Bannerman Island's First Tours of 2021 Day: June 20, 2021 Time: 11 am - 5 pm Location: Pollepel Island, Fishkill, NY Here's your chance to visit Bannerman Island on the Hudson River! Cruises for the Island will be departing from the waterfronts in Beacon and Newburgh, New York, on the Estuary Steward. Tours will likely sell out in advance and follow all COVID protocols Tour Highlights:
A scenic cruise on the Hudson River to and from the Island.
A guided walking tour of Bannerman Island where you'll learn about the Island, the work being done on it, and it's storied past; including areas previously not accessible to the public.
Enjoy walking among the many gardens that are maintained around the Island.
Entry into the recently-opened Bannerman family residence.
Multiple photo opportunities in one of the most picturesque settings in the Hudson Valley. Information >
If you know of an event not included here, please email it in to us!
Juneteenth Panel Day: Saturday, June 19, 2021 Time: 6pm - 7:30pm Register for @newburghlgbtqcenter's Juneteenth panel, and block out your Saturday night! There is a fun evening of black liberation celebration planned, so turn on @beacon4blacklives post notifications and stay tuned! Register at bit.ly/JuneteenthPanel
Juneteenth At The Sanctuary Day: Saturday, June 19, 2021 Time: 10am - 1pm Location: Crystal Lake, 61 Temple Ave., Newburgh, NY Information > “They tried to bury us, they didn’t know we were seeds.” Ground into the Earth with this JUNETEENTH at the Sanctuary. With so many happenings, let this be the experience that sets the mood for the rest of your day: meditative, joyful, in nature! There will be sowing poems, and prayer, and dance, and LOVE for Our people into the morning. Thank you for rocking with us - see you there!
Juneteenth Celebration Day: Saturday, June 19, 2021 Time: 7:30pm Location: The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon NY IT'S HAPPENING! The Beacon 4 Black Lives is Celebrating Black Joy with the theme of Love and Liberation. Enjoy performances by Local Black Artists, dance, eat, paint, heal, and breathe! We're creating a space for Black folx to celebrate ourselves and see the beauty beyond our resilience.
Annual Fish Fry @ Springfield Baptist Church Day: June 19, 2021 Time: 11 am - 3 pm Location: Springfield Baptist Church, 8 W Church St., Beacon, NY
Since the MRTA legislation is written so favorably towards selling it, growing it and using it, to regulate open air public spaces seems counter-intuitive to the intent. Restricting that amount of land could have the effect of corralling people into tighter locations. It also has the possibility of new laws against smoking cannabis in the open, without fear of charges or judgement, which is again part of why the law was written.
Additionally, while smoking tobacco is banned from trails, City Administrator Chris implied his favor with discretionary application of the regulation, stating that he simply wanted to give people more teeth when asking people next to them to stop smoking at soccer games. He implied that if people were smoking “way up in the woods, we are not going to see,” regarding an action that is now legal, where people can smoke marijuana and be seen.
New York State became the 15th state in the nation to legalize adult-use cannabis (also known as marijuana, or recreational marijuana). It did so after a long delay due to many disagreements, including debates on home cultivation (reportedly rebuffed by large marijuana businesses), and reluctance from police and educators. Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA) on March 31, 2021 legalizing adult-use cannabis (also known as marijuana, or recreational marijuana) in New York State, and is undergoing review on how to handle records for those previously convicted. Effective immediately, smoking cannabis where tobacco is legally allowed is acceptable, and the selling and cultivation of the plant is being worked out by municipalities and the state now.
The legislation creates a new Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) governed by a Cannabis Control Board to oversee and implement the law. This board has no members yet, as pointed out by the City of Beacon’s legal counsel, Drew Victoria Gamils, Esq. of Keane and Beane during her MRTA presentation to the City Council during a 6/14/2021 Workshop meeting discussing Beacon’s options. The OCM will issue licenses and develop regulations outlining how and when business can participate in the new industry.
Regulatory Framework Created In Name Of Social Justice
As stated on the OCM’s website, part of the reason the plant has been legalized is to balance equity in the profit and enjoyment of cannabis. Three frameworks are noted to be the core to the regulation:
Social Justice Establishes a robust social and economic equity program to actively encourage members from communities disproportionally impacted by the policies of prohibition to participate in the new industry.
Public Health & Safety Administers a sophisticated quality assurance regulatory structure including standards for production and manufacturing, strict product testing, labeling, packaging and advertising to ensure products are safe for consumers and not targeted to youth.
Economic Development Encourages small business and farmers to participate in the cannabis industry with the creation of microbusiness, cooperative and delivery license types.
Cities And Towns Can Opt-Out Of Sales, But Not Growing At Home
According to Attorney Drew’s presentation, “the MRTA gives cities the ability to opt-out of allowing adult-use dispensaries and/or adult-use social consumption sites to operate within their boundaries.” If a municipality already had law banning the retail sale of recreational marijuana, such local law is not valid. The municipality would need to adopt a new local law to opt-out, and must do so by December 31, 2021 and is subject to a permissive referendum under Municipal Home Rule Law §24.
The right to opt-out does not apply to cultivating or processing cannabis within the city’s boundaries. People growing cannabis on their own can do so at their private residence (in about 2023, not now). A person can grow up to 3 mature and 3 immature cannabis plants. If a person has roommates at their residence, 6 mature and 6 immature cannabis plants “may be cultivated, harvested, dried or possessed within any private residence or on the grounds of a person’s private residence.”
As for the security of the plant(s): “The person must take reasonable steps designed to ensure that such cannabis is in a secured place not accessible to any person under the age of 21,” according to Attorney Drew’s presentation, where she suggested different ways Beacon’s City Council could craft their legislation on securing the plant, such as a greenhouse. A requirement of that magnitude, however which would add considerable expense to the grower. No county, town, city or village may enact or enforce any regulation that essentially prohibits a person from engaging in personal cultivation, and violations of the personal cultivation restrictions are limited to a civil penalty of up to $200.
The right to grow at home will not come until 2023, Attorney Drew explained during the meeting. She advised the Council that they do have time to create regulations, but recommended waiting until the Board makes its recommendations first. “Nobody go buy seeds yet, bc that's against the law,” she said with a laugh.
What Cannabis Licenses Are In Play For Beacon To Regulate
According to Attorney Drew’s presentation, the following license were created for the legalization of marijuana in New York State, but only 2 of them can be regulated in zoning laws in Beacon at this time: Adult-use on-site consumption license and Adult-use retail dispensary license.
The MRTA created the following categories of licenses:
Registered organization adult-use cultivator, processor and distributor license.
Adult-use processor license
Adult-use cooperative license
Adult-use distributor license
Adult-use retail dispensary license
Microbusiness license
Delivery license
Nursery License
Adult-use on-site consumption license
Businesses applying for a Adult-use retail dispensary license license or Adult-use on-site consumption license must apply for approval from the city. According to Attorney Drew: “The city shall have the option to submit an opinion in favor of or against a license. When the municipality expresses an opinion in favor of or against the granting of such license or permit application, any such opinion shall be deemed part of the record. The Cannabis Control Board (CCB) shall respond in writing to such city, town, village or community board with an explanation of how such opinion was considered in the granting or denial of an application.”
Beacon Would Get 1% Sales Tax Directly - Going Around Dutchess County’s Sales Tax Collection
Sales tax from Beacon stores is not sent directly to Beacon. For the past few decades, Beacon and other municipalities have agreed to funnel all sales tax to Dutchess County, and in turn gets paid a flat rate that does not change if the sales tax goes up or down. During the pandemic, Beacon’s pre-negotiated sales tax payments from Dutchess County did not change. However, Beacon did not receive a bonus payment during the pandemic, the previous City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero confirmed to A Little Beacon Blog.
That said, neither the New York State Department of Finance nor Dutchess County will tell anyone what the actual sales tax is that is generated from Beacon, as A Little Beacon Blog reported in 2020 after beginning research in 2019. If Beacon decides not to continue this agreement, which expires before 2024, somehow, that dollar amount will need to be revealed, if Beacon begins collecting its own sales tax
For retail cannabis sales, the tax revenue will calculated in a particular way called a seed-to-sale system, said Attorney Drew when Mayor Lee Kyriacou asked her how the distribution would work based on Beacon’s sales tax arrangement with Dutchess County. She confirmed that Beacon’s portion of the tax revenue will go directly to Beacon, and that the Cannabis Control Board will be part of the overseeing entity to ensure that happens.
How The Tax Revenue Will Be Distributed
According to Attorney Drew, the New York State Comptroller will collect the money, then distribute it to Dutchess County, who then distributes it to Beacon.
Cannabis products will be subject to a 13% sales tax in New York, 9% of which will be directed to state coffers and 4% to localities.
