John Lewis' Graphic Novel (Comic Book) "March" In Beacon Library Giveaway For A Read & Respond Opportunity

John Lewis was born in Troy, Alabama, and started working raising chickens on his family farm. He wanted to be a preacher, and began practicing in front of his chickens. He grew up to become the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) from 1963 to 1966. He was one of the organizers of the 1963 March on Washington. Lewis led the first of three marches from Selma to Montgomery in 1965, and was part of the incident at Edmund Pettus Bridge known as Bloody Sunday. He was a believer in non-violence based advocacy. He was elected to Congress to serve in the United States House of Representatives of Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 to 2020, when he died.

One of the ways he ensured his story and experience dismantling legalized segregation through Jim Crow laws was by co-writing a graphic comic novel, that he calls a comic book during this speech at a library when his book launched. The book is called “March,” and it comes in three parts.

In honor of Black History Month, the Howland Public Library is inviting Middle School and High School students to participate in a special Read and Respond project. The Beacon Public Library is giving away a limited number of copies beginning Monday, February 21, 2022 in hopes that students (and their adults) read it in this fun and engaging format, learn more about the Civil Rights movement through the eyes of Congressman John Lewis, and answer a question posed by the library. Answers may be featured here at A Little Beacon Blog!

Inspiration For The Comic Book “March”

When Lewis was a student, he was inspired by the 1958 comic book “Martin Luther King and the Montgomery Story.” Now, the March trilogy brings the history of the Civil Rights Movement to a whole new generation.

Extra Credit For Your Brain!

To learn more about John Lewis’ lifelong work for civil rights and social justice, students (and anyone with a library card) can also stream the documentary “Good Trouble” for free on Hoopla, the library’s free app that works with your Beacon library card number.

Read and Respond: Student’s Answers Featured At A Little Beacon Blog

After reading the book or watching the film, students are asked to write about what the concept of “good trouble” means to them. Lewis was always told to not get into trouble. Yet through his work with Dr. Martin Luther King and learning about Ghandi and Theroux, he said that he saw the need to get into good trouble and make some noise.

Their answers from students will be displayed at the library and may be featured here on A Little Beacon Blog. Responses are due by Friday, March 11th. Students who share their responses will also be entered in a drawing for a chance to win copies of Book Two & Three of the March Trilogy.

The books will be available on Monday, February 21st, for youth in grades 6 and up on a first come, first serve basis. One per household. “March: Book One” is also available as an eBook through the library’s app, Hoopla. For more information, contact Michelle Rivas, Young Adult Programs Coordinator, at community@beaconlibrary.org.

MLK Jr. Student Essay Winners Announced From Southern Dutchess Coalition and the Beacon Sloop Club For 2022

Excerpts of the winning MLK Jr. essays were published in the Highlands Current.

Six essays submitted by students celebrating the life and mission of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were announced for 2022. The essay contest was part of the annual programming from the Southern Dutchess Coalition and the Beacon Sloop Club, which includes a march in Beacon followed by a program, during which the essays are recognized. A prize of $50 is awarded to each winner by the essay sponsor, Rhinebeck Bank. The winning essays are selected by a committee of the Sloop Club members.

The march did not happen this year due to the pandemic, but the essays were recognized in published excerpts by the Highlands Current. The students needed to answer: “Are we keeping the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jur.’s dream alive?”

The students whose essays were selected were:

Nicholas Ferris Jr., Grade 2, JV Forrestal Elementary
Landon Soltish, Grade 5, Glenham Elementary
Andrew Caporale, Grade 5, Glenham Elementary
Manasvi Gupta, Grade 5, Glenham Elementary
Zaire West, Grade 5, Glenham Elementary
Weston Hetrick, Grade 5, Glenham Elementary

Read excerpts of their essays here.

Retail Therapy Guide :: 2/19/2022

You thought Spring was coming? Just kidding! Pretty normal weather for Beacon, and this Saturday snowfall is pretty. Winter will try to dig in for as long as it can. Meanwhile, as we exit this week of Feb 14th love, enjoy this column in the Highlands Current from A Little Beacon Blog's publisher Katie Hellmuth Martin about the Power of Self-Love. It's inspired by a recent question from a parent about how to tap back into herself. A list of recommendations is in this article, plus a local Gift Guide on where to find some of these things (if purchase is necessary, but for most it's not). Read it here.

We are keeping this intro brief, as we are working on a longer article about Central Hudson's billing situation to publish for you shortly.
 
 
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE
Book an Event Promotion Advertising spot here.
You can sponsor this Event Guide with your event, for extra promotion of it! If you'd like to guarantee to see your entertainment event listed here,
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin

Beacon Spring Celebration Of Light
Day: Saturday, February 19, 2022
Time: 5:30 Gather, 6pm Walk, 6:30pm End at The Yard
Location: Gather Pohill Park; Walk Sidewalks of Main Street; End at The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY
Information >

Howland Music - Charles Richard-Hamelin, piano
Day:
Sunday, February 20, 2022
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, NY
Canadian pianist Charles Richard-Hamelin is the winner of the silver medal and the Krystian Zimerman prize at the 17th Frederic Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw.
$40/adults  $10/students
Information >

Pop-Up Vintage Boutique 
Days: Saturday, February 19, 2022 & Sunday, February 20, 2022
Time: 12-5pm
Location: Holland Tunnel Newburgh, 46 Chambers St, Newburgh, NY
Register Here >

SAVE THE DATES: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions
Day: Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Time: 9:30-10:15am (PreK-Grade 4)
Day: Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Time: 10:30-11:15am (Grade 5 - Grade 12)
Day: Thursday, March 24, 2022
Time: 3:30-4:15pm (all grades)
Location: Virtual
To register or express interest, visit poughkeepsieday.org and click inquire.

Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!
 
 
So many of you want to know which restaurants are open on Mondays!
So ALBB enhanced our Restaurant Guide to show you.
See it here >


TWO WAY BREWING COMPANY
18 West Main St.

Name a better duo... we'll wait! It's the weekend & you deserve a refreshing drink with delicious bites! Two Way has both. Pints, flights, grab-n-go or stay and enjoy! Two Way brews all of their beers at their in house brewery located right next to the taproom.
See Trivia Schedule here > 
See beers on tap here >
PS: TMcCann Band will be performing every second Sunday of the month at the brewery from 4-7pm.
OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 11:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 11:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm
Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
 
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY

Dreaming of CRISPY double-fried wings w/sweet & spicy sauce from Eat Church!
As well as these cold sesame noodles > Eat Church has all the goods that you need to try if you haven't yet! You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials >
Find Eat Church at more places:
Fri & Sat at Industrial Arts Brewing (foodtruck)
& ToGo at Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring & at Beacon Pantry!
Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!

BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193 Main St.
You can now join BBC from 5-7pm for a very special $7 happy hour menu! Featuring their super delicious loaded tots & sage of enlightenment with gin, grapefruit, house sage-agave syrup & soda! Talk about a Happy Friday! PS you must check out these Harvest Grain Loaves > - all of their bread is made by hand every morning, using organic flours for the best flavor + quality. Harvest Grain is a seeded whole wheat bread that’s perfect for sandwiches and toast (try it with their avo toast!) 
Menu > 
Order Pick Up or Delivery > 
Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!

MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY

We're still drooling over THE Chicken Parm Meatball Sub from MOD. Built with a house-made tomato sauce, fresh ricotta and the perfect amount of parm and basil. This is dreamy! Don't miss out on chocolate cake ball specials like this! >  because they go quick!
PS Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Please reach out to us at brian@meyersoldedutch.com if you're interested.
Open Sunday thru Thursday for Food 11:30am - 9pm; Bar until 10pm
Friday and Saturday Food 11:30am - 11:00pm; Bar until midnight.
Order Now >
Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!


HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Head on into the HV Food Hall and check out Hudson Shawarma's top selling appetiziers!
Stop in & check out the amazing foodies!
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu!
El Nica: Nicaraguan Food
Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio!
Shmuck's Sweet Stuff: Local Ice Cream, Hot Waffles, and Other Sweet Stuff
Hudson Shawarma: Falafels, shawarma, baklava, and platters 
Ciao Chow - Hand made pasta and fried rice
Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!

