A reader wrote into A Little Beacon Blog to say they were one of the victims of theft in Friday evening’s (6/28/2024) reported string of burglaries in the area of S. Chestnut, Vine Street and Teller Avenue (the area west of Libby’s Funeral Home and The Beacon Daily). The reader suggested that people turn their cameras on. On the Beacon NY Facebook page, one group member advised people to load their guns (ALBB does not advise this…cameras turning on, yes).
The ALBB reader said that they had gone to their car to drive to a friends house to deliver tickets for the School of Rock show at City Winery. “I saw that I left my windows open, but then saw that my center console was open and the tickets were gone - nothing else was taken.” The resident then drove to the police station to report it. “Police at the station took my info and confirmed that between S. Chestnut and Teller Avenue, several people reported something stolen…Police suspect 2-3 juveniles and have a video but not very clear.”
When asked if the envelope was marked, the reader responded: “The tickets were in an envelope with my name on it, resting on my center console. I gather they figured the envelope had SOMETHING good in it, and just grabbed it and ran.”
Maybe the people enjoyed the show?
Days before, on Sunday, June 23, 2024, a reader wrote into ALBB warning that they had seen two people rummaging through their neighbor’s car. “They were young, maybe teenagers. Wearing all black and hoodies,” the reader said.
Reports of bikes stolen from driveways and yards persist.
And just like that, it's the last weekend of June! We're officially in Summer!
The Beacon Pool at the Settlement Camp is opening July 1st. The first week will be free (free of money, and free to walk in without making an online reservation).
The Howland’s Open Mix Night Fourth Fridays Music Series Day: Friday, June 28, 2024 (and every fourth Friday!) Time: 7pm-9pm (sign-up at 6:15pm) Location: Howland Cultural Center, Beacon, NY
All are welcome to perform and/or sit back and listen to Open Mic Nighters from Beacon and the Hudson Valley. $5 cover at the door to help the historic 1872 Howland Cultural Center keep the lights on and the doors open. Information >
Pride Open Mic Day: Saturday, June 29, 2024 Time: 8pm-10pm Location: Stanza Books, 508 Main St, Beacon, NY
Bring a piece of writing that inspires your pride. Your own writing, someone else's. Pride, refreshments, community. Information >
Cómo Converstirse en Ciudadano Dstadounidense
How To Become A US Citizen Day: Saturday, June 29, 2024 Time: 11am Location: Howland Public Library 313 Main Street, Beacon NY
Únase a nosotros en la Howland Public Library en Beacon para una sesión informativa gratuita sobre cómo convertirse en ciudadano estadounidense este sábado 29 de junio a las 11 a.m.
Conozca el camino hacia la ciudadanía, cómo obtener una Tarjeta Verde, cómo solicitar asilo, la solicitud de ciudadanía y la entrevista. Consultas individuales gratuitas de 10 minutos disponibles después de la presentación. Regístrese en beaconlibrary.org. Enlace en biografía.
Join us at the Howland Public Library in Beacon for a free information session on becoming a U.S. citizen this Saturday, June 29 at 11 a.m.
Learn about the path to citizenship, how to obtain a Green Card, how to apply for asylum, the citizenship application and the interview. Free 10-minute individual consultations available after the presentation. Register at beaconlibrary.org. Information >
Carter's Restaurant Catch & Craft Bash Day: Sunday, June 30, 2024, Time: 12-5pm Location: Carters Restaurant, Beacon, NY
It's Here! The Catch and Craft Bash. Find all of the details below for this can't miss event!
Spring Music Festival Day: Sunday, June 30, 2024 Time: 12pm-10pm Location: City Winery, 23 Factor St, Montgomery, NY
A full day of musical entertainment performed by the talented students from School of Rock Beacon NY Information >
Raquel & The Wildflowers Day: Sunday, June 30, 2024 Time: 12:30-4:30pm Location: Hudson Valley Renegades, 1500 NY-9D, Wappingers Falls, NY
Acoustic performance pre-show performance. Raquel will be throwing the 1st pitch. Information >
Raquel & The Wildflowers Day: Sunday, June 30, 2024 Time: 12:30-4:30pm Location: Behind the guardrails at the intersection of Route 211 & Dunning Road From the Organizers:
🗣️ We MUST keep the momentum up and increase our presence to bolster our collective message for a permanent ceasefire. It is through our community effort that we escalate pressure to divest from systems of oppression and colonialism!
This Sunday, June 30th, from 12:00-1:30pm, join me behind the guardrails at the intersection of Route 211 & Dunning Road, closest to Orange Plaza (for GPS, you can use Red Lobster, 450 NY-211, Middletown, NY 10940). Information >
Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturdays @ Boscobell from 8:30am - 2pm
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).