The 4% cannabis excise tax for local government purposes would be imposed on the retail sale of adult-use cannabis products from retail dispensaries to consumers.
The revenue from the tax will be distributed quarterly to each county.
Counties will receive 25% of the local retail tax revenue and 75% of the revenue would be distributed quarterly by the counties to the cities, towns and villages within such county in which a retail dispensary is located.
The revenue will be distributed in proportion to the sales of adult-use cannabis products by the retail dispensaries in such municipalities as reported by the seed-to-sale system.
The county must distribute money no later than 30 days after receiving it from the State Comptroller.
One should ask if the public will have access to the quarterly audit of seed-to-sale system the exact amount per municipality without the need for a FOIA, since the regular retail sales tax for Beacon has been impossible to get, despite FOIAs being filed.
Opting In, But Making Business Impossible
The law states that municipalities that do not opt-out in order to collect the sales tax revenue and welcome new types of businesses into its borders, cannot do so in a way that effectively makes it impossible to do business. From the presentation: “A municipality that does not opt-out cannot adopt regulations that make the operation of licensed retail dispensaries or on-site consumption sites 'unreasonably impracticable’ as determined by the CCB.”
Councilmember Dan Aymar-Blair asked if Beacon could limit the number of a business type opening up shop within its borders. Attorney Drew answered “Currently the MRTA has a requirement that it must be located at least 500 feet away from school grounds, and 200 away from place of worship. Right of the bat with MRTA itself.” She recommended that Beacon could adopt requirements in the city code to make that requirement larger, or add additional requirements, such as being 500 feet from any park. Or the reverse - being located near a park where there is ample open air and circulation. Or no additional requirements.
As reported by everywhere, including WHAM and Dutchess Business Notification Network, New York State has reached the milestone of 70% of people 18 and older having received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The Mid-Hudson region has reached 71.9%, as stated in Governor Cuomo’s press conference today (6/15/2021). To celebrate, the governor has lifted many restrictions, and has scheduled firework celebrations throughout the state.
Last year at this time, according to WHAM, the COVID-19 positivity rate was 48.16%, while today it is .4%. Also last year at this time, Governor Cuomo himself was complaining about unexpected firework launchings, as remembered by Gothamist: '“But it is somewhat unexpected that Cuomo would spring fireworks on unsuspecting New Yorkers considering the proliferation of illegal fireworks last summer led to lots of complaints...including from the governor himself. ‘You can be in New York City, it sounds like the Wild West at night. Even in Albany, I’ll tell you the truth. I don’t know what has happened,’ Cuomo said last summer, adding that he was so startled at night at times that he jumped out of his bed.”
Last summer In Beacon, Councilperson Air Nonken Rhodes also encouraged people not to launch their own fireworks, and continues to encourage no private fireworks into this summer was well.
Most importantly, however, are the restrictions that are lifted by Governor Cuomo, effective immediately. Federal orders related to COVID are still in place for now, which include masks for children indoors in school. Children and adults can be masks off outdoors, however, on school property. According to his 6/15/2021 announcement, the lifted restrictions are as follows:
Effective Immediately, State-Mandated COVID Restrictions Are Lifted Across Commercial and Social Settings: Social Gathering Limits Capacity Restrictions Social Distancing Cleaning and Disinfection Protocols Health Screening Contact Information for Tracing Purposes
Effective Immediately, State-Mandated COVID Restrictions Are Lifted Across Commercial and Social Settings: Retail Malls Movie Theaters Food Services Offices Gyms and Fitness Centers Amusement and Family Entertainment Hair Salons Barber Shops Personal Care Services Sports and Recreation Construction Manufacturing Trade Child Care Camps Food Services Real Estate Buildings Agriculture Fishing Forestry
Unvaccinated Individuals Responsible for Maintaining Social Distancing of Six Feet and Wearing a Mask, Per Federal CDC Guidance
Exempt and Still Adhering to State's Existing COVID-19 Health Protocols: Large-Scale Events Venues Pre-K to 12 Schools Public Transit Homeless Shelters Correctional Facilities Nursing Homes and Health Care Settings
As Beacon’s City Council considers its new obligation from New York State to respect marijuana smoking in public, the Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA), a law passed after much delay prior to the racial reckoning of 2020 and into 2021), Beacon, along with all municipalities, is required to decide if it wants to opt out of retail sales tax revenue from Adult-Use Retail Dispensary stores (a store that sells cannabis that a person takes away from the store), or an On-Site Consumption Establishment (like a bar for alcohol that a person consumes on site and cannot take away). When signing the law, New York State declared that it became the “15th state to legalize cannabis with commitment to social equity.” So far, after the 6/14/2021 City Council Workshop meeting discussing the development, Beacon’s City Council is leaning in the direction of remaining opted-in to profiting from revenue from cannabis sales generated from within Beacon’s city limits.
However, it should be noted, that in Keane and Beane’s Adult-Use Marijuana presentation, municipalities are able to “adopt regulations to allow the smoking of cannabis in locations where smoking tobacco is prohibited.” This option was not discussed during the Workshop where this topic was first breached.
New York’s lifting of the prohibition of marijuana smoking has brought new aromas to the city, which you may have noticed while walking down the sidewalk where bar patrons gather to smoke outside. Or someone driving in their car in front of you may be openly smoking cannabis while driving (which, according to Drew Victoria Gamils with Keane & Beane is not legal, nor is sitting in your car smoking cannabis while the car is off).
Is It The Aroma That Is Bothersome?
While it is a new aroma for some, it is making others uncomfortable. Yet one thing is known: the Black community is disproportionately penalized for even carrying cannabis, let alone smoking it, as was pointed out by Councilmember Air Nonken Rhodes during the presentation of the ban on smoking in Beacon’s public parks during the meeting.
City Administrator Chris White responded to Air’s concern by stating that “enforcement would need to be closely watched.” Which would require data collection and review of each citation. Something which Beacon’s City Council is new to acquiring in the aftermath of the spotlight on criminal justice. It is also not clear if the City Council or the City Administrator is in the habit of regularly reviewing the data that the City of Beacon Police Department collects.
During this City Council Workshop, City Administrator Chris White equated publicly smoking marijuana to smoking tobacco, as he brought to the council the consideration to ban it from public parks and “soccer games.” Chris stated that on Beacon’s trails, there is a ban on smoking, but he was unclear as to why that was, and not banned in parks. He wondered if it was because people are walking in a “linear” path. In his pursuit of a policy to be able to enforce, he expanded: “If you're way up in the woods, we are not going to see. However if you are at a soccer game, and not being respectful of others, I'm sure you are going to be reminded of that,” he stated, explaining that a person complaining to their fellow parent would have new legislation supporting their complaint to a person sitting next to them.
Not that soccer games need more opportunities for conflict among overly aggressive parents, who continuously need their own refereeing by the professional hired to ref the kids and enforce rules of the game in play.
Having been to many soccer games and practices, as well as those for flag football, I have not encountered folks smoking tobacco or cannabis. While that is a broad statement, people usually step away when smoking, out of respect for others. As for Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, that area is so spacious and windy, most aromas don’t linger - unless it is the regular aroma of charcoal burning for burgers and hot dogs.
Meanwhile, New York State considers cannabis a potential thriving business that it can regulate and profit from, while encouraging agricultural involvement from traditionally oppressed groups. Expanding limitations on where it can be smoked is counter to that intent.
From New York’s new Office of Cannabis Management, the new law “Establishes a robust social and economic equity program to actively encourage members from communities disproportionally impacted by the policies of prohibition to participate in the new industry. … [It] encourages small business and farmers to participate in the cannabis industry with the creation of microbusiness, cooperative and delivery license types.”
Proposed Penalties For Smoking In Beacon’s Public Parks
A majority of Beacon’s City Council leaned toward accepting the sale of cannabis in Beacon, but banning smoking in public parks. The penalties, they agreed on, could be light. The financial penalty by default, City Attorney Drew said, has a maximum fine of $1,000 per day. City Attorney Drew confirmed that the penalty would be settled in Justice Court between the City and the Defendant. City Administrator Chris attempted assurance: “It’s usually much less than the maximum penalty.“
City Attorney Drew added: “If you go to trial, you could get $40,000. Working with the police and the defendant, you might end up settling for $9,000. That's a high example. You might end up settling for $500 in Justice Court.”
Councilmember Dan Aymar-Blair requested that the financial penalty be light, so as to not impact anyone’s rent. He and other Councilmembers agreed that jail time would be not ideal, and they would want to specifically exclude that penalty from Beacon’s legislation.
City Attorney Drew recommended that the City Council hear from residents before moving forward with drafting legislation on how to regulate the sale of cannabis in Beacon.
