“History also teaches that submission produces no acceptable result.”
— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Genocide is on the minds of the world every single day of Israel’s assault on Gaza, which Israeli leaders say they have no intent on stopping and only speak of expansion plans which include rewarding their IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) aka IOF (Israel Occupation Forces) with Gazan land.
During this time of Martin Luther King Jr.’s nationally recognized holiday, it is a good time to open up any of his books to look for guidance. On page 146 of “Why We Can’t Wait,” Dr. King speaks of American be born in genocide, and includes the importance of disruption. Take a read, and if you don’t own this book yet, buy it locally from Binnacle Books.
“Negroes today are neither exercising violence nor accepting domination. They are disturbing the tranquility of the nation until the existence of injustice is recognized as a virulent disease menacing the whole society, and is cured.”
— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
"Our nation was born in genocide when it embraced the doctrine that the original American, the Indian, was an inferior race. Even before there were large numbers of Negroes on our shores, the scar of racial hatred had already disfigured colonial society. From the sixteenth century forward, blood flowed into battles over racial supremacy. We are perhaps the only nation which tried as a matter of national policy to wipe out its indigenous population. Moreover, we elevated that tragic experience into a noble crusade. Indeed, even today we have not permitted ourselves to reject or to feel remorse for this shameful episode. Our literature, our films, our drama, our folklore all exalt it.
"Our children are still taught to respect the violence which reduced a red-skinned people of an earlier culture into a few fragmented groups herded into impoverished reservations. This is a sharp contrast to many nations south of the border, which assimilated their Indians, respected their culture, and elevated many of them to high position.
"It was upon this massive base of racism that the prejudice toward the nonwhite was readily built, and found rapid growth. This long-standing racist ideology has corrupted and diminished our democratic ideals. It is this tangled web of prejudice from which many Americans now seek to liberate themselves, without realizing how deeply it has been woven into their consciousness.
"The roots are deep, and this condition in turn influences the character of the Negro Revolution. Our history teaches us that wielding the sword against racial superiority is not effective. The bravery of the Indian, employing spears and arrows against the Winchester and the Colt, had ultimately to eventuate in defeat. On the other hand, history also teaches that submission produces no acceptable result. Nonresistance merely reinforces the myth that one race is inherently inferior to another. Negroes today are neither exercising violence nor accepting domination. They are disturbing the tranquility of the nation until the existence of injustice is recognized as a virulent disease menacing the whole society, and is cured."
Curing one self from racism must be done every single day. With actions and mindset changes.
Happy Martin Luther King Day. The Springfield Baptist Church is once again the starting point for the MLK Day Parade, followed by a Celebration Service, presented by the Southern Dutchess Coalition and the Beacon Sloop Club. Details are here and below.
WAR ON GAZA UPDATE
Yesterday (Thursday) was the first day of South Africa's case against Israel for the crime of genocide on Gaza, at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) the World Court in The Hague. The 5 main acts of genocide that one of the advocates representing South Africa, Adila Hassim, listed are: Mass killings of Palestinians; Bodily and mental harm; Forced displacement and food blockade; Destruction of the healthcare system; and Preventing Palestinian births. Read about that here at AlJazeera.
The United States and the UK also began bombing Yemen, after the Houthis in Yemen have maintained their maritime boycott of cargo ships passing through their waters. The Houthis declared that they will maintain the boycott until Israel stops bombing Palestine, and they insist on more humanitarian aid to Gazans. The Houthis have killed no one, but the United States killed at least 10 Houthi fighters before unleashing bombs yesterday, and at least 5 Houthi fighters from the bombing, General Yahya Sarea, thespokesperson for Yemen's Houthi armed forces, just confirmed. Read about that attack here.Learn more about the Houthis here.
Since there are so many pro-Palestinian protests and disruptions happening in the Hudson Valley, with many ALBB readers asking where to find them, we started a regular protest schedule below. Some happen every Saturday or every Sunday in an area near you.
WORDS FROM MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
It's always time to re-read a book by Martin Luther King, Jr. This passage from "Why We Can't Wait" on page 146 talks about genocide and disruption. Buy this book at Binnacle Books in Beacon.
"Our nation was born in genocide when it embraced the doctrine that the original American, the Indian, was an inferior race. Even before there were large numbers of Negroes on our shores, the scar of racial hatred had already disfigured colonial society. From the sixteenth century forward, blood flowed into battles over racial supremacy. We are perhaps the only nation which tried as a matter of national policy to wipe out its indigenous population. Moreover, we elevated that tragic experience into a noble crusade. Indeed, even today we have not permitted ourselves to reject or to feel remorse for this shameful episode. Our literature, our films, our drama, our folklore all exalt it.
"Our children are still taught to respect the violence which reduced a red-skinned people of an earlier culture into a few fragmented groups herded into impoverished reservations. This is a sharp contrast to many nations south of the border, which assimilated their Indians, respected their culture, and elevated many of them to high position.
"It was upon this massive base of racism that the prejudice toward the nonwhite was readily built, and found rapid growth. This long-standing racist ideology has corrupted and diminished our democratic ideals. It is this tangled web of prejudice from which many Americans now seek to liberate themselves, without realizing how deeply it has been woven into their consciousness.
"The roots are deep, and this condition in turn influences the character of the Negro Revolution. Our history teaches us that wielding the sword against racial superiority is not effective. The bravery of the Indian, employing spears and arrows against the Winchester and the Colt, had ultimately to eventuate in defeat. On the other hand, history also teaches that submission produces no acceptable result. Nonresistance merely reinforces the myth that one race is inherently inferior to another. Negroes today are neither exercising violence nor accepting domination. They are disturbing the tranquility of the nation until the existence of injustice is recognized as a virulent disease menacing the whole society, and is cured."
Lit Lit Day: Friday, January 12, 2024 Time: 7-9pm (6:30pm if you want to sign up!) Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St, Beacon, NY
You can read your own writing of any genre, for up to five minutes, until we run out of time! The Howland has asked that folks pay a suggested donation of $3-$5 (more if you can, less if you can’t) to help them with expenses. No one will be turned away for lack of funds! Wine, beer, soft drinks and snacks will be available at the back for purchase.
