“Free Palestine” message created by the artist Ryan Manzi, in addition to signs for Beacon, a shamrock for St. Paddy’s Day, and Scooby Do.
The irony of the permanent desecration of the brick building in order to cover up a temporary message of freedom with a layer of a bright blob of permanence is one for poets to ponder.
It is a wonder if the City of Beacon will pursue the graffiti blob maker (graffiti blobs are not art or expressions), or if they will instead pursue the chalk artists, who they are already in hot pursuit of on a regular basis, and have arrested in the past for making chalk art. An arrest that failed, since chalk is temporary, says one of the arrested artists and Beacon resident Ryan Manzi.
This article includes a video interview with Ryan as he pops up to chalk another message of freedom and justice just down the brick from the tagging signed in paint drips. Be sure to scroll down to watch/listen.
Forensic Discovery Of The Paint Over The Chalk
Ryan and his friend Steve first started chalking Beacon last Spirit of Beacon Day. His goal was to chalk spirit all over town. His work has been seen on the sidewalk outside of Towne Crier, outside of the Beacon Car Wash and the Beacon Fade and Shave, and on the big green construction fence/wall at the development site on Main Street that went bankrupt and has been standing still. That chalk space has since been covered up by another artist, in paint however, which may have come with permission, which was done for Beacon Bonfire, without a nod given to Ryan’s original chalk art that started there.
The paint covering the pro-Palestinian CHalk. Photo Credit: Katie James Inc.
Ryan latest chalk art piece is on the building that used to be Pizza and Stuff, and is the back of Sun River Health. He chalked out FREE PALESTINE with the Palestinian flag. When this happened, ALBB was sent the photo by several people, all of whom were excited to see such expression.
Just days later, the chalk art was covered up by what seems to be splattered paint, maybe from a spray can, or a brush. Said Ryan to ALBB: “I know my chalk, and that's somebody deliberately covering it up.”
The person covering up the chalk used a paint-like substance, than ran down the building in drips. “It's literally spray paint. The running streaks are spray paint. In other words, LITERAL graffiti.” Recently, Ryan and his painting partner Steve have been arrested for their chalk art. Ryan says a call was made by someone who saw them chalking. Ultimately, charges were lifted because chalk is temporary. Ryan’s preferred brand of chalk is Crayola from local boutique Zakka Joy.
THe shamrock, left untouched by the Free Palestine cover-upper. The rain has already begun to wash away the chalk naturally.
Upon the discovery of his chalk work being covered in paint, Ryan took to being a forensic artist to figure out what happened. Ryan pointed out the drips. Another paint stroke on a brick looked like a deliberate stroke, versus spray paint. Additionally, he noted, his other chalk art of a shamrock, Scooby Do, or the words BEACON were not covered up or deleted by the paint.
“It shows clear and deliberate hatred and bigotry,” Ryan told ALBB. It is not known if Beacon Police will pursue the permanent paint thrower, or only focus on the chalk artist because he is always out on Main Street and is recognizable by most people who live here. Ryan is easy pray for the Beacon Police to come and get.
April Article from the Poughkeepsie Journal
As Ryan popped up to chalk a new message, a person walking by said “I like it,” and another said “Looks awesome!” Some Beacon elementary school kids walking by raised their fists in solidarity.
A white man also approached, eager to take a picture. ALBB wasn’t sure if he was taking a picture for evidence against the chalk art, as he mentioned not liking trash on the ground, saying nothing about Palestinians, but he stood by nonetheless to chat while Ryan finished his work. A Black man approached next, fist bumping Ryan, the two of whom later discussed Ryan’s latest nail polish.
In the video interview with Ryan, he mentions a Poughkeepsie Journal article, which reported on the time in 2017 when Beacon signed a resolution declaring itself a “Welcoming, Safe and Inclusive City.” Ryan had this to say, in 2024, about where the City is now: “Please remind them of their own doings, and then tell me where it doesn't add up, because its nothing new, thanks 🫶🏽💯”
Revisiting The “Welcoming, Safe and Inclusive City” That Beacon Resolved Itself To Be in April 2017
Ryan is not the only one who recalls Beacon’s resolution during the time of Trump’s Muslim Travel Ban, where Beacon and other cities sought to send signals to the federal government and all community members that it did not discriminate based on race or religion.
Palestinian Beacon business owner Kamel Jamal also mentioned this passage during his speech at City Council Meeting in 2024, urging City Council to pass a Ceasefire Resolution, demanding an end to the death and destruction going on in Palestine at the hands of Israel, with aid and support by the United States Government, and several of its local leaders at the state and municipal levels.
This time, in response, Mayor Kyriacou has been trying to “correct” the 2017 recollections of Beacon citizens. During the 2024 night of the passage of the ceasefire resolution by the mostly reluctant City Council Meeting (where Paloma Wake was the lone Councilmember steadily urging that the issue get recognized and pass), Mayor Lee “reminded” the community that he wrote the “Welcoming, Safe and Inclusive City” resolution, and stressed that its purpose was for police directive.
The city was divided then, and remains so. The Poughkeepsie Journal article that Ryan referenced captured the essence of the time. The article quotes below reflect the time, but read the full article here:
Published on April 4, 2017: “In the City of Beacon, city officials and employees cannot interrogate or arrest someone based on their citizenship status, and will not help enforce federal immigration law.
“Those provisions are among several aspects of a resolution declaring Beacon a “welcome, safe and inclusive city” and designed to help individuals living in the U.S. without legal permission. But while the resolution was passed by the city council by a unanimous vote, the language used in the resolution was meticulously debated, and it proved divisive among area residents who attended Monday's meeting.
“Of 23 residents who spoke during two public comment sessions, 13 supported the resolution and 10 opposed it. Many in attendance wore red or blue to signify their stance on the issue.”