Beacon’s City Council meets tonight to discuss the following issues that are on the agenda. During a Workshop meeting, the public can listen, but not participate. The purpose of these meetings is to workshop a concept before bringing it formally before the public for a vote, if it reaches that point. Topics that have already made it to the public are sometimes brought back to Workshops status to be further discussed, after receiving feedback from the public.
ARF Supply Restock Fundraiser at Dennings Point Distillery
Day: June 1-15, 2021 Time: Dennings Point hours, or donate online any time! Location: Dennings Point Distillery, 10 North Chestnut Street, Beacon, NY 12508
Calling all animal lovers! Help @denningspointdistillery collect supplies for ARF Beacon and get 15% off any of their full-size bottles. See here for their list of supplies! Information >
Beacon Queer and Trans Liberation March
Day: June 12, 2021 Time: 2pm - 4pm Location: Meet at Memorial Park (Beacon NY)
Organized "in response to ongoing harassment of queer and trans people in Beacon and our supporters, will gather at Memorial Park on Saturday, June 12 at 2 PM and march to Polhill Park, where we will hold a speakout," explained one of the organizers, local artist and victim of harassment, Donna Minkowitz. Beacon neighbor Richard (Dick) Murphy has proudly sent anti-gay letters to his neighbors who hang Pride flags outside of their homes, including Donna, which ALBB wrote about last year. Later in December 2020, Donna told the Highlands Current that "a creepy three-foot long doll was left staked into my lawn," and others have reported the letters arriving again in 2021. Separately, during a Beacon City Council Meeting, a regular citizen participant, Stash Yankowski, called in with his request to bar trans women and girls from girls’ and women’s sports. He was cut off by City Councilmember Amber Grant in an unusual act of interruption.
The organizers announce: "Families with young children or anyone for whom marching may present a difficulty are invited to gather at Polhill Park at 2 PM and greet the march as it arrives! There will be sign-making tables at Polhill for families with children that would like to make signs for the march. The tables are staffed by Compass Arts and Fareground. That activity will start at 2 PM. Any adults for whom marching may be difficult are also invited to gather at Polhill Park and await the main march. The route taken by the march is not public.
Beacon's City Wide Yard Sale Day: Saturday, June 12, 2021 Time: 9am-3pm Location: Beacon, NY
IT'S HERE!!! Here's The List
Beacon's City Wide Yard Sale! The list of the registered yard sales is here, and the Google Map is here, provided by the Beacon Recreation Department. Didn't register in time? Fear not! Set up shop in your yard! A reader wrote in with this question, and ALBB doesn't think you need a permit for a yard sale (you don't, right?!) and we emailed the City Administrator and the Beacon Recreation for conformation, but didn't hear back as of this publishing. Alas, maybe it went to spam. Send ALBB pics of treasures you find while you're out and about!
PKGO Pride Parade
Day: June 12, 2021 Time: 12 pm Location: Main Street, Poughkeepsie, NY
Organized by Dutchess Pride. Information >
Artisan Market @ The Yard Day: June 12, 2021 Time: 10 am - 6 pm Location: The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY Information >
Riverside Rosé Tasting
Day: June 12, 2021 Time: 1 pm - 4 pm Location: Blu Pointe, 120 Front St., Newburgh,12550 Information >
Art on the Edge of the Abyss Exhibit B: Bethlehem Steel, Hudson River Industry, & the Union Electric Power Plant, prints by Kyle Gallup
Day: June 12, 2021 Time: 3 pm - 7 pm Location: No.3 Reading Room & Photo Book Works, 469 Main St. Beacon, NY
Artist Paulette Myers-Rich has been installing artwork in the storefront windows of the Reading Room as a part of the "Extraction: Art on the Edge of the Abyss" project, and is hosting a Second Saturday outdoor event with the artist from 3-7pm. Information >
Another RSD Celebration NVE Ware-House
Day: June 12, 2021 Time: 10 am - 6 pm Location: 10 RT 17K, Newburgh, NY Information >
BAU Gallery Solo Shows: Daniel Berlin's 'Recognition' & Diana Vidal's 'Strange Invention'
Day: June 12, 2021 Time: 12 pm - 6 pm Location: 508 Main Street, Beacon, 12508
Daniel Berlin’s second solo exhibition at BAU, “Recognition”, consists primarily of watercolor and painting. The title references the instant in the creative process when contact is made. The moment when this poetic flash is recognized can be fleeting or elastic. Even so, it reveals a natural juncture that can connect the artist, the art, and the viewer. It is a fertile crossroad and reflects the essence of the aesthetic transaction.
Diana Vidal's 'Strange Invention' is an exhibition exploring the influence of time and light on a photograph. The use of 35mm film makes each photograph unique, a perfect document of a fleeting moment in time. Documenting these instances ensures that the sublime, which manifests itself every day, is captured in perpetuity and can be experienced over and over again. Social Distancing Specifications: Mask required upon entry Information >
LEGOLAND New York Previews
Day: June 13, 2021 Time: 10 am - 6 pm Location: 1 LEGOLAND Blvd, Goshen, NY
Such environmental development drama this LEGOLAND location has had, to the tune of a $346,000 fine, "the third and largest the Department of Environmental Conservation has levied during three years of construction," as reported by the Times-Herold Record (subscribe to them!)! Let us know how the experience is. Information >
Beacon Chamber Ensemble Free Summer Outdoor Concert Series: Mostly Bach & Mozart
Day: June 13, 2021 Time: 12 pm - 2 pm Location: Corner of Cross St. & Main St., Beacon, NY Sponsored by Hudson Todd LLC
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Thai basil, pickled red onion, and Lime side-car for Pork and Beef Pho Soup from Eat Church. Stop by the food truck every Sunday at the Beacon Farmers Market to get yours! Don't forget to also check them out at Industrial Arts Brewing and at Marbled Meat Shop (next date TBD). Order ahead online - Food goes quick. You know what that means.. IT'S SO GOOD. Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor!, thank you!
Beacon Bread Company 193 Main St.
Get your caffeine fix from Beacon Bread! Their recent partnership with Bard Coffee brings guests the most delicious coffee experience with organic espresso and perfectly textured steamed milk. The new and improved coffee program includes soy and oat alternatives, as well as flavor syrups made in-house by their bakery to make your latte a little extra special. Open 7 days a week from 8 am - 5 pm. Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Why are we addicted to MOD fries? Well, because they're fresh cut every day. Twice cooked for the perfect balance of fluffy interior and crispy exterior, and always mouth-watering! Big shout out to MOD's awesome construction team who built this one-of-a-kind fry slide to make sure every fry makes it into the sink. Stop in & try them out! Delivery is still available. Keep an eye on MOD's gram for live music nights. Order Now > Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!
Tito Santana Taqueria 142 Main St.
Tacos on the go from Tito Santana Taqueria 🌮 🌮 🌮 Made with the freshest ingredients (always seasonal!). Nothing like a stroll around town with tacos! Especially by the water. PS: Tacos are only $2 on Tuesdays! Menu > Catering > Tito Santana Taqueria is a Sponsor, thank you!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Homespun Foods is growing and they're hiring!!! If you know of anyone out there looking for a Sous-Chef position (preferably with pastry experience) please have them reach out and send a resume to joe@homespunfoods.com. Their kitchen is spacious and open to public view. In the meantime, be sure to check out their online wine store & use the discount codes for orders over $75 and $100 for 10% and 15% off your order respectively. (Look for the discount codes at the top of their website.) PS: Purchases of 3 or more bottles get a free Homespun tote bag! OPEN HOURS:
Thursday - Monday, 10am - 7pm Monthly wine subscription > Order Food > Order Wine > Homespun is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Have you met Armando and Ellyce owners of El Nica yet?! Located inside of Hudson Valley Food Hall. They've been in the soft-open phase but are now happy to announce they're ready for you! Stop by say hello and try some homemade Nicaraguan food - like the Carne Asada + Pinchos + Sweet Plantains... YUM!
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu! Momo Valley: Himalayan Spiced Hand-Crafted MoMo & More Barb's Fry Works: Gourmet, small-batch-loaded fries. And salads. @el.nica.spot: Latin Food 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
Calamari from Baja 328 - drooling? Because we are. Tequila-tomato jam, pickled red onion, scallions, and fresh lime. Stop in & order these as a starter! Tacos, quesadillas, and plates to follow! Plus, tequila flights if you're feeling spicy... (not actually spicy.. but you know!) Do check out the specials that are always on the menu! Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
W.T.F Beacon 195 Main St. Don't forget to bring your instruments because OPEN MIC is back on the patio every Tuesday! Enjoy live tunes with fresh & delicious foods - Plates, Burgers, Compliments, and more with incredible cocktails to go with. Right next door to Beacon Bread Company. Open on Fridays & Saturdays from 6pm - 10pm Menu > W.T.F Beacon is a Sponsor, thank you!
Ziatun
244 Main St.
Vegans rejoice! There are plenty of delicious and authentic middle eastern dishes at Ziatun! 🥙 And nothing goes better with Middle Eastern food than Arabic coffee which they also have! Plus, if you're into meat, they have that too. Options for anyone and everyone! Everything is made with delicious and authentic Palestinian spices. Order it to-go today so you can enjoy eating outdoors in Beacon!🥙 Menu > Order Online > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
Two Way Brewing Company
18 West Main St.
Hey hey! Trivia is BACK! Every Thursday from 7-9pm. Meet the host, Joe McGowan (pictured to the right) who was a beloved host of Two Way Brewing previously and will be the host from here on out. *Vaccination verification will be required to play and there will be beer prizes for the winners. PS: NEW cans coming out of Two Way Brewing canning line: Confusion and Red back in 4 packs. These cans have been out for the past two weeks or so, so get them while you...can (bwahaha)! OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 9:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon Paperback y’all. Finally! Ocean Vuong, “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” is one of the most beautiful novels we have ever read! Pick it up at Binnacle Books and plan a day to not put it down. We'd be lying if we said we didn't read this in two days... Open Thursday-Monday 12 pm - 6 pm - Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. Masks are required for all customers entering the store.Their staff will be masked as well.
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
KAIGHT SHOP
512 Main Street, Beacon
Yum, yum, yum! Says one Instagram reader:
"Gahhh! I swear, everyday I see these outfits and am like yep, must be Kaight! " In this heat, you need baggy, billowy. Denim is easy, and pairs well with tan. Shoes also in Kaight! Telling you, this boutique makes shopping easy. Threads are sustainable, independent, and collectible.
PS: Thursdays are Locals Day at Kaights! Locals get 10% on everything not on sale. Shop Online > Kaight Shop is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Just when you thought Bretts Hardware only had grills... They also have seasonings to make your grilled foods perfect! So many different kinds and flavors. Stop in & check them out. Maybe it's time to upgrade your grill too... PS Check out their ooni pizza oven grills too! Gas-powered and life-changing. Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
A little pastel color block = goals These glasses allow you to add color to your wardrobe while still being neutral and matching all of your outfits! It's a win-win! Model: @lea.grandin // : @mazou.sylvain 🕶️: @anneetvalentin . Make an appt at Luxe today!
Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
Tues-Sat:10 AM–6 PM
Sunday: Closed Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon
Dreaming over this pretty little mini dot top from La Mere! The minimal detail and neutral color are everything we could want for hot days & fun dinners out on Main St.! Find the perfect pieces of clothing here to always be comfy cute; a win-win! Stop by!
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
This is where you want to plug your kids in for the summer! Active classes, and totally inclusive. NEW NEW NEW classes for June at Yanarella Dance! Baby Wearing, Dance With Me, Tumble Bunnies, And Adult Jazz-HipHop. Register babies & toddlers (and yourself for Thursdays!) by visiting Yanarella Dance online. Name a better way to spend the summer! Also, the new "tumble bunnies" class for 4-6-year-olds will officially start on the 17th.
Yanarella has been guiding and instructing students since 1957, over 60 years ago, under the direction of CarolAnn Yanarella Miller. For 38 years she passed on her love and wisdom to thousands of students, including Angela Van Vlack. In 1996, CarolAnn stepped down and passed the privilege of nurturing students to Angela and she became the current owner and director of Yanarella School of Dance. The director may have changed, but the principles have not. Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been that “every child should have the same opportunity to dance, regardless of talent or ability. There is no can’t in dance. There’s only a C-A-N”. Register for classes today! Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Cyber security is all over the news right now. Antalek & Moore created a few tips for you:
"We are exposed to more information now than ever before, and in turn, our information is exposed to others more than ever. Regardless of your internet use, here are 5 tips to better ensure your personal information stays confidential.
1) Tricky Passwords: Today, many sites require certain characters and symbols when creating a new password. Follow this method on all platforms. Consider using uppercase letters, symbols and making your passwords different across your platforms.
2) Safe Clicking: Be wary of clicking on attachments or links in emails and other instant messages. If there’s any suspicion surrounding them, it’s best not to click to avoid scams and viruses.
3) Backing UP: Since computers, today have a wealth of personal information, as well as memories stored on them, consider backing up this data onto an external hard drive.
4) Protect Sensitive Information: Avoid keeping sensitive personal information on your laptops, work computers, and mobile devices.
5) Anti-Virus Protection: Only install an anti-virus program from a known and trusted source. (Norton, McAfee, etc.) a computer program used to prevent, detect, and remove malware."
The Editorial Calendars of over 100 print magazine titles are in Tin Shingle's Editorial Calendar Collection. Editors and writers develop ideas for print magazines together sometimes 7 months before they hit the newsstands for you at the grocery store or in your mailbox. If you want PR in a print magazine, you need to pitch them sometimes 7 months in advance. Tin Shingle Membership >
KATIE JAMES, INC.
DESIGNING YOUR WEBSITE
Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Social media accounts offer an emotional connection to your brand, and your website needs to reflect that energy. The designers and lead producer, Katie Hellmuth Martin, can guide you through this process and design you a website that both looks stunning, and works well to help people do what you need them to at your website.
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.
Editor’s Note: After ALBB began producing the first review of Matcha Thomas in a more traditional format, one reader was too excited not to write about Matcha Thomas after going there more than a few times, and especially after experiencing with a friend. She reached out to ALBB asking if she could write about her experience. We encouraged her to lean in, and looked forward to what she wrote. Below please find a review from an experience point of view of Matcha Thomas by Moraya Seeger DeGeare.
Written By Moraya Seeger DeGeare
I want to share with you a moment in time on Main Street. The Black joy that was created as the paths crossed of Black folx all converging in a search of delicately delicious Matcha, to pull up to support Black female business owners. I think a deeper thirst was quenched by having a moment of belonging as we spoke, our unique expressions of Blackness only gave us each deeper connection, instead of divide. If only for a few glorious minutes, instead of feeling othered, we found a place that welcomed us as essential as the air.
“Does she have Celiac also? Seeing gluten free Back folk always excites me. Food allergy people, you know what I’m talking about. ”
— Moraya Seeger DeGeare
I both want to share my rainy afternoon with you and keep it hidden to protect it. I don’t want someone else’s opinion to spoil it. How do you capture Black joy in the written word? Probably the same way you put sunshine in a bottle...You can’t. I can’t capture it because the joy of today was in the simplicity. We are just existing out here having tea nestled between a Black barbershop and gentrification - expensive condos.
I walked down Main Street in Beacon, NY into Matcha Thomas, my five year old hopping, a wiggly, tired baby on my hip, and a dear friend slightly twirling in a purple, iridescent, rain poncho they just got from a new thrift store in town. We awkwardly hold up traffic as we make our way in and start reading the menu aloud. The Black woman who enters with us double checks that everything is gluten free. This is the first moment in my mind when I multi-task talking to my kid and acknowledging my people, a little tingle as I glance around. Does she have Celiac also? Seeing gluten free Back folk always excites me. Food allergy people, you know what I’m talking about.
As we take up space and order, we laugh with these Black women. Our laughter expands and yet that feeling of are we being TOO much never comes. I feel my body brace for the discomfort to happen anyway. It doesn’t. I’m okay. It’s the alertness I always carry for when I need to code switch to be safe, for when I need to tell my Black child to come closer instead of being curious. My brain starts to say that’s not needed here and part of my body doesn’t know what to do with this relaxed feeling. The woman who walked in with us smiles with their eyes behind the mask and shares, “as I was walking behind you down the street, I was like ‘are they going where I’m going?’”
I know those words sound simple, but it was the way she said it. It was the is this happy group of Black humans and giggle kids headed into the same direction as me? As we meet this wonderful, intuitive astrologer and tarot card reader, the energy and excitement only goes up. We laugh. My friend invites her to Beacon’s Juneteenth celebration, saying, “we are having a celebration of Black joy, will you come?” Business cards are exchanged. Yes, let’s gather community and organize on Black joy, not just Black pain and murder. I don’t want to trauma bond. I want to celebrate your existence.
“As we take up space and order, we laugh with these Black women. Our laughter expands and yet that feeling of are we being TOO much never comes. I feel my body brace for the discomfort to happen anyway. It doesn’t. I’m okay. It’s the alertness I always carry for when I need to code switch to be safe, for when I need to tell my Black child to come closer instead of being curious. ”
— Moraya Seeger DeGeare
As we sit outside at an adorable green table and try all the new treats, moment after moment like this roll in with abundance. I turn to my friend genuinely curious: “Is this normal for you? The continual deep connection to strangers?”
We meet Black moms who quickly tell us their stories as they run to get kids from t-ball, about moving to Africa, IG handles are exchanged for future hiking playdates with our Brown children.
It’s not just that I saw the likeness of me reflected here. It’s that I truly, genuinely made new friends even if we connected for just a few moments. I also chuckle now because in the moment it doesn’t cross my mind that who Justice McCray and I are probably does impact the magic that is happening, not just our Blackness. We both love collecting people’s stories: I’m a therapist and Justice is many things including organizer, future city council member, writer, and storyteller. I’m sure our craving for understanding and healing the world around us added to how we befriended strangers, I know it adds to our friendship.
I grew up in Beacon, born at home in a cabin on the mountain my grandparents built in the 50’s. My parents met on the school bus in elementary school. My father, a high school basketball star. Beacon is a town that has had mixed families and kids growing up here for generations. That’s important. My Black grandmother was an artist and worked at Talix (what is now that big building with the Black fist and Pride flag currently). I say this tiny bit of history to say, this is my home town and yet what happened today I had not experienced here before as an adult raising a family here.
Growing up appreciating the closeness and connectedness of small town life, I spent much of my childhood with my grandparents. Grandparents that everyone knew: The Seegers. My childhood experience in Beacon was that everyone knows your family and says hi to you in the Post Office. I think many kids who grew up here would actually say the same, as you walk around town someone knows you or your aunt and they have an eye out for you. For me it was often my proximity to whiteness, to fame that would have someone saying hello. Today at Matcha Thomas, it was my Blackness.
The week before, I read an Instagram Story that Katie from A Little Beacon Blog posted saying, ”an MTA media relations spokesperson I’m speaking with while researching an MTA Police story, who lives in NYC and has visited Beacon as a tourist, responded to my mention of BLM protest marches: ‘There is a Black community in Beacon?’ I didn’t know how to respond execpt by saying ‘Of course there is a Black community here!’”
It truly gave me pause. Wow, this town that was historically, beautifully rich in diversity. I would say Beacon was even known as a Black town, especially compared to the nearby sundown town of Cold Spring. Now it’s known as a place Black people don’t exist? It made my whole body tense. Am I no longer welcome here? Is this not a place for my Brown children?
“For me it was often my proximity to whiteness, to fame that would have someone saying hello. Today at Matcha Thomas, it was my Blackness. ”
— Moraya Seeger DeGeare
So to have this moment of pure joy of Black people just existing and living and clearly craving more connection to each other, I could not help but smile, breathe deeper, even laugh. As I sipped my Mango matcha boba, Brown baby nibbling a cookie, I watched with a deep appreciation as this friend, a queer non-binary Black human talks Juneteenth, Black joy, and running for city council. My 5 year old tucked next to them listening, experiencing the happiness of Blackness in community. It was this moment that I wish was captured on film, so I can go back and savor it.
The owners of Matcha Thomas have intentionally cleansed and called in a deep healing energy. They have cultivated a space that in the most delicious way gives room to celebrate the intersectionality of humans. I inhaled it instantly as I walked in the door.
Later that evening, we strolled down Main Street, my baby now snuggled in a carrier on my back waving and saying hi to folx as we passed. The rain started to mist down on us and my 5 year old son quietly catches raindrops on his face…
Singin' brown skin girl. Your skin just like pearls. The best thing in the world. I never trade you for anybody else.
Photo credit: MatCHA Thomas ”WE'RE THE "THOMAS" TO OUR "MATCHA"!”
The owners, the Thomas family of 4, have dreamt of this day for as long as they could remember. As avid matcha lovers, they would go around different towns to visit cafes, trying as many different matchas as they could. The 2 daughters, Haile and Nia, even created the concept of Matcha Thomas as a joke on Instagram sharing the matchas they would try. It was the one day that Haile and Nia decided to make their own matcha latte at home and thought “Wow…” Then, the planning for the storefront for Matcha Thomas began!
The Thomas family lives right by Woodbury, NY - where they have been for 5 years after moving from Arizona. They travel about 30 minutes to Beacon simply because they love Beacon so much! “When we first came to Beacon, we just fell in love and thought ‘Wouldn’t it be amazing to have a shop down here?’” said Haile and Nia.
Well, all it took was one evening of picking up dinner on Main Street during the pandemic and spotting a “For Rent” sign at 259 Main Street. As an entrepreneurial family, the planning and collaboration was a success and Matcha Thomas is up & running with many people bustling in and out saying, “We saw what you posted on Instagram today and we want it.”
Why Vegan & Gluten-Free?
“We chose vegan because our entire family is Vegan. We have been for 7 years. It’s been a journey for sure,” said Haile. “After going through health issues with my dad, we all decided on a plant-based diet. With this, we also want to contribute to the world - the ethical & environmental side. Being Vegan and wanting to contribute to the world is also fun. It’s a space where you can be creative.”
Treats are made each morning and recipes are created right at their home. In fact, the delicious brownie recipe was created one night when Haile and Nia wanted brownies but didn’t want to search for a recipe and decided to whip up their own batter! Gluten-free flour/almond flour are used as substitutes for all-purpose flour, and sweeteners are refined sugar-free - coconut sugar, maple syrup, etc. “There’s just so much you can do”, said Haile.
You can also stop in and sample two different teas! The teas are brewed each morning in 9.5 Alkaline Kangen Water for maximum flavor extraction and nutrient absorption. Read more about alkaline here!
What Is the “Matcha For The People” Wall?
“The wall was inspired by the fact that we felt we had space where we could potentially offer an opportunity for people to tap into kindness and really acknowledge and affirm the people around us that make the world go round.”
How Does the “Matcha For The People” Wall Work?
“Basically,” explains Haile, “you come in and buy X for a person (someone struggling with mental health, having a bad day, a single parent, or whoever!) and write it on a sticky note and stick it to our wall. A person who comes in and identifies with a sticky note on the wall can then redeem it and get something free that was paid for by someone else.”
Good Vibes All Around!
When you walk in, a cinnamon scent will envelop you, which immediately makes your heart happy and your taste buds yearn. Matcha Thomas is a minimalist cafe with beautiful fiddle leaf figs in the window and a selenite crystal located on your way out. It’s the little things! The selenite crystal known for having the ability to purify energy - whether you believe in it or not - it feels like a good thing.
Both Haile and Nia lean into the selenite crystal, explaining: “Adding the selenite crystal was an idea from an amazing woman who owns a spiritual shop in Chester, NY. She came in and helped us assess the energy in our space and shared the idea of the stone with us. We loved it!”
The energy in Matcha Thomas is magic.
Pictured: Matcha Thomas - the signature latte! Recipe is a plant milk of your choice (oat, almond, or hemp) blended w/ premium ceremonial-grade matcha and coconut vanilla cream base. It is GOOD.
When Faced With The Choice Of Just One Drink, What Does Matcha Thomas Recommend?
“It depends! If you want a classic experience, definitely our signature Matcha Thomas. If you want to have some fun, any of our boba drinks!”
Always ask for recommendations if you’re torn! Haile and Nia are guaranteed to pick something delicious for you depending on your mood. As a first-timer, I wanted to try one of everything but was eager to try the Matcha Thomas Signature Latte. If I could describe it in three words, it would be, rich, creamy, and decadent. But not so rich that it was heavy. It is a light, creamy feel - a MUST try! Part of what creates the creamy sensation in the non-dairy latte is the matcha green tea itself. Known as a Japanese plant, the green tea leaf is crushed into a powder.
The Matcha Thomas Instagram is run by Haile Thomas who has been in an influencer space for years. Check out their photos but be prepared to drool!
WHAT: This is Beacon: Youth Podcast Workshop HOSTS: Howland Public Library and I Am Beacon LOCATION: Beacon Recreation, 23 West Center Street DATES: 4 Fridays, July 9, 16, 23, 30, from 4:30-6pm AGES: Grades 7 -12 Registration required email Michelle at community@beaconlibrary.org
The Howland Public Library has partnered with I Am Beacon to offer another podcast workshop. The producers behind the podcast workshop are I Am Beacon Board Member Brandon Lillard, who works with kids of all ages to teach them how to produce a podcast.
From The Howland Public Library
Calling all teens! Speak Out and Be Heard! Did you ever wonder what it takes to create your own podcast? The Howland Public Library in Beacon has teamed up with Brandon Lillard, host of the ”This is Beacon” podcast for a 4-session podcast workshop for students in grade 7 and up.
In this cooperative learning experience, participants will learn by doing. Students will discover what it takes to produce their own podcast from start to finish, from writing scripts and conducting interviews to adding music and editing.
