pay To Play!
Now might be a good time to start paying the kids to clean your home, wash your car, sweep the shed, etc.
Watch Out For Kids On Bikes and On Foot
The afternoon hours between 2-4pm were always filled with kids in Beacon. Now, however, even more with Remote Learning in place. Not all kids are back in school full time, leaving a fair amount of school-age kids at home, and connecting with each other on foot or on bikes. Busy streets like Verplank, or Wolcott Avenue, may see more kids crossing as they visit each other in different neighborhoods.
If you have ideas on things to do, please list them here in the Comments!
Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney came to the former JC Penney store in the Poughkeepsie Mall Galleria, which serves as one of Dutchess County’s mass-vaccination sites, in order to encourage Dutchess County residents to get vaccinated.
During his kickoff speech, Rep. Maloney stated: “New York State has seen an 18% drop from the previous week," referring to the vaccination, after the rollout to the most vulnerable has happened, and qualifications to get the vaccine have opened up to anyone over 16 years old. President Biden has directed all states to open vaccinations to people over the age of 16 by May 1, 2021.
Rep. Maloney says that before they declare the decline a problem, they want to get the word out to encourage people to ask their questions to their doctors and faith leaders, to hopefully reach the conclusion that the vaccination is right for them. ALBB has emailed his office for his source, and has not yet received the source of the 18% statistic. Though his office has responded to ALBB’s requests for pictures of the event at JCPenney where he mentioned this stat. If you have this information, please submit.
This comes on the day when the CDC issued guidance that people who are fully vaccinated could be outside walking around, jogging, biking, maybe hiking, and being with others without their masks on - if they are fully vaccinated. Events such as Farmers Markets and other close quarters would still require face masks.
“Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) will join Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro at the Poughkeepsie Galleria Vaccination Site to urge residents to sign up to get a vaccine. This visit is part of Congressman Maloney’s ongoing effort to combat vaccine hesitancy.”
“As of April 22, 45.1% of Dutchess County residents (132,644 of 294,218) had received at least one dose and 29.8% (87,609) were fully vaccinated. The Poughkeepsie Galleria vaccination site has been vaccinating residents since mid-January.”
“Biden administration officials are anticipating the supply of coronavirus vaccine to outstrip U.S. demand by mid-May if not sooner. A slowdown in vaccinations could delay the arrival of herd immunity. The longer that takes, the more time there is for dangerous variants to arise and possibly evade vaccines.”
“To combat hesitancy, the Congressman is redoubling his outreach efforts with community organizations and local leaders.”
For those who are hesitant:
Write all of your medical questions down, including all thoughts and fears, and call your doctor to discuss what you should consider.
Just months after Homespun’s new owner and sommelier, Joe Robitaille bought Homespun from its former longtime owners and founders, the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, and businesses and restaurants were forced to close. The rollout of Unemployment Insurance was rocky and overwhelmed almost every state in America including New York State. The subsequent business bailout, known as the PPP Loan, was a moving target in terms of who could apply and how the money could be spent if the business owner wanted the loan forgiven, leaving restaurants owners and staff in precarious situations between the PPP Loan and Unemployment Insurance but not both, with initial penalties to restaurant owners who could not bring all staff back (if staff stayed on Unemployment Insurance).
After the long, cold spring of 2020, the City of Beacon followed the trend of allowing street-dining in sectioned off “parklets,” where patrons, hungry for in-person dining, could come to gather around a table, and inspire a new round of photos prompting mask-judging as patrons could go mask-less as masked servers waited on them. The judgement passed, and diners continued to come, well into the fall, bundled in coats and all. Some speculated as to the safety of the parklets, but no reports of accidents emerged from the June - November season.
Homespun was one of the most cautious restaurants and delayed their opening, focusing instead on building their wine selection, to sell bottles of their highly researched wine selection. They invested in an online store to sell the wine, reflecting Joe’s training as a sommelier. Homespun eventually opened from Thursdays - Sundays for outdoor dining only in the patio out back, and just last week, announced that they had opened their small dining room for some indoor dining, and were adding Monday as an open day. This is great news for locals, who can enjoy Beacon without the weekend rush, and a win for businesses who need more business than just weekends.
City of Beacon Receives More Parklet Requests This Year
The parklet at Max’s On Main, which arrived this week to kick off the warm season.