Winter Wineryland Day: Saturday, January 13, 2024 Time: 11am-6pm Location: Robibero Winery, 714 Albany Post Road, New Paltz, NY
Embrace the chilly weather at Robibero Winery with a weekend of special frozen and hot cocktails, along with award-winning COLD whites! Wood-fired pizza, hot coco and s’mores kits available for purchase. Live Music Saturday and Sunday 2-5pm Information >
Group Spirit Healing With Daisy Day: Saturday, January 13, 2024 Time: 6-7pm Location: 51 Springside Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY
Join Daisy for a restorative group healing in the salt cave. She will provide immense energetic healing while in a light trance state. The healing is guided entirely by Spirit and is uniquely customized to your needs at the time. Information >
Snowman Craft & Cookie Party Day: Sunday, January 14, 2024 Time: 10:00am Location: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, 110 Muser Dr, Cornwall, NY
Start your frigid fun filled morning off by joining Nature Educators to make your own adorable sock snowman, the perfect craft for a cold winter day! Then get creative as you decorate a snowman sugar cookie to enjoy while listening to a snowman story. Finally (snow permitting) we’ll head outside to build a group snowman! Information >
Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Jonathan Biss, pianist (launch of HCMC's annual four-concert piano festival) Day: Sunday, January 14, 2024 Time: 4-5:30pm - with free reception following Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Pay-What-You-Wish to $35. “A young American pianist who always displays impeccable taste and a formidable technique” (The New Yorker), Jonathan Biss is a world renowned pianist who channels his deep musical curiosity into performances and projects in the concert hall and beyond. In addition to performing with today’s leading orchestras, Jonathan Biss continues to expand his reputation as a teacher, musical thinker, and one of the great Beethoven interpreters of our time. In his third performance on our series, Mr. Biss will perform two works by Schubert and a world premiere solo work by Tyson Gholston Davis. Information >
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Revisiting Beacon's Inspiration In 2024 Day: Monday, January 15, 2024 Time: 8:45am. Get all of the times here, and the parade route. Location: Springfield Baptist Church, 8 Mattie Cooper (aka Church Street)
This year, the Beacon Free Press’ front page news story about the Martin Luther King Day Celebration at the Springfield Baptist Church revived light on the original inspiration for the MLK Day in Beacon. Read All About It Here >
Beacon Farmers Market! Every Sunday from 10am-3pm at 223 Main Street!
Beacon Flea Market! Every Fair Weather Sunday from 8am-3pm at Henry Street (next to the Post Office).
These disruptions happen every Saturday or Sunday. Click on them for details.
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Have you tried the El Nica Taquitos yet?! Corn tortillas, Chicken thighs, Crema, Chipotle Mayo purple slaw, and Homemade Tomato Sauce... Stop in for this goodness! 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 Dulce Cielo Mexico: Authentic Mexican street food with vegetarian and vegan options. Tara Fusion Cuisine: Fusion cuisine of Bangladeshi, Indian, Sri Lankan and Middle Eastern food Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
We are here for the FISH tacos... all year, every season. Especially when they're from Baja and made with fresh delicious guac. Don't forget to stop in to check out the specials! PS: TACO TUESDAY 🌮 is every Tuesday at Baja! $2 chicken, beef & carnita tacos plus $3 coronas! PS: Check out Baja's specials! > Check out their specialty drinks > BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
No Sunday scaries happening at Carters... especially when there's SUNDAY BRUNCH every Sunday. Chicken & waffles? Yes. Eggs, french toast, and so much more. What better way to start/end the week! PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday 2-5. Carters is closed on Wednesday's for the winter. Follow Carter's on Instagram > Carters Restaurant & Lounge is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193-195 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Spice up your weekend with lunch at Beacon Bread Company! We always talk about their breakfast and brunch... because how delicious it is, and yes, because of the full service coffee bar. BUT they indeed have lunch, including this Kimchi Chicken sandwich, deep fried to a crisp and topped with their house Kimchi! PS: BBC is open everyday from 8am-6pm except for Wednesday. PPS: Wholesale, special orders, and events/catering available. Follow BBC on Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
ZIATUN 244 Main Street, Beacon, NY
One of our favorite places to gather with friends and family is Ziatun. The vibes are immaculate and the Hummus and Baba Ganoushe are out of this world. You can order Hummus and Baba Ganoushe platters for any occasion. PS: Ziatun is open everyday.
Monday-Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Follow Ziatun on Instagram > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm Free Home Delivery & Farmers Market
Pick-Ups Website > Instagram >
Eggberts is always loading their Delivery van for your online orders! With FREE delivery. If the weather closes a Farmers Market, Eggberts will deliver to you the day before or the day after the weather clears for safety. Beef, chicken, pork, lamb, goat, and egg needs. Free range, antibiotic-free, and delicious. DELIVERY: Free Delivery available to Beacon, Newburgh and Cold Spring. Order online now. MARKETS: Find Eggberts Free Range Farm at the Cold Spring Farmer's Market on Saturdays, and the Beacon Farmer's Market on Sundays. Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Looking or something sophisticated and affordable? Look no further than Luxe Optique! Top trending and favorite brands. Head in and snag a pair for you. You deserve to treat yourself - even after the holidays! PS: Eye doctor appointments available here! > BEACON HOURS
Monday from 10AM–5PM
Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM
Sunday CLOSED Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon
New year, new books! No better place to stop into than Binnacle Books. And if you're not sure of what new book to pick up, ask the crew! They will guide you in the right direction and help you find the book that you'll want to binge read. Beware that NEW popular books go quick here! And lastly, support your local bookstore always! Follow Binnacle on Instagram to keep up with their new reads and to get them right away! Learn More about Binnacle Books > Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES OPEN! A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide is one of the biggest draws to this publication. Every store is listed in it for the best experience for our readers. Google rewarded A Little Beacon Blog with a #1 ranking for "boutique shopping beacon ny." Designed to elevate your store from the rest, this advertising campaign is integrated with our Instagram. Show your storefront in the listing, get your business a permanent weekly feature in A Little Beacon Blog's Retail Therapy Newsletter sent on Fridays (see examples here), as well as weekly Instagram features. More information here >
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Interested in dance lessons/classes?! Reach out for more information & sign up! Yanarella Dance offers dance classes for everyone - and all age groups!
Beacon has a growing number of beauty salons and professional pampering to take advantage of - you can even book a transforming appointment at a lash bar! Be it a totally new hair style, or a facial, you have options in Beacon. Check out ALBB's Beauty Guide here >
Special Message For Businesses: If you want to advertise in this Guide with a picture, logo and promotions, please click here.
BEACON DENTAL
1020 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon, NY
(845) 838-3666
At Beacon Dental, they are dedicated to providing you and your family with quality dental care tailored to your individual needs. They welcome patients aged 4 and older and provide a full range of dental services to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health throughout your life. When you visit their dentists and team, you can be certain that your health, comfort and smile are always their highest priorities. Beacon Dental is also happy to announce that they now accept Medicare health insurance! Call them for a free cleaning & check-up and refer your family & friends! Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Katie James Inc. works with local and national clients. Businesses of all sizes and budgets can find a branding home with Katie James, Inc.
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle a training platform and community for businesses, artists and makers who are getting the word out about their business. Tin Shingle teaches PR, social media and content marketing tactics to regular people to help make their pitching and brand story telling smarter, engaging and more appropriate for the media to consider for article features. Tin Shingle produces weekly webinars called Training TuneUps, which offer free access to niche classes, as well as one-on-one training opportunities. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ART > TATTOO Invisimark (Stretch Mark Tattooing - to make stretch marks disappear)
Saturdays 12:30pm Elting Library, New Paltz, NY Women in Black. Outdoos on thin busy sidewalk. Areas to sit. Street parking metered, free on side streets (past the library parking lot). No chants, very chill! Ignore counter protestors.
Sundays 12:30pm Woodstock, NY Outdoors on sidewalk near Stone Park
Sundays 12:30pm Newburgh, NY Outdoors with chants on flat pavement by busy road. Park at Downing Park!
Sundays 1pm Nanuet Outdoors with chants on wide sidewalks by busy road. Park at Shake Shack.
WEEKLY MONDAY BOYCOTTS: do all you can to disrupt the machine. Nothing is too small.
ALL DAYS: Go add to the community altar on the fence at Hasbrouck Park, New Patz
SCHEDULE 8:45am: Opening remarks at Springfield Baptist Church. 9:30am: 10th Annual Parade. Mattie Cooper to N. Cedar Street to Main Street, finishing back on Mattie Cooper at the church. 11:30am: Celebration Service Inside Springfield Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Ronald O. Perry, Sr., Pastor. LOCATION 8 Mattie Cooper (Church Street)
This year, the Beacon Free Press’front page news story about the Martin Luther King Day Celebration at the Springfield Baptist Church shed revived light on the original inspiration for the MLK Day in Beacon.
Say the organizers about the event: "Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and dream during our 10th annual MLK Parade in Beacon. The parade in Beacon was the dream of the late Pete Seeger, activist and local resident of Beacon, who wanted a parade to honor Dr. King, so he founded this wonderful ‘Singing Parade.’ Participants are encouraged to bring signs, flags and musical instruments. For more information, go to the beaconsloop.org." Pete Seeger was a co-founder of the Beacon Sloop Club.
Said the parade representative Bonnie Champion to the Beacon Free Press: “After Pete’s wife Toshi died in July 2013, he came to the Beacon Sloop Club and shared that he was worried that Martin Luther King Day was becoming a day off from school and work, and persons were forgetting this man who changed the world.” The parade began one year later, championed by Bonnie. Pete Seeger never marched in the first parade, but he knew about, it,” Bonnie told the Beacon Free Press. He passed away shortly after on January 27, 2014.
The Southern Dutchess Coalition has held a celebration for the last 46 years, and for the last 10 years, did so with the Beacon Sloop Club. The opening ceremony starts at 8:45am. The parade will step off at 9:30am in front of the Springfield Baptist Church, followed by a Celebration Service at 11:30am with Rev. Dr. Ronald O. Perry, Sr., Pastor.
The parade route will start at the Springfield Baptist Church on Mattie Cooper Street (aka Church Street) and continue on to N. Cedar Street, where it will turn down Main Street, until it hits Willow Street, then turns on Mattie Cooper Street to end at the Springfield Baptist Church.
The student essay contest is happening again this year, where Beacon students grades 1-12 were asked to write about the following quote: “Only love can overcome hatred, bitterness, and fear. I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.”
The winning students will receive a $50 award sponsored by Rhinebeck Bank. All others will receive a certificate.
After 90 days of Israel’s murderous assault on Gaza, pressure is growing to end U.S. support for military aid to Israel. On January 5, 2024, hundreds of protesters packed the street in front of the Congressman Pat Ryan’s (District 18 which includes Beacon) Wall Street office in Kingston, NY to call for a permanent ceasefire and end to Israel’s war on Gaza, which has killed more than 22,000 Palestinians in the past 90 days.
Constituents dropped 3 banners from the roof of the office building, one of which listed hundreds of names of Palestinians killed in Gaza. The other banners read: “90 days. 22,000 killed” and “Pat Ryan: Stop the Genocide.” Photo Credits: Shadia Fayne Wood
“I wake up each morning worrying about whether my family and friends in Gaza will see another sunrise. How many more Palestinians have to die before my elected officials take action to stop sending our tax dollars to bomb my family?”
— Abdullah Qotate
“I wake up each morning worrying about whether my family and friends in Gaza will see another sunrise,” said Abdullah Qotate, a resident of Goshen, New York, who also spoke at the disruption of the Swearing-In Ceremony at the Gardiner Town Hall. “How many more Palestinians have to die before my elected officials take action to stop sending our tax dollars to bomb my family?”
Demonstrators amassed at the Ulster County Legislative Building before marching to Congressman Pat Ryan’s office at 307 Wall Street where they attempted to speak to staff in the office before assembling tents around the entrance of Ryan’s office calling attention to the forced displacement of 1.9 million Palestinians or over 85% of Gaza’s population. Protesters sat among the tents with signs reading:
“Stop Starving Gaza,”
“No Money for Massacres,”
“Ceasefire: Shine a Light” while speakers read a list of names of Palestinians killed and held a moment of silence.
“Every person who died today would have been saved if there had been a ceasefire yesterday. We are putting our bodies on the line today in the streets of Kingston because, as American Jews, we cannot stand by and be silent while Israel destroys entire neighborhoods in the name of Jewish safety with funding from the U.S. government. Starving the people of Gaza, bombing hospitals, and making millions homeless is unconscionable – and I implore our elected officials to represent our values,” Andrew Hiller, Mid-Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America.
“We are putting our bodies on the line today in the streets of Kingston because, as American Jews, we cannot stand by and be silent while Israel destroys entire neighborhoods in the name of Jewish safety with funding from the U.S. government. Starving the people of Gaza, bombing hospitals, and making millions homeless is unconscionable – and I implore our elected officials to represent our values.”
— Andrew Hiller
According to the organizer’s press release: “As the civilian death toll in Gaza increases daily, Rep. Pat Ryan faces growing pressure from voters to support a permanent ceasefire and end of military aid to Israel. On January 2, a swearing-in ceremony for local officials presided over by Mr. Ryan was disrupted by a large group of concerned constituents who unfurled a banner reading “permanent ceasefire” (read more about that here on ALBB) in front of his podium. His offices in Kingston, Newburgh, and Poughkeepsie have all been the sites of large ceasefire demonstrations in the past three months (including this one from Beaconites), drawing hundreds of local residents, from across all faiths and backgrounds, who insist that Mr. Ryan do more to ensure that no more U.S. tax dollars go toward funding genocide. While Mr. Ryan has publicly stated that he desires to see lasting peace in the region, he has stopped short of calling for any concrete measures that will end the ongoing ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.”
“We at Jewish Voice for Peace – Hudson Valley demand an immediate unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. The Biden administration must also refrain from sending any more weapons to the Israeli government. Pat Ryan should know the majority of Americans are with us: 61% of likely voters, including a majority of Democrats (76%) and Independents (57%) and a plurality of Republicans (49%), support the U.S. calling for a permanent ceasefire as of a Dec 5 poll. We mourn for the Palestinian and Israeli civilians killed, and we continue to fight with everything we have for the living,” said Margie Leopold, Jewish Voice for Peace - Hudson Valley.
Others complained that the 2” snow minimum was not well publicized on signage. Said one citizen to A Little Beacon Blog: “There is zero signage. With 80+ plus people who made the same record-breaking ‘mistake,’ something’s wrong here.”
That citizen had just returned from trying to dispute several tickets on behalf of their New York City guests by speaking to a clerk at City Hall. “The clerk told me that there are ordinances posted on the way into Beacon from Fishkill. But that’s not where our visitors come from. The clerk also told me: ‘it’s just known universally and it’s the same everywhere.’ I told the clerk that there’s no signage and that it’s certainly not how it’s done in NYC, where our guests are from. The clerk told me that ‘when it snows in NYC, people just use parking garages.’”
Parking garages in NYC are expensive, and parking in them on snow days is not what NYC residents do. As a former resident of New York City, this blogger, who did not have a car in the city, recalls that residents did not need to move their cars at all, unless they were on an emergency snow route road. Normally, there would be an announcement over the radio or TV that “alternate-side parking is suspended for today,” and people didn’t have to move their cars to the opposite side of the street. Car owners in New York City need to move their cars to the opposite side of the street on certain days to allow for cleaning.
Two Beacon citizens who also used to live in NYC confirmed to ALBB what happens in NYC: “Generally, they (NYC) just suspend alternate-side. Not really anywhere for most of the cars to go, so they just stay on the street, and risk being plowed in.” Recalled another citizen: “I used to get plowed in all the time.”
As for official notices in Beacon, the City of Beacon posted an announcement on their website on January 4, 2024. The City did not make a robo-call and it was not posted to the City’s Facebook page. The Beacon Police did post on their Facebook page, which got only 3 “Likes” and 1 Comment. The City Administrator Chris White did announce it in a City Council Meeting prior to the snow storm. The meetings are watched by a handful of people, but it is safe to say that most people don’t watch them, or hit up the home page of the City’s website on the regular.
While at City Hall, the citizen said that a Police Officer told them that there was an event coming up where people could dispute the snow tickets all at once. ALBB inquired with City Administrator Chris to see if such an event was happening. He replied: “I’m not aware of any such event. They can dispute tickets in City Court.”
ALBB called City Court, which is located at 1 Municipal Plaza, inside of City Hall, to ask what the process was to dispute tickets. The person who answered the phone said that if a citizen comes to the City Court in City Hall, there is nothing the clerk can do. The ticketed person needs to mark the box on the ticket to dispute the ticket, and then mail it to the address that is listed on the ticket, which is in Tarrytown. “You will eventually get something in the mail, and could take 6 moths,” the city employee said. “Parking tickets don't get dropped off,” the employee reiterated.
From the City Of Beacon’s News Post
Posted on the January 4th News item on the City’s website reads: ”SNOW PARKING REGULATIONS: Please be aware that after two inches of snow, your vehicle cannot be parked on the street between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. and must not obstruct City snowplows from clearing the streets. You’re welcome to move your vehicle into the City’s public parking lots, but they must be moved 24 hours after the snow stops falling so that the parking lots can then be cleared after the streets are finished. We hope to avoid issuing any tickets for this storm.
“SNOW SIDEWALKS REGULATIONS: Please also remember that property owners must clear adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours of the snowfall ending. Further, it is both unsafe and a violation of City code to throw snow into the road.
“Thanks for helping our hardworking highway crews to get through the storm cleanup and ensuring our streets and sidewalks are safe for all to use.”
Once more News items are posted, this news item will move off the Home page, and be buried in the City’s website for the winter season. Buried like a car under snow.
“I’ve got a lot more to say and it just won’t be said from this seat.”
— Justice McCray
Justice McCray was elected to represent Ward 2 in Beacon, which is the southwest district of the City of Beacon. Justice sprang onto the scene in 2020 during the reawakening for the Civil Rights of People for Color in the United States. They co-formed the group Beacon4BlackLives, a social justice organization dedicated to building social and racial equity and justice within the Hudson Valley. Justice was one of the primary organizers of marches in the name of Black lives mattering more, including a protest at night outside of Mayor Lee Kyriacou’s house.
The demands of Beacon4BlackLives remained in Justice’s election platform., which included:
Defund the police.
Implement more police oversight policies.
Invest back in community by way of social and educational institutions, child care, housing, mental health services, and others.
Invest in municipal broadband.
Justice was on Council for the passage of Beacon’s Good Cause Eviction Law, which is now being challenged in court via eviction hearings of various Beaconites. They also consistently voted no or abstained from votes to increase the police budget.
Justice did not seek re-election, and the question could be asked if it was because they felt more impactful as a community organizer out in the field, not bound by municipal charters silencing them, or conforming them to a way of doing things. Justice was succeeded by Jeffrey Domanski, who is not a stranger to working with City Councils as he was part of an effort to unite municipalities to sign into an energy savings plan using clean energy for a low fixed rate, which was eventually nullified by the provider of that energy.
Longtime Councilmember George Mansfield also did not seek re-election, after serving for 14 years. Councilmember George delivered his farewell speech, followed by Justice’s. The full speech from Justice has been republished below:
“I thought I would have a lot to say in my final report as a City Councilperson - and then George spoke (laughter) - but I’ve got a lot more to say and it just won’t be said from this seat.
“When I decided to step up and run for office, I had been actively participating in Council Meetings for a long time as a social justice activist and housing justice advocate.
“ I’ve been a City Councilmember that neighbors in every ward have talked to about very real discrimination they’ve faced.”
— Justice McCray
“I thought I understood how our local government runs, and I came in charged and ready to take on the work that the previous Council left us, and I was ready to be bold and ambitious and frankly, confrontational.
“Stepping into this seat, I learned quickly how much I didn’t know, and for better or worse, I slowed down.
“I didn’t know much I needed to know on the county level or state level, and I didn’t realize how often I would feel powerless in this position. I also didn’t realize how influential my voice had become in addressing issues locally and on a larger level.
“I’ve sat in the living rooms and dining rooms of dozens of my community members’ homes to address issues from potholes, to accessing legal assistance. I’ve been a City Councilmember that neighbors in every ward have talked to about very real discrimination they’ve faced.
“I'm so honored that I've had the opportunity to be a part of a council that fought for tenants rights, that passed trailblazing climate legislation, that’s invested heavily in recreation and community input and making sure that community voices are heard.
“I’m proud of the ways I’ve leveraged the power of this seat to push back against the contamination of the Hudson River, to advocate for tenant protections statewide, to fight Central Hudson’s proposed rate increases and so much more.
“I’m so grateful for everything that I’ve learned and for everyone who has supported me. I’ve felt so much support through this position and I wouldn’t have made it without my community.”
— Justice McCray
“I'm so grateful for everything that I've learned and for everyone who has supported me. I've felt so much support through this position and I wouldn't have made it without my community. I have a lot of hope for the future, and while I'm going to be finding better ways to play to my strengths, I look forward to doing everything I can to make sure that Beacon can be the best that it can be.
“Special shoutout to my neighbors on South Chestnut and Rombout. I love you very much and you've really made the neighborhood special. I have so many people to thank and I don't think I can name them all here, but for those who make this community special, for those who initiate, for those who show up in whatever ways they know how, thank you and keep showing up.”
The Beacon City School District (BCSD) & the Eric J. Romanino Athletic Hall Of Fame Committee celebrated their 2023 Hall of Fame Inductees on January 5, 2024 at the St. Rocco Society Banquet Hall. Said the BCSD on their Facebook page: “The Eric. J. Romanino Athletics Hall of Fame was established in 1996 to celebrate the contributions of our Beacon Bulldog athletes. What a great example of our legacy, community, and camaraderie! Congratulations to the induction class of 2024!”
Honor 2023 Inductees Included:
2012 Softball Team Head Coach Brian Antalek
Rodney Paulin Varsity Boys Basketball: Class of 1973
Joe Simmons Varsity Boys Basketball: Class of 1973
Jummie Akinwunmi Varsity Track & Field: Class of 2018
During Beacon’s first snowfall, the City of Beacon issued over 80 tickets to cars who did not move off the street so that the plows could clear the street, Beacon’s City Administrator Chris White told the public during last night’s City Council Meeting. “Thanks to the Highway and Water Departments, and particularly Mickey [Manzi, Beacon’s Superintendent of Streets].” City Administrator Chris told people to “help our Highway Department.” He reiterated the rule of more than 2" accumulation of snow, cars need to be off the street.
City Administrator Chris announced that the City ticketed “over 80 vehicles." He continued: “I would like to bring that down to zero. Please bring that down. Park in any of the public lots then, you go back to the streets.”
“We will clear the snow and ice and we will back-charge you as a property owner.”
— Chris White
Next, City Administrator Chris warned property owners who have sidewalk corners on their properties, that they need to shovel them, or face fines, starting today (Tuesday). “If you adjoin a public sidewalk,” he said, “you are obligated public sidewalk clearing. We are issuing tickets tomorrow.” He outlined: “We will clear the snow and ice and we will back-charge you as a property owner.”
Mayor Lee Kyriacou reinforced the threat by confirming that the City’s sidewalk shoveling rate is not cheap, stating that it happened to him one year and he was billed.
The Spirit of Beacon Day has announced a change in leadership moving forward: Katie Hellmuth will step aside, and Board Member Ali T. Muhammad will step up into the Chair position. Said Katie in their announcement: “I am thrilled to announce that Ali T. Muhammad has stepped up and into the Chair position, with Junior, Jeana and Jen continuing to serve on the Board committee. Ali is a born and raised Beaconite, a natural leader, a proven leader in Beacon during his time serving on Beacon’s City Council years ago, and now in his organizing capacities in Newburgh for Next Step Hudson Valley and Melanin Unchained.”
Said Katie to ALBB: “I am so honored to have served with this Committee. Jeana stepped in like she was already here. She came with minutes prepped, took over the vendor table mapping with her landscape architecture background, and pushed us into meetings. Jen flew right in to administer the details that needed to get done on time, and negotiate our contracts. Junior made sure we hit deadlines on time with his optimism.”
In their announcement, Katie said: “I am so looking forward to seeing and experiencing what Ali produces this year. He is a visionary, gifted with seeing the big picture, and rallying those around him into action. Look for possible changes, and continued spirit.”
The entire announcement has been published in full below:
Written by Katie Hellmuth:
Living in Beacon for me has meant learning what community service really means. I do what I do at A Little Beacon Blog because I want to find information, and I want to be sure those around me have access to that information. Unintentionally, this became my community service.
Through my coverage as a blogger of the Spirit of Beacon Day over the years, and as a citizen experiencing the day, I saw the schools and organizations who I only read about, out on the street. The people in those organizations - the people of whom change all the time as they need to in their lives - those people did everyday volunteer work without needing of acknowledgment. They were people who paid attention and wanted to impact how life is lived here in Beacon.
The Spirit of Beacon Day was a day to see the people making social change out on the streets. Their spirits would come out however they wanted to show it. Vendor tables were reserved for non-profits and service organizations. This was and remains their day to shine.
As a blogger, I have covered 2 instances where the Spirit of Beacon Day almost ceased to happen, when the chair and committee needed to step aside in order to fulfill commitments in their personal lives. The Spirit of Beacon is its own entity. It is not a committee of the City of Beacon, and for a long time, it did not receive money from the city. It did receive complimentary police overtime.
“I am so looking forward to seeing and experiencing what Ali produces this year. He is a visionary, gifted with seeing the big picture, and rallying those around him into action. ”
— Katie Hellmuth
Both of the times the Spirit of Beacon committee needed to cease, there was a releasing of the torch because no one would or could step up. The second time was two years ago, and with only months to spare to produce this huge event that so many people relied upon. I didn't have the time to lead this effort, but I knew that I could do it. I knew I had all of the contacts in my phone, I owned a branding agency who could voluntarily design what was needed. Everyone that could do anything was one text away.
I threw my hat into the ring. But I wasn't the only one. Longtime community members Ali T. Muhammad and Junior Dabashi also threw their hats into the ring. It was decided that I would lead the Spirit of Beacon Day as its Chair and Ali and Junior would serve as Board members. Weeks later, Jeana Pearl Fletcher and Jennifer Garfield-Abrams also came on to serve on the Board to make this event happen. As a Committee, we produced two Spirit of Beacon Days together.
The time has come for me to step aside so that I can get back to blogging and running my businesses to produce for my family so that I can continue to afford living in Beacon.
I am thrilled to announce that Ali T. Muhammad has stepped up and into the Chair position, with Junior, Jeana and Jen continuing to serve on the Board committee. Ali is a born and raised Beaconite, a natural leader, a proven leader in Beacon during his time serving on Beacon’s City Council years ago, and now in his organizing capacities in Newburgh for Next Step Hudson Valley and Melanin Unchained.
I will step off the board and continue to support by giving my Institutional Memory as guidance. My branding agency, Katie James, Inc., will continue to provide volunteer services to the website. A Little Beacon Blog will continue as Media Sponsor in order to get the word out for the Spirit of Beacon Day as needed.
I am so looking forward to seeing and experiencing what Ali produces this year. He is a visionary, gifted with seeing the big picture, and rallying those around him into action. Look for possible changes, and continued spirit.
To the People of Beacon: Thank you for having me.
Anyone interested in joining or rejoining the Committee or volunteering in any capacity (big or small), please email spiritofbeacon@gmail.com with your interest.
With that, the potential first snow storm of the year! Classic arrival after December, kicking off January with snow plowing and salt. Remember to get a car wash afterwards, to wash of that salt from the bottom of your car.
When there is more than 2" of snow, cars need to be off the street so that the snowplows from Beacon's Highway Department can come through. Buddy up with your neighbors or park in a free public parking lot.
To open up the DMV parking lot for the anticipated cars moving from the street to the parking lot, the Beacon Farmers Market is closed this Sunday. But fear not, you can order your eggs, steak, pork, lamb and goat from Eggberts Free Range Farm, who will stock their van for online orders and make free deliveries once the roads are clear.
Play Sets: Dan Flavin Day: Saturday, January 6, 2024 Time: 10:30am Location: Dia Beacon, 3 Beekman St, Beacon, NY Information >
City of Beacon Swearing-in Ceremony Day: Saturday, January 6, 2024 Time: 3pm Location: 413 Main Street, Beacon, Veterans-Memorial Building
Everyone is welcome to join the Mayor and City Councilmembers as they take the oath of office with community, family, friends, and other local elected officials. Master of Ceremonies is former City Councilmember George Mansfield. Reception and light refreshments to follow.
Awakening Wellness Workshop Day: Sunday, January 7, 2024 Time: 4-5pm Location: Chakra Bowls, 36 Eastdale Avenue North Poughkeepsie, NY Information >
Beacon Farmers Market! Every Sunday from 10am-3pm at 223 Main Street!
Beacon Flea Market! Every Fair Weather Sunday from 8am-3pm at Henry Street (next to the Post Office).
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
O.M.WOW! Have you seen the new mural at Dulce Cielo MX? Drop. Dead. Gorgeous. 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 Dulce Cielo Mexico: Authentic Mexican street food with vegetarian and vegan options. Tara Fusion Cuisine: Fusion cuisine of Bangladeshi, Indian, Sri Lankan and Middle Eastern food Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor, thank you!
BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY
We won't ever get over the specials at Baja. Always so good and always pair so nicely with their seasonal cocktails! Don't forget the calamari... seriously! PS TACO TUESDAY 🌮 is every Tuesday at Baja! $2 chicken, beef & carnita tacos plus $3 coronas! PS: Check out Baja's specials! > Check out their specialty drinks > BAJA 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
Finally! If you don't know.... The scaffolding has been taken down from next door at Carters, as the building is entering new phases of its construction. The corner building is looking very nice! Looking forward to seeing what’s coming next. The sidewalk is now easier for you to get down. Come sit by the windows and enjoy the view of Main St. PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday 2-5! Carters is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesday's for the winter. Follow Carter's on Instagram > Carters Restaurant & Lounge is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193-195 Main Street, Beacon, NY
This French Toast tho...No better place than BBC! Fresh baked goods made daily. Berrylicious :) PS BBC is open everyday from 8am-6pm except for Wednesday. PPS Wholesale, special orders, and events/catering available. Follow BBC on Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor, thank you!
ZIATUN 244 Main Street, Beacon, NY
New Retail Drop! Resistance Totes Watermelon edition at Ziatun! Need one. Limited supplies and available in off white and black. All sales will be donated to the people in Palestine. The donations are focused on PTSD for the children survivors. PS! Ziatun is open everyday.
Monday-Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Follow Ziatun on Instagram > Ziatun is a Sponsor, thank you!
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm Free Home Delivery & Farmers Market
Pick-Ups Website > Instagram >
You can find Eggbert’s Free Range Farm at the Beacon Farmer’s Market on Sunday's! For all of your meat, poultry, and egg needs. Free range, antibiotic-free, and delicious. Farm Fresh Eggs are $6/dozen. DELIVERY: Free Delivery available to Beacon, Newburgh and Cold Spring. Order online now. MARKETS: Find Eggberts Free Range Farm at the Cold Spring Farmer's Market on Saturdays, and the Beacon Farmer's Market on Sundays. Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
Looking or something sophisticated and affordable? Look no further than Luxe Optique! Top trending and favorite brands. Head in and snag a pair for you. You deserve to treat yourself - even after the holidays! PS: Eye doctor appointments available here! > BEACON HOURS
Monday from 10AM–5PM
Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM–6PM
Sunday CLOSED Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon
Fun and unique finds always available at Binnacle! Books that had lives well before they ended up at Binnacle. Books that you can't find anywhere else. And if you're not sure where to start or what book to read, just talk to the crew! Always happy to help you find the book that you won't want to put down. Follow Binnacle on Instagram to keep up with their new reads and to get them right away! Learn More about Binnacle Books > Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES OPEN! A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide is one of the biggest draws to this publication. Every store is listed in it for the best experience for our readers. Google rewarded A Little Beacon Blog with a #1 ranking for "boutique shopping beacon ny." Designed to elevate your store from the rest, this advertising campaign is integrated with our Instagram. Show your storefront in the listing, get your business a permanent weekly feature in A Little Beacon Blog's Retail Therapy Newsletter sent on Fridays (see examples here), as well as weekly Instagram features. More information here >
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Interested in dance lessons/classes?! Reach out for more information & sign up! Yanarella Dance offers dance classes for everyone - and all age groups!
Beacon has a growing number of beauty salons and professional pampering to take advantage of - you can even book a transforming appointment at a lash bar! Be it a totally new hair style, or a facial, you have options in Beacon. Check out ALBB's Beauty Guide here >
Special Message For Businesses: If you want to advertise in this Guide with a picture, logo and promotions, please click here.
BEACON DENTAL
1020 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon, NY
(845) 838-3666
At Beacon Dental, they are dedicated to providing you and your family with quality dental care tailored to your individual needs. They welcome patients aged 4 and older and provide a full range of dental services to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health throughout your life. When you visit their dentists and team, you can be certain that your health, comfort and smile are always their highest priorities. Beacon Dental is also happy to announce that they now accept Medicare health insurance! Call them for a free cleaning & check-up and refer your family & friends! Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Katie James Inc. works with local and national clients. Businesses of all sizes and budgets can find a branding home with Katie James, Inc.
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle a training platform and community for businesses, artists and makers who are getting the word out about their business. Tin Shingle teaches PR, social media and content marketing tactics to regular people to help make their pitching and brand story telling smarter, engaging and more appropriate for the media to consider for article features. Tin Shingle produces weekly webinars called Training TuneUps, which offer free access to niche classes, as well as one-on-one training opportunities. Learn More > Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ART > TATTOO Invisimark (Stretch Mark Tattooing - to make stretch marks disappear)
In anticipation of the first snow storm of the season, which is predicted to drop 4”-8” of snow, the Beacon Farmer’s Market is closed. Said the Beacon Farmer’s Market via their Instagram: “When there is snowfall in Beacon, cars must be removed from Main Street to allow plows to come through. When this happens, parking lots like the DMV Lot must be made available for public/resident parking. We’re happy to do our part for the residents of Beacon.”
As reported by KingstonWalk4BlackLives, on January 2, 2024, constituents of Congressman Pat Ryan (District 18) disrupted a swearing-in ceremony at Gardiner Town Hall officiated by the congressman “to demand that the congressman immediately and unconditionally support a permanent ceasefire and no military aid to Israel.”
“Congressman, I’m your constituent. My family and friends are being killed in Gaza. How many Palestinians have to die before you support a ceasefire?”
— Abdallah Qotate
NewPaltzStudentsForPalestine, which is a coalition of antifascists working to bring attention to Israel’s ongoing genocidal occupation of Palestine, also published video with reporting, stating: “Today one of our members linked up with some local comrades to disrupt an event hosted in Gardiner by our local Representative Pat Ryan, a vocal defender of the Israeli regime who has voted repeatedly to send billions of dollars to Israel while his own constituents experience poverty and homelessness. Despite being almost physically assaulted at times by several Zionists who attended the event, we held firm and let Pat Ryan know that he cannot expect to cruise to reelection while brazenly ignoring his constituents.”
“The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have killed more than 22,000 Palestinians since October 7, 2023. Congressman Ryan has yet to call for an unconditional permanent ceasefire.”
Abdallah Qotate, a Goshen resident, went to the front of the room to ask: “Congressman, I’m your constituent. My family and friends are being killed in Gaza. How many Palestinians have to die before you support a ceasefire?” In the middle of his sentence, a man yelled sharply: “SIT DOWN! Sit Down.” followed by a “Shut-up! Just sit down!” by an older white woman in the front of the room, followed by a “Shame!” by somebody else. Another man whispered: “You’re just increasing his popularity.”
Those in favor of Palestinian lives in the audience began shouting: “How many Palestinians have to die?”
“As a Jew, I know that calling for an end to genocide is not anti-semetic. Never again means never again to anyone. Shame on Pat Ryan. I voted for Pat Ryan and I don’t know how he can sleep at night having experienced the horrors of war firsthand and knowing there’s an active genocide happening in Palestine.”
— Adam Lipsky
A large banner reading “Permanent Ceasefire” was unfurled at the front of the room, in front of Congressman Ryan. Immediately, the older white woman who shouted “Shut-up! Just sit down!” stood in front of the banner to try to block it from view. A white man in a red and black flannel shirt and khaki pants who was seated next to her also stood in front of the banner and attempted to spread his coat in front of the banner. When the banner holders moved in front of the woman blocking, she came out from under the banner to stand in front of it again. Eventually, the man in the red plaid shirt approached a camera filming before the camera shut off.
Adam Lipsky, a Highland resident, also spoke up, saying: “As a Jew, I know that calling for an end to genocide is not anti-semetic. Never again means never again to anyone. Shame on Pat Ryan.” Adam also said: “I voted for Pat Ryan and I don’t know how he can sleep at night having experienced the horrors of war firsthand and knowing there’s an active genocide happening in Palestine.”
According to KingstonWalk4BlackLives, constituents stayed in the room for fifteen minutes, chanting:
“Ryan Ryan, you can’t hide, We charge you with genocide!”
During the COVID shutdown, A Little Beacon Blog received a tip via DM that the barber shop, Shekinah Styles, located at 265 Main Street across from Max’s on Main, had been in Beacon 30 years and was celebrating their anniversary. Regrettably, ALBB was so consumed with new remote learning life changes for kids and ever-changing vaccination locations, the celebratory profile never made it to publication.
Fast forward a few years, and a FOR RENT sign is in the window for the Shekinah Styles, not for lack of business, but for a almost doubling of the rent by new landlords, founder and lead barber Mark Bobbitt told A Little Beacon Blog as he was moving his shop piece by piece to his new location in Newburgh.
Mark paused long enough for an interview with ALBB, to share his experience barbering in Beacon, what inspires him, and how he views this move after 30 years in Beacon. The audio straight-talk version of this interview is available above.
Who Is Mark Bobbitt And What Is Shekinah Styles Barber Shop?
“Shekinah is ‘The Visible Sign of God's Presence,’ Mark told ALBB. It is pronounced “sha-khinah” with a long “i” like in “kite” and short “a” like “apple.”
"I wanted to put something on my wall that is a signature. To remind myself and remind my customers for my purposes of what I'm here for. And that is to serve the community and to be thankful and grateful to God for how He blessed me. I wanted to put something up there to show my commitment to show God and my customers of how grateful I am to have them in my life.”
Mark was 21 when he started Shekinah Styles. That was in 1991, though he has lived in Beacon since 1988. “I seen a lot,” he reflected. “I seen where people came from, what it is now. I’ve seen a couple of versions [of Beacon].”
Mark is 55 right now, and leaving Beacon to open up shop again in Newburgh. Opening his shop 30 years ago in Beacon was not his idea. Mark’s dad pushed him into it. Mark was raised in Newburgh in a family of 11 siblings, “and 8 of us do hair,” Mark told ALBB. Mark’s father was community oriented and made it his purpose to train as many young people in barbering as he could. Mark continued in that community effort, and opened his shop to the community and trained barbers as well.
What’s The Vibe Like Inside Of Shekinah Styles?
“I've been doing the same people from the last 35 years from Newburgh. They come [over to Beacon] once a week or once every other week. I get to see everyone. People get to meet each other. Mark can’t count the number of customers he has. “Put it like this,” he said as he tried to add up the numbers. “I got generations. I got grandfathers that I started on. I did their sons, and their grandsons and great grandsons.”
"A lot goes on in the chair," Mark told ALBB. “Barbers is like psychiatrists. I get to share hopefully my good advice. People trust me, and I trust people.” Many barbers and hair stylists take their job as keepers of conversations very sacred. “I listen. That’s what I do most of the time. I don't try to speak a lot. People just want you to listen. Be an ear to what they want to say. I try to live a basic, simple life. Of being at peace. Treat people the way you want be treated.”
The Rent Hike
Mark has sustained 6 landlords in his 30 years in Beacon. His first location was where the donut shop, Glazed Over, is now. He stayed there for 5 years before moving to what seemed to be his forever home at 265 Main Street. It was his last landlord, however, who he could not make it past.
“I’m leaving this location because of the rent increase that's going on here in Beacon. My rent was pretty much doubled. My lease came up, and they gave me a new number.” A new number from a new landlord. According to Mark, this landlord has owned the building for about 3 years. At the time, he thought the building was on the market for sale, but it does not appear to be now, or is not listed. ALBB has not reached out to landlord to verify. Hudson Valley Vinyl, located next door to Shekinah, told ALBB they are here to stay on a new lease.
The Building’s History
In the summer of 2021, the City of Beacon’s City Council, led by Mayor Lee Kyiacou, was considering designating several commercial buildings and residential homes as being historic. That designation could preserve certain characteristics on a building, which usually costs a building owner more to maintain if a renovation is needed or desired. The designation also puts zoning blockades up for neighboring buildings, in terms of what they can do, and what their changes would do to impact a building with a historic designation.
Many of the commercial building owners objected, including the owner of Mark’s building: Vincent Satriano of 26 East Main St, LLC. He submitted a strongly worded letter to the City of Beacon imploring them not to move forward with the historic designation, arguing that it would make his business of property ownership and investment more difficult.
“We spent a significant amount of money investing in Beacon and this property. The justification for the large investment was solely based on the possibility to rebuild on our property as the aforementioned neighbors have. By adding this designation to our property, that opportunity seems greatly diminished, if at all.
“After consulting with our attorneys, we have arrived at the conclusion that we are strongly against this proposal and do NOT want this designation/restriction/limitation placed on our property and further feel it will greatly devalue our investment, and doing so against our will (especially in light of all we just went through the last (2) years) would just add further salt in our wound.
“Please strongly consider NOT placing this unwanted designation on OUR property against our will, further causing financial damage and hardship to our already struggling investment.”
Against the requests of the building owners, the City Council voted to designate the 9 commercial buildings as historic. The City Council then took a pause on designating any others.
As for the process of negotiating his new lease, Mark left uncomfortable. "I've had good relationships with my past landlords. This is the first time where I didn't have that same type of relationship. The way it was done, and the way it was done at the last minute, put me in the position that I felt uncomfortable. I didn't want to put myself in that position to struggle and pay some higher rent.”
Where To Find Shekinah Styles Next - Newburgh
Many businesses who leave Beacon move to Newburgh - including Shekinah Styles Barber Shop. Mark is opening up at 236 Broadway.
“I look forward to going home to where I'm from,” Mark told ALBB. “My family is going to be right next door. Doing hair also. A lot of my customers is from over there.”
As for some of his last words, Mark said: “It's bittersweet. I've been here for so long. I've known so many people here. People coming in saying don't leave! You've been in the community for so long! You're a staple in the community!”
Is this Mark’s last time in Beacon? “I say farewell to Beacon. Maybe not for good. Who knows. Maybe I'll open anther shop here one day. As for now, I say farewell to Beacon. I poured out my heart in the community for so many years. I know so many people. I try to help as many people as I can. Young people. Old people. I say it was a good run. Bittersweet.”
The New Year has started, and the Christmas Trees are hitting the curb. Before you throw out your Christmas Tree, that took who knows how long to grow, which was only standing in your house or apartment for a few weeks or days, there is a very special way to throw it away: strip it. Christmas trees must be clean of all ornaments and lights before you drag it to the curb. The City of Beacon’s Highway Department will pick it up for you, and turn it into mulch.
Is there a deadline for when you can throw away your Christmas tree? Can you keep it up for all of January if you wish? ALBB reached out to the City of Beacon, and the Mayor’s Assistant, Ben Swanson responded: “There is not a set date for ending pickup of holiday trees at this time, and the crews' work to gather them is indeed ongoing!”
Well that’s good news. So what about regular branches and brush from the yards? Are those picked up all year? Ben answered: “Brush pickup is year-round, as time allows for our workers!”
Which means that, if you have leaves or grass or other things that can fit into a leaf bag, put it into a leaf bag and haul it to the curb. Beacon’s Highway Department will take it away for you to the Transfer Station (aka The Dump).
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.
WORDS FROM MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
presents Jonathan Biss, pianist (launch of HCMC's annual four-concert piano festival)
Yanarella Dance Studio