The This is Beacon: Youth Podcast Program is mentorship program that will provides teens the opportunity to explore of topics relevant to the challenges that they are facing and create and share their work with an audience as they learn about communicating through electronic media.
The free workshop will take place on 4 Fridays, July 9, 16, 23, 30, from 4:30-6pm at Beacon Recreation’s outdoor pavilion, 23 West Center Street, Beacon, NY. . To register or to learn more about this great opportunity, email Michelle at community@beaconlibrary.org. Registration is required as class size is limited.
The notification that kids could live mask-off lives outdoors during the final blazing hot school days came as jubilation to some parents and kids, and hesitation to others. As of today, June 7, 2021, New York State has issued guidance that kids do not need to wear masks outdoors while at school or camp, and that the decision is up to school districts.
Immediately following that guidance, Beacon’s School Superintendent, Dr. Landahl, issued an email to district families, stating that: “Effective immediately, the Beacon City School District will no longer require that masks be worn outdoors on our campus, for all individuals.”
The bringing down of the mask, after heavy conditioning to wear the mask during the height of the pandemic last spring (if you need a refresher on if mask-wearing is effective, read this from UCSF), has left some people anxious at first. Coupled with the fact that the guidance issued by the state has been erratic of late. Others are relieved to have the masks off outside on campus.
One thing is for sure: mask enforcement at recess is one less thing teachers need to worry about.
A May 19th New Mask Up Decision For Kids Ages 2-5, With An Immediate Reversal
Then On June 4th, NY State Seeks More Mask Down Measures
On June 4th, the New York State Department of Health wrote a letter to the CDC, requesting that mask policy for camps align with schools, so that kids had the option of not wearing a mask outdoors at school, as they are allowed to do at camps in the outdoors. The letter was written by Commissioner Howard A. Zucker, M.D., J.D. and Executive Deputy Commissioner Lisa J. Pino, M.A., J.D..
Immediately after the letter was sent, Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro issued a statement championing the letter: “I’m happy New York State has seen what counties have known for months: The science has repeatedly shown there is little to no transmission of the virus in school settings. Today’s announcement, though long overdue, is further evidence the COVID-19 emergency has receded, and Dutchess County continues to encourage residents to choose to get vaccinated and we take steps to get back to living our lives fully!”
However, part of why transmission in schools has been so minimal is because of the amount of safety measures put into place, like wearing masks, social distancing, outside classes, no singing in music classes, eating lunch in classrooms vs the cafeteria, etc. During Beacon’s school year, most of the positive cases of students came from home or if an individual had already been isolating.
Beacon’s Dr. Landahl, who has worked with BSCD staff and the community to design safe practices in the schools to keep them open, issued a more cautious statement to families on June 4, asking for their patience as New York State made their final decision: “The proposal in the letter would waive the requirement to wear masks outside and only strongly encourage adults and children to wear them inside. NYDOH would like to make this change effective Monday, June 7th.”
“The current CDC guidance for K-12 schools recommends a requirement for “consistent and correct use of well-fitting face masks with proper filtration by all students, teachers, and staff”. There is no distinction between mask wearing for indoor versus outdoor activities (except for a vague reference to sports) and it does not address vaccinated individuals.”
“On the other hand, current CDC guidance for youth camps “strongly encourages mask use indoors for people who are not fully vaccinated” while stating that outdoors, “people do not need to wear masks [irrespective of vaccination status]” although people who are not fully vaccinated are “encouraged” to wear a mask in certain higher-risk circumstances. In addition, it says “people who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear masks” both indoors and outdoors.”
The proposal then goes on the outline how New York State would like to operate, which included masks off outside, and recommended masks for inside, but not required. In the end, after hearing from the CDC, the Governor issued guidance for masks off outside, and no-change for inside.
On June 7th, Masks Down When Outside Optional For All New York School District Campuses
On Monday (June 7th) during a press conference, Governor Cuomo announced that school districts can choose to lift the requirement that their students must wear masks outdoors. Guidance on mask use indoors remains in place. “This change aligns New York State's guidance on schools with CDC guidance on summer camps, where even unvaccinated students are not currently required to wear masks outdoors,” the state’s press release page states.
Said Governor Cuomo in his 6/7/2021 announcement: “The numbers show that the risk of transmission by children is extremely low, especially in this state, which has an extremely low positivity rate. We spoke with the CDC, and since they're not going to change their guidance for several weeks in New York State, we're going to modify the CDC guidance and allow schools to choose no mask outside for children," Governor Cuomo said. "We'll leave that up to the local school district and we spoke to the CDC, which has no objection. It's very important that people understand the logic between these decisions and that they're rational and based on the science and the data. We have a disconnect right now between the school guidance and the camp guidance, and it's important to rectify it because if people don't think the rules are logical, then they're not going to want to follow the rules."
The night before the Governor’s press conference on 6/6/2021, County Executive Molinaro issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s announcement made the following day. Said Molinaro: “New York intentionally misled people causing unnecessary confusion, conflict, and chaos. The State must end the confusion and restore local authority. This decision should be put in the hands parents who know their children and circumstances best.”
Beacon City School District Follows CDC and New York State With Masks Off Outside
Once New York State issued the guidance, Dr. Landahl communicated with families immediately after with his final decision for the district: “The Governor has lifted the requirement to wear masks outdoors on school campuses, coming in line with broader state guidance regarding masks in outdoor settings…Effective immediately, the Beacon City School District will no longer require that masks be worn outdoors on our campus, for all individuals. As a reminder, as the heat levels increase, we will continue to provide students with mask breaks and encourage students to lower masks to drink water while in classrooms. Thanks for your patience through this process. We will continue to update you if anything else changes.”
One 9-year old stated: “Maybe we will get to sing in Music Class soon.”
Guess what? Tripadvisor has featured Beacon and many businesses rooted here in Tripadvisor's weekend guide! A Little Beacon Blog was featured as well. Thank you Laura Begley Bloom (who hails from Brooklyn) for interviewing us, and hearing our take on how community is one of Beacon's strongest assets and reasons why people want to move here.
THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin
Hike to Mount Beacon
Organized by UWC NYC - United World Colleges New York City Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 9:45am - 4:00pm Location: Mount Beacon Trail, NY-9D & Howland Ave, Beacon, NY Information >
Wellness Shines on the Green Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 10am - 3pm Location: Safe Harbors Green, 97 Broadway, Newburgh, NY Information >
Big Gay Hudson Valley's All-Ages PRIDE Tea Dance Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 1pm - 5pm Location: Wilklow Orchards, 341 Pancake Hollow Rd, Highland, NY Information >
Authors in Conversation: Danielle Trussoni and Julie Metz - Outdoor Program
Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 (Rain Date: June 12, 2021) Time: 2:30pm - 3:30pm Location: Newburgh Free Library Plaza Information >
Viorel Florescu Retrospective 1970 - 2021
at Howland Cultural Center Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021 Time: 1pm - 9pm Location: 477 Main Street, Beacon, NY
The Howland Cultural Center is pleased to present RETROSPECTIVE 1970 - 2021, an exhibition featuring powerful and evocative images by two-time Pulitzer Prize winning international photojournalist Viorel Florescu. Information >
Meadow Winds Community-Wide Yard Sale Day: Saturday, June 5, 2021, & June 6, 2021 Time: 9am - 4pm Location: 25 Wesley Ct, Newburgh, NY Information >
Pride Ride @ The Studio at Beacon Benefiting the Trevor Project
Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Location: 301 Main Street, Beacon NY Time: Two times available: 10am and 10:45am Tickets >
Cornwall-On-Hudson RiverFest
Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Time: 11am - 6pm Location: Donahue Park, 99 Shore Rd, Cornwall-On-Hudson, NY 12520 Information >
Student Concert From Piano Adventures Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Time: 1 pm - 5 pm Location: Piano Adventures Beacon 26 Dutchess Terrace, Beacon, NY 12508 Information >
Blood Drive From Beacon Hebrew Alliance Day: Sunday, June 6, 2021 Time: 11 am - 5 pm Location: Lewis Tompkins Hose, 13 South Ave., Beacon NY
Sign up at nybc.org or call 1-800-933-2566 Information >
ARF Supply Restock Fundraiser at Dennings Point Distillery
Day: June 1-15, 2021 Time: Dennings Point hours, or donate online any time! Location: Dennings Point Distillery, 10 North Chestnut Street, Beacon, NY 12508
Calling all animal lovers! Help @denningspointdistillery collect supplies for ARF Beacon and get 15% off any of their full size bottles. See here for their list of supplies! Information >
City of Beacon Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall
Day: Monday, June 7, 2021 Time: 6pm - 6:30pm Location: City Hall, Beacon NY Information >
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY
Eat Church is BACK! At Industrial Arts Brewing, out on Rte. 52 past the John Deere lot. And they're not alone. Also at the complex facing Mount Beacon is District Social - the full bar with craft beer experience that includes Axe Throwing. Yes, you read that right. Axe Throwing. And billiards and arcade games. Gluten free, juicy chicken, craft beer, scenic-loving people, we know where to find you this weekend. Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor!, thank you!
