Registrations are open for the Beacon High School Career Fair 2024! This is a great chance to make an impression on kids in Beacon who are thinking about their careers at large, as well as local job prospects. Throughout the years, business regulars like Twins Barbershop, the Carpenters Union, drone flyers, A Little Beacon Blog, independent journalists and filmmakers, and others have tabled at this event.
“Last night, I had a dream that more artisans showed up this year,” said Katie, writer and publisher of A Little Beacon Blog. “They brought out tools and products they made for all to see.”
The annual career fair is on Friday, May 17th, 2024 from 10:30am to 1:30pm in the gymnasium. Signups free and are open for businesses, organizations, and individuals to participate.
Participants will be provided with a table (6 ft.) on which they can display items that represent their career/profession and which can serve as talking pieces with students.
Access to power is limited, but if needed, they will do their best to place you next to a power source. Some extension cords are available, but consider bringing your own.
Set-up and breakfast will begin at 9:30am. Lunch will be served around 11:30am.
This Press Release was distributed by the Beacon Coalition:
The Beacon Coalition was formed while trying to pass the Ceasefire Resolution in Beacon. They continue to send out updates. Below is their latest update:
“As the U.S. continues to undermine progress made towards a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, it is all the more important that we keep up local pressure. There are lots of ways to show up for Palestine this week at the ballot box, in local parks, online, and beyond. Starting with…”
LEAVE IT BLANK NY: Did you know that you can submit a blank ballotin the New York Presidential Democratic Primary on April 2nd (and in early voting), to send a strong signal to Biden that New Yorkers want a permanent ceasefire? While there is no uncommitted or write-in option in New York, blank ballots are counted, and we strongly encourage primary voters to use this powerful opportunity to make our voices heard for a ceasefire. Find out more information on the Leave it Blank Campaign here, and sign up to phone bank here The campaign needs all hands on deck between today and the April 2nd primary, and phone banking is a great way to connect with other New Yorkers about how our tax dollars should be invested at home, not funding the destruction of Gaza.
THIS WEEK:
SATURDAY 3/30 at 8PM: Land Day Vigil (Peace Park, New Paltz). In solidarity with the liberation of Palestine. Flowers & masks encouraged. More info here.
SUNDAY 3/31 from 12-3PM: Poughkeepsie Protest. Gather at Harriet Tubman Park (72 Market Street, Poughkeepsie) in support of Poughkeepsie’s ceasefire resolution.
FRIDAY 4/5 at 7PM: Community Iftar at the Newburgh Masjid (25 Washington Terrace, Newburgh). Community event organized by the Newburgh Masjid board and congregation. All are welcome regardless of faith, affiliation, etc. Please be sure to RSVP to info@newburghmasjid.orgso that the Masjid can prepare enough food for all to enjoy.
Finally, we’re still looking for folks who wrote to the Beacon City Council and/or who spoke during public comment in support of Beacon’s ceasefire resolution tosubmit their written letters and speeches to this email address (beaconceasefirecoaltion@gmail.com). These submissions will be compiled and distributed in a public forum that may serve as a reference for other municipalities who are writing letters and speeches for their own councils. So, please be sure to include in your email whether you’d like to be named as the author of your piece in this public compilation (and by what name if so), or if you prefer to remain anonymous.
Thank you SO MUCH for voting for us last year. ALBB was awarded Best Blog Of The Hudson Valley 2023 because you made it happen. You value our articles and commitments to promoting the Beacon business community.
This year, we are moving into the affordable housing community, because living in the affordable housing system is very difficult. It's not safe for our neighbors - there are many loopholes they can fall victim to. Your financial contributions to ALBB help make this happen.
ALBB is our business! We don't run a deli selling turkey sandwiches, we make a blog making blog articles that we don't get paid to do. We are sponsor and reader supported. Thank you for considering donating to us! We accept contributions in any amount! Love the $5 and even the $1,000! LOL. Somewhere in the lower middle.
Happy Easter Weekend! Hello Spring! Please enjoy this lovely walk through the hyacinths and tulips that you can buy.
ALBB'ss Kids Sports Guide is active with Registrations right now. This is a one-stop destination for all registration links and dates. Find Flag Football, Softball, Junior Baseball, and other league openings. Includes listings for Beacon and Fishkill.
We have Sponsor Opportunities going on now.
KIDS SPORTS GUIDE Business Sponsor: Businesses can sponsor to make this guide possible. Reserve your Sponsor Spot here > League Sponsor:
FREE: Submit your links and dates to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com.
ADVERTISE: Rise above the rest in this competitive market of Spring Sports Signups. Activate your featured listing here >
SUMMER CAMP GUIDE Business Sponsor: Businesses can sponsor to make this guide possible. Reserve your Sponsor Spot here > Camp Sponsor:
FREE: Submit your links and dates to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com.
ADVERTISE: Rise above the rest in this competitive market of Spring Sports Signups. Activate your featured listing here >
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
Hot Honey Wings? Get em! They're so unbelievably good!
PS... You can join the Carters crew this Easter Sunday ! What better way to brunch on Easter?! If you haven't done so already, you must make a reservation: 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
Start the weekend off on a sweeeet note with one of BBC's GIANT cinnamon rolls!
These babies are only on the counter while they last! 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. Support your local Palestinian Restaurant 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 >
Yanarella Dance Studio 312 Main St., Beacon, NY Summer Camp Registration >limited space available for Bluey Dance Camp
The Camp runs from July 29 - August 2 and includes a daily snack plus a craft! Currently on sale
Seniors Chair Yoga
Stretch, move and strengthen your body! Gain physical awareness and balance! Reduce stress and have fun. Location: Beacon Recreation Center 25 West Center Street, Beacon, NY When: Mondays and Fridays, Time: 9-9:45am Price: FREE
Dutchess County Office for the Aging Exercise Class
The Dutchess County Senior Exercise Program offers workout sessions for senior citizens in an effort to retain balance as well as bone density. Through strength training, seniors can shape their body and lose unwanted inches. Classes are conducted in a circle of 15-20 people using a chair for support and free weights. Location: Beacon Recreation Center 25 West Center Street, Beacon, NY When: Tuesday and Thursday, Time: 10am
Pre-Registration is Required. Call 845-486-2555
Tai Chi and Qigong
Beginner and Advanced levels available. Gentle movements to cultivate your mind and body. Tai Chi and Qigong are easy vitalizing exercises you can learn to restore and maintain your health. You can practice them regardless of your age or health. The postures and movements are natural, balanced and simple. Location: Beacon Recreation Center 25 West Center Street, Beacon, NY Times:
Sunday Beginners 9-10:30am
Sunday Advanced 10-30-12pm
Thursday Push Hands 9-10:30am More Info >
GEMMS
Growing and Empowering Myself and My Sisters Inc. Location: Beacon Recreation Center 25 West Center Street, Beacon, NY When: Mondays Times: 6-7pm, Rombout Middle School
7:15-8:15pm Beacon High School
gemmsinc.info@gmail.com
Defensive Driving Course Location: Beacon Recreation Center 23 West Center Street, Beacon, NY When: Monday 3/25/2024 When: Wednesday 3/27/2024
10% off major coverages on auto insurance for 3 years from date of course completion.
Skate Board Lessons
Skate instructor Andrew Singh is back with another exciting year of Spring Skate Lessons. Learn the basic fundamentals of skateboarding
5 Sessions Location: Ramps Skate Park, Memorial Park, Beacon, NY When: April 17-May 15 Time: 5-6pm Ages: 6-12
$100 residents
$120 non-residents
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 >
BCSD Student Film Festival
The BCSD Student Film Festival is open to all enrolled district students from grades K-12. All students need to take part is access to a smartphone. With the help of friends and family, students can make a short film no more than 2 minutes 30 seconds (including credits) and submit it to be included in this year’s Student Film Festival! Submission Deadline: April 8, 2024 Length: 2 minutes, 30 seconds More Info >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm @ Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturday's Website > Instagram >
It's not too late to grab some goods from Eggberts for Easter! Fresh from their farm... Eggberts Free Range Farm has lamb, beef, pork and eggs all available this weekend 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
Ryon and Mikey from Luxe Optique met with some of the brands they carry at their optiques and even some new ones! Get ready to see some new frames trickling in very soon! New summer shades aren't ready for ya!
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
from Bollingen, “Of Divers Arts” - Naum Gabo now available at Binnacle Books! 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.
You know what they say... new season, new website refresh! Your business is constantly changing and evolving and your website needs to reflect that. Your website is your most solid footprint for people to know what you do and how to buy from you. Social media accounts offer the emotional connection to your brand, and your website needs to reflect that energy. The designers and lead producer, Katie Hellmuth Martin, can guide you through this process and design you a website that both looks stunning, and works well to help people do what you need them to at your website. Learn More & Reach Out > We have spots open!
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle trains and empowers business owners, makers, artists and staff members in how to get the word out about their business. Be it a non-profit, special project, or even a major call to action, Tin Shingle’s training and community support gets people doing just that - on their own. Tin Shingle puts the power of PR, Social Media, SEO, and design theory directly into the hands of business owners, makers and artists by way of a flexible Media Kit Membership subscription that includes education, training, directories, media research lists and editorial calendars. 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)
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!
Got your running shoes on? We have a list of 5K races coming up for 2024! Including this weekend. Check them out >
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.
It was when someone called my parade car a “bomb” that I decided to open my moonroof to stand out my car during Beacon’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade, wearing my keffiyeh scarf in a traditionally knotted cover over my head, waving the Palestinian flag. My trusty sidekick and lead designer, Allie Bopp, at my side, driving. I’ve reported on racism in Beacon before at A Little Beacon Blog. Racism put upon Black and Brown community members, and racism put upon Arab community members. And then I personally experienced the insult calling in the parade. Most people in Beacon were supportive - giving big smiles and silent thumbs up. Some people called out “KATIE!” and “LITTLE BEACON BLOG!” and cheered. Some people who cheered during Black Lives Matter, were silent this year. New people cheered this year.
I remain proud to have represented Ireland’s unwavering support of Palestine’s freedom and dignity by riding with and waving the Palestinian flag, as Palestinians are murdered by homicidal Zionist maniacs who are in Israel, who are weaponizing the Jewish faith to do so. Some would argue my waving of the Palestinian flag spoke for Jewish people also, who are screaming for this to stop, and who feel that having a state is Israel does not mean protection for them, and has not since its settlement 75 years ago in 1948.
Now that I have “broken the 4th wall” as one reader put it, where I came out front and center on the blog in videos sometimes to talk about Palestine, I have had the racist insults thrown at me. However. Never did I have a better time at Beacon St. Paddy’s Day Parade. I didn’t think anything could top driving through the blizzard, but being called “White Power Hamas” by some racist genocide deniers, while simultaneously being cheered on and given many silent thumbs-ups by Beacon community members - this was something I will never forget.
Reporting on Islamaracism in Beacon and in Palestine has been enormously triggering and healing at the same time. To face it. To call it out. I know I’m not speaking only for myself. From the two speeches I gave at Beacon’s City Council Meetings, being one of 50 people pushing the City Council to draft and pass a Ceasefire Resolution, to reporting on local developments about it.
Ireland’s Consistent, Very Strong Support For A Free Palestine Presented In Instagrams
After the parade, an anonymous note written on pink post-it paper was sent to the house. The note asked for no Palestinian flags to be in the parade. At this point in the genocide, and the consistent movement for Palestinian liberation, to not carry a Palestinian flag in a St. Paddy’s Day parade would be uncivilized, and unIrish. Begging the question: why then are you at the parade? Foe the unofficial pub crawl? And the fun floats? Which are both good reasons! But also, Irish Pride includes Falestine Liberation 🇮🇪☘️🇵🇸.
There were other parade photos. Which were published in another local newspaper. Quite a few of them. But that newspaper didn’t publishing anything about the Palestinian flags waving. It’s like I’ve always said: I’m more interested in what that newspaper doesn’t publish, then what it does. Useful as it is sometimes.
“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.
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.