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
It's Taco Tuesday every day at the Hudson Valley Food Hall! Dulce Cielo Mx is serving up delicious tacos & other authentic Mexican food with a 'street' concept. Vegetarian options available! Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
This weekend! Carter's Catch & Craft Bash! This seafood dilled event will be happening on Sunday, June 30th from 12-5pm featuring live music, many different oyster choices, little neck clams, lobster sliders, and colossal shrimp! PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday PPS: You can book the Carters Restaurant space for a private party and enjoy delicious spreads made by the Carters 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
You must remember to always save room for one of Beacon Bread's famous salted chocolate chip cookies! They're the perfect addition to any brunch or lunch option and of course, by itself too! We sure love to dunk it into our cappuccino ;) PS! OPEN MIC IS BACK! Every Tuesday weather permitting. In the back patio! 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
Just incase you missed it... The Watermelon Feta Mint salad is BACK at Ziatun and is available all summer long... A super refreshing and delicious salad to enjoy during this time of the year! Keep cool and nourished. 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 >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm @ Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturday's Website > Instagram >
You can always count on Eggberts... rain or shine! And if you don't want to leave the house to hit the Farmers Market for your free range goods, you can always order for free delivery! FARMERS MARKETS: Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 8:30am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 8:30am - 2pm 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
Queer Palestine and the Empire of Critique - Sa’ed Atshan... “Sa’ed Atshan’s sophisticated work captures the nexus of a scholar-activist, offering an authoritative account of the challenges and trajectory of the Palestinian LGBTQ movement. A tour de force and a remarkable book.” - Amaney A. Jamal. Available at Binnacle Books along with many other fantastic reads! 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
The Station is a local cannabis shop situated in a renovated police station in Beacon, NY. Stay tuned to what they will offer with their updates in the shop and for events/opening date by following The Station on Instagram. 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 >
JUST ADDED! Beginner Skateboarding with Andrew Singh- The Summer Session Days: 1 week evening session from July 15 to July 19 Time: 6pm – 7pm Location: RAMPS @ Memorial Park
Ages 6-12 Information >
Summer Basketball League 2024
Developmental and Instructional Summer Youth Basketball League for youth ages 6 to 18. Information >
Summer Tennis Clinic 2024 Two Sessions: August 8/5 – 8/9 and August 8/12 – 8/16 Times: High School Clinic 8:30am to 10:30am & Junior clinic 10:30am to 12:30pm Location: BCSD Highschool Tennis Courts Information >
Multi Sport Clinic 2024 One More One Week Session: August 5th to August 9th Time: 8am-12:30pm Location: Memorial Park & Rombout Middle School depending on weather Information >
JUST ADDED! Garden Time with Land to Learn Days: Every Wednesday Time: 10:30am-11:30am Location: Green Teen Garden at the Rec Center Information >
JUST ADDED! Aqua Zumba At The Beacon Pool Days: Saturdays 7/20, 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24 Time: 9:45 am – 10:45 am Location: The Beacon Pool, Beacon, NY
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
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.
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. The Research Team is constantly updating our easy-to-use Media Contact Library and Editorial Calendar Collection, which serve as an inspiration center when discovering story angles and best people to connect with about where to pitch about your business. Start with free articles and classes by subscribing to our newsletter. Next, dig in to go bigger with your outreach with our Membership Program that gives you Media Contacts, Editorial Calendars, Templates for emailing the media as well as plotting out your PR and Marketing plan. Tin Shingle is your support system as you're getting the word out about your business. 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.
The City of Beacon is hosting the community’s fireworks on Thursday, July 4th at dark in Memorial Park. There may be vendor trucks and things to do. You’ll have to show up to find out.
There will be the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence by Dennis Pavlock and Committee (Anne Thomas, Clara Lou Gould (former Mayor of Beacon) and Emily Murnane) at 11am at Town Hall 1 Municipal Plaza.
In protest of the United State’s ongoing participation of the genocide of Palestinians and people in Middle Eastern countries, by way of the funding of Israel with Made In The USA weapons that are destroying families and shredding children, A Little Beacon Blog will not attend either event. We will not be sitting under those falling ashes.
The term “gypsy” was a racially offensive term given to the The Romani people, who were enslaved in Romania for more than 500 years. According to Europeana, it is unknown how this group of people ended up in Romania, but some believe they were from India. “The main hypothesis is that they left the Punjab region of Northern India either as nomads or victims of unfavorable circumstances, such as war or natural disaster. Some theories state that the Roma population arrived in the Principality of Wallachia (the southern part of today’s Romania) as free people, but they were soon enslaved by the princes of Wallachia and Moldavia, who needed a workforce.”
As the Washington Post reports: “They were victims of persecution and genocide during the Holocaust, and the community still faces human rights abuses and marginalization. ‘Roma are dehumanized in so many ways: being associated with insects, being associated with animals,’ said Margareta Matache, director of the Roma Program at Harvard University’s FXB Center for Health and Human Rights. ‘And that is really how structural anti-Roma racism is justified.’”