BAJA 328
328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Delicious tacos with over 15 different flavors all made with fresh ingredients! Add on a delicious & refreshing drink! OR order pick-up/take-out. Baja also offers catering so you can order & stock up because why wouldn't you want to do that?! 
PS: Different specials every week! You don't wanna miss out. See some examples here >
PPS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm
Check out their specialty drinks > 
Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!

ZIATUN
244 Main St.

Need a weekend pick-me-up? Ziatun always has your back & these Za’atar Fries with their spicy tahini is the exact way! Ziatun has all of the comfort foods you need to kick off your weekend (just the pair the fries to go with it all)... try the Tabbouleh salad, Addas soupFalafel burgers and much more! Ziatun has plenty of Vegan & plant-based options too.
Menu > 
Order Online > 
HOURS
Monday + Thursday-Saturday 11 am-9pm
Tuesday + Wednesday 11 am-4pm
Sunday 11am-8pm
Ziatun 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. Is there a particular title you're interested in? Let them know. If they don't have it, they'd be happy to order it for you! They're 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!
Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!

BRETT'S HARDWARE
18 West Main Street, Beacon
Your car has been through a lot this season. The iced up windows. The blinding glare from the sun when your windshield is dirty because you ran out of washer fluid. That time your battery died (again) because someone left the back door open. You need new jumper cables, and new washer fluid, stat. Brett's has it!
OPEN
Monday-Friday 7:30am - 7pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm
Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!



LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Tell all of your friends!
LUXE OPTIQUE IS EXPANDING!
They are so happy to announce their newest location on Warren Street in Hudson, NY! Opening in Spring 2022! Congrats Luxe!
PS: Appts required for exams.
PPS *NEW HOURS
Monday 10 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM
Closed on Sundays! They've gone shopping!
Shop Online >
Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!


LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon

Advice from La Mere: "They keep saying that beautiful is something a girl needs to be. But honestly? Don't be beautiful. Be angry, be intelligent, be witty, be klutzy, be interesting, be funny, be adventurous, be crazy, be talented. There are an eternity of other things to be other than beautiful." Stop in & check out all the goods including the new Ceramic Body Vase for only $32.90 available now! <3 
*New Arrivals Weekly / Free Shipping
Download their free app in the iTunes Store
PS: Everything is under $100!!
PPS: MENS clothing now available!
OPEN THIS WEEKEND:
Friday 12-6pm
Saturday 11-6pm
Sunday 12-5pm
Shop Online >
La Mere is a Sponsor, thank you!
Yanarella Dance Studio
312 Main St., Beacon, NY
New Website Alert!

Yanarella has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago! Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been “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.”

The classes are inclusive and wardrobe is flexible. Even if a a child doesn't have ballet slippers, they can still come. Chances are, if you felt compelled to sponsor a shoe, Yanarella could guide you in the right direction of what sizes might be needed!
Visit Yanarella Dance online.
Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!

Newburgh Armory Unity Center Saturday Enrichment Program Spring Session Registration Opens 2/12/2022
Information >

             
 


ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon

Antalek & Moore is a full-service insurance agency and risk-management company based right here in Beacon! They offer commercial and personal insurance solutions to customers in the Hudson Valley community, throughout New York State, and across the country. Antalek & Moore is also hiring a full-time receptionist to assist their clients and carry out administrative work. They're looking for someone with excellent communication skills, a positive attitude, and strong attention to detail. To apply, fax your resume at 845-831-5631 or email info@antalek-moore.com.
Latest Announcements >
Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
 


TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle trains and empowers business owners, makers, artists and staff members in how to get the word out about their business.
Find out more about Tin Shingle & how we can help you & your biz!
Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
 
                  

KATIE JAMES, INC.
Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Find out more about Website Design services here >
PS - need Instagram Services? Katie James can help with that too! >
Find out more >
Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Full Time Receptionist At Antalek & Moore
Details > 

HIRING: Homespun Foods Is Looking For A Lead Server To Join Their Growing Team
Details > 

HIRING: Maintenance & Packaging Manager At Industrial Arts Brewing 
Details >

HIRING: Beacon City School District Food Service Department Is Looking For Substitute Food Service Helpers
Details >

HIRING: Meyers Olde Dutch
Details >

List your job in ALBB's Job Listings >

BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY


BRANDING  >  MARKETING & PR
Tin Shingle
Katie James, Inc.

CAMPING
CHILDBIRTH  >  CLASSES
Juniper Birth

CHILDBIRTH  >  DOULA
Juniper Birth

EDUCATION > PRIVATE & INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
Poughkeepsie Day School 


HEALTH & WELLNESS > MASSAGE
Focus On Massage Therapy

HOME IMPROVEMENT > INTERIOR DESIGN

Jacklyn Faust Interiors

HOME IMPROVEMENT > LAWN SERVICES
Blue Green Lawns

INSURANCE > BUSINESS, HEALTH, LIFE, HOME
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency

MUSIC 
Classic Guitar Lessons at Maple Street Studio 


REAL ESTATE > HOUSE INSPECTIONS
Rizzi Home Inspection Services, Inc.

List Your Business In The Business Directory > 
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February’s 2022 Column In Highlands Current: "The Power Of Self-Love"

A Little Beacon Blog’s publisher, Katie Hellmuth Martin, has a monthly column in the Highlands Current. For February, the focus was on the Power of Self-Love, especially for parents of young-ish children, where one’s identity can easily get misplaced. These are suggestions on how to find you again, and fill your own cup. You can pick up this for one last day on newsstands! And then next week’s comes out. This column is also published online here. Here’s a little Gift Guide to go with these recommendations:


- Stretch/exercise by yourself (a mom asked if her kids should be with her. Go solo, and go to one of Beacon’s many parks. If you must bring the kids, go to South Avenue, Glenham or Sargent for a little BeastMaster Training simulation. Or find a gym with childcare if that’s a budget option, like All Sport in Fishkill.

- Wear perfume or cologne. A good way to remind you of you. Beacon Mercantile has several made in Beacon scents.

- Paint your nails. Rite Aid of course for Essie brand, and La Mere Clothing & Goods has special colors.

- Blow dry your hair. For real. The warm air makes for a warm brain and can pave the way for deep thoughts or revelations. For a blowout, try Campbell and Campbell

- Sit for extensions or a natural style. Enjoy a crochet style or treatment to nurture your natural look. Book a chair at Salon Dae near Dutchess Airport or Amy’s braids in Beacon in Mr. Bell’s salon.

-Sketch something for no reason. Enjoy the curve of a line or pressure of a pencil. Find art supplies at Supplies For Creative Living in Cold Spring.

- Buy yourself a ring. Don’t wait for someone to give you one! Hyperbole, MariePierre Collection, Hudson Beach Glass have amazing or simple selections from artists.

- Embrace your curves and buy yourself clothes. We’re all going to go to many stores for this - from the mall to Main Street. Whatever fits and feels right on you. If it’s $$ but quality, do it. You’ll keep it in your collection! And it helps keep a boutique open.

- Write your kids a love letter. Tell them what they have meant for you.

More in the article, but here’s the abbreviated version with shopping recommendations!

Healthcare Workers Demand Fair Contract With WMC/HealthAlliance; Hold Candlelight Vigil Thursday Evening

What: Candlelight Vigil and Press Conference
When: Thursday, February 17, 2022 6p.m. – 8p.m.
Where: Health Alliance Hospital, Broadway Campus 396 Broadway, Kingston
Who: 1199SEIU Healthcare Workers, State and Local Elected Officials, Community Supporters
Special Guest Speaker: Pat Ryan, Ulster County Executive

A candlelight vigil will be held tonight Thursday, February 17, 2022, “to shine light on the risks to quality care caused by short staffing at HealthAlliance Hospital, as well as a lack of mental health beds in Ulster County,” according to a press release sent by Mindy Berman, a representative of the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East union, a fast-growing healthcare union.