This year, Councilmember George Mansfield announced the parklet applications, stating that the City had opened them to more business types, and for no fee. “I just wanted to let everyone know that for businesses on Main Street, we're accepting applications for the parklets for Dining or Hospitality or Retail. Applications are being accepted at City Hall. No Costs. Hope you use it because it was a successful attempt to assuage business last year. Looks like we're going to have a good spring. For now, the City is trying to do what we can to help those businesses on Main Street.”
Councilperson Mansfield is also a business owner in Beacon, having opened Dogwood. In December 2020, George temporarily closed Dogwood for the winter, and at the end of April 2021, re-opened on Saturdays and Sundays, beginning at 2pm.
During the April 19, 2021 City Council meeting, Mayor Lee Kyriacou stated that there had been more applicants this year, and that he supported no-fee. “More applications [came in] this year than last year. They should be without charge. We considered a charge, I will be coming to Council. We may need approval for additional funds. I think it's the right thing to do.” It is unclear at this time what those additional funds would be for the parklets.
During Tuesday Business meetings last year during the shut-down, where business owners could call in and discuss issues with the former City Administrator Anthony Ruggiaro, discussions were had on the purchase of the parklets by the City of Beacon, and how they would look in the street.
Parklets Arrive To Main Street Parking Spots
Business owners who applied for the parklets arrived at work today (Monday) morning to see them positioned out front of their establishments in the street. Some parklets occupy 3 on-street parking spots, which have some residents questioning how parking will be impacted in Beacon. On Sundays, the currently free municipal parking lot at the DMV, owned by Dutchess County, will be occupied by the Beacon Farmers Market, who was moved there by the City of Beacon for the 2021 season, years after a contentious and confusing negotiation to stay at their usual Veterans Place location in 2019, during which they encountered resistance from the Towne Crier, yet had overwhelming support from other surrounding businesses.
The DMV municipal parking lot is occupied by visitors in cars on Saturdays and Sundays, and has 2 electric car chargers. The small municipal parking lot across the street across from the gas station is also usually full on weekends, despite comments made during City Council Meetings that both parking lots are under-utilized. Below are photos of the parking lots taken on the past two Sundays, mid-day.
The Windows And Doors Stay Open
In order to have a safe and successful indoor dining experience for everyone involved, including staff and patrons, several restaurants are opting to keep their windows and doors open. Reports have come in that some patrons are requesting to have a window be shut, but the preference is to remain open for ventilation. The same practice is happening in Beacon schools, in addition to upgrades to ventilation systems.
Several restaurants on Main Street made upgrades to their ventilation systems, including Meyers Olde Dutch (currently under renovation, to open soon in May), and Dogwood. Owner George Mansfield says that Dogwood cannot take advantage of the parklet option because they have no on-street parking outside of their building. “We’re just trying to make our inside air as good or better than the outside air,” owner George Mansfield told A Little Beacon Blog. “We installed a high tech ventilation system that scrubs the air of 98% of pathogens. Hoping for the best.”
Editorial Notice: As a notice, Homespun and Meyers Olde Dutch are advertisers with A Little Beacon Blog.
According to a press release issued by Dutchess County today, Monday, April 26, 2021, the county will resume use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, following guidance from the CDC and FDA.
The full press release is below:
“Dutchess County Commissioner of Behavioral & Community Health, Dr. Anil Vaidian has announced Dutchess County will resume vaccinations using Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine following the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recommendation to resume use of the J&J following a thorough safety review.”
“In accordance with CDC and FDA guidance, Dutchess County will resume administration of J&J vaccine,” said Dr. Vaidian. “This one-dose vaccine is an important option in our efforts to vaccinate and protect our community against COVID-19.”
“The FDA’s review of available data shows the known and potential benefits of the J&J vaccine outweigh the rare adverse risks. The FDA and CDC expressed confidence the J&J vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19.”
Women 50 Years and Younger Should Be Aware Risk Of Thrombosis
“Women younger than 50 years old should be aware of the very rare risk of adverse event called thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), which involves blood clots with low platelets occurring at a rate of about 7 per 1 million vaccinated women between 18 and 49 years old. Other COVID-19 vaccine options are available for which this risk has not been seen.”
“Anyone who received the J&J vaccine and developed severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath within three weeks after vaccination, should immediately contact their health care provider.”
“Dutchess County will resume use of J&J vaccine this week and will utilize J&J vaccine at various “Community Pop-Up Clinics” at locations throughout Dutchess County. More information about where J&J vaccine will be available will be posted on the County’s website as clinics are scheduled.”
On Wednesday afternoon, just before the end of the business day, City of Beacon’s Mayor Lee Kyriacou issued the following statement in response to the guilty verdict in the Derek Chauvin Trial:
“Yesterday’s verdict holds accountable a former police officer for the killing of George Floyd, a horrifying act recorded and seen across the globe. I hope the verdict will provide at least some comfort to Mr. Floyd’s family and friends. On a broader level, this verdict provides a measure of justice and is a milestone in promoting healing and change across our nation.
“I continue to believe fervently in Martin Luther King’s words, that ‘the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.’ Mr. Floyd’s death has been and will continue to be a catalyst for change in policing, and more broadly for change on how our country lives up to its ideals, to ensure true justice and equality for all, regardless of race, color, creed, ability, or who you love.”
On a summery Spring Tuesday afternoon, the verdict on Derek Chauvin arrived. This was after national morning news reports of speculation on how this decision could take weeks to deliberate.
Social media started lighting up at 4:30pm when news surfaced that the verdict would be read in court in moments. It had only been 2 days since the trial ended. Personal texts started arriving with predictions. Prep-time for after-school activities for parents and kids began as some people had the TV on live cable news channels or SiriusXM radio to hear live coverage.
Laces for cleats for soccer and flag football, as well as ballet slippers were pulled tight as the verdict was read for ex-police officer Derek Chauvin: Second-Degree Unintentional Murder (Guilty), Third-Degree Murder (Guilty) and Second-Degree Manslaughter (Guilty). The jury took 10-hours to deliberate over 2 days, according to CNN.
Quietly, the Black community has been watching this trial in revived trauma, afraid of no justice, while listening to reports of what the jurists were shown and told. Yet surprising testimonies were given by police training experts condemning the use of force, including the Police Chief Medaria Arradondo of the Minneapolis Police Department, who testified against former police officer Derek Chauvin during the trial: “To continue to apply that level of force to a person proned out, handcuffed behind their back — that in no way, shape or form is anything that is by policy,” said the chief as reported by the New York Times. “It is not part of our training. And it is certainly not part of our ethics or our values.”
Moraya Seeger DeGeare, MA, LMFT, a therapist based in emotional therapy in Beacon who until the last few years also lived in Minneapolis (she was born and raised in Beacon), tagged A Little Beacon Blog with the thought: “As we sit in anxious limbo…waiting. It’s come up a lot in therapy how although only kids at the time - remembering the Rodney King verdict, how this feels the same 30 years ago. Remember that fact, no matter the outcome of this trial. We MUST have the conversations with our kids.”
And each other. Thanks to local people and groups who organically organized over last Summer 2020, Beacon showed up and pulled up for the injustice and mistreatment that has been happening to Black people for ever. Groups like Beacon4BlackLives, which organically started with a few people including Justice McCray, Ciarda Hall, Stefon Seward, Xavier Mayo, and Cedric Parksdale, gave Beacon the opportunity to speak out, and tell stories that have otherwise gone untold or not believed.
Statements From Local Officials
A Little Beacon Blog has reached out for statements from Beacon’s Police Chief Sans Frost, the Vice President of the Beacon Police Union Michael Confield, and Mayor Lee Kayriacou. Should any of them respond, this article will be updated.
Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro has issued a statement via Instagram: “With faith in our justice system, and sincerest prayers to the Floyd family, I’m hopeful out of atrocity today’s verdict will help heal our nation. It won’t bring George Floyd, Gianna’s father back - may we always seek accountability, justice and peace.”
Those who are wishing for togetherness have an opportunity to gather in Newburgh for an evening organized by former Beacon Councilmember Ali T. Muhammad, who is a Beaconite currently living in Newburgh and running for Orange County Executive. Details are here, and the trip to Newburgh for the event would be worth it. The event will be co-hosted by Melanin Unchained and Ali at Sunset, with a potluck available for those breaking fast for Ramadan. Address is 29 Prospect Street, Newburgh, NY.
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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.