They were victims of persecution and genocide during the Holocaust, and the community still faces human rights abuses and marginalization. Both the moth and the ant known as Aphaenogaster araneoides were named with the word “gypsy” in them to indicate a wandering nature.
But the person who came up with the name, Terry McGlynn, who had been studying this species for more than 20 years, wrote a blog post in 2019 titled: “Fixing a racist common name that I coined.” said it wasn’t until years later that he became aware of the implications of the name, according to the Washington Post.
According to the Smithsonian Magazine, “The new name, ‘spongy moth,’ refers to the insect’s light brown, fuzzy egg masses that resemble sponges. It stems from France’s common name for the Lymantria dispar— ‘spongieuse,’ per the ESA. Other countries like Germany and Turkey, also reference sponges in their common names for the moth.”
During this season of the Track Upgrade, where the Beacon High School track is being replaced as a planned infrastructure project from the school’s 2021 Capital Project, as announced by Beacon’s Superintendent Landahl in early May, joggers and walkers who used to circulate on that track are forced to explore other areas of Beacon, often taking paved and unpaved trails they have never traveled on before. The track is heavily used by community members as well as students and faculty. “The work should take the entire summer,” Dr. Landahl explained, “but we will update the community when it will reopen in late August.”
While A Little Beacon Blog will not make public where the alternative jogging paths are in wide open spaces in Beacon, we will give you advice on how to live amongst these flapping moths flying all over the place, including, possibly, into your face.
It was reported earlier that the mating behaviors of the moths is that the females sit still and cannot fly, while the males fly “erratically” trying to find the females by following the females’ pheromone trails, as described by Cornell University. Essentially, you are walking through waves of love hormones. If you are listening to love music, like ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimmie! Gimmie! (A Man After Midnight),” then you may want to jog with your mouth closed, as a flying male moth may land right inside of it.
Several predators exist for the gypsy moth, which is a introduced and invasive species, including some bird species at this stage. Mice are important for eating the caterpillar version, as are wasps and even the Calosoma beetle.
Next step will be finding the eggs laid after the mating ritual, and destroying the eggs. Apparently fire wood is a source for eggs. Natural mitigation methods include recommending not moving firewood to new locations in order to contain the outbreak. Squishing the moths on contact can be gross, as you will hear their bodies break. Try catching them and flushing them down the toilet. Like with stink bugs.
Stay tuned to our sister company, Tin Shingle, for an upcoming TuneUp with the photojournalist Alexa Blair Wilkinson, who was based in Beacon and then moved to Newburgh. With the rising cost of rent and all. Tin Shingle will also be interviewing Katie's cousin, Sarah Alami, the Palestinian American actress and activist who was in Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3. On ALBB's Instagram, Sarah commented: "Systemic racism is so deeply hard wired many people don’t even know that this is why they find brutal acts like this acceptable or justifiable. The good news is there is evidence that the brain can be adaptable. People can unlearn behavior. Even if it’s racism. However, we don’t have time for people to adapt to being better humans. This is why we need to educate now. "
Beacon Flow Music & Wellness On The Solstice Day: Friday, June 21, 2024 Time: 4-9pm Location: Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, 2 Red Flynn Drive Beacon, NY
Celebrate the summer solstice with an evening of music and wellness on the magnificent Hudson River. Bring a blanket to enjoy a gorgeous closing concert at sunset by Beacon bassist and composer Dassi Rosenkrantz. Local vendors will be on site, including artisans. The event is organized by Dassi Rosenkrantz, Amy Soucy, and a team of volunteers. Beacon Flow is FREE and open to all!
Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturdays @ Boscobell from 8:30am - 2pm
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).
HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Website >
Introducing the perfect summer refresher: Organic Elderberry Hibiscus Iced Tea from Old Dhaka Coffeehouse. This sweet & tart blend combines hibiscus, blackberries, elderberries, and rosehip for a burst of natural goodness. Sip, relax, and enjoy! Follow HV Food Hall's foodies:
CARTERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 424 Main St.