“Healthcare workers, members of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, elected officials and concerned citizens say that Westchester Medical Center must step up and provide the care and services that the residents of Kingston and surrounding communities need,” the press release said. Ultster County Executive Pat Ryan will be speaking at the vigil.

“Healthcare workers who are members of the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East union have been trying to negotiate a fair first contract with WMC/HealthAlliance for more than a year, without success,” said Mindy. Union members have been holding different demonstrations throughout the year to raise awareness of their needs. “In the meantime,” the press release says, “the challenges and drama of the COVID pandemic persist, and dedicated healthcare workers are leaving their jobs under great stress.”

Says Lindsey Bradford, a Cardiac Care Monitor: “I work in health care and I can’t even afford health care. I’ve been working at this hospital for ten years and I work without a lunch break or bathroom breaks due to shortages on staff. We can’t get new people in the door because they can work for more money elsewhere. I work 12-hr. nights/four nights a week and I still can’t afford health care or braces for my kids. The hospital needs to stop stalling on this contract. Now.”

The purpose of the vigil is to call attention to several critical issues, as outlined in the press release:

  • Contract Proposals: “First, the members’ contract proposals are more than reasonable—fair market wages and affordable benefits will attract and retain healthcare workers, thereby helping address severe short staffing issues. A fair contract must also give workers the resources to take care of their own families, so they can devote 100% to caring for others.”

  • Invested in the Community: “1199SEIU members at HealthAlliance don’t only work at the hospital—they are also part of the Ulster/ Dutchess community. With their own families living, working, and going to school in the area, their commitment to providing quality care at the hospital is personal.”

  • Mental Health Beds: “The members are also urging WMC to bring back to Kingston much-needed mental health beds.”

Says Gabriel "Gabe" Valles, a Clinical Tech, Psychiatric Emergency: “We’re holding this vigil because we can’t afford to visit the hospital we work at; our pay doesn’t allow us to work just one job or focus on our patients. Our staffing situation is a direct result of our pay. It’s reasonable to be able to care for our families and continue to care for our patients. We don’t want to make money – we want to make people healthy.“

About 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East

1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East is the largest and fastest-growing healthcare union in America. They represent over 450,000 nurses and caregivers throughout Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Florida. Their mission is to achieve quality care and good jobs for all.

The Resistance That Won't Go Away :: Palestinian Love Shines From Beacon & Beyond

Pick a day, any day, and Beacon local Kamel Jamal, owner of more than one restaurant in town (Ziatun, Beacon Bread, WTF, creator of Tito Santana Taqueria, and Végétalien, both he since sold), wears his heart on his sleeve for his home country of Palestine.

Every day for him is a day of love he shows for a free Palestine. From the food he plates, the restaurants he decorates, the merch he makes, most centering back to somehow to empower those still living in Palestine.

In this podcast, Kamel discusses how his parents left Palestine when he was a toddler with some of his family thanks to a family friend who sponsored them.

Co-hosts Brandon Lillard and Katie Hellmuth Martin sat down with Kamel on A Little Beacon Blog's sister podcast, "Wait, What Is That?" for an at times emotional interview about his view of how the people of Palestine are living now. The time was May 2021 during the escalation of protesting by residents in Palestine in the neighborhood Sheikh Jarrah. Their homes were scheduled to be demolished, and Muslim neighbors in the Hudson Valley as well as the world were sounding alarms.

In this podcast, Kamel describes his Palestine. He discusses how his parents left Palestine when he was a toddler with some of his family thanks to a family friend who sponsored them. He describes why he continues advocating from America for Palestine's liberation, so that people can live without fear of their homes and businesses being demolished by occupiers. He discusses the lack to basic rights, like clean water, receiving mail, and having to pass through armed checkpoints to get to a job or part of town.

In 2021, a protest march in Newburgh was organized with Next Step Hudson Valley where the Palestinian community came out, consisting of people young and old, with roots in Palestine, Pakistan, and other communities. Speeches were held on the lawn of Representative Sean Maloney's Newburgh's office.

Beaconites normally quiet about their cultural origins brought pages of prepared speeches, to express to an engaged audience about how their parents, siblings, cousins and/or friends felt about the global response to this little neighborhood protest in Palestine that spring. A Little Beacon Blog covered that march, which you can read about here and listen to some speeches.

Kamel Jamal, speaking at the Free Palestine protest march in Newburgh on the steps of Representative Sean Maloney’s office. Several other speakers participated.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Khitam Jamal Nakhleh’s Starbucks order, where her name is “FreeGaza,” which results in the barista shouting the demand to the room. Khitam is Kamel’s sister.
Photo Credit: Khitam Jamal Nakhleh

Since then, a lot has happened. Kamel's sister, who many know as Kate, champions the Free Palestine movement with every step she takes. Recently, she declared she was going by her birth name: Khitam Jamal Nakhleh. She is known to use subtle tactics like ordering a Starbucks under the name of "Free Gaza" so that the demand has to be called out to the room full of customers.

Every now and then, something pro-Palestinian will make the news in the US, like when Emma Watson (Hermione Granger from Harry Potter), and a UN Women's Goodwill Ambassador, voiced her support for Palestine. Or the feature story in Vanity Fair's February 2022 issue, "Generation Gaza" by veteran war correspondent Janine di Giovanni who revisited Gaza "and found resilience and hope among its 2 million Palestinian residents, two thirds of whom are under the age of 25," according to the lead-in for the article.

Also according to the February Vanity Fair feature: "Gaza's 20 and 30 somethings, it so happens, tend to be highly educated, multilingual - and jobless. 64% of the youth labor force is unemployed, largely due to the occupation. Nonetheless, year after year, they have proved indefatigable." Running a business there is virtually impossible, due to actions taken against business owners. But some continue to try, as this designer does, which was featured in Vogue.

In May 2021, neighbors came out to show their support of Palestine by creating a chalk art message on the sidewalk outside of Beacon Bread, owned by Kamel.

Circling back to the first line of this article - pick a day, any day - in the publishing world, an article usually needs to be published in a timely way. Like, back in May or June 2021 after we recorded this podcast episode and covered protest march. In Palestine, their inability to live free lives is every day, with different demolitions of family homes scheduled, like this one at the end of January 2022 or this one where the family had to self-demolish their own home.

But timing gets tricky. During the "Wait, What Is That?" episode, the silence of friends was discussed, acknowledging that talking openly about this topic can be difficult leading to unexpected responses. There is a moment where Kamel's emotions overcome him. You'll need to listen closely to the interview to hear where.

Peek Inside Ziatun

If you haven't been inside of Ziatun yet, here is a peek. Kamel admits this is one of his favorite places to be, and you can tell in the flavor of the food. The hummus is unlike any you have had, being extra smooth. There are plenty of warm soups to choose from, like the Addas soup. View the merch and buy a bag or two. Don't miss the watermelon t-shirt, designed to show resistance through food.

A Gift Guide! :: Retail Therapy + Things To Do Guide 2/11/2022

It's here! A Little Beacon Blog's first Gift Guide in quite some time. For Valentine's Day, this one focuses on some shops on Beacon's East End near the mountain. There is some very serious shopping down there, from high end to vintage, to world famous chocolate to marshmallows to even rentable fashion.

In other news, Beacon is warming up to events as the indoor mask mandate in business comes down (for now) and the ice melts (before another snowfall?), with the introduction of a new lantern celebration concept is introduced from a group calling themselves the Beacon Spring. It's an organized walk down the sidewalks of Main Street with lanterns and lights to celebrate spring coming. You could duck into a shop real quick to pick up something cute and hop back in the parade! Read all about it here.

Traffic remains an issue, but it seems some people are trying harder to stop at crosswalks and drive the speed limit. Sadly, a 2 car collision resulted in death on Fishkill Avenue, followed hours later by a drunk driver hitting a parked police officer's car who had his emergency lights on while the earlier accident was being investigated. Read about it here.
 
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE
Book an Event Promotion Advertising spot here.
You can sponsor this Event Guide with your event, for extra promotion of it! If you'd like to guarantee to see your entertainment event listed here,
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin

Pop-Up Vintage Boutique 
Days: Sat/Sun February 12/13 & Sat/Sun February 19/20
Time: 12-5pm
Location: Holland Tunnel Newburgh, 46 Chambers St, Newburgh, NY

Lantern Making Event
Days: Sunday, February 13, 2022
Time: 10am-2pm
Location: Beacon Farmer's Market, 223 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Everyone is invited to make lanterns to be used the following week during the "Beacon Spring Celebration Of Light," the first sidewalk walk/parade happening in Beacon.
Information >

Climate Policy Prep From Scenic Hudson
Day: Saturday, February 12, 2022
Time: 5:00-6:00pm
Location: Online— Register here.
New York has one of the most ambitious climate laws in the nation — but what will it take to achieve its goals? Find out by joining climate policy expert Jen Metzger at a special Zoom presentation and Q&A.
This presentation will include an overview of:
  • actions that local governments must start taking now to meet emissions goals.
  • the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA).
  • recommendations proposed by the state’s Climate Action Council.

SAVE THE DATES: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions
Day: Wednesday, February 16, 2022
Time: 4-5pm (all grades)
Day: Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Time: 9:30-10:15am (preK - Grade 4)
Day: Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Time: 10:30-11:15am (Grade 5 - Grade 12)
Location: Virtual
To register or express interest, visit poughkeepsieday.org and click inquire.

Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!
 
 
So many of you want to know which restaurants are open on Mondays!
So ALBB enhanced our Restaurant Guide to show you.
See it here >


TWO WAY BREWING COMPANY
18 West Main St.

Every day is game day at the brewery. The game room is full of different ways to play, from pool, darts, and foosball to board games, chess, and giant jenga. Have fun! Stop in this weekend and grab a Highlands Haze pack to-go -  New England style IPA with fruity, tropical notes, a perfect pick-me-up!
See Trivia Schedule here > 
See beers on tap here >
PS: TMcCann Band will be performing every second Sunday of the month at the brewery from 4-7pm.
OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 11:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 11:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm
Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
 
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY

Banh Xeo is a crispy, stuffed rice pancake popular in Vietnam. Banh means cake while xeo means sizzle. The name refers to the loud sound the rice batter makes when it is poured into the hot skillet. It is a savory fried pancake made of rice flour, water, and turmeric powder. Take a lettuce leaf in your hand, add some herbs and a torn piece of the stuffed pancake, then roll up the leaf as if it were a spring roll and dip it in the dipping sauce. Eat and repeat! You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials >
Find Eat Church at more places (please note, for the month of January, Eat Church is operating with limited hours).
Fridays 3pm - 9pm
Saturdays 12pm - 9pm
at Industrial Arts Brewing
DAILY GrabnGo at Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring
Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!


BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193 Main St.
It’s Valentines Weekend! Beacon Bread has you covered with  STRAWBERRY RICOTTA PANCAKES! Looking for a vegan option? No problem! Just ask for this delightful homemade strawberry syrup over a stack of their Vegan Pancakes instead of ricotta. Full-service and quick-order seating is available! Skip the line and order to-go or delivery via their website!
Menu > 
Order Pick Up or Delivery > 
Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!

MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY

There’s something about a hotdog with coleslaw that warms our belly - especially from MOD! Go on in and try one for yourself.
PS Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Please reach out to us at brian@meyersoldedutch.com if you're interested.
Open Sunday thru Thursday for Food 11:30am - 9pm; Bar until 10pm
Friday and Saturday Food 11:30am - 11:00pm; Bar until midnight.
Order Now >
Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!


HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Ciao Chow's Tagliatelle with clams, mussels and shrimp... they rotate their seafood based on availability! Always fresh.
Stop in & check out the amazing foodies!
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu!
El Nica: Nicaraguan Food
Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio!
Shmuck's Sweet Stuff: Local Ice Cream, Hot Waffles, and Other Sweet Stuff
Hudson Shawarma: Falafels, shawarma, baklava, and platters 
Ciao Chow - Hand made pasta and fried rice
Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!

BAJA 328
328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Delicious tacos with over 15 different flavors all made with fresh ingredients! Add on a delicious & refreshing drink! OR order pick-up/take-out. Baja also offers catering so you can order & stock up because why wouldn't you want to do that?! 
PS: Different specials every week! You don't wanna miss out. See some examples here >
PPS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm
Check out their specialty drinks > 
Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!

ZIATUN
244 Main St.

Sunday's are for SHAWARMA at Ziatun! Beef & lamb, chicken or vegan, they’ve got it all!
Dine-in or take-out is available all weekend! Stop by while you’re out enjoying the sunshine or have this goodness delivered straight to you via our website! You'll also want to grab a plant-powered lunch (topped with feta chunks) & a mojito on the side! Check it out here > SO GOOD!
Menu > 
Order Online > 
HOURS
Monday + Thursday-Saturday 11 am-9pm
Tuesday + Wednesday 11 am-4pm
Sunday 11am-8pm
Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
 

BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon

“Black Futures” ed. Kimberly Drew, Jenna Wortham available at Binnacle!
“Kimberly Drew and Jenna Wortham have brought together this collection of work—images, photos, essays, memes, dialogues, recipes, tweets, poetry, and more—to tell the story of the radical, imaginative, provocative, and gorgeous world that Black creators are bringing forth today. The book presents a succession of startling and beautiful pieces that generate an entrancing rhythm: Readers will go from conversations with activists and academics to memes and Instagram posts, from powerful essays to dazzling paintings and insightful infographics.” 
Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!

BRETT'S HARDWARE
18 West Main Street, Beacon
You grilling this weekend for the Superbowl? A stretch, but maybe you're feeling ambitious, or maybe you're feeling like cooking in the fresh air if people are coming over. Brett's is ready with wood chips and seasoning!
OPEN
Monday-Friday 7:30am - 7pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm
Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!



LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
VALENTINE’S DAY GIVEAWAY over at Luxe Optique's IG page!!!
The winning couple will each receive a Free Eye Exam & a $100 Gift Card!
How to enter!
Follow @luxeoptique
Like this post
Share their Last Post - Hudson Announcement on your story
Tag Your Valentine on this post
Winner will be announced on 2/14! WOO!
PS: Appts required for exams.
PPS *NEW HOURS
Monday 10 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM
Closed on Sundays! They've gone shopping!
Shop Online >
Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!


LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon

Stop into La Mere this weekend for the latest arrivals of clothing + goods! Here's a February Essentials Checklist:
- Sexy Henley Tee
- Perfectly Distressed Denim
- Removable Pom Beanie
Treat yourself or someone you love with these goods! 
*New Arrivals Weekly / Free Shipping
Download their free app in the iTunes Store
PS: Everything is under $100!!
PPS: MENS clothing now available!
OPEN THIS WEEKEND:
Friday 12-6pm
Saturday 11-6pm
Sunday 12-5pm
Shop Online >
La Mere is a Sponsor, thank you!
Yanarella Dance Studio
312 Main St., Beacon, NY
New Website Alert!

Yanarella has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago! Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been “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.”

The classes are inclusive and wardrobe is flexible. Even if a a child doesn't have ballet slippers, they can still come. Chances are, if you felt compelled to sponsor a shoe, Yanarella could guide you in the right direction of what sizes might be needed!
Visit Yanarella Dance online.
Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!

Newburgh Armory Unity Center Saturday Enrichment Program Spring Session Registration Opens 2/12/2022
Information >

             
 


ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon

Antalek & Moore is a full-service insurance agency and risk-management company based right here in Beacon! They offer commercial and personal insurance solutions to customers in the Hudson Valley community, throughout New York State, and across the country. Antalek & Moore is also hiring a full-time receptionist to assist their clients and carry out administrative work. They're looking for someone with excellent communication skills, a positive attitude, and strong attention to detail. To apply, fax your resume at 845-831-5631 or email info@antalek-moore.com.
Latest Announcements >
Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
 


TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle trains and empowers business owners, makers, artists and staff members in how to get the word out about their business.
Find out more about Tin Shingle & how we can help you & your biz!
Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
 
                  

KATIE JAMES, INC.
Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Find out more about Website Design services here >
PS - need Instagram Services? Katie James can help with that too! >
Find out more >
Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Full Time Receptionist At Antalek & Moore
Details > 

HIRING: Homespun Foods Is Looking For A Lead Server To Join Their Growing Team
Details > 

HIRING: Maintenance & Packaging Manager At Industrial Arts Brewing 
Details >

HIRING: Beacon City School District Food Service Department Is Looking For Substitute Food Service Helpers
Details >

HIRING: Meyers Olde Dutch
Details >

List your job in ALBB's Job Listings >

BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY


BRANDING  >  MARKETING & PR
Tin Shingle
Katie James, Inc.

CAMPING
CHILDBIRTH  >  CLASSES
Juniper Birth

CHILDBIRTH  >  DOULA
Juniper Birth

EDUCATION > PRIVATE & INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
Poughkeepsie Day School 


HEALTH & WELLNESS > MASSAGE
Focus On Massage Therapy

HOME IMPROVEMENT > INTERIOR DESIGN

Jacklyn Faust Interiors

HOME IMPROVEMENT > LAWN SERVICES
Blue Green Lawns

INSURANCE > BUSINESS, HEALTH, LIFE, HOME
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency

MUSIC 
Classic Guitar Lessons at Maple Street Studio 


REAL ESTATE > HOUSE INSPECTIONS
Rizzi Home Inspection Services, Inc.

List Your Business In The Business Directory > 
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We look forward to highlighting your business and show your support!

Valentine's Day Gift Guide: Boutiques On Beacon's East End Near The Mountain

It's here! A Little Beacon Blog's first Gift Guide in quite some time. For Valentine's Day, this one focuses on some shops on Beacon's East End near the mountain. There is some very serious shopping down there, from high end to vintage, to world famous chocolate to marshmallows to even rentable fashion.

Shop Hyperbole

484 Main Street
These shiny bags are silky scrunchie bags. They are shoulder bags with a lot of elastic. Moments before this photo was taken, there were 3 bags. Popular.

Solstad House

488 Main Street
Cutest! Tea cups with a tea bag holder off the side. Or however you want to use it.

Chocolate Studio

494 Main Street
These sprinkled chocolate drops will delight your person! Lots of other goodies to be found in this shop.

Shop Berte

500 Main Street
A tightly curated collection, Shop Berte has all independent designers in her shop, and can tell you the story behind each of them. From jewelry to wine decanters.

The Snookie Shop

508 Main Street
Inside of The Snookie Shop are lots of sexy dresses, sporty sweats, and tops. But what is flying off the shelf is the Snookie makeup bag put together for Valentine’s Day! Red pom-pom hat not included, but you can add it!

Hudson Valley Marshmallow Co.

510 Main Street
Of course you must go to a marshmallow shop for Valentine’s Day! The S’Mores Baskets are put together and ready to go for you. Plus these squish ‘mallows!

Kaight Shop Beacon

512 Main Street
No matter what you find in Kaight, the piece is very special. A story behind every brand that is selected to display on the shelves, these styles won’t last long. People travel far to shop from Kaight’s collection.

The Village Jerk

494 Main Street
…but did you know that there are leather-goods in The Village Jerk, the beef jerky shop next to the Chocolate Studio? Oh yes…check out their bracelets and gold painted wallets.

Refill.Restore.Beacon

480 Main Street
The razor you’ve been dreaming of! Replace the blades, keep the body. You can stop throwing away plastic ones now. Comes in other colors including a rainbow hombre.

Vintage Beacon

478 Main Street
A stylist-edited vintage and designer consignment boutique curated with love. Always changing it up inside, this shoe shelf offers a variety of styles.

Raven Rose

474 Main Street
Always here for your love, Raven Rose has the Valentine’s table ready for you. Make your own dried flower arrangement while you’re in. Makes a great little gift.

La Mere Clothing and Goods

470 Main Street
Valentines essentials. Don’t wait for anyone to buy these for you. Treat yourself! Many treats to choose from if you’re buying a gift, and new inventory is always arriving. Don’t hit snooze. Enjoy!

Tibet Tree Of Life

460 Main Street
Crystals, rocks, everything you need to channel the right energy. Blankets, tops, candles, so many things that will make a home happy.

Violet Reserve

468 Main Street
Have you been inside of this antique/vintage shop yet? Lots of special things. And do enjoy the mural on the back wall! Located near La Mere and Tibet Tree Of Life.

Hakan Chocolatier

462 Main Street
So shiny! Just look at this world famous chocolate, located right here in Beacon, NY. The delicacies are delicious. Pick more than one.

Wanderlux Style

473 Main Street
Beacon’s first (and only?) rentable fashion. That’s right. You can rent a dress, jacket, shoe, etc. Normally available online, Beaconties have access to this shop in-person and online. Located behind the architect’s office near the Howland Cultural Center.

Find these shops and more in A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide!

Beacon Warms To Outdoor Events As "Beacon Spring Celebration Of Light" Is First Sidewalk Walk

In the blink of a pandemic minute, as Beacon was brimming over with parades and outdoor events, all them went poof and ended, starting with the St. Paddy’s Day Parade 2020. Last year, 2021, during the first “mask down” transition, before the Delta variant take-over, there were hopes of outdoor events, but Delta dictated caution. Beacon’s City Council at the time was hesitant to approve even an outdoor market at Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, which they ultimately approved. Later in September, the Spirit of Beacon Day committee made the tough decision to not congregate tables of nonprofit, artistic and community groups for a second year.

Now in 2022, during this week’s City Council Meeting, a Beacon resident, Dennis Pavlov, approached the podium during Public Comment to encourage a reboot of outdoor events and parades. A first event was then promoted by Councilmember Dan Aymar-Blair during his Community Report, describing a lantern event celebrating with lights for the coming spring. Like most events in Beacon, this one is volunteer based, organized by the people of Beacon Spring. The parade will be on Saturday, February 19th, “for an evening walk celebrating the coming spring, lunar new year, light, hope, warmth, renewal and kids! Everyone is welcome!” according to the event’s press release.

Beacon Spring went on to explain: “So many cultures around the world celebrate the end of winter with light! Thousands of lanterns are released in the sky during Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, fires and candles lit in honor of fertility goddess Brigid in Ireland, bonfires in Switzerland and Germany for Walpurgis Night, lighting candles for Passover, a 5 day fire fiesta in Valencia Spain to name a few. We want to make our own big town/small city festival to celebrate light in Hudson Valley. “

LANTERN MAKING: 2/13/2022
Prior to the lantern walk, there will be a lantern-making event on Sunday, February 13, 2022 from 10am-2pm at the Beacon Farmers Market, 223 Main Street Beacon NY. Materials will be provided.

PARADE AGENDA: 2/19/2022
Rain date 2/20/2022
5:30pm -
Gather at Polhill Park - Main Street & South Ave. Bring lanterns, illuminate our light, line up and kick off the walk.

6:00pm - Parade Starts up the sidewalks of Main Street, bringing light, music and cheer.

6:30pm - Celebrate at The Yard, the building at 4 Hanna Lane. Display our lanterns. Drink tea and eat tasty morsels around the fire. Dress warm but be ready to dance to the music!

Business Directory Feature: Juniper Birth’s Single Parent By Choice Classes

Businesses are sponsoring A Little Beacon Blog’s Business Directory because they value you - our readers - and want to reach you! This is a great way to find out about businesses you know you need, but didn’t know how to find - like doula services and evidence based care childbirth classes from Juniper Birth!

Jennifer Polk is a Birth RN, Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor and Evidence Based Birth Instructor. That’s an empowering combo! She also has experience in and offers Single Parent By Choice classes. Recommend her to your friends today!

Find out more about our Business Directory here! >

Newburgh Armory Unity Center Saturday Enrichment Program Spring Session Registration Opens

The Newburgh Armory Unity Center’s heralded Saturday Enrichment Program’s winter session ends February 19th, 2022. Now’s the time to spring into action; the next session starts soon! Classes like Scholars in Scrubs, Money Masters, and Drones at NAUC are some student favorites; space is limited, and these classes fill up quickly. NAUC recently upgraded its dance studio and offers two different classes to choose from: Cultural Dance Explorers and Music and Movement, along with other large capacity classes, like Basketball and Soccer Skills and Lego Space. Family programs include a Pilates Mat Class and Play, Learn, and Grow for preschoolers and kindergarteners. The Spring session commences Saturday, the 26th of February, 2022.

Newburgh Armory Unity Center Founder and Chairman of the Board William Kaplan said, “I’m looking forward to seeing new and returning students taking classes that they know will help them grow. We have a great group of committed instructors and volunteers! We welcome new volunteers and ideas for classes that positively impact the lives of our students.”

Registration opens Saturday 2/12/22 at 8 am. Visit newburgharmory.org or call or email Diana Bernal, dbernal@newburgharmory.org, 845-245-4035, x112, Newburgh Armory Unity Center Saturday Enrichment Program Registrar, to set up an appointment or for more information. 

The Newburgh Armory Unity Center (NAUC) has been changing young lives since 2010. Using the concept of learning through play, the NAUC provides free educational programming from literacy classes to career path exploration, all aimed at ending poverty and eliminating the need for educational remediation. During the Unity Center’s signature Saturday Morning Enrichment Program, children in pre-k through sixth grade participate in reading, writing, math, engineering, natural science, computer science, and the arts with the goal of developing scholastic ability, life skills, and emotional intelligence. After school programs offer additional opportunities for education enrichment. The NAUC also offers sports programming to provide skills and increase development, as well as to introduce leadership skills and team building. NAUC operates 52 weeks per year, to ensure that children and their families always have a place to learn, enjoy themselves, and be a part of a community.

Beaconite Runs From CA To NY To Promote Human Rights - Fundraiser At District Social

Party 4 Human Rights | Come Out to Support Tara’s Mission Cross-Country 

On Saturday, February 19th, Tara Simmons, a Beaconite who has been running cross-country to raise awareness of issues of importance to her, will be hosting a fundraising event at District Social Beacon in support of Human Rights. In August 2020, Tara completed a 100 mile run from Albany to Beacon, with her sights set on Death Valley, CA for Summer 2022.

A fundraiser to help get her there is happening Saturday, February 19, 2022 at District Social (up where Industrial Arts is, with a fantastic view of Mount Beacon). Tickets are $40 and include 2 drink tickets, a game card, and 1 raffle ticket.

Born and raised in Beacon, Tara is a mother, teacher and athlete. She is on a mission to spread love through awareness and education of Human Rights. Tara's Mission is centered on folks knowing their Human Rights - and understanding that they are inherent, not earned. She tells A Little Beacon Blog:

"My hope is to reach those sitting in pain and fear to let them know that they are inherently deserving of love, respect and care. It is their Human Right. Everyone has the right to life, freedom, and safety but it is up to us to know our Human Rights so that we can protect ourselves and each other."

Tara went on to observe: "I see a lot of blaming and shaming around issues such as workplace discrimination, affordable housing or food security, but when we look to our Human Rights we must recognize a common understanding of dignity and equality for all. We must start from the premise of Human Rights to address the issues impacting our lives and those around us."

This Summer, Tara will bike and run more than 2,600 miles from Death Valley, CA to Beacon, NY. She will also take time to speak out on the importance of knowing our Human Rights and how each of us can play a role in empowering ourselves and other to protect its core values such as fairness, dignity, equality and respect.

About FlipIt4Life

Tara launched her initiative, Flipit4Life. The mission of FL!P IT 4 LIFE is to increase love and to conquer fear. Through engaging others, Tara works to bring the community along the journey of knowing, modeling and protecting our Human Rights. 

To purchase a ticket please visit: https://runsignup.com/TicketEvent/PartyforHumanRightsTarasMission

For more information please visit the website tarasmission.com or check out www.facebook.com/tarasmission

2 Car Collision On Beacon's Fishkill Ave. Results In 1 Fatality and 2nd Accident Injuring Police Officer

At approximately 9:51pm on Saturday, February 5, 2022, two cars collided on Fishkill Avenue (aka Rte. 52) near Industrial Arts and the John Deere tractor lot. One driver was killed almost instantly, and the other driver suffered body pain and was transported to a hospital. After the accident, police closed the road and remained there to reconstruct the scene.

Fishkill Avenue moments after the car accident when emergency responders had arrived.

Hours later, a Beacon Police Officer was assigned to the road closure detail and was sitting in his car with his emergency lights activated when a third car driving from Beacon to Fishkill rear-ended him, kept on driving, and then collided into an unoccupied tow truck, upon which it came to a stop. That driver was arrested for DWI, resisting a breath test, and issued various other traffic violations, according to the press release issued by Beacon’s Police Department the day after. The Police Officer was taken to the hospital where he was evaluated and released.

Said one Beaconite who lives near the scene of the accident:I had just been driving past there 10 minutes before. We had space heaters on in the house that muffles the street noise, so we didn’t hear it. I went outside to grab something from my car and saw all the lights. This stretch of Fishkill Avenue is terrifying. So many near accidents happen outside of our house. I’ve written the Fishkill Town Board about it multiple times. I love my house and neighbors, but living here comes at a price!”

This story was reported earlier by the Highlands Current and MidHudson News. The press release is below in full:

### Press Release From The City Of Beacon Police Department ###

On 2/5/22 at approximately 2151hrs (9:51pm), the City of Beacon Police responded to the area of 511 Fishkill Avenue for a two car head on motor vehicle accident involving a Subaru Outback and a Jeep Grand Cherokee. The male driver, and sole occupant of the red Subaru, was later identified as Derron E. Holmes, a 49-year-old Beacon resident. Holmes was not breathing and did not have a pulse; therefore, he was removed from the vehicle and resuscitation efforts were administered. Holmes was transported to St. Luke's Hospital via Ambulanz where he was later pronounced deceased.

The second operator, and single male occupant of the Jeep, suffered from pain in multiple areas of his body. He was transported to Vassar Brothers Medical Center by Beacon Volunteer Ambulance and later released. The roadway was closed for traffic in order to reconstruct the accident which was being completed by the New York State Police Accident Reconstruction Team.

At approximately 0113hrs (1:13am) on 2/6/2022, a City of Beacon Police Officer assigned to the road closure was seated in the driver seat of his marked patrol vehicle with the emergency lights activated when he was rear ended by a Ford Bronco. The Bronco continued traveling North on Fishkill Avenue and struck the rear of an unoccupied tow truck where it finally came to rest. The lone occupant of the Bronco was identified as 49-year-old Joseph M. Jarossy of Glenham. Jarossy declined medical attention and was arrested by the New York State Police where he was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, refusal to submit to a breath test, as well as miscellaneous vehicle and traffic citations related to the accident. He is scheduled to appear in the City of Beacon Court at a future date.

The Beacon Police Officer was transported to St. Luke's Hospital by Ambulanz where he was evaluated and released. The fatal accident is still under investigation and no further details are available at this time.

- Detective Sergeant Jason Johnson #315

###

"Masks Down" For Now In Certain Indoor Areas; Beacon's Mayor Kyriacou Robo-Called To Say Respect Business' Decisions

New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul announced today Wednesday that effective tomorrow, Thursday, February 10, 2022, the temporary indoor mask-or-vaccine mandate she enacted two months ago on December 10th, 2021 would be lifted, thanks to the pandemic trending in a good direction, thanks to adults getting vaccinated and boosted, and children beginning to get vaccinated. The Omicron variant seemed to have infected most everyone this winter, with the unvaccinated suffering the most, according to hospital stats in Dutchess County and around the country.

Counties, cities and businesses will be able to opt-in to the mask-or-vaccine requirement if they so choose. Schools will be assessed in March, though Superintendents in the Lower Hudson Council of School Superintendents sent a jointly signed a letter on 1/13/2022 to New York’s Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett urging the state to develop metrics for dropping the indoor masks, increase mental health services for students, and using PCR tests for the weekly testing of staff and students, as reported by LoHud.

Beacon City School District’s Superintendent Landhal told A Little Beacon Blog in January that the district is part of that group, but that he was not involved with writing the letter, saying he has been too busy. Dr. Landhal focuses on communicating directly with the community via regular robo-calls and emails about the changing requirements as they happen, to manage everyone’s expectations.

Masks Are Not Totally Done

In a nutshell, masks are not totally done, and the pandemic is not over. There is the BA.2 subvariant being watched in Denmark, India, South Africa, and other countries including the United States and Europe, as reported by several national news outlets. Doctors continue to urge people to get vaccinated and boosted.

Governor Hochul stated that masks will still be required In hospitals, nursing homes, shelters, transportation and other related entities.

Businesses, Counties and Cities are able to decide for themselves on what they want to do. Beacon’s Mayor Kyriacou robo-called the community with Governor Hochul’s announcement the day she made it, and encouraged Beaconites to respect the decisions of businesses, should they choose to continue masking up. He did not indicate a community-wide policy for Beacon. The last time he robo-called was to announce the arrival and location of a 3rd distribution of COVID-19 test kits. No call came for the 1st and 2nd distributions.

Dutchess County Executive Molinaro has been advocating for the indoor mask requirement to be lifted, and today issued a statement prior to Governor Hochul’s announcement, stating: “As Governor Hochul ponders lifting the mask mandate in New York, as so many other states have already announced, it must be done across the board, including in our schools and daycares. We know there is harm to our youngest learners, particularly those with disabilities, when forced to mask all day. As we move forward, rather than continued restrictions, we must aggressively open access to treatment and interventions to help those who do contract COVID recover quickly and fully.”

While the Governor maintained the indoor mandate for kids in school, she said it would be reevaluated in early march, after Mid-Winter break, based on public health data. As children as young as 4 have been conditioned to wear the mask, and feel comfortable in it, an effort of unconditioning their mindset in the current low-case environment would be needed for some who feel comfortable and safe wearing it, rather than ripping it off like a bandaid (though some kids would probably toss it in the air like a graduation cap).

According to Governor Hochul’s February 9, 2022 COVID Update, only 38% of kids aged 5-11 have been vaccinated with one dose. Thanks to volunteers, the Beacon City School District continues to hold vaccination clinics at its buildings. New York State is actively preparing for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to come online for children under 5 years old, according to Governor Hochul’s press release.

Vaccinations Continue To Be The #1 Way To Fight The Virus And Keep It At Bay

Governor Hochul announced today a “Winter Toolkit” that will focus on continuing to fight the virus. Included in it are 5 core areas:

  • Protecting the most vulnerable New Yorkers.

  • Increasing vaccinations and boosters.

  • Strengthening our health care system.

  • Empowering local leaders.

  • Supporting individuals facing the long-term effects of COVID.

According to New York State’s press release: “New York State's mass vaccination and testing sites will remain open to ensure all eligible New Yorkers can access first, second, and third doses for themselves and their children.

“The State's #VaxForKids pop-up programming continues to expand with 63 new sites established today and 193 sites established to date. This effort brings the vaccine directly to parents, guardians, and their children at local schools, community centers, and destinations like farmer's markets to make getting vaccinated convenient and accessible for families.”

The COVID Numbers Are Trending Down In New York

According to Governor Hochul’s report, the 7 day average % positivity is going down. As of 2/8/2022, it was 3.67%. During the height of Omicron, it was 23.2% and nearly breaking the Dutchess County Dashboard. Today, the number of Active Cases in Dutchess County is 394, which is a lot lower than the 6,000+ it was during January 2022. In Beacon, the Active Case count is 16, also a relatively good number, as Beacon broke 100 in January. However, the Percent Positive for every 100,000 in Dutchess County is 22.47% which is high. In the Beacon City School District, case numbers have been much lower than the 20+ per day of positive students or staff we saw in January, and are down to the single digits.

For Now.

Like with the first time the mask mandate came down, all of this is dependent upon people getting vaccinated, surviving their case of COVID-19, and evolving with the virus. Protests like the truck situation in Ottawa Canada that has shut down an economy supply chain route is hurting people and the economy further.

You’ll need to continue bringing your mask with you on errands, as you respect (and not throw shade on) the decisions of individual businesses.

Ice This Time :: Retail Therapy Guide 2/5/2022

Did you venture outside or on the roads today (Friday)?. The sheet of ice made it difficult! Several places were closed as Beacon's plows were out and Central Hudson worked to restore power to over 50,000 customers (several in Ulster County, read more about it here). The strip of stores that house Beacon Dental and Sal's Pizza was open (orthodontist appointments show no mercy! but pizza after is nice) and the mail got delivered.

Because it's Black History Month every day, we have added 3 new Black Owned Businesses to A Little Beacon Blog's Business Directory: Max's Fade & Shave Barbershop, Speechless New York Auto Detail, and Zhane's Palette Studio. Read more about them here!

You can add your business at any time at different price-points as a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog. People love coming to this directory to find who they should hire!
 
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE
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You can sponsor this Event Guide with your event, for extra promotion of it! If you'd like to guarantee to see your entertainment event listed here,
Edited and Written By Teslie Andrade and Katie Hellmuth Martin


SAVE THE DATE:
FROM BEACON WITH LOVE
Day:
Friday, February 11, 2022
Time: 11am-8pm
Location: Shops on East End of Main Street
The first coordinated shopping event of the season kicks off next week. Taking place on the east end of Main Street, it is a fun-filled shopping event for Valentines, Galentines, & Palentines on Friday February 11 from 11am-8pm on the East End of Beacon's Main Street.  
Over 20 small businesses are extending their hours for a lovey dovey day filled with special shop discounts, snacks & sips, and a Raffle worth over $1000 in local goodies. For every $20 spent at a participating business, locals will earn a ticket towards this incredible raffle.
Raffle Items Include:
Locally made goods from Berte, Inglenook Marketplace and Afton Road, Gift Certificates to The Snooki Shop, Solstad House, La Mere, the Blushery, Hyperbole, Violet Reserve, and Lucky 31, stunning jewelry from King + Curated, Valentine themed gift sets from Kaight, Beacon Mercantile, Raven Rose, Blackbird Attic, Wild Crafted, Village Jerk, and the Refill Store, delicious sweets from Håkan Chocolatier and The Chocolate Studio, and MORE!
Details >

SAVE THE DATES: Poughkeepsie Day School Virtual Admissions
Day: Wednesday, February 16, 2022
Time: 4-5pm (all grades)
Day: Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Time: 9:30-10:15am (preK - Grade 4)
Day: Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Time: 10:30-11:15am (Grade 5 - Grade 12)
Location: Virtual
To register or express interest, visit poughkeepsieday.org and click inquire.

Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!
 
 
So many of you want to know which restaurants are open on Mondays!
So ALBB enhanced our Restaurant Guide to show you.
See it here >


TWO WAY BREWING COMPANY
18 West Main St.

Two Way wants you to always remember to cheers to something wonderful before taking the first sip (even if it’s just for having a great tasting beer)! Stop in this weekend and grab a Highlands Haze pack to-go -  New England style IPA with fruity, tropical notes, a perfect pick-me-up!
See Trivia Schedule here > 
See beers on tap here >
PS: TMcCann Band will be performing every second Sunday of the month at the brewery from 4-7pm.
OPEN:
Thursday 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Friday 4:00pm - 11:00pm
Saturday 12:00pm - 11:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm - 8:00pm
Two Way Brewing Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
 
EAT CHURCH
3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY

Watch this video to see how Eat Church prepares your Phat Thai Noodles so they're ready for you! Savory, satisfying and SERIOUSLY delicious. Go on & get your Phat Thai NOODLES! Eat Church goods are so fresh & delicious that they're only available while supplies last (go quick!) You can also visit their website for Weekly Menu/Specials >
Find Eat Church at more places (please note, for the month of January, Eat Church is operating with limited hours).
Fridays 3pm - 9pm
Saturdays 12pm - 9pm
at Industrial Arts Brewing
DAILY GrabnGo at Marbled Meat Shop in Coldspring
Website >
Eat Church is a Sponsor, thank you!


BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193 Main St.
Happy Weekend! Two eggs over easy with cheddar cheese on a fresh-from-the-oven croissant is the BEST way to start the weekend. BBC is serving up breakfast, specialty coffees, pastries, and more all weekend long. Full-service and quick-order seating is available! Skip the line and order to-go or delivery via their website!
Menu > 
Order Pick Up or Delivery > 
Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!

MEYERS OLDE DUTCH
184 Main Street, Beacon, NY

Smashed Szechuan Cucumbers just hit the specials board at MOD! Add some to your order while they last! We heard they’re smashing ;)
PS Meyers is looking for a full time bartender to join their wonderful team! Please reach out to us at brian@meyersoldedutch.com if you're interested.
Open Sunday thru Thursday for Food 11:30am - 9pm; Bar until 10pm
Friday and Saturday Food 11:30am - 11:00pm; Bar until midnight.
Order Now >
Meyers Olde Dutch is a Sponsor, thank you!


HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL
288 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Cold weekends call for Lentil soup that warms the body and the soul! From Hudson Shawarma!
Stop in & check out the amazing foodies!
Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
Miz Hattie's BBQ: Southern Style BBQ, from North Carolina. Order ahead via their Toast-app menu!
El Nica: Nicaraguan Food
Roosevelt Bar: Cocktail Bar in a well-ventilated space with Outdoor Patio!
Shmuck's Sweet Stuff: Local Ice Cream, Hot Waffles, and Other Sweet Stuff
Hudson Shawarma: Falafels, shawarma, baklava, and platters 
Ciao Chow - Hand made pasta and fried rice
Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!

BAJA 328
328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Buffalo Chicken Chimichangas from Baja... need we say more?! Made with Murray’s Buffalo Chicken, NYS Local Cheese Blend, Lettuce, Pico de Gallo, Guacamole, and Crema.
Stop in and give it a try! Delicious tacos with over 15 different flavors all made with fresh ingredients available too! Add on a delicious & refreshing drink! OR order pick-up/take-out. Baja also offers catering so you can order & stock up because why wouldn't you want to do that?! 
PS: Different specials every week! You don't wanna miss out. See some examples here >
PPS: Happy Hour Tues-Fri 4-6pm
Check out their specialty drinks > 
Check out the specials >
BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!

ZIATUN
244 Main St.

Get creative with your entrees at Ziatun! Kebabs over hummus, rice & salad, or even baba ganoush! All of the flavors of baba ganoush’s smokey, roasted eggplant with lamb kebabs and pita bread are delicious! Pair that with Tabbouleh - traditional salad made of finely chopped parsley, bulgar wheat, tomatoes, lemon & more with added feta will give you a taste of warmer weather!
Menu > 
Order Online > 
HOURS
Monday + Thursday-Saturday 11 am-9pm
Tuesday + Wednesday 11 am-4pm
Sunday 11am-8pm
Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
 

BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon

Merlin Sheldrake, “Entangled Life: How Fungi Makes Our Worlds, Change Our Minds, and Shape Our Futures” freshly restocked at Binnacle! Have you read it?
“In ‘Entangled Life’, the brilliant young biologist Merlin Sheldrake shows us the world from a fungal point of view, providing an exhilarating change of perspective. Sheldrake’s vivid exploration takes us from yeast to psychedelics, to the fungi that range for miles underground and are the largest organisms on the planet, to those that link plants together in complex networks known as the ‘Wood Wide Web,’ to those that infiltrate and manipulate insect bodies with devastating precision.” “A mind-bending journey into the hidden universe of fungi, “one of those rare books that can truly change the way you see the world around you.” (Helen Macdonald, ‘H is for Hawk’)
Binnacle is *Open daily!
Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!

BRETT'S HARDWARE
18 West Main Street, Beacon
Water fountains are still mostly closed everywhere, and we are thirsty! Especially in schools, kids spill the little water cups they are given. Brett's has a great selection of water bottles with options on straws vs openings.
OPEN
Monday-Friday 7:30am - 7pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm
Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you!



LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main Street, Beacon
New Theo Arrived at Luxe and we're coveting these new styles! Stop in this week so we Luxe help you find your perfect pair! Eye Exams available on Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s, Friday’s & Saturday’s over at Luxe! Give them a call at 845-838-2020 to schedule an appointment with their doctors for the BEST Eye Exam in the Hudson Valley! Luxe makes your vision and the overall health of your eyes their number one priority.
PS: Appts required for exams.
PPS *NEW HOURS
Monday 10 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM
Closed on Sundays! They've gone shopping!
Shop Online >
Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!



LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS
470 Main Street, Beacon

Stop into La Mere this weekend for the latest arrivals of clothing + goods! You'll really want to when we tell you that La Mere is having a winter shoe sale - allllll winter shoes, like these boots, under $35! Also, don't forget to take care of yourself! La Mere has goods for that >
*New Arrivals Weekly / Free Shipping
Download their free app in the iTunes Store
PS: Everything is under $100!!
PPS: MENS clothing now available!
OPEN THIS WEEKEND:
Friday 12-6pm
Saturday 11-6pm
Sunday 12-5pm
Shop Online >
La Mere is a Sponsor, thank you!
Yanarella Dance Studio
312 Main St., Beacon, NY
New Website Alert!

Yanarella has been guiding and instructing students since 1957- over 60 years ago! Since the day they opened their doors, their philosophy has been “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.”

The classes are inclusive and wardrobe is flexible. Even if a a child doesn't have ballet slippers, they can still come. Chances are, if you felt compelled to sponsor a shoe, Yanarella could guide you in the right direction of what sizes might be needed!
Visit Yanarella Dance online.
Yanarella is a Sponsor, thank you!

             
 


ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY
340 Main Street, Beacon

After losing her mother unexpectedly to heart disease years ago, Susan Pagones, partner at Antalek and Moore Insurance Agency, dedicated herself to raising awareness about heart disease - often a silent killer - with the American Heart Association of New York. Today, they are doing it by encouraging you to wear red during this winter sleet storm. Keep moving your body to keep your heart rate up, heart rhythm regular, and eat some vegetables!
Latest Announcements >
Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor. Thank you!
 


TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle trains and empowers business owners, makers, artists and staff members in how to get the word out about their business.
Find out more about Tin Shingle & how we can help you & your biz!
Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
 
                  

KATIE JAMES, INC.
Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Check out Barb's Butchery's website, a design by Katie James here  >
Find out more about Website Design services here >
PS - need Instagram Services? Katie James can help with that too! >
Find out more >
Katie James Inc. is a sponsor. Thank you!
HIRING: Full Time Receptionist At Antalek & Moore
Details > 

HIRING: Homespun Foods Is Looking For A Lead Server To Join Their Growing Team
Details > 

HIRING: Maintenance & Packaging Manager At Industrial Arts Brewing 
Details >

HIRING: Beacon City School District Food Service Department Is Looking For Substitute Food Service Helpers
Details >

HIRING: Meyers Olde Dutch
Details >

List your job in ALBB's Job Listings >

BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY


BRANDING  >  MARKETING & PR
Tin Shingle
Katie James, Inc.

CAMPING
CHILDBIRTH  >  CLASSES
Juniper Birth

CHILDBIRTH  >  DOULA
Juniper Birth

EDUCATION > PRIVATE & INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
Poughkeepsie Day School 


HEALTH & WELLNESS > MASSAGE
Focus On Massage Therapy

HOME IMPROVEMENT > INTERIOR DESIGN

Jacklyn Faust Interiors

HOME IMPROVEMENT > LAWN SERVICES
Blue Green Lawns

INSURANCE > BUSINESS, HEALTH, LIFE, HOME
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency

MUSIC 
Maple Street Studio 


REAL ESTATE > HOUSE INSPECTIONS
Rizzi Home Inspection Services, Inc.

List Your Business In The Business Directory > 
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