The article continued, describing the resistance to the wording and relevance of the resolution. Relevance is something Mayor Lee Kyriacou continues to push for today, in order to avoid discussion of these sorts of things, which center around racism, Islamaracism and bigotry. He mentioned wanting relevance again during last evening’s City Council Meeting, when he was discussing proper forum and decorum at City Council Meetings and topics taken up.
Back to the 2017 article. It further highlighted an effort by then City Councilmember, Ali T. Muhammad, who is currently participating in protests and ceasefire resolution pushes as a citizen, to include the word “sanctuary,” but received pushback by other councilmembers. As background, the term “sanctuary city” was punished by Trump when he put federal restrictions on funding for such cities:
“While not in name, the resolution offers many of the same protections as designated sanctuary cities. The resolution itself makes no reference to the term ‘sanctuary city,’ and a motion by Ali Muhammad, 4th ward council member, to add the term to the resolution name failed, 4-2.
"Peggy Ross, 1st ward council member, argued that the term ‘sanctuary city’ implied that Beacon would provide food or shelter in some way, which the resolution does not call for. Muhammad, however, said that choosing not to use the term "whitewashed" the resolution.
"Opponents challenged that the resolution was not a matter for the city council.
"‘What sort of benefit does this resolution have to protect our citizens or our police officers?’ asked Joe Galbo, of Beacon."
A Reminder Of The Legal Implications Of Beacon’s 2017 Welcoming, Inclusive and Safe City Resolution:
As reported in the Poughkeepsie Journal: "Under the resolution, city officials and employees cannot ‘stop, question, interrogate, investigate or arrest’ someone based on their immigration or citizenship status or a civil immigration warrant, administrative warrant or an immigration detainer.
"Officials and employees cannot inquire about an individual's immigration or citizenship status unless necessary to investigate a criminal activity by that individual, nor can they engage in the enforcement of federal immigration law, the resolution said."
This week’s City Council Workshop Meeting is now available on ALBB. This is the same agenda found on the City’s website, but ours includes future video of the meeting, and is in the all-you-need format at ALBB. This Workshop Meeting is open to the public to attend, but there is no Public Comment. Public does not speak during Workshop Meetings, only listens.
On the Agenda:
1. Amendments to the City Council Rules of Procedure This is a review of the City Council Rules and Procedures that Councilperson Pam Wetherbee requested after more than 50 people spoke at Public Comment twice over a 6 week period during Beacon’s the Ceasefire Resolution debate for Palestine and Israel.
2. Proposed Local Law Concerning Minimum Parking Requirements This is the ongoing debate to break down the requirements on parking that a homeowner or developer must match when building commercial or residential space. Reducing these requirements makes building easier, which some people both want and don’t want.
3. Ribbons on Main Street This regards the NAMI Mid-Hudson PSA Campaign that they have done in Beacon from 2014-2022, and was blocked last year from hanging the ribbons. The ribbon campaign remains up for debate this year, due to a multi-year maintenance campaign done to the lamppost, said City Administrator Chris White, which ALBB reported on in this article.
A donation fund has been created for Trina and Amila, owners of Tara Fusion Cuisine , who suffered great loss in the fire at Colonial Springs Building 3. They lost everything, and now must find a new apartment, and have encountered security deposits, broker fees, not to mention all of the furniture, clothing, cookware, art tools, decorations they once had.
Trina has returned to work as chef, but it’s day by day as she processes what happened. Your cheer brings her cheer, so give her a hug or blow her a kiss 😘 You may see Amila behind the counter when he’s not at his job too!
PS: We are in touch with Captain Jesseyna from Salvation Army Beacon about her efforts for collection and coordination for the building. Will update as we learn more.
Trina Mazumder, owner and head chef of Tara Fusion Cuisine from the Hudson Valley Food Hall, was at her apartment in Building 3 at Colonial Springs along the Hudson River, when the ceiling went up in flames as the fire spread across the attics in the apartment complex. The fire spread across multiple attics, and has displaced everyone in the building, which some estimate to be 30 people.
Trina took ALBB on a walk-through the dead apartment; the floor still soggy with fire water from two days before; and the ceiling and walls gone in places where they fell through or were hacked through to contain the blaze.
Trina’s neighbor’s apartment. The ceiling is gone, as the fire raced along the attic. This apartment is roped off as a scene of evidence collection.
Trina was talking to her dad on the phone when she started to smell smoke. Her husband Buddika Amila PG was at his work. She kept her dad on the phone as she checked for the source of the smell. The stove looked fine, closets had nothing going on. Then she saw smoke coming in from under her front door. She opened the door to find smoke in the hallway. She knocked on the door of her neighbor across the hall, but they were sleeping. Somehow later, she was able to rouse them to get them out of the building as she called 911. Her neighbor also had two dogs and a cat. One of the dogs would not survive, Trina told ALBB.
Meanwhile, according to reports, the Newburgh Fire Department could see the smoke rising from her building across the river. The Newburgh Fire Department called the Beacon Fire Department, who was at the scene 3 minutes later, according to Midhudson News.
Trina and Amila’s bedroom, where the fire fighters crashed through the window to control the fire, which came from the attic.
Reluctantly, Trina went outside as Beacon Police arrived. She didn’t take anything with her, which she regretted, as everything would get destroyed inside. She was in a haze as she filmed the smoke. She fretted about everything inside. Their passports. Her art papers. Her tools to burn intricate designs into wood. Their wedding clothes from their December union. The numerous bed-sheets and dresses her mom hand-embroidered from Sri Lanka.
Multiple fire departments responded to the fire. Newburgh City, Village of Fishkill and Castle Point Departments responded under Mutual Aid. Glenham and Rombout Fire Departments responded to the scene with the third alarm sounded, along with Coldenham as the FAST Team (Firefighter Assist Search Team).
Trina pointing to her former bedroom window, where firefighters crashed through it to contain the blaze.
Trina told ALBB that she knew it was over when firefighters crashed the glass in her bedroom window, clearing everything to control the fire. She said she can’t forget the glass crashing out. She keeps seeing it replay in her mind.
The fire was found in the attic space above four apartments, and spread quickly, said Beacon Fire Chief Thomas Lucchesi. The Chief reached out to Captain Jesseyna Wiand of Beacon’s Salvation Army, requesting assistance to house the residents immediately displaced from their apartment units. Beacon’s Salvation Army church has a gym inside that they rent out to groups and individuals, and other spaces. “The Fire Chief called me to ask if it would be possible to use our building as a base for the Red Cross,” Captain Jesseyna told ALBB. “I knew I had the space and said absolutely. I met them at the church and begun clearing rooms. I canceled our senior program and basketball for the week.”
According to Captain Jesseyna, “There are 8 units that will not be able to go back home until around a year! A few others were affected by water/smoke/ or holes put in walls/ceilings to ensure the fire was completely out. The other units in that section cannot go home quite yet because water/gas/electric has been shut off. The Salvation Army provided shelter for those with no where to go and acted as a base where people could come to receive services and ask questions.”
The Red Cross assisted by taking information from the residents to provide small immediate financial assistance, and recommendations for therapists for the trauma incurred. Trina and Amila received $640.
Captain Jesseyna expanded to ALBB: “The Red Cross was able to provide some limited funding to those who lost everything. Their intake is finished, and now comes the long haul part. The residents effected have agreed to have their information shared with partner agencies, so in the coming days, I’ll be receiving information for all of those effected. From there we can determine what sort of help is needed and then how we can help.”
Captain Jesseyna has also been on the receiving end of those looking to donate clothing and other things. “Community members have begun reaching out to see how they could help so that is helpful! I know some lost everything and have nothing but the clothes on their backs. Eventually, I’d like to set up a receiving station for people to drop off new or cleaned, gently used clothes for people to go through. Once I am able to get in contact with those affected, I’ll be better suited to ask for the best help.”
Trina and Amila lost all of their clothes, and did purchase sweatsuits at Walmart. They also lost all four of their wedding outfits, and their crowns, which in their Hindu faith, deems the crowns unusable in a house fire. The white crowns are in the second photo below. Finding rent, new security deposits, and broker fees for their new apartment search has been challenging. Not to mention the furniture they no longer have. They did not have renters insurance.
“I feel like invisible,” Trina told ALBB. “I can’t eat anything or I can’t even move my body.” While not physically injured, Trina was emotionally impacted by the devastation and what she saw.
With gentle nudging and support from those around her, Trina has returned to work at Tara Fusion Cuisine in the Hudson Valley Food Hall for unknown hours. Her eyes still light up at the challenge of feeding someone Sri Lankan / Bangladeshi food for the first time. If she’s there, give her a hug and place a big order. With patience for her to complete.
3/24/2024 Update: A donation page has been set up for Trina and Amila. Donate here >
Today we took time to step through the soggy floor of one of the the destroyed apartments in Colonial Springs, which are next to Tompkins Terrace and the future Edgewater, all of which overlook the Hudson River.
On Tuesday, a fire raged through the attics of multiple apartments, the early smoke of which was reportedly first seen by Newburgh's fire department across the Hudson River, who alerted Beacon's fire department. Several other fire companies assisted in putting out the fire, but everyone living in Building 3 needed to evacuate the property for an undetermined amount of time. One apartment was that of Trina Mazumber, owner of Tara Fusion Cuisine at the Hudson Valley Food Hall. You've seen pictures of Trina's creations in this newsletter, as Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor of the Restaurant Guide. ALBB is working on that article now, so that you can learn more.
While ALBB is off reporting, do you want to be sure your event gets listed? Or that your business can support the community by making sure the word gets out about Kids Activities?
We have Sponsor Opportunities going on now.
KIDS SPORTS GUIDE Business Sponsor:The Kids Sports Guide gathers all of those elusive registration links and start dates into one place. Businesses can sponsor, which helps ALBB do this research to make it easily available to the community. Reserve your Sponsor Spot here > League Sponsor: Rise above the rest in this competitive market of Spring Sports Signups. Activate your featured listing here >
The Beacon Sloop Club’s 2024 Lecture Series: Commercial Fishing on the Hudson River w/ John Mylod Day: Thursday, March 21, 2024 Time: 7pm/ 8:30pm Location: 2 Red Flynn Dr., Beacon, NY
John Mylod, is one of the last commercial fishermen on the Hudson River. He will discuss the natural history of shad, herring, sturgeon, blue crabs, and the history of the Hudson River fishery. Information >
NYC Loves Abortion Day: Saturday, March 23, 2024 Time: 10am Location: Foley Square, Manhattan
Reproductive justice, stands for Palestinian Liberation, Queer Liberation, Racial Justice, and Economic Justice. "They cannot divide us for we are united in our struggle"
Free Palestine Community Iftar Day: Sunday, March 24, 2024 Time: 7-9pm Location: Middletown Islamic Center
Free community dinner and fundraiser for Gaza to break the fast during Ramadan Information >
Disrupt The Normalcy Day: Sunday, March 24, 2024 Time: 12-3pm Location: Harriet Tubman Park, 71 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY (off of East-West Arterial, aka Church Street, aka Route 44)
Since The United States can’t get their Ceasefire Resolution right (hear from Guyana on what is wrong with the resolution) the protesters demanding a local ceasefire has moved to Poughkeepsie to demand a resolution and vote from their council. Information >
Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturdays @ Boscobell :: 10am - 1pm
Beacon Farmer's Market! Sundays from 10am-3pm at 223 Main Street Beacon Flea Market! Every Fair Weather Sunday from 8am-3pm at Henry Street (behind the Post Office).
Seeds Of Resistance! Calling All Hudson Valley Creatives!
Submit to our Zine!
Creators of all kinds and ages are encouraged to submit Submission Deadline: April 1, 2024 at 11:59pm
Size Parameters: 8.5 x 5.5” and 300 DPI Link to Submit >
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
If you missed it on our Instagram... please welcome Moreish to the Hudson Valley Food Hall! The newest addition to the food hall serving British classics... yum! Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
It's time to make plans! You can join the Carters crew on Easter Sunday ! What better way to brunch on Easter?! We highly recommend reservations: 845-743-6527 PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday 2-5pm. 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
The fact that we can get this delicious sandwich from BBC SEVEN DAYS/WEEK makes our hearts so happy! BBC offers a variety of bread loaves and pastries made daily! Full service coffee bar also available with many delicious seasonal flavors on deck! It almost sounds too good to be true. PS!* All city workers, police, highway department, and parks and recreation get $1 coffees and $5 egg sandwiches (takeout only)! Just when you thought it couldn't get any better. PPS: BBC is open everyday 7 days/week! PPPS: 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
Fresh made hummus with imported ingredients and authentic family recipes. A true delicious and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. All dishes at Ziatun are made with unique and fresh ingredients. The platters are a great option for trying many different things but do ask for suggestions if you're not sure! Your belly will thank you. 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!
Feature your business each week in A Little Beacon Blog's Newsletter, Blog pages, and Instagram. People often use this newsletter to tell their friends where to go, and get ideas for themselves on what to order. This is a very hungry guide to put together each week. Learn More & Start Now >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm @ Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturday's Website > Instagram >
Take a peep of our Easter lineup! Fresh from our farm. Eggberts Free Range Farm has lamb, beef, pork and eggs all available this weekend and next for your holiday meal enjoyment!
*All of Eggberts meats are processed by humane USDA facilities.* DELIVERY: Delivering to Cold Spring, Cornwall, New Windsor, Newburgh, Beacon, Fishkill, and Wappingers Falls. Order online now. MARKETS: Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 10am - 2pm Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
They're the one and only Luxe Optique Opticians, of course they love their patients & want to get matching Jacques Marie Mage frames with them! 🤩 Okay, but, really, the sun is making it's way out! New sunglasses? Yes, you deserve them.
Hudson, NY Beacon, NY PS: Eye doctor appts 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
See anything you like? We always do! Good books are always available. Something for everyone - including the kiddos. Books that indeed fly off the shelf because they're always so good. Stop in, ask for recommendations, step out of your comfort zone, read something new. PS have you heard about the Beacon Prison Books Project? See more here > Follow Binnacle on Instagram to keep up with their new reads and to get them right away! Learn More about Binnacle Books >
THE STATION
463 Main Street, Beacon
Hey buds! The vibes are high at The Station! They're gearing up to open their full-service facilities, to bring you an elevated experience like never before. Get ready for a whole new level of audio & visual bliss, premium products, and an atmosphere that'll make every visit unforgettable! Stay tuned for updates as they embark on this exciting next chapter. Learn More here > The Station is a Sponsor, thank you!
Feature your business each week in A Little Beacon Blog's Newsletter, Blog pages, and Instagram. Readers love seen the magazine-like spread of what to buy inside of your shops, or if you have special classes or events going on. Learn More & Start Now >
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.
Just completed a photo shoot this week for the new vintage shop in Fishkill, Dirty Work Vintage, owned by Beacon-based Amy Blair. Styling possibilities for the models was endless. Look forward to these photos on Dirty Work Vintage's Shopify website that Katie James Inc. is also designing. Learn More & Reach Out > We have spots open!
TIN SHINGLE
Plan ahead with big picture storytelling with Tin Shingle's 2024 Editorial Content Planner. Contain your article ideas and coordinate with your team so that you can publish your own articles on your own website and social media channels. 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)
AVAILABLE GUIDES TO SPONSOR: These Guides really need the ongoing support from businesses or individuals in order for us to continue them! This sponsorship is intended for businesses who are not in the Guides mentioned above.
Believe it or not, it's time to sign up for Summer Camp! We have been working hard to update dates and age groups for you!
With the Hudson Valley and Beacon in particular being so rich in the arts, agriculture and a great outdoors scene, options for summer day camps are plentiful. BUT, they also book up quick!
Since The United States can’t get their Ceasefire Resolution right (hear from Guyana on what is wrong with the resolution) the protesters demanding a local ceasefire has moved to Poughkeepsie to demand a resolution and vote from their council.
Where: Harriet Tubman Park, 71 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY (off of East-West Arterial, aka Church Street, aka Route 44). Time: 12-3pm
Protesters will safely occupy the wide, flat sidewalks. There will be cars driving by, so please stay on the sidewalks if you are protesting. If you cannot stand, but can drive through, do honk your horn!!
If you need more reasons to be vocal about liberating Palestine, visit A Little Beacon Blog’s Instagram. All of our posts have been there in the essence of time. We are doing our best to bring them here to the blog for you, for longevity, and for ease of use for sharing to people who aren’t on social media.
Beacon Elks Lodge #1493 have been distributing dictionaries to students for years. It’s that time of year for the gift to be given again. The Beacon Elks Lodge #1493 distributed dictionaries to three Fishkill-area elementary schools on December 13, 2023.
More than 215 dictionaries were distributed between Fishkill, Fishkill Plains, and Gayhead Elementary Schools. The Beacon Elks purchased the dictionaries using an Elks National Foundation’s Gratitude Grant. This grant ranges between $2,000-$2,500 and offers an opportunity for local Elks to think about how best to serve their community and make it stronger.
“We used this Gratitude Grant to advance education in our community,” said Jennifer Velez, Exalted Ruler, Beacon Elks Lodge #1493. “Since April 2023, we’ve provided dictionaries for students in Beacon City, Wappingers Central, and Haldane School Districts.
For more information on the Beacon Elks Youth Activities Committee or community service and outreach, contact Robert K. Lanier, Public Relations Chair.
Pictured Above: Fishkill Elementary Students; Ashley Lebit, teacher; Cathy Oken, Youth Activities Chair; and Jeanine McAuley, Esteemed Loyal Knight. Not pictured are Carl Oken, Past District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler, and Scott Birkler, Past Exalted Ruler, who helped with the dictionary distribution.
The Beacon Elks Lodge #1493 recognized sixth, seventh, and eighth grade “Students of the Month” and “Teachers of the Month” – for the months of December 2023 and January 2024 – at Rombout Middle School, on February 21, 2024.
The students received a certificate and gift card for their accomplishments. The teachers were selected by their students in recognition of encouragement and for making education fun. Teachers received a certificate. Glazed Over Donuts co-sponsored this event with the Elks.
Students and Teachers pictured above are: Front row – Teachers Laura Briehof and Kristen Simms, and Kyran Patino (6th Grade/DEC 2023 recipient.); DeJuan Rigby (7th Grade/DEC 2023 recipient); Victoria Maruggi (8th Grade/DEC 2023 recipient); Qahtan Murshed (6th Grade/ JAN 2024 recipient); Pixie Kimberg (7th Grade/JAN 2024 recipient); Kaylyn Adusei (8th Grade/JAN 2024 recipient); Mr. ___ Joyce, teacher – DEC 2023 recipient); Ainsa Alzate teacher – JAN 2024 recipient; back row – Sharon Haviland, Beacon Elks Lodge Chaplain; Cathy Oken, Beacon Elks Lodge Youth Activities Chair; and Jeanine McAuley, Beacon Elks Lodge Esteemed Loyal Knight.
During last night’s City Council Meeting (3-18-2024) in what was expected to be a easy passage of two requests from NAMI Mid-Hudson to pass a Proclamation to make May Mental Health Awareness Month in Beacon, as well as NAMI’s once-annual public service ribbon and yard sign campaign to promote awareness about their services for families living with special needs from mental health considerations, as well as to reduce the stigma on mental health which can reduce the likelihood that people seek out support, the executive team at NAMI Mid-Hudson was met with resistance by Beacon’s City Administrator Chris White, stating that he wanted to preserve Beacon’s lampposts from the PSA ribbons, and intended to restrict NAMI’s temporary PSA lawn signs from being distributed, citing zoning code, without identifying which code number or how the code was being interpreted.
Executive Director George Czornyj and Program Director Jo Ann Brown were presenting. NAMI’s ribbon and sign campaign has happened in Beacon from 2014-2022. During the meeting, it was also discovered that NAMI had been denied permission in 2023 to hang their white ribbons in Beacon. NAMI’s ribbon work in other municipalities continues.
After NAMI Mid-Hudson’s presentation on why the ribbon campaign was so crucial to reaching new people, City Administrator Chris told the Council: “I would like to have a conversation at Workshop because the lawn signs are not allowed under a code. We have also had a multi-year campaign to try get our lampposts back into shape. Some of those are being painted. We did not approve this last year. I would like the opportunity to chime in at a Workshop.”
Mayor Lee Kyriacou, who has a daughter with Autism, did not disagree, replying: “Great. We can certainly do a Proclamation. That is certainly not a problem.”
Councilmember Amber Grant spoke up: "Yeah, I would like to discuss. I appreciate the lampposts and all that. Maybe there's some trees or other things we can identify that would be a way to show support without necessarily impacting the light posts and all of that. I look forward to discussing."
Councilmember Paloma Wake agreed: "I would like to second what Amber said."
The impact of ribbons on the lampposts will be discussed at a later Workshop. City Administrator Chris did not cite which zoning code the lawn signs did not comply with. Could be 183-2, or 223-15 Signs. City Administrator Chris has been known to target other signs of other entities. It is unclear if his sign targeting is balanced to all who put out signs for designated reasons, or targeted to his digression. For instance, temporary green shamrocks were secured onto lampposts by the Parade of Green, a committee member of that organization said, which was granted by the City of Beacon.
Which Zoning Code In Question Disallows the Lawn Signs?
Possible sign codes City Administrator Chris is referring to may include 223-15, and do not seem to indicate that the white ribbons and lawn signs would be in non-compliance:
F. Temporary signs.
(1) A temporary sign is a nonilluminated sign that is used in connection with a circumstance, situation or event that is designed, intended or expected to take place or to be completed within a reasonably short or definite period after the erection of such sign, such as signs displayed during campaigns, drives or events of civic, political, philanthropic, educational or religious institutions. If such sign display area is permanent but the message displayed is subject to periodic changes, that sign shall not be regarded as "temporary." Unless otherwise provided in this section, signs shall not be considered temporary if they are effectively displayed on an ongoing basis, interrupted by short intervals when they are not displayed. Temporary signs shall not require a permit under this section, unless located in the public right-of-way or on public property.
For instance, a grand opening looks to be protected in Section F 4-C:
Signs indicating that a special event such as a grand opening, fair, carnival, circus, festival or similar event is taking place on the lot where the sign is located, not exceeding 40 square feet in area in nonresidence districts and six square feet in residence districts, and limited to one sign for each street frontage of the lot. The sign shall not be posted sooner than two weeks prior to the special event and shall be removed by the individual or organization which posted, or caused to be posted, such sign within three calendar days following the special event.
Perhaps the City’s Attorney will have a different interpretation at the next Workshop Meeting.
Partnership Background on NAMI Mid-Hudson and Beacon
“To be continued on how the health of the lampposts will be maintained or impacted by a PSA campaign to increase awareness about how to improve and maintain the mental health of humans.”
NAMI partners with the local organization I Am Beacon, which was co-created by Reuben Simmons, a 22 year employee of the City of Beacon in the Highway Department, who is mixed race and identifies as Black. City Administrator Chris has spent close to $200,000 in Employee Discipline to terminate Reuben, for reasons not clear or proven in hearings.
According to I Am Beacon, in 2023, NAMI Mid-Hudson independently requested permission from the City of Beacon to run their ribbon campaign. NAMI has partnered on the campaign with I Am Beacon since 2014, and was on the Planning Committee for the mental health awareness concert that I Am Beacon organized, called Rock Out 4 Mental Health, of which A Little Beacon Blog also participated on the Planning Committee. “Last year,” said I Am Beacon, “we thought permission for the campaign would be pretty straightforward. We told NAMI to just go ask for permission. We were surprised when they were denied last year.”
This year, I Am Beacon decided to present with NAMI Mid-Hudson during a public City Council Meeting on 3-18-2024, so that everyone could learn about NAMI Mid-Hudson and learn about why their ribbon and lawn sign campaign is necessary. This slide-deck was produced, that contains many resources for families, and testimonials from individuals who have benefited from NAMI’s resources.
Mental Health Needs Are Large In Beacon
Beacon citizens know each other on the sidewalk. Whether they live in houses or apartments or not. Beacon citizens know which of us need a little extra help and compassion. It is not always very obvious who to call when someone is in distress.
For instance: ALBB witnessed what looked to be a father/son (or caregiver/young adult) in a combative situation coming out of the Telephone Building on S. Brett and Main Street. The man dragged the younger man out of the building in a chokehold, and then punched him in the face. A struggle ensued, where the younger man fell to the ground, was mainly calm and limp, until being stuffed into a car, where he resisted. The younger may have be Autistic. ALBB got it on video and a civilian called the police. The police arrived and were told by the man that it was a family situation, and was handled.
ALBB sent the video to the police in the hopes of filing a Police Report, not knowing if that was even the best thing to do. Information was submitted to the police, but no followup has happened. It left those of us who saw the incident feeling helpless for the young man, and for the older man who seemed to not be handling the situation in an educated manner. Hitting someone into obedience is not the answer.
During NAMI’s presentation last night, they stressed the value of calling the Dutchess County Help Line to get guidance to resources by calling 988 or 845-485-9700. The ribbons and lawn signs can help provide the visual for this awareness.
NAMI Mid-Hudson Answers Mental Health Needs In Beacon City School District.
NAMI Mid-Hudson presented to Beacon High School for their United Way Audit in November 2021, which you can read in their packet. Right after the presentation, a teacher, sent NAMI this success story:
"I am writing this letter hoping those that read it will understand the value of NAMI Mid-Hudson's ETS program along with Jo Ann Brown and her young adult presenters to the Beacon City School District Community. In my 15 years of teaching, I have not found a more valuable resource. ETS gives students real life examples. It extends what we teach in health class with relatable real life stories. They literally get resources and a Trusted Adult List in their hands. The students are listening! This presentation gave me the tools to work with students and what I have learned helped me to save a student.”
The letter went on to say how a student on a hybrid call reached out to the teacher during the call because they were feeling very troubled and needed help. The teacher said they felt comfortable asking the student questions in order to get answers that got the student help. The teacher said that the questions they asked were because of the information they got from NAMI.
To Be Continued…
To be continued on how the health of the lampposts will be maintained or impacted by a PSA campaign to increase awareness about how to improve and maintain the mental health of humans.
Tonight's City Council Meeting Agenda (3-18-2024 at 7pm) has been published to ALBB's Easy Access Local Government section.
The following will be addressed tonight:
COMMUNITY SEGMENT:
- Honoring of Pat Kelliher for 54 years of service as a Volunteer Firefighter
- NAMI Mid-Hudson Presentation on Mental Health Resources
PUBLIC HEARING
- Public Hearing for a Proposed Local Law Concerning Minimum Parking Requirements (to be adjourned to April 15, 2024)
PUBLIC COMMENT
Where the public can speak on any topic for 3 minutes per person.
REPORTS
Where the table gives their reports. Includes: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator
LOCAL LAWS & RESOLUTIONS BEING VOTED ON TONIGHT:
- Resolution No. 31 - Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute an Extension Agreement with Royal Carting Service Co. for Waste Collection.
This is an extension of the existing contract from 2018, which raises no rates since 2018.
- Resolution No. 32 - Setting a Public Hearing for the 3-5 Henry Street Restore New York Grant
The former auto-body shop on Henry Street has new owners, GARAGEWorks, who want to rehabilitate the 10,850 square feet of an otherwise vacant commercial space to be used for artist studios and community programming. GARAGEWorks wants to apply for the Restore NY Communities Initiative (Restore NY) grant released by Empire State Development (ESD). The grant requires a Public Hearing. This meeting will vote to set the Public Hearing.
Happy Ramadan which started on March 10th, and happy St. Patrick's Day. For those breaking fast for Ramadan, Tara Fusion Cuisine, the Sri Lankan/Bangladeshi spot in the Hudson Valley Food Hall is featuring a Halal Iftar Combo (mmmm!) you want to run to, not walk. Included is one piece chicken samosa, fruits and dates, with chicken over rice topped with homemade white sauce, side salad and sumac dressing.
Summer Camp Planning is in full swing! One of Yanarella's themes has already sold out, but they have another one still available! ALBB's Summer Camp Guide is organized by Weeks of the Summer, Age, and Type of camp. Search by date if you know you need to fill a week. New camp sessions dates are coming in weekly as programs make final decisions. CAMPS: Feature opportunities are available to add photos and Instagram features. See here for details > BUSINESSES: Sponsor opportunities are available to reach parents and caregivers. See here for details >
Disrupt The Normalcy
Free Palestine, Ceasefire Now, End The Genocide, End The Occupation, End The Blockade
Day: Sunday, March 17, 2024 Time: 12pm-3pm (leaves at 11:15 am) Location: Beacon Caravan, Polhill Park, Beacon, NY
Protest in Poughkeepsie, Harriet Tubman Park from 12-3pm
Pat Ryan To Be At Betty's
Day: Sunday, March 17, 2024 Time: 12pm-3pm (leaves at 11:15 am) Location: Beacon Caravan, Polhill Park, Beacon, NY
Protest in Poughkeepsie, Harriet Tubman Park from 12-3pm
The Beacon Sloop Club’s 2024 Lecture Series: Commercial Fishing on the Hudson River w/ John Mylod Day: Thursday, March 21, 2024 Time: 7pm/ 8:30pm Location: 2 Red Flynn Dr., Beacon, NY
John Mylod, is one of the last commercial fishermen on the Hudson River. He will discuss the natural history of shad, herring, sturgeon, blue crabs, and the history of the Hudson River fishery. 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).
These disruptions happen every Saturday or Sunday. Click on them for details.
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY
Yanarella Dance 2024 summer dance camp registration is OPEN on their website! Register before April 1st and receive $10 off! The Taylor Swift theme camp is SOLD OUT.
3-5 year olds can dance, sing and play to their Bluey themed camp! Taylor Swift themed camp is now full!
Seeds Of Resistance! Calling All Hudson Valley Creatives!
Submit to our Zine!
Creators of all kinds and ages are encouraged to submit Submission Deadline: April 1, 2024 at 11:59pm
Size Parameters: 8.5 x 5.5” and 300 DPI Link to Submit >
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
This weekend, you need the delicious beefy fries with homemade white & green sauce from Tara Fusion! Mouth watering! Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
It's the perfect weekend for a soft and toasty Brown Ale from Carters! This local favorite is 1 of 11 craft beers that Carter's has available (with a frosted glass, of course). Pair this with something from the specials menu! PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday 2-5pm. 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
A new favorite scone at BBC! Blackberries, almonds, and white chocolate. A true dream combination 🤩 Plus... Beacon Bread Company is now open 7 days a week from 8am-5pm serving freshly baked bread and home-cooked meals from scratch! They continue to offer a variety of bread loaves and pastries made daily. Their cafe includes quick-order seating and an espresso bar. Adjacent to the cafe, their full-service restaurant and bar serve breakfast, lunch, coffees, and libations all day! PS: BBC is open everyday 7 days/week! 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
Ziatun is one of our favorite places to stop into for delicious authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. You can taste the fresh ingredients served in every dish along with the love! The platters are a great option for trying many different things but do ask for suggestions if you're not sure! Your belly will thank you. 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!
Feature your business each week in A Little Beacon Blog's Newsletter, Blog pages, and Instagram. People often use this newsletter to tell their friends where to go, and get ideas for themselves on what to order. This is a very hungry guide to put together each week. Learn More & Start Now >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm @ Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturday's Website > Instagram >
Real beef hotdogs? Yup! At Eggbert’s, beef hot dogs are the best because they use ALL beef, no preservatives, GMO, plastic (yeah…plastic…store bought uses plastic to encase the hot dogs). You can taste the difference! Hot dog season is approaching and we're ready to eat them all from Eggberts!
Find them hot at both markets to enjoy on the go. And buy a package for home. DELIVERY: Delivering to Cold Spring, Cornwall, New Windsor, Newburgh, Beacon, Fishkill, and Wappingers Falls. Order online now. MARKETS: Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 10am - 2pm Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon
The details on these Chrome Hearts sunglasses Featuring Optician Robert! Stop into Luxe Optique and he’ll assist you in finding your perfect Chrome Hearts fit! Spring is coming = new sunglasses becuase why not?
Hudson, NY Beacon, NY PS: Eye doctor appts 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
As always, there are lots of new books at Binnacle! A read for everyone including the kiddos. Books that indeed fly off the shelf because they're always so good. Get your hands on this one before we do! PS have you heard about the Beacon Prison Books Project? See more here > 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!
Feature your business each week in A Little Beacon Blog's Newsletter, Blog pages, and Instagram. Readers love seen the magazine-like spread of what to buy inside of your shops, or if you have special classes or events going on. Learn More & Start Now >
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.
Just completed a photo shoot this week for the new vintage shop in Fishkill, Dirty Work Vintage, owned by Beacon-based Amy Blair. Styling possibilities for the models was endless. Look forward to these photos on Dirty Work Vintage's Shopify website that Katie James Inc. is also designing. Learn More & Reach Out > We have spots open!
TIN SHINGLE
Plan ahead with big picture storytelling with Tin Shingle's 2024 Editorial Content Planner. Contain your article ideas and coordinate with your team so that you can publish your own articles on your own website and social media channels. 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)
AVAILABLE GUIDES TO SPONSOR: These Guides really need the ongoing support from businesses or individuals in order for us to continue them! This sponsorship is intended for businesses who are not in the Guides mentioned above.
Believe it or not, it's time to sign up for Summer Camp! We have been working hard to update dates and age groups for you!
With the Hudson Valley and Beacon in particular being so rich in the arts, agriculture and a great outdoors scene, options for summer day camps are plentiful. BUT, they also book up quick!
Hello. This is the first of our Palestinian coverage that we have been producing at our Instagram. Since October 7th, in between local articles, we curate news articles about Palestine, and post them in collections. The tone is different than here at the blog. ALBB’s tone at Instagram has grown more personal. We start each Palestine group post with this “little gaza news” graphic, and a description that sets the guidance for the posts to come.
From ALBB’s Instagram:
“Today at ALBB was supposed to be about bringing you the news about the Cold Spring Farmers Market. But today so many pictures of Palestinian children burned bombed in the most unusual way surfaced. As well as more pictures of more children starving to death. As Joe Biden allows this to go on. And says that building a pier along side Gaza is the solution. It is not a solution. Ceasefire and End the Occupation is the answer. We, people in Beacon and all of the United States, are paying for this. At the very least, that can be why you care.
“This year, Katie is practicing Ramadan for the first time. She’s wanted to for years. And so just decided. Already had been reading the Quran and praying multiple times a day. It has been a beautiful experience so far. Only day 3 (or 4? brain gets scrambled when hungry.)
“Hunger. Hunger. Water. The people of Gaza have no water. Remember? Months ago they had no water. Months. Food. No food. Hardly any food. Israel denies all the food. Israel shoots people trying to get food (a video has surfaced of the massacre). Remember The Flour Massacre?
“Today, 50 people were shot from an Israeli helicopter. For fun. For sport. Israeli leadership has stated many times that they aim to clear all of Palestine out. This is the 2nd Nakba. So. That’s what this is. Call me anything you want here in Beacon. “White Power Hamas.” “Terrorist Apologist” “Hamas Supporter.” I am not alone. We are surrounded by people trying to stop this heinous homicide. Don’t cover your eyes or plug your ears for the next news photos. Hopefully “a little Gaza News” will get happier soon. If you want a Ceasefire / End The Occupation sign ALBB produced, let us know. We can keep printing them. Hang one in your room. Your office. Wherever you want.”
Posts From This Curation:
Little girl gets burn bombed. What children look like when their bodies are covered in burns from these burns that the United States supplies Israel with.
An Israeli Apache helicopter opened fire towards thousands of hungry Palestinians at Al Kuwait roundabout in northern Gaza while they were waiting for aid, killing at least 50 of them.
by Arvind Dilawar Arvind Dilawar is an independent journalist. His articles, interviews and essays on everything from the spacesuits of the future to love in the time of visas have appeared in The New York Times, Time Magazine, The Daily Beast and elsewhere. He was also formerly a columnist at Pacific Standard.
Of the six congressional districts that include Hudson Valley counties, only one is on track for an election in which neither candidate has received funding from pro-Israel lobbyists. In Beacon’s District 18, two potential candidates have each received money from pro-Israel lobbyists: current Congressman Pat Ryan, and Republican hopeful Alison Esposito.
“Ryan expresses his opposition to even non-violent protest against the Israeli occupation of Palestine, as advocated by the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. Unsurprisingly, Ryan has yet to endorse a ceasefire in Gaza, which is supported by at least 69 other members of Congress, according to the Working Families Party at the time of this writing.”
In all of the other districts, candidates from one party or the other have received the endorsement — and financing — of the bipartisan American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), Republican Jewish Coalition or Democratic Majority For Israel (DMFI). This avalanche of lobbying comes amid the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza, which has claimed the lives of at least 29,954 Palestinians, including 12,300 children and 8,400 women, according to Al Jazeera at the time of this writing.
Although AIPAC, RJC and DMFI target different segments of the political spectrum, their functions are essentially the same: to funnel funds to politicians who commit the United States to continue sending billions of dollars in military assistance to Israel and deploying both its military (e.g. warships in the Red Sea) and diplomacy (veto at the United Nations Security Council) to fend off challenges to Israel’s decades-long occupation of Palestinian territory in the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem.
In New York's 18th congressional district, which includes Beacon, Democratic incumbent Pat Ryan and Republican forerunner Alison Esposito have both received endorsements from pro-Israel lobbyists. As the two are likely to advance to the general election, district voters will be left with no choice independent of pro-Israel lobbyists from either major political party come November.
Ryan is endorsed by both AIPAC and DMFI, and his campaign received at least $69,800 from the former for the current election cycle, per the Federal Election Commission. (According to FEC reports, DMFI has yet to financially contribute to Ryan’s campaign.) In his position paper on US-Israeli relations — which AIPAC requires of every candidate seeking endorsement — Ryan expresses his opposition to even non-violent protest against the Israeli occupation of Palestine, as advocated by the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. Unsurprisingly, Ryan has yet to endorse a ceasefire in Gaza, which is supported by at least 69 other members of Congress, according to the Working Families Party at the time of this writing.
Esposito is endorsed by RJC, which has contributed at least $42,601 to her campaign thus far, per the FEC. She is currently the forerunner in the district’s Republican primary and therefore most likely to face Ryan in the general election.
These are the other candidates in Hudson Valley districts who have received endorsements from AIPAC, RJC and/or DMFI this election cycle — and how much money they’ve received, per the FEC:
NY-16 (Westchester): Democratic challenger George Latimer is endorsed by AIPAC, which contributed at least $1,195,456.45 to his campaign.
NY-17 (Rockland, Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess): Republican incumbent Mike Lawler is endorsed by both AIPAC and RJC, which together contributed at least $7,375 to his re-election campaign.
NY-19 (Ulster, Green, Columbia): Republican incumbent Marc Molinaro is endorsed by both AIPAC and RJC, which together contributed at least $8,000 to his re-election campaign.
NY-21 (Rensselaer): Republican incumbent Elise Stefanik is endorsed by both AIPAC and RJC, which together contributed at least $269,649.48 to her re-election campaign.
Altogether, AIPAC, RJC and DMFI have given more than $1.5 million to candidates in the Hudson Valley for this election cycle — and that’s only counting contributions up to the end of 2023, as FEC reports for 2024 have yet to start rolling in.
With AIPAC demanding that the United States “give Israel the time, resources and support to win this war,” this widespread lobbying is being explicitly tied to the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza by the lobbyists themselves, who want to ensure that US funding, military support and diplomatic cover allow the violence to continue. But these efforts should force voters in the Hudson Valley to question whether, alongside the thousands of civilians being starved and slaughtered, if it isn’t the United States’ democracy that’s dying in Gaza too.
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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.