Save the date for Carter's Catch & Craft Bash! This seafood dilled event will be happening on June 30th from 12-5pm featuring live music, many different oyster choices, little neck clams, lobster sliders, and colossal shrimp! PS: Happy Hour is from Monday-Friday PPS: You can book the Carters Restaurant space for a private party and enjoy delicious spreads made by the Carters 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
We know you've seen the shady sidewalk seating out front at Beacon Bread, but don't forget they've got a bright and sunny patio out back! Grab some takeout and enjoy your time! Pictured here is the salted caramel iced latte... tis the season! PS! OPEN MIC IS BACK! Every Tuesday weather permitting. In the back patio! 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
Just incase you missed it... The Watermelon Feta Mint salad is BACK at Ziatun and is available all summer long... A super refreshing and delicious salad to enjoy during this time of the year! Keep cool and nourished. 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 >
Eggbert’s Free Range Farm @ Cold Spring Farmer's Market Saturday's Website > Instagram >
The recipe for this beef brisket is dropping soon at Eggbert's Free Range Farm's Instagram! Be sure to follow them if you haven't yet! Prepare to get hungry. And remember, the Cold Spring Farmer's Market hours on Saturday changed to 8:30am for all you early birds. FARMERS MARKETS: Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 8:30am-1pm Sundays:Beacon Farmer's Market 8:30am - 2pm 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
Binnacle specializes in used and new literature, poetry, literary nonfiction, political history, art, drama, philosophy, graphic novels, and children's books. Is there a particular title you're interested in? Let them know. If they don't have it, they'd be happy to order it for you. The bookstore is a collaborative endeavor by four partners, who have collectively been writers, editors, musicians, producers, organizers, teachers, filmmakers, and booksellers. If you love books, they welcome you. If you don't, they'll do their best to convince you otherwise. 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
The Station is a local cannabis shop situated in a renovated police station in Beacon, NY. Stay tuned to what they will offer with their updates in the shop and for events/opening date by following The Station on Instagram. 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 >
Summer Tennis Clinic 2024 Two sessions: August 8/5 – 8/9 and August 8/12 – 8/16 Times: High School Clinic 8:30am to 10:30am & Junior clinic 10:30am to 12:30pm Location: BCSD Highschool Tennis Courts 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 >
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
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
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.
Watch this space for website launches coming out of Katie James, Inc. for local clients. Learn More & Reach Out > We have spots open!
TIN SHINGLE
Alexa B. Wilkinson (they/them) is an independent Photojournalist and a digital media strategist, capturing the Pro-Palestinian movement along with working in the Democratic political marketing world. They have been on the front lines - and in the front seat - of the students protests in New York, in court rooms for City Council Meetings during Ceasefire Resolution pushes, and at a shipping location for Economic Blockade Day. Alexa will talk with Tin Shingle's host Katie Hellmuth about their experience, and how they connected. Learn More > 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 May 7, activists opposing the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza — which has killed more than 36,439 Palestinians, including 15,000 children, according to Al Jazeera at the time of this writing — blockaded the Ametek Rotron manufacturing facility in Woodstock, New York. For 9 hours, more than 30 activists physically obstructed the facility’s two entrances using “lockboxes,” pipes allowing them to securely fasten themselves to one another. They maintained the blockade until law enforcement from local, county and state agencies, armed with riot gear, K9 units and angle grinders to saw through the lockboxes, arrived to forcefully remove and arrest them.
“Police proceeded to forcefully drag protestors backwards, still hooded, out of the driveway,” said an activist in their press release, referring to hoods that officers had thrown over activists’ heads.
Disruption of the F-15, F-16 and F-35 Fighter Jets In Woodstock
Ametek Rotron produces fans, blowers and cooling systems for a variety of military aircraft, including the F-15, F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, per the company’s website. The three fighter jets have been identified by Palestinian activists as some of the primary weapons systems being provided by the United States to the Israeli military. According to Workers in Palestine, a coalition of Palestinian labor unions and professional associations, Israel has a fleet of F-15s, F-16s and F-35s, all of which are being deployed in Gaza.
Disruption of the F-35 “Joint Strike Fighter”
Production of the F-35 in particular has been targeted by activists worldwide, due its development as a “Joint Strike Fighter” produced by Australia, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States. Since February, a Dutch court has blocked shipment of all F-35 parts from the Netherlands to Israel due to the ongoing genocide, as reported by Reuters.
World-Wide Actions To Block Weapons Facilities
As the activists in Woodstock acknowledge in their press release, the blockade of the Ametek Rotron facility occurred within the context of similar actions around the world. Since 2020, activists in the United Kingdom, particularly those with Palestine Action, have targeted the facilities of Israeli weapons manufacturer Elbit Systems, permanently shuttering multiple sites. Stateside, activists have also demonstrated at the headquarters of Colt’s Manufacturing Co. in West Hartford, Connecticut, due to the company supplying M41A assault rifles and accessories to the Israeli military, as reported by Stamford Advocate.
Huge Amounts Of Money That Israel Spends On US Manufacturers Of Weapons
As reported in the article: “Colt’s Manufacturing has secured several major Army deals in recent years, including a $26.7 million contract awarded on May 1 for M4A1 carbines, suppressors, and flash suppressors, with the work to be done in West Hartford. ‘Fiscal 2024 Foreign Military Sales (Israel) funds in the amount of $26,675,000 were obligated at the time of the award,’ reads the announcement on the Defense Department website.”
Additionally, activists have blockaded a manufacturing facility of Lockheed Martