After last night’s rain in Beacon and elsewhere, the air quality for the Lower and Upper Hudson Valley regions is Good, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) of New York State.
By Sunday night, the Times Union reported that The Whitehouse fire in Ulster County in the Town of Denning burned across 600 acres (there are 640 acres in a mile) and that 90% of the fire had been contained.
It took the work of 139 firefighters from 18 different fire companies and forest rangers to contain, the Times Union reported.
The day after Halloween, which in Beacon means the air is filled with the comforting smell of a warm fire from driveway or backyard fire pits, Mayor Lee Kyriacou issued a burn ban to protect dry yards and the area from catching fire due to the dry and windy conditions. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar issued a Drought Watch for downstate New York, as wildfires burn around the region.
The City's robo-system contacted subscribers saying: "Due to the extended dry weather and high risk of fire, the Mayor has issued an executive order, effective November 1st, banning all outdoor fires, including campfires. For more information and a copy of the executive order, please visit beaconny.gov. The order will be in effect until November 6th, at which time it may be extended, if necessary. Thank you for your cooperation."
On November 8th, the City of Beacon published a Proclamation issuing an Emergency Order under the November 1st 2024 State of Emergency, explaining the reason for the order. The Mayor stated: "I declared a State of Emergency in the City of Beacon due to extreme drought conditions, wind and an areawide increase of wildfires which threaten the public health, safety and welfare of our citizens and private property."
On November 8th, the City sated in that Proclamation that the Executive Order will remain in effect until it expires, is rescinded or further extended. After the initial Emergency Order was issued, the City announced that the order would be evaluated and extended: “The City of Beacon is extending the ban on all outdoor burning until further notice. The Emergency Order has been reissued and will be renewed every 5 days as required until the risk of fire decreases.”
The City of Beacon also published an Air Quality advisory chart, which stated that on Sunday, November 10th, the air quality in the Lower Hudson Valley region was ranked “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups,” which includes a warning of “fine particles” in the air. Anyone riding their bike may have noticed floating ash or other particles that were not bugs flying into their mouths.
People with asthma or people in general may want to consider wearing a mask when the air quality level is low and includes fine particles from burning ash.
"Mommy, it smells like smoke outside. Is someone burning something in their yard?"
"No sweetie, parts of the Hudson Valley forests are burning."
On November 1st, City of Beacon Mayor Lee Kyriacou declared a State of Emergency in the City of Beacon "due to extreme drought conditions, wind, and an areawide increase of wildfires which threaten the public health, safety and welfare of our citizens and private property." At the same time, he issued an Emergency Order banning all exterior open burning until November 6th. As of November 8th, the ban was re-issued until further notice.
This burn ban was the day after Halloween in Beacon, where fire pits are lit for driveway gatherings as trick-or-treators make the rounds
On November 2nd, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar issued a Drought Watch for downstate New York, and published on the DEC.ny.gov website: "Recent unseasonably warm weather and lack of precipitation have led to dry conditions for many counties in New York, resulting in some downstate areas being put under drought watch. Local water restrictions and educating residents about how to help conserve our water resources are crucial steps to help prevent a more severe shortage until conditions improve."
On Saturday, November 9th, the Putnam County Sheriff's Office announced a forest fire had been going on since 3:30am in the area surrounding the North End of Indian Lake. They said that multiple Fire Departments responded to the scene, including: Putnam Valley Volunteer Fire Department, Cold Spring Fire Company No. 1, North Highlands Engine Company # 1, Kent Fire Department, Mahopac Falls Vol. Fire Department, Continental Village Vol. Fire Department, along with Buchanan, Montrose and Verplank Fire Departments from Westchester.
Also on Saturday, fire crews were battling a 2,000 acres forest fire in New Jersey in Passaic County, which then spread to Orange County, PIX11 reported. An 18 year old New York forest ranger died while fighting that fire. Dariel Vasquez was fighting the fire in Greenwood Lake when a tree fell on him MidHudson News reported.
On Sunday, November 10th, the Ulster Sheriff's Office announced that firefighters were battling a forest fire in the Whitehouse Forest: "Our agency is assisting state and local agencies including several volunteer fire departments from Ulster, Sullivan and Delaware counties in the Town of Denning with a large forest fire in the Whitehouse Forest between the Rondout and Ashokan Reservoirs. Please limit travel in the area as there are road closures."
The Times Union reported that the Town of Denning fire is approximately 422 acres, Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger said, based on a flyover estimate. “Some 185 firefighters from 20 agencies from Sullivan, Ulster and Delaware Counties have been involved in fire suppression efforts. The incident is being managed through the unified command system by Ulster County Department of Emergency Services, Sullivan County Division of Public Safety, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Grahamsville Fire Department,” the Times Union reported.
This area is in New York City's watershed, which "contains reservoirs that feed into New York City's water supply system," News12 reported. NYC Water issued a statement via X (formerly Twitter): "DEP & New York State Police helicopters are conducting aerial firefighting operations to assist local fire departments battling the Whitehouse forest fire ranging across 384 acres of mountainous NYC watershed between Rondout & Ashokan reservoirs in western Ulster County in the Catskills."
According to the New York Times, hundreds of forest fires have been reported in New Jersey since October 20th. Also this weekend, a brush fire in a "heavily wooded section" of Brooklyn's Prospect Park burned 2 acres, where 100 firefighters responded to contain it, the New York Times reported.
This week, you may have only allowed yourself to listen to calm music. To keep yourself regulated as you walk about town. On Tuesday Eve, ALBB put out a message about buckling up for an important roller-coaster ride, which now feels like the roller-coaster cars both soaring down the rails and off the rails. Some passengers have been ejected from their seats, and there are open wounds that need dressing. Some passengers flew out of their seats due to faulty buckles. Some passengers got flung into an entirely different ride - The Gravitron - which is the one where you are up against a wall, cheeks being pulled behind your ears - stuck there defying gravity - as the room spins.
Happy Veterans Day. For developments on Palestinian liberation, follow this American veteran who speaks about current tactical war moves and past U.S. federal government assigned aggression in the Middle East.
THE EVENTS + RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE
Add Your Event Here!
FREE Listing: Events that are free for the community and/or serve a greater purpose. Your event will be considered, and if your event does not qualify for gratis, a payment link will be sent to you. From time to time, this can include large and/or established events that are FYI. Submit > PAID Listing: Events that are awesome and also serve a greater purpose, but charge a price or are for profit. Pay and Submit > FREE Listings For Advertisers: Advertisers in ALBB's Guide and Business Directory (higher levels) receive free weekly listings with their sponsor subscription.
Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturdays @ Boscobell from 8:30am - 1pm
Beacon Farmer's Market! Sundays from 10am-2pm at 223 Main Street
Beacon Flea Market! Every Fair Weather Sunday from 8am-2pm at Henry Street
(behind the Post Office).
BAGEL-ISH
226 Main Street, Beacon, NY
ALBB goes behind the scenes of Bagel-ish with owner Beth as she runs her new bagel machine with the help of her employees, which include Miguel pictured here! You know him from the OG Roma Nova before he sold it to new owners.
Beth took us back into the kitchen to show us her new machine, which may be one of the only of its kind in the world, modified just for her. Beth is a world-sought after bagel whisperer and has been featured in the @nytimes for it. This bagel machine quickly turns the long dough into the circles. Now she can have even more bagels for you! Still, go early. Locals! Locals get 10% off on Thursdays! Follow Bagel-ish on Instagram > Bagel-ish is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Trina from @tara_fusion_cuisine wishes you an Happy Diwali 🪔✨✨✨🌕
Diwali, also called Deepavali, is the Hindu festival of lights, with variations celebrated in other Indian religions such as Jainism and Sikhism. It symbolizes the spiritual victory of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar months of Ashvin (according to the amanta tradition) and Kartika—between around mid-September and mid-November. The celebrations generally last five or six days. Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
CARTER'S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
The Pumpkin Martini is being served at Carter's! Join them as they slide into their holiday-inspired cocktails. PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday PPS: You can book the Carter's Restaurant space for a private party and enjoy delicious spreads made by the Carter's Crew! Book ahead. Follow Carter's on Instagram > Carters Restaurant & Lounge is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193-195 Main Street, Beacon, NY Real maple syrup is real. And it's served at Beacon Bread. With fresh blueberries optional. See what other syrups Beacon Bread has made. In your coffee, their syrups are house-made. 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
As everyone settles into their respective safe-spaces, and spaces that need saving, protection and preserving, Ziatun reminds liberation fighters to keep fighting to stop the genocide in Palestine that is moving to Lebanon. Ziatun is Palestinian-Owned. PPS: 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
Eggbert's meat and eggs are famous throughout the Hudson Valley, but you may not know you're eating it. Eggbert's farm fresh brown eggs make appearances with Hibino at popups at Little King on Main Street in Beacon. Follow Eggbert's Instagram for pop-up and collab announcements. FARMERS MARKETS: Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market 11am-5pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 8:30am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 8:30am - 2pm SHOP ONLINE:Online ordering is available 24/7. DELIVERY: 🚚 Delivering to Cold Spring, Cornwall, New Windsor, Newburgh, Beacon, Fishkill, and Wappingers Falls. Website > Instagram > Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon
Reading Katharine Graham's autobiography, "Personal History" during these times has been helpful. Raised in a wealthy family, navigating deeply within patriarchy, Katharine's journey to becoming the publisher of the Washington Post to expose Nixon has been revealing. Katharine takes us through American politics before, during and after 1948 (the Palestinian Nakba and Zionist takeover of that land, though she doesn't talk about that, just happenings around that time). She shows how politics and white media were 100% woven in with each other by white men in media - and some white women who were accepted by white men in business and reporting. Order this book from Binnacle Books >
THE STATION
463 Main Street, Beacon
Exclusive giveaways and merch will be coming to The Station Dispensary as they transform their space. But wait...keep your eye on the property across the street...It's about to get...Wait...Muslims don't eat pork!
That's your hint for now on what is brewing on this end of town.
BAM! That's your second hint!
Wow. We're on a roll. Better go. Follow The Station on Instagram > 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 >
ROC PILATES
These white leather head and shoulder rests await you...This is the Reformer at ROC Pilates. You can lie down on it, or you can stand for a sliding Warrior pose! See what we mean in this video. Book A Pilates Class >
Peer-Led Support Group For Queer Adult (18+) Children of Emotionally Immature Parents
Ashley Mosgrove is a queer/neurodivergent social worker (LCSW)/psychotherapist. They have struck out on their own in Beacon, and have done some community organizing on occasion. Ashley created a new support group as an offering to the community: 📣FREE COMMUNITY OFFERING: Peer-Led support group for queer adult children (18+) of emotionally immature parents, bi-weekly Sundays starting November 3rd, 2024, 8pm, Beacon NY. 🩵RSVP for location and more information: ashley@ashleymosgrovelcsw.com. ♿️ Unfortunately the office is not ADA accessible. We are hoping as the practice grows, we can ensure more accessibility.
Art "Be Creative" Drop In Days Location: Beacon Recreation Center, 23 West Center Street Day: Wednesdays Starting Oct 2nd Time: 11:00 am and 1:00pm
Looking to make time for more creativity in your life? Drop-in at the Beacon Recreation Center and find your inspiration with other local creatives. Bring your own art supplies. This is a self-directed program - no instruction is planned, but they'll be plenty of support and encouragement!
Questions? Reach out to Liz Foster
845-375-6884 • fostee5@yahoo.com Information >
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 >
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, makeup lessons, or a facial, you have options in Beacon. Check out ALBB's Beauty Guide here >
SPONSOR POST
Book your massage today with Karen of River Therapeutic Massage.
That is our best advice right now.
Located off Rte 52. Information >
BEACON DENTAL
1020 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon, NY
(845) 838-3666
If you are looking for a more discreet orthodontic treatment, Invisalign clear aligners could be the right choice for you! This nearly invisible orthodontic treatment allows you to maintain a natural appearance while also straightening your teeth and smile. To learn more about Invisalign treatment, schedule a consultation with the one & only Beacon Dental! Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Stop worrying about what you're going to post on Instagram and when... Katie James, Inc. will go deep and get into the zone of your business month to month. Using our experience as one of the top local media outlets in the Hudson Valley, we can apply our gift of finding story ideas that people love, to your business. Your customers need to know what is going on in your creative business and/or inside of your storefront doors and we cannot wait to tell/show them with you! Reach Out to tell us about your goals!
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle a training platform and community for businesses, artists and makers who are getting the word out about their business. Tin Shingle teaches PR, social media and content marketing tactics to regular people to help make their pitching and brand story telling smarter, engaging and more appropriate for the media to consider for article features. Tin Shingle produces weekly webinars called Training TuneUps, which offer free access to niche classes, as well as one-on-one training opportunities. PS! Believe it or not, it's time to start pitching for Christmas! Join our membership for all of the tools you need. Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
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.
Voters in any Ward in Beacon can vote in any of the presidential election poll sites: the VFW Memorial Building on Main Street (pictured here), Rombout Middle School or South Avenue Elementary. This was first announced by City Councilmember Molly Rhodes during a previous City Council meeting, and reinforced by a robo call/text/email by the City of Beacon the Monday before voting.
In a change to make voting easier, Beacon joins a handful of other municipalities in Dutchess County to remove the polling site assignment, which some may call a restriction, as it has long plagued Beacon residents who would get confused on where to go and show up at the wrong location after waiting in line.
Voting was rolling early this morning. One reader commented that printers were down at the VFW Memorial Building at 6:15am, but ALBB confirmed with exiting voters and a volunteer that printers were rolling and voting was running smoothly.
City Administrator Chris White silenced City Councilmember Pam Weatherbee during the 10/21/2024 City Council Meeting at 1 hour 10 minutes, when she rose awareness about known dangers to bikers and pedestrians on Rte. 52/Fishkill Avenue, which is where Barking Frog, Stinson’s Hub, Auto Zone, Lanks Automotive, Family Dollar, Margaret’s Laundromat, Industrial Arts Brewing, and other establishments are located. It is a connecting road to numerous communities, including Groveville and the Hedgewood Home For Adults. During the meeting, he told the public that she had opened up the city to more lawsuits than the 3 “trip and fall” lawsuits they City is already contesting.
Hedgewood Home For Adults on the left on Rte. 52
City Administrator Chris’ silencing of Councilmember Pam demonstrated how important topics are talked about behind the public’s view when the cameras turn off after public City Council meetings. Some people call this “behind closed doors,” where councilmembers can speak with the city’s attorney about legislation, city employees, or other sensitive topics. It can be the reason why some councilmembers speak meekly in public on a topic, despite having strong viewpoints about it.
What Did Councilperson Pam Say?
Councilperson Pam was answering a seemingly organized turnout of bike-lane advocates, which included adults and kids, pushing for the Council to consider and implement bike lanes in different areas of Beacon, including on Rte. 52. Sidewalks have also been advocated for in this area because several senior citizens who live at the Hedgewood Home For Adults walk on the road as part of their daily activity and errands. These senior citizens are often in wheelchairs, with rolling walkers, are holding hands with one another, or are walking alone. They do not have a generous sidewalk to walk on, and often walk in the street, within the white line.
In her Report, Councilperson Pam said: "I myself live only one block from 52, and would love to ride a bike, but I'm fearful to get out onto Route 52. So I definitely hear that something needs to be looked at for safety. You know, my husband Stew has been biking lately on 52, and there's so many obstacles now for a biker, that it is shocking that nobody is killed. And it's not just from vehicles. It is from even just the how the side of the the road is for them, that it it's really…there's so many dangerous obstacles. So I would love a feasibility study. I know we keep talking that ‘we can't do it…we'd like to do it…’ Is it a reality and what could we get for it there before we start putting in new sidewalks."
City Administrator Chris was initially adverse to the creating of or fixing sidewalks in Beacon in various areas, including Rte. 52, as he said in the past that he was very busy with projects like the new Firehouse which recently completed. However, he has been paving what seems like everything in Beacon this summer and fall as he works with federal grants to pay for some of it, like the sidewalks on both sides of the streets of Fishkill and Teller Avenues crossing over Main Street and Verplanck. The City of Beacon’s Highway Department has been paving as well. Central Hudson has been doing line work underground, which has necessitated some of the paving.
What Did City Administrator Chris Say?
During Councilperon Pam’s speech, City Administrator Chris was otherwise occupied in his computer while she spoke. Until she said: “It is from even just the how the side of the the road is for them that it's really…there's so many dangerous obstacles.” With that, he looked up at Councilperson Pam from his computer work, fired up his phone, and took to the microphone to interrupt the Report session. He said:
"Mayor...Mayor can I just ask that the Council please not say things about infrastructure in the city that could come back and haunt us for a lawsuit. If [City Attorney] Nick was on [the call for this meeting]...I don't know exactly what you're talking about...but...um...you just put on the record that it's unsafe to bike, which is, I...I would challenge that assertion and I...I...I think we should be careful about what we say publicly."
Councilperson Pam persisted: “I’ll send you pictures of the ___,” her final word was muffled as City Administrator Chris spoke over her, saying: “I get that Pam, but we're in like 3 lawsuits already about trip-and-fall things, um so I, I would just ask the council if you have issues about our infrastructure, please talk to us and we can mitigate that. If you announce it in your Report, you're basically putting it on the record so that it can be used against us if somebody falls there. [City Attorney] Nick isn't on to usually say that, but I would have texted Nick to say something.”
While the regular attorney Nick was not in attendance, another attorney, Christian, from their firm was there, but did not speak at that time. Mayor Lee Kyriacou responded by saying: “Ok,” signaling his acknowledgement to move on. But City Administrator White continued: “I think you can make your point without saying ‘Our facilities are not safe.’ I've never been notified by anybody about something unsafe on Fishkill that we haven't immediately addressed. So just knowing what we're going through with the lawsuit at Teller Avenue, I would be very careful about what people say about our our infrastructure.”
What Is The Lawsuit At Teller Avenue?
The lawsuit at Teller Avenue that he may be talking about regards the grandmother, a Beacon resident Carla Giuffrida, 75 who was hit by another grandmother in Beacon, Jacqueline Milohnic, 59, at 3:11pm on a Wednesday, December 1, 2021, as reported by A Little Beacon Blog. Carla died 5 hours later from her injuries.
Jacqueline was driving her 2019 Jeep Rangler on Main Street and was turning left onto Teller Avenue when she struck Carla who was reportedly in the middle of the crosswalk. Jacqueline was ticketed for “failing to yield to a pedestrian,” as reported in the Highlands Current. According to the reporting, “Milohnic, who told police that Giuffrida had not been visible because of a blind spot caused by the front left pillar of the Jeep’s frame and sun glare.” Jacqueline contested that ticket, which Beacon City Court Judge Greg Johnston dismissed, ‘saying it would have only applied if traffic control signals were not in place at the intersection or not working correctly.” However, the paper reported that Judge Johnston did find her guilty of “failing to exercise due care to avoid colliding with a pedestrian,” which is a lesser offense.
Jacqueline was due in court for sentencing, which could be 15 days in jail and up to a $500, the newspaper reported. During the trial, Detective Brian Lawrence testified that the traffic sign read “Don’t Walk” when Carla as in the middle of the crosswalk. However, back then, it was unclear if that traffic signal turned to “Walk” at all, and was broken at the time.
Readers of A Little Beacon Blog chimed in then, saying: “@janetmelissa: “So awful!! Sending healing thoughts to everyone reeling from this tragedy. Just FYI…the pedestrian lights were out at that intersection for some time. Idk if they’ve recently been repaired…but that makes an already dangerous crosswalk even more difficult for pedestrians to safely navigate!”
And @firstrun said: “Ah, my sister was seriously injured when she was hit by a car at the same intersection.”
When sentenced for her conviction, Judge Johnston fined Jacqueline $750, revoked her drivers license for 6 months, and ordered her to complete a driver’s safety course, according to the newspaper. However, she appealed that sentencing, which got reversed by an appeals court, who also dismissed the ticket.
But the pursuit for justice in Carla’s death and improved traffic safety for Teller Avenue was not over for Carla’s family. Her two children filed a civil suit in February 2023. According to reporting in the newspaper: “It names Milohnic and her husband, who is the owner of the vehicle she was driving; the City of Beacon; and Kearns Electric, the company that services the city’s pedestrian signals.”
Carla’s family’s lawsuit also pointed out the dangers of the Teller/Main Street intersection, by alleging “that between Jan. 1, 2018, and Nov. 30, 2021, there were at least 35 crashes there, at least two of which involved pedestrians. It charges Kearns and the city with failing to program the signal correctly to provide a “leading pedestrian interval” of at least three seconds before the traffic light turns green,” the Highlands Current reported.
ALBB does not have confirmation if this is the Teller Avenue lawsuit mentioned, or if there is an additional one.
Back To Councilmember Pam and City Administrator Chris:
After City Administrator Chris mentioned the Teller Avenue lawsuit, Councilmember Pam did not back down, and said: “We definitely need the Fishkill Avenue Concepts Committee here because it has been recorded there.” However, City Administrator Chris tried talking over her again to drown out what she was saying.
He continued: “You can make that decision, I'm…I'm just saying, I…I would rather this the council not hand lawsuits to people because we're in 3 right now and our insurance is going up because of them.”
Mayor Kyriacou tried to move the meeting along, by saying “Okay, so let's go on.”
By the very end of the meeting, as Mayor Lee wanted to end the evening, Attorney Christian, who was there, did chime in that he agreed with City Administrator Chris.
We see you peeping! And it’s not at the leaves, but through the new windows of the eatery that used to be Max’s on Main, after its complete transformation under new owners and has opened its front doors to welcome you into what is Lyonshare Public House.
The once warm, dark and cozy Max’s, adorned all year with Christmas lights accompanied by live music and Karaoke in the back corner, has completely transformed its look to be an equally as warm, white, brassy, dare we say “fancy”. The “f” word in Beacon (“fancy”) is to be used carefully, as some people in Beacon like fancy but not too fancy.
Lyonshare, brought to you by new co-owner Bud Schmeling, is like a gentle hand taking yours, telling you it’s OK to step into this beauty; to surround yourself with this white marble, brass table and toilet accents, and bistro inspired lighting, with notes from a black piano rising lightly from the former music corner. There may be no TVs, but you have your hand-held mini-computer phone device to watch anything from!
This spot might be referred to “The New Old Max’s” for a little white, much to any new business owner’s chagrin. But that’s how it works in Beacon. A property is known by its former personality for a time until it settles in, makes its own roots, and spreads out.
The Soft Launch Party
Attending Lyonshare’s soft launch party were a few local business celebrities, notably Terry Williams (some may know her as Terry Amoroso Greenough) and Vince Lemma from Antalek and Moore, as well as Jon Lombardi and Janelle Cruz from Carter’s (Carter is their young son). You may recognize Atticus Lanigan from her previous work with Beacon Farmers Market and trash and recycling. She’ll now be making sure you have a most pleasant dining experience. You may recognize other faces from past eateries, like Homespun, who were happy to find work in the new restaurant.
The name Lyoneshare, Bud explains, pays homage to Capital John Lyon, “a legendary figure who navigated the waters of the Hudson River for 71 years never missing a day,” which is painted onto the portrait of the Captain hanging near the bar. Bud tells A Little Beacon Blog that he wanted to root the restaurant in the local, and was drawn to the river.
The captain was devoted to commanding ships from a young age, and was good with people. He was known to have celebrities on his ferry, including Babe Ruth and Theodore Roosevelt. John Lyon said to Theodore Roosevelt when he was running on the Bull Moose ticket: “You should have stayed at home. You shouldn’t break up the party.” You can read more about the captain here.
Much like Max’s, Lyonshare has a literary vibe. This space may inspire wordsmiths who care to pause to read the framed articles hanging on the wall. From the poem “O Captain! My Captain!” by Walt Whitman to past media coverage in the Village Voice of Bud’s former restaurant Black Betty in Williamsburg just before the tipping point turned over that Brooklyn neighborhood. Co-owner Bud Schmeling (pictured below) is an English major, for those who majoring in English is notable and sparks a fire deep inside them.
Regular readers of A Little Beacon Blog may know that we love a good bathroom in Beacon. Some of the best are at Reserva Wine Bar, Beacon Bread/WTF, and The Beacon Movie Theater (at one point StoryScreen). The bathroom at Lyonshare does not disappoint. It comes with a fancy little antique lock on the door knob, and a real fancy faucet. Notable to old time Max’s patrons are the doors of the bathroom, which once had XX and XY to indicate Female and Male bathrooms. The doors now simply read TOILET and anyone is welcome within.
The dark green walls feel like a nod to an Adirondack green, which is common in these parts. Not sure ALBB has seen a bird perched on any other toilet rolls in Beacon.
Do take note of the oyster bar! Lyonshare is not messing around. While this was a soft launch night, and these photographs did not capture anyone in action just yet, you can see the layout.
For those who loved the paper on the tables for drawing with crayons, you will still have your paper. Though paper is associated with fancy, the striped napkin rolls on the table indicate it’s OK to get messy and comfortable.
The menu for the soft launched was scratched in pen. While it was a short stay for ALBB, there was a young child who was enjoying the Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Tart and Creamy Slaw and Biscuits very much.
The first menu has been released, which you can see here:
Several neighbors in Beacon reported that there was a fight at “The Willows,” which is the loop after Willow Street proper jumps Verplanck. This area is known for its yard displays, usually boasting of fire pits, sometimes interactive candy games, and a temporary haunted house set up in the street. If there are any rumbles or skerfuffles, it is usually not a surprise. This is a destination spot for kids to come from all over Beacon, if kids in Beacon haven’t traveled out, like to Cold Spring or the community across from Dutchess Stadium.
Not all years are teaming with people, as the crowd ebbs and flows with the weather and day of the week. This year Halloween was on a Thursday, which is traditionally an active pre-weekend day, the weather was fine, and crisp orange leaves danced through the air with warm wind gusts. Many kids, teenagers, parents and caregivers were out.
After dark, neighbors reported hearing sirens headed to East Willow, with a report of approximately 4 cop cars plus a “blinky lights car,” is how it was described. Other neighbors reported seeing a fight between two girls, where one girl allegedly opened her jacket or cloak to reveal a gun to whoever was versing her. The neighbors did not know if it was a real gun, or if they actually saw a gun. Young neighbors did not seem surprised to see girls fighting, as they say they see girls fight at Rombout Middle School. Either they allegedly fight, or allegedly talk about scheduling one. Girls have been known to fight on Main Street, as this writer witnessed years ago between two teenage girls with a skateboard. The fight was quickly broken up by a parent, uncle or community member.
Update 11/2/2024: Video has emerged of two girls fighting. This article is not interested in the identities of the girls. This article was reporting that there was a fight, or fights. And for anyone who is surprised about fighting in Beacon, this is to report that fighting is not unusual here. Despite what anyone would like to hide as a bad look. It just happens, and people move on. Wishing, of course, that everyone is safe and the people fighting are able to resolve between themselves. Reports remain that people also saw guys fighting.
Meanwhile, kids with orbie guns were about. Orbie guns, otherwise known as Gel Blaster Guns, look like assault rifles but shoot out plastic orbie circles that never really disintegrate from the earth. Kids of all ages in Beacon have been known to carry these Gel Blasters around Rombout Middle Schools, Memorial Park, the Skate Park during adult baseball games, Loopers Plaza, and other locations where kids gather to have fun. When school let out for summer, Beacon Police Chief Figlia issued a warning to kids and parents not to carry such guns as ALBB reported, as they could be mistaken for a real gun.
Some neighbors also reported seeing what they thought to be a guy in a pig mask trying to sell drugs to trick or treaters, who allegedly got into a few fights himself.
Last year, neighbors reported seeing a man with a flame gun approaching people to shoot their toes. Apparently, he then went into people’s property. Later, some neighbors saw a picture of the man with the flame gun in a mug shot with his outfit still on.
Meanwhile, the infamous trickster guy from Willow Street was out again this year, looking for prey to scare. He stays very still until the unsuspecting person passes him, and then he begins his pursuit.
Response To Social Media Response To This Article
After this article was published, a few individuals from Beacon took to tearing it down grammatically. What is interesting is that when articles are published about fights or police activity in other areas of Beacon that are not “nice” or “suburban” areas, those articles are not picked apart as viciously as one this was.
Below are two video responses from Katie the Editor, Publisher, and Creator of A Little Beacon Blog.
After a learning-session about the 7th grade Boston trip one night at Rombout Middle School, where Principal Soltish was standing in front of the flag mural on the front wall of the cafeteria, presenting need-to-know facts about the 7th grade Boston trip to prepare parents, this parent/writer was noticing the mural artwork and flags from around the globe, but noticed that there may not have been a Palestinian flag. Or a Yemeni flag, and maybe not a Lebanese flag. Or a Syrian flag
After the meeting, this parent/writer emailed Principal Soltish to inquire if the flags were there, and if they were not there, could they be considered to be added there, since there are Palestinian Americans living in the Beacon community, as well as Yemeni Americans, Lebanese Americans, and Syrian Americans.
However, Principal Soltish did not seem to respond, unless the email went missed somewhere. During this week’s BCSD Long-Range Planning Community Survey, in the question box asking if there was anything else the district could do, this parent/writer asked for them to consider adding the Palestinian, Yemeni, Lebanese, and Syrian flags to the mural wall in Rombout Middle School. If there is such a flag mural in the High School or Elementary Schools, could such an inclusive gesture be considered as well.
On the flag mural wall in the middle school is a quote from Steven Covey that reads:
“Strength Lies In Differences, Not In Similarities.” This quote has been attached to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) work, the framework you can read briefly about here, which adds more considerations.
Perhaps students in the Beacon City School District would start a petition to request this addition be made by the administration.
There are only hours left to submit your feedback and ideas for the Beacon City School District’s Long-Range Planning Survey. The online survey closes at 9pm Monday evening, Dr. Landahl told district families by email and robo-text.
The survey takes 5-10 minutes to complete, and asks questions like: “What would you like to see improve, grow, or change about our extra and co-curricular activities? (clubs, sports, art, music, theater, etc.)” and “How can we help make the district more welcoming and inclusive of all students, staff, and families?”
District families can find the link to the online survey in their inboxes or text or on the school’s website.
Voting Early at the Fishkill Town hall Location on Route 52. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth
Early Voting for Dutchess County goes from Saturday, October 26th to Sunday, November 3rd, 2024. You can vote at any of the locations listed below. Once Voting Day comes, polls will be different per municipality. For Early Voting for Beacon, Wappingers Falls, Fishkill, Poughkeepsie, etc., the polling sites listed below are where you need to go:
Presidential Election Early Voting Polls
Pavilion at Brookmeade 34 Brookmeade Drive, Rhinebeck
Add Your Event Here!
FREE Listing: Events that are free for the community and/or serve a greater purpose. Your event will be considered, and if your event does not qualify for gratis, a payment link will be sent to you. From time to time, this can include large and/or established events that are FYI. Submit > PAID Listing: Events that are awesome and also serve a greater purpose, but charge a price or are for profit. Pay and Submit > FREE Listings For Advertisers: Advertisers in ALBB's Guide and Business Directory (higher levels) receive free weekly listings with their sponsor subscription.
Walktoberfest Day: Saturday, October 26, 2024 Time: 12pm-5pm Location: 87 Haviland Road, Highland, NY
With a crisp in the air and beautiful fall foliage handing off the trees, the sixth Annual Walktoberfest Farmers and Makers Market brings a curated selection of Hudson Valley’s finest 190 producers - farms, distilleries, breweries, wineries, restaurants, artists, artisans and more. Information >
Hocus Pocus Halloween Parade Details For 2024 - It's A Weekend Event! Day/Times: Friday, October 25th: 3-6pm
Main Street Trick of Treating and Black Cat Scavenger Hunt
Each business with an orange pumpkin in the window will have a black cat hidden in their store. Find the black cat and get your passport stamped.
Win Grab Bag Prizes for every 15 stamps collected!
Saturday, October 26th: 11am-5pm
Black Cat Scavenger Hunt Continues 1:30pm
Parade Lineup (Corner of Main Street and South Avenue) 2pm
Parade Start (Parade ends at Veterans Place near the Beacon Post Office) Location: Main Street All Details >
"Donnaville"
Book Launch and Author Talk Day: Friday, October 25th Time: 8pm Location:Stanza Books, 508 Main St, Beacon, NY 12508
Local author and journalist Donna Minkowitz’s hell-bent, boundary-busting novel DONNAVILLE, in which different parts of the author attack each other, bed each other, and try to save each other from a terrifying jail inside, is launching in Beacon at Stanza Books.
Can they burn the prison down? Will anyone succeed at having sex with the Divine Mother?
A multi-gender, multi-sexuality, queer as f internal quest.” Steven Petrow of the Washington Post called the book “a tour de force of wit and imagination.”
Local photographer and writer Michael Bogdanffy-Kriegh will have a conversation with Donna about the novel, and Donna will read. Then, the event will turn into a party with food and drink! Donna will sign books :-) Information >
Salem Tabernacle’s Annual Free Trunk or Treat
Day: Saturday, October 26, 2024 form Time: 4-6pm Location: 7 Delavan Ave. Beacon, NY 12508
Costumed children walk through the parking lot, stopping at cars that have kid-friendly decorated trunks.
Trunk decorators will hand out candy at their trunks and many also have an optional activity or game for children to try too.
Our Trunk or Treat will also feature a contest with prizes for the most voted-for trunks. Information >
St. Joachim / St. John Garage and Rummage Sale Days:
Thursday, October 24th 9am-2pm
Friday, October 25th, 9am-2pm
Saturday, October 26th, 9am-12pm Location: St. Joachim School Hall, Leonard Street, Beacon, NY
Don't miss this highly anticipated annual event. Go early. But don't not go if you miss the first day. Information >
SAVE THE DATE
BCAN’s TAPROOTS Day: Saturday, November 2, 2024 Time: 2-5pm Location: The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY 12508
With the climate crisis, global violence, housing insecurity, and a looming high-stakes election, it’s never been more important for folks to come together and take care of each other. That’s why this year’s third annual Taproots Festival is all about community care: learning to give (and receive) support from your neighbors. Join Beacon Climate Action Now (BCAN) at The Yard on Saturday, 11/2 from 2-5 pm to connect with neighbors, receive care and support, enjoy free food and drink, and learn how to get involved with local groups working to strengthen our community! Everyone has a role to play in creating a resilient, thriving local community. We can help you find yours (and have some fun along the way)! Free Registration >
SAVE THE DATE Film Screening: Naila and the Uprising, a film by Julia Basha Day: Saturday, November 2, 2024 Time: 5:30pm Location: The Yard - 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY 12508
Beacon is answering the global call to action on November 2! Come out to The Yard (4 Hanna Ln) on November 2, 2024 at 5:30 PM to watch a documentary screening of Naila and the Uprising. This film chronicles a community of women who organized for their liberation and self-determination during the First Intifada of the late 1980s.
On November 2 we solemnly commemorate the 107th Anniversary of the Balfour Declaration and the devastating consequences it had on Palestine. This will be an opportunity to learn and feel and connect history to our current moment. The film will be preceded by a brief introduction about Palestinian cinema and the Balfour Declaration. RSVP >
SAVE THE DATE Fall Factory Sale at Niche Day/Times: Saturday, November 2nd, 9am to 6pm Sunday, November 3rd, 9am to 5pm Location: 310 Fishkill Ave Unit 11, Beacon, NY Niche's famous Fall Factory Sale is on November 2nd & 3rd in Beacon, NY. Take 70% off a wide variety of modern handmade glass pendant lighting, vases, and votives. This is a world-famous lighting company, headquartered in Beacon. Many try to imitate, but Niche is the original.
Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturdays @ Boscobell from 8:30am - 1pm
Beacon Farmer's Market! Sundays from 10am-2pm at 223 Main Street
Beacon Flea Market! Every Fair Weather Sunday from 8am-2pm at Henry Street
(behind the Post Office).
BAGEL-ISH
226 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Guys. Beth, owner of Bagel-ish, is, like, actually world-famous. More about that as she gets comfortable in her little storefront here in Beacon, but meanwhile: Cinnamon Raisin Bagels, Chocolate Chip Bagels, and Cinnamon Sugar Bagels. She sells out. Go early. Get the minis for your kids? Go Thursdays before the guests (aka tourists) come? You've been warned. Locals! Locals get 10% off on Thursdays! Follow Bagel-ish on Instagram > Bagel-ish is a Sponsor, thank you!
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Says Moreish: "Get in a right mess with our Eton Mess! This dessert was invented in the late 19th century at Eton College, one of England’s most prestigious schools 🇬🇧 and is traditionally served during cricket matches. The simple and delicious combination of fresh raspberries, homemade meringue and whipped cream, make it a classic British dessert. Brb drooling 🤤✨" Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
CARTER'S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
Come for the Halloween Karaoke Party at Carter's on Sunday, October 27th from 5-8pm. You know you love singing with the live music, or even the streaming music! So let yourself go Sunday night. PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday PPS: You can book the Carter's Restaurant space for a private party and enjoy delicious spreads made by the Carter's Crew! Book ahead. Follow Carter's on Instagram > Carters Restaurant & Lounge is a Sponsor, thank you!
BEACON BREAD COMPANY
193-195 Main Street, Beacon, NY Going early to Beacon's bakeries is no joke. As locals know, traffic becomes other-dimensional on the weekends as people wander into the street to cross, and out-of-state cyclists bike in the middle of the road to pass cars. So calm yourself at Beacon Bread Company in the morning by stocking up on their baked goods before the weekend guests get them all ;) 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
There are a lot of hummus options in Beacon. The hummus and house-made pita at Ziatun is the best. That's all we will say about that. Ziatun is Palestinian-Owned. PPS: 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 Website > Instagram > LAST CALL!
Do not miss this opportunity for the juiciest farm-raised turkey around. Eggbert's Free Range Farm is now taking orders for their Farm Raised Bronze Heritage Turkeys for Thanksgiving. For 10-12lbs, $100. For 12-14lbs, $120. Limited number. Will sell out. Order now. Email eggbertsfreerangefarm@yahoo.com FARMERS MARKETS: Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market 11am-5pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 8:30am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 8:30am - 2pm SHOP ONLINE:Online ordering is available 24/7. DELIVERY: 🚚 Delivering to Cold Spring, Cornwall, New Windsor, Newburgh, Beacon, Fishkill, and Wappingers Falls. Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor, thank you!
BINNACLE BOOKS
321 Main Street, Beacon
As a sponsor of ALBB, Binnacle Books does not mind us also sharing with you Palestinian news with their post. Today in ALBB's Instagram post for Binnacle, we included news of the rounding up of Palestinians in northern Gaza to arrest to torture or to place into a hole. ALBB went to Binnacle to feature their latest book on their shelves by Mosab Abu Toha (wow!!! so fortunate to have here!) and saw this latest genocide news from Wizard Bisan and Rosy Pirani and Freephilistine. It’s just bizarre to put together a consumer newsletter while holocaust-like actions are taking place with American dollars, and even more bizarre to still encounter people still silent or afraid to take a stand on this holocaust. Click here to see the photos.
Unlike what Kamala said about this starting on October 7, it started long before, and now is a full blown holocaust.
Wizard Bisan, who has won an Emmy Award for her coverage in Gaza, which is also her life, Peabody Award, Edward R. Murrow Award, reports:
“This is what is happening with the Palestinians today, unfortunately. The queue you see now in this photo taken an hour ago in Jabalia / North Gaza is the death queue.
“The Israeli terrorist army separates the females from the males (men and male children sometimes)... They order the women to leave and take the men to a far place, with their hands tied and blindfolded and they are often placed in a deep hole... and we all know what happens later.
“Either they bury them alive, as happened in the north and Khan Yunis during the first ground invasion, or they execute them on the ground, or they take them hostage, as happened to 10,000 who subsequently suffered torture, murder, organ theft, and rape. What do you think? What is the most likely scenario? I feel disgusted with all human ideals and values. The Zionist colonizers in 2024 are doing this before your eyes."
THE STATION
463 Main Street, Beacon
Current song in their heads: "Working My Way Back To You!" The Station is ever-working to provide you with safe, legal and 100% certified New York State c*nnabis. Nothing is for sale YET, but watch this space, because The Station is always popping up with some good sh*t. Follow The Station on Instagram > 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 >
ROC PILATES
Sunday mornings at Roc P I L A T E S will bring you peace. We promise. Check the Schedule >
Peer-Led Support Group For Queer Adult (18+) Children of Emotionally Immature Parents
Ashley Mosgrove is a queer/neurodivergent social worker (LCSW)/psychotherapist. They have struck out on their own in Beacon, and have done some community organizing on occasion. Ashley created a new support group as an offering to the community: 📣FREE COMMUNITY OFFERING: Peer-Led support group for queer adult children (18+) of emotionally immature parents, bi-weekly Sundays starting November 3rd, 2024, 8pm, Beacon NY. 🩵RSVP for location and more information: ashley@ashleymosgrovelcsw.com. ♿️ Unfortunately the office is not ADA accessible. We are hoping as the practice grows, we can ensure more accessibility.
Art "Be Creative" Drop In Days Location: Beacon Recreation Center, 23 West Center Street Day: Wednesdays Starting Oct 2nd Time: 11:00 am and 1:00pm
Looking to make time for more creativity in your life? Drop-in at the Beacon Recreation Center and find your inspiration with other local creatives. Bring your own art supplies. This is a self-directed program - no instruction is planned, but they'll be plenty of support and encouragement!
Questions? Reach out to Liz Foster
845-375-6884 • fostee5@yahoo.com Information >
Beacon Repair Cafe Location: Beacon Recreation Center, 23 West Center Street Day: Sunday Oct 27th Time: 1pm-4pm
Before you throw it away, let's try to fix it! Volunteers will be available to help mend, repair and fix clocks, lamps, clothing and textile, soft toys, light carpentry and more. The best part, it's free! Neighbors helping neighbors, to keep things out of landfills. Information >
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 >
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, makeup lessons, or a facial, you have options in Beacon. Check out ALBB's Beauty Guide here >
Special Message For Businesses:Click here to advertise in ALBB's Beauty Guide with a picture, logo and weekly promotions that will be featured here and on our Instagram.
BEACON DENTAL
1020 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon, NY
(845) 838-3666
If you are looking for a more discreet orthodontic treatment, Invisalign clear aligners could be the right choice for you! This nearly invisible orthodontic treatment allows you to maintain a natural appearance while also straightening your teeth and smile. To learn more about Invisalign treatment, schedule a consultation with the one & only Beacon Dental! Explore all services > Beacon Dental is a Sponsor. Thank you!
KATIE JAMES, INC.
Stop worrying about what you're going to post on Instagram and when... Katie James, Inc. will go deep and get into the zone of your business month to month. Using our experience as one of the top local media outlets in the Hudson Valley, we can apply our gift of finding story ideas that people love, to your business. Your customers need to know what is going on in your creative business and/or inside of your storefront doors and we cannot wait to tell/show them with you! Reach Out to tell us about your goals!
TIN SHINGLE
Tin Shingle a training platform and community for businesses, artists and makers who are getting the word out about their business. Tin Shingle teaches PR, social media and content marketing tactics to regular people to help make their pitching and brand story telling smarter, engaging and more appropriate for the media to consider for article features. Tin Shingle produces weekly webinars called Training TuneUps, which offer free access to niche classes, as well as one-on-one training opportunities. PS! Believe it or not, it's time to start pitching for Christmas! Join our membership for all of the tools you need. Tin Shingle is a Sponsor. Thank you!
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.
“On October 24, 2024 at approximately 6:20pm in the City of Beacon Police Department received a call reporting that a male had been shot on Mill St. Upon arrival all involved parties were still on the scene and members determined the male who had been shot to be a 23-year-old Beacon resident. He was transported to the hospital where he is currently in stable condition. The investigation into the cause of the shooting is ongoing but there is no threat to the general public. No names or further identifying information is being released at this time.”
According to the Police, “all involved parties were still on the scene,” which does not identify what kind of involved parties, but could imply that the shooter was still on the scene. In the moments after the shooting, Beacon Police did not seem panicked, and there did not seem to be a search for an active shooter. Residents were free to drive into the community to get back to their homes at the end of the day. Police, however, did seem to be looking for something with their flashlights.
The Press Release states that an “investigation into the cause of the shooting is ongoing,” which is worded in a way similar to when an investigation into the cause of a fire happens. The Press Release did not say if an arrest or identification of the shooter had been made.
Mill Street is the main entrance street to the Groveville community. Upon ALBB’s arrival to the scene at 6:45pm which was reported here, the young man had been taken to the hospital, and Beacon Police were interviewing residents between Lydia Drive and Front Street who have the green Halloween light on through cobwebs. Police were also searching the left side of the brick row house on Mill Street and Lydia Street, which is the first house on the right.
Upon arriving home from their commutes, residents spoke of how comfortable it is living in Groveville, and that this incident is unusual.
Just before 6:45pm on Thursday evening October 24th, 2024, a person was allegedly shot outside in Groveville, which is the community of brick row houses across from Trax on Fishkill Avenue, which some people also call Rte. 52.
City of Beacon Police officers speaking with residents in the Groveville apartment community.
The driveway into the community splits three ways at first. Crime scene tape cordoned off an area from the first house on the right, to a house straight ahead with Halloween cobwebs and a glowing green light on the porch.
Upon ALBB’s arrival to the scene after the shooting, police were seen interviewing people at the house with the green porch light. Police were also scanning the first house on the right with flashlights. One officer also checked around the row of trashcans, before interviewing neighbors.
According to neighbors, Groveville is normally quiet. This evening was particularly quiet, one neighbor said, given that there were around 15 police cars that drove into the complex after the shooting. Neighbors expressed gratitude that the police arrived so promptly. Neighbors did not recall hearing any sirens.
According to neighbors, shots were fired, possibly 5 at close range, and a body was taken from the ground into an ambulance to St. Lukes in Newburgh. It was believed by neighbors that the person who was shot was a young man in his 20s who has a child around the age of 1, and was visiting someone in the Groveville community, and that he did not live there. Neighbors heard that he was in surgery in the hospital as of 7:15pm.
At first, neighbors did not know who the victim was, or the shooter. They were quite surprised that the shooting happened at all. But then texts started coming in as to who the victim was, and what his condition was at the hospital. Neighbors did not see anyone taken away in handcuffs, or a shooter identified. That does not mean that a shooter wasn’t taken into custody, or that other information is known about them. So far, there is no confirmed information about the shooter.
One officer had a rifle in his hand but police officers did not seem to be actively looking for a shooter after the victim had been taken to the hospital. Most officers were calmly interviewing residents, or looking for objects on the ground.
A City of Beacon Police Officer shining his flashlight around the trash can area near where the shooting allegedly took place.
An officer with the City of Beacon Police could not comment to ALBB on if there was a person shot, or if that person was in the hospital, or if the shooter had been apprehended.
A Little Beacon Blog contacted Police Chief Thomas Figlia for comment and confirmation of events, but has not received response yet. Chief Figlia did arrive on the scene by approximately 7:15pm or so.
Most residents driving home from their days seemed visibly confused at the police activity, and were surprised that a shooting took place.
This is a developing story. The City of Beacon Police will most likely issue a Press Release. When and if that happens, ALBB will republish it.
A joyful noise rose from the back-roads of Beacon: “School is closed tomorrow!!! Woooo!!!!” A group of high schoolers were walking back from somewhere, or walking to somewhere else, when they celebrated the news. No robo-call had come in yet. No text. But in email, sure enough, there was Beacon City School District Superintendent Matt Landahl declaring a school closure for the high school only, due to a fire in the chemistry room that harmed no one. The robo-call and text came moments later
“Today, around 4:15pm, we had a small fire in one of the chemistry rooms at Beacon High School,” Dr. Landahl reported. “No one was hurt, and our staff and the fire department responded and contained the fire very quickly. Due to the need for cleaning, we are closing Beacon High School to students tomorrow, Thursday, October 24. High School staff will still report and Mr. Dwyer will be in contact with the staff shortly.”
The class field trip to Ellis Island the following day was still on schedule to go, as were after school sports games and the buses needed to transport students and coaches.
One student was at the Beacon High School when the fire trucks arrived to put out the fire. The student was attending the Girls Varsity Soccer Game behind the school in the bleachers. Below is an interview with the student.
ALBB: “You were there for the fire?”
Student: “Yeah.”
ALBB: “How did you know there was a fire?”
Student: “The fire alarm kept going off, and it wouldn’t stop. It was so annoying.”
ALBB: “So what did you do? Were you scared?”
Student: “No. I wasn’t scared. I saw the water come out of the fire hydrant.”
ALBB: “There is a fire hydrant by the bleachers?”
Student: “No, in front of the school.”
ALBB: “You went to the front of the school?”
Student: “Yeah. We went to watch. Poopy brown water came out of the fire hydrant.”
ALBB: “And then what happened? Was the water still brown when it came out of the hose? Did you see the fire fighters spray water into the school?”
Student: “No. The fire was inside. There was smoke.”
ALBB: “You saw smoke?”
Student: “No. We could smell smoke.”
ALBB: “Could you see the fire?”
Student: “Bro. It was a tiny fire. It was like the size of that plant.” [motions to a small potted succulent]
ALBB: “Ok. So you saw no fire, you’re not sure what room it was in, but you smelled smoke, and the Girls Varsity soccer game continued.”
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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.