Beacon Bread Company 193 Main St.
Fresh bread & pastry options in Beacon are a plenty, thanks in part to Beacon Bread Company 🥐 - it's hard to choose a favorite! Daily, select from Baguettes, Sourdough Loaves & Boules, Harvest Grain Loaves, Pan Aux Cereal Loaves, Brioche Loaves & Rolls, Bagels, Sticky buns, Croissants, Apple Turnovers, Muffins, Vegan Brownies, Seasonal Loaf, Banana Bread Loaf, Chocolate Whoopie Pies, Twinkies + more! Open 7 days a week from 8 am - 5 pm. Menu > Order Pick Up or Delivery > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Amazing to finally see food going out to customers eating in Meyers Olde Dutch restaurant again! Indoor dining is back! With a covered patio in the back (look up at the giant ceiling fan), and Parklet. New order-from-table option is available, so you can just point your camera at the QR code at your table, and order your next cocktail or side of dirty fries. Delivery is still available. Keep an eye on MOD's gram for live music nights. Order Now > Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!
Tito Santana Taqueria 142 Main St.
NEW ALERT: Crunchwraps now available at Tito Santana Taqueria. 🌮 Fresh & delicious.So many taco options, burrito options, bowl & salad options, quesadillas, empanadas, tostadas, soups - please tag us in your food photos. PS: Tacos are only $2 on Tuesdays! Menu > Catering > Tito Santana Taqueria is a Sponsor, thank you!
HOMESPUN
232 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Not only is Homespun a place for good food & a wine store (with an online wine subscription option), but they also have a $20 & Under Table! Special bottles like these go quick. You must get it while it lasts... @monteriocellars & @patrickwine ... Piquette & Pinkette 🏴☠️ fresh fizzy light and delicious 🏴☠️ - Save the bottle(s) at the end & put some flowers in them! Be sure to use the discount codes for orders over $75 and $100 for 10% and 15% off your order respectively. (Look for the discount codes at the top of their website.) PS: Purchases of 3 or more bottles get a free Homespun tote bag! OPEN HOURS:
Thursday - Monday, 10 am - 7 pm Monthly wine subscription > Order Food > Order Wine > Homespun is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
This deliciousness is from Miz Hatties located inside of HV Food Hall! Miz Hatties is a Southern Style BBQ is famous in Dutchess County for catering, and now dining in or taking out. It is one of the easiest group-ordering home meal if you are entertaining and need comfort food. Neighbors in Beacon were lucky enough to have her fried chicken, pulled pork, mac ‘n cheese, fish ‘n chips, and more. Now, you can too! Even her Sweet Tea is original, with crunchy ice. Experience the mac ‘n cheese melt in your mouth, and savor the fried chicken and sweet yet spicy pulled pork in a bowl or a bun.
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu! 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
It's the weekend! It's hot! & Baja 328 has the most delicious/refreshing drinks you can enjoy with their garage door open for a breeze. Pictured are: the Green Monster, the Sangria Azul, and a blueberry/raspberry margarita. People-watch from your seat on Main Street & order the plantains as a snack. Do check out the specials that are always on the menu! Check out their specialty drinks > Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
W.T.F Beacon 195 Main St. Did you know you have access to this seafood on Main Street? Yes, it's at W.T.F Beacon waiting for you. Naked Mussels, Curry Coconut Mussels, Tuna Tar Tar, & Scallop Ceviche. Many classic cocktail & house cocktail options pair nicely with any of the seafood options! Fresh & delish. Plates, Burgers, Compliments, and more too! Right next door to Beacon Bread Company. Open on Fridays & Saturdays from 6pm - 10pm (and on Tuesdays for Open Mic Night). Menu > W.T.F Beacon is a Sponsor, thank you!
Ziatun
244 Main St.
Whoa, baby! The falafel platter from Ziatun looks amazing! This is 100% next on our list to try. Hummus, foule, baba ghanouj, falafel, turmips, salad, za'atar. All house-made from family recipes back in Palestine. Also check out their Falafel Burger (it's Vegan!) - falafel patty with pickled turnips, Persian pickles, and creamy tahini on a vegan brioche bun from beacon Bread Company! 🥙 Menu > Order Online > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
Two Way Brewing Company
18 West Main St.
Two Way has something new on tap for the weekend... *Drumroll please*...It's their Summer Session IPA! It comes in at 4.5% ABV and is bitter crisp and super refreshing to drink. Just in time for this hot weekend. Plus, we know you'll be hungry, and the kitchen is OPEN! Enjoy upscale pub food from The Flying Jib. Rumor has it, they are killing it with the wings. OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 9:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon Binnacle specializes in used and new literature, poetry, literary nonfiction, political history, art, drama, philosophy, graphic novels, and children's books. If there is a particular title you're interested in, let them know. If they don't have it, they are always happy to order it for you! They are also always looking to acquire used books in excellent condition, especially in their core categories.The bookstore is a collaborative endeavor by four partners, who have collectively been writers, editors, musicians, producers, organizers, teachers, filmmakers, and booksellers. If you love books, they welcome you. If you don't, they'll do their best to convince you otherwise. Open Thursday-Monday 12 pm - 6 pm - Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.Masks are required for all customers entering the store.Their staff will be masked as well.
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
KAIGHT SHOP
512 Main Street, Beacon
Kaights Shop has once again done your shoe shopping for you. Just in time for summer, the artisan-made Pons are back in stock in the shop. Check them out online, but coming in at $85, this sandal is handmade in Spain, using a leather insole that molds to your foot. This is how you keep your step cool yet stylish on the hot streets. PS: Thursdays are Locals Day at Kaights! Locals get 10% on everything not on sale. Shop Online > Kaight Shop is a Sponsor, thank you!
BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon
Did we overhear our neighbor right? Is it going to be 90 on Sunday? Better get your water game lined up. Thankfully, with more and more people taking the vaccine, more and more outdoor activities with friends are open and available. Prepare the right way for Summer Camp with goggles and all other necessities by shopping at Brett's. He's fully stocked. So many different pairs of goggles and outdoor essentials to keep the kids entertained, safe, and happy all Summer long! Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Woa. These new frames from Anne Et Valentin at Luxe Optique are insanely amazing. Please try them on! They probably change the light of your eyes. Imagine with an off-white summer dress or with a grey jumpsuit. They are the must-have accessory that you're missing! Treat yourself as special and unique as you are. Make an appt at Luxe today! : @anneetvalentin
Monday: 10 AM–5 PM
Tues-Sat:10 AM–6 PM
Sunday: Closed Shop Online > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
436 Main Street, Beacon
Summer Casual from La Mere is our favorite! There is nothing better than looking good & feeling comfy. La Mere is the destination for boho fashion that features the latest trends in apparel and gifts. High quality at fantastic prices. Open 11-6 and always open online! Need a gift card? They have those too! PS: Do check out their perfumes.
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Angela Van Vlack, owner of Yanarella, is a true Beaconite. She was born at the then Highland Hospital, raised in the Beacon City School District, built a family here, and continues to reside in Beacon to this day. Angela has had a unique opportunity to actively participate in and help shape the flourishing Beacon arts community over the past several decades with her community involvement.
Angela began dancing at the early age of four under the direction of Carol Ann Yanarella Miller. She fell in love from the very first class. Dance quickly blossomed from a passion to a lifestyle. As a child, Angela and her cousins would coordinate and choreograph dance recitals for the neighborhood. Angela was an exceptional acrobat, demonstrating tremendous skill with her ability to perform various high-level tricks including limbers, walkovers, aerials, and back handsprings. She started assisting at the age of 14, teaching at the age of 16 and now has over 40 years of experience as a dance instructor. Teaching has brought immense joy to Angela’s life and she is proud of all of the students she has taught.
Angela is celebrating her 25th year as owner and director of Yanarella School of Dance—an illustrious studio that has been in existence for over 60 years. Angela teaches all levels ranging from Mommy & Me for toddlers to adult classes with students as old as their mid-80s. She teaches all types of dance including but not limited to Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Tumbling, Contemporary, and Hip-Hop. Angela’s diverse Dance resumé is not confined solely to Yanarella. Angela studied Classical Ballet and Modern and served as choreographer for the annual Landphony Swimphony Competition at the College of New Rochelle.
Furthermore, she has studied and collaborated with a long list of dance legends including Luigi, Gus Giordano, Sheila Barker, Ginger Cox, Chio, Anthony LoCascio, Hillary-Marie, Frank Hatchett, Jason Warley, Bob Rizzo, and, one of her greatest influences, Debbi Dee mainly through her involvement with NADAA (the National Association of Dance and Affiliated Arts)—an organization for which Angela currently serves as National Vice President and New York Chapter President. Angela has also taught a preschool program for the Humpty Dumpty Nursery School, has taught throughout the Beacon City School District, and was co-coach of the award-winning Beacon High School Dance team.
Angela also had a professional career outside of the realm of dance. She earned a Baccalaureate of Science degree in Nursing from the College of New Rochelle and is licensed as a registered nurse in New York and Connecticut with a specialty in Neonatal/Pediatrics. She worked in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Danbury Hospital, was a visiting nurse and worked as a substitute nurse in the Beacon City School District before taking a leave of absence to raise her family and focus on the studio.
ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon
Is Defensive Driving Worth The Investment
To say there are distractions on the road would be an understatement.
"Between texting, GPS, finding the right song on our playlist, and perhaps even a little speeding, it is no surprise there are millions of trips to the ER due to motor vehicle accidents in New York State alone. We know what you’re thinking, “I am a responsible driver and not doing any of those things”, but does that mean you know how to defend yourself from those on the road who are distracted?
As cliche as this may sound, defensive driving courses really do save lives. It doesn’t matter how cautious or responsible YOU are when driving, accidents do happen. Many of the insurance carriers that we work with offer up to a 10% discount on all vehicle liability, PIP (Personal Injury Protection), and collision premiums for up to 3 years off the principal operator. And you may be eligible to reduce up to 4 points off of your driving record.
A good defensive driving course will teach you many tools to drive safely and strategically. Yes, we did just say strategically. When looking at driving from this approach, we are able to clearly show the different defensive driving techniques that are essential to remaining safe on the road.
TIN SHINGLE
Lena Rizkallah is a friend of Tin Shingle, and a neighbor here in Beacon, NY, where Tin Shingle is based. She advises people on financial planning, and calls herself a recovering attorney. One day, Lena walked into Tin Shingle's co-work space to consider renting it for workshops and single working days. That was the last day I saw Lena before the pandemic covered us all in stay-at-home orders.
The next time I saw Lena was when she walked by me in a Free Palestine march in Newburgh, NY. I was there to cover it as a reporter for my local publication, A Little Beacon Blog. We recognized each other from behind out masks. The march ended at Rep. Sean Maloney's district office in Newburgh, and Lena walked up the stairs to deliver her speech at the planned open mic session that usually accompanies marches in Newburgh and Beacon.
She was there to talk about what Palestine looks and feels like on the other side of the occupation wall, based on her experience as a first generation Palestinian living in America.
Lena gave Tin Shingle permission to publish her speech in full. Read it here >
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Pairing great writing, content, and design for an experience that means something to people. From the reporting and design team that produces A Little Beacon Blog, a local online newspaper covering Beacon, NY, as well as the media training team that is behind Tin Shingle, an education and empowerment zone for small businesses, Katie James, Inc. is the uniquely positioned design studio that knows how to align with businesses and artists of all kinds with different needs, to get them the online tools they need to keep selling to their customers and clients. Contact us to tell us about your goals.
HIRING: Gold Star Family Member For Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney Details >
HIRING: Part-Time Production Assistant At SallyeAnder Details >
HIRING: Administrative Assistant At Daniel Aubry Realty Details >
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.
Meyers Olde Dutch Owner/Chef Brian Arfnoff, standing in front of his newly renovated restaurant. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
Meyers Olde Dutch, your favorite burger shop for beef and vegan burgers, has been seemingly closed during much of the pandemic (spoiler alert: it was open the whole time). Some saw the boarded up windows and assumed the worst - fire. Others saw the boards and assumed the whole place was closed. Not so! Die-hard fans read the sign out front and knew that MOD set up shop at their sister restaurant down the street, Kitchen Sink, never skipping a beat flipping those burgers and dirtying those fries.
Was the renovation planned? Was the pandemic the perfect time to break ground? Yes and yes, as we discovered in our interview with Owner/Chef Brian Arnoff, who bought the little building in 2017 from the prior burger joint owner, Paul Yeaple of Poppy’s.
As did all restaurants in Beacon and the nation, Brian worked hard to figure out new ways to keep serving customers using an order-by-table app so customers can dial in their food/drink order straight to the kitchen/bar, keep his staff employed, keep live music every now and then, and keep the air healthy for when the doors could open again to the public.
We love hearing stories from the people themselves, so read how Brian tells it below:
ALBB: After you bought the building in 2017, had you always considered renovating it?
The new HVAC unit to improve air quality when the doors and windows are closed, lifted in before the big opening. Photo Credit: Meyers Olde Dutch
Yes. There were a number of issues with the building that always needed to be addressed, like a leaky roof and very outdated/undersized HVAC system among other problems.
ALBB: Did the pandemic shutdown push you over the edge to take the time to dig into the renovation?
“Basically yes. We had been working on the plans, which went though several iterations for a while. As you know, going through the Planning Board process takes time especially when you’re in the Historic District and need variances. After the initial shock of COVID-19 passed, it started to become clear this was basically an ideal time to try and complete this renovation.”
The new covered patio and fan at Meyers Olde Dutch, a COVID-friendly improvement made during the pandemic. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
ALBB: What improvements did you make to make it COVID-friendlier?
“We updated our HVAC system with Merv-13 filtration. The system turns the air over more often and filters significantly more of the particles COVID-19 is known to float on. Additionally, we added some windows that can be opened for more fresh air, and covered our patio to give guests the option to sit outside all the time.”
ALBB: Were you able to retain some of your staff team?
“I’m very lucky to say yes! We have many staff who have been with Meyer’s Olde Dutch for a long time, including our kitchen manager Adam and bar manager Jesse, both of whom started at Kitchen Sink before MOD even existed, as well as Emily our lead bartender who has been with us at MOD since basically the first month we were open back in 2017, among many other staff.”
ALBB: What did you grow appreciative of during the pandemic shutdown?
“My time. I started working for myself in November of 2010 when I opened a food truck in DC and haven’t had a lot of down time since. The pandemic definitely gave me a different perspective on that and how I want to ‘protect’ my time and use it wisely.”
ALBB: Did any new offering emerge from the pandemic shutdown when you were in survival mode?
“Delivery for one. But also an increased focus on making new specials at MOD because we wanted to keep the menu fresh for our local customers who were so supportive during COVID.”
ALBB: What has been a huge struggle during the shutdown?
“Obviously there were many struggles, and those changed over time, but the energy at times enforcing masking last summer was really tough. No hospitality-minded person wants to constantly tell their customers to do things, and then occasionally have to fight with them about it. That was hard on our staff.”
ALBB: We are hearing from other restaurants that there have been struggles with 3rd party apps and delivery. What do you want people know about delivery? As convenient as it is, there are a lot of people involved from the ordering of the food, to the delivery, and the problems are aren’t always coming from the restaurant. What struggles have you faced there?
“So many things! Every restaurant has a different story and perspective on this, as we all used and did different things. Overall, I would just say, if you can avoid ordering through a third party app and instead order direct through the restaurant’s website, that is the most helpful/supportive thing the general public can do. Also, get vaccinated and just go sit at restaurants because more than anything, hospitality people want to have your real life presence back in the restaurant.”
ALBB: There was recently a report on Marketplace that one of the ways restaurants streamlined to survive was to introduce ordering-by-table, where a unique QR code is placed on the table, and a person can scan it with their camera app, and the menu pops up - for their table only. The customer can order a cocktail, beer or burger without telling a server, but the server brings it out and makes sure it’s OK. I see you have unique QR codes on your tables - how has this been going?
“Good! It cuts down on the wait time for the customer a lot. I was bar-tending the other night, and people who were outside were able to order drinks without me having to leave the bar to check on them. People are basically opening tabs for themselves. If they are in a group at one table, each person can open their own tab, and pay down when they are done.”
ALBB: Genius! This solves the problem of splitting the check 10 different ways!
“Yes (Brian laughs sheepishly). It’s all so new, we as staff aren’t used to guiding people to use it. But it is going well!”
Editorial Note: Meyers Olde Dutch is an advertising client of ALBB, and a branding client of Katie James Inc. This article was produced independently of that partnership.
Support for this publication comes in part from these businesses. We have highlighted what makes them special on their own dedicated pages. Want your business listed here? See the "Sponsor Spotlight" or "Event Promotion" option in our Advertising Page.
A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
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.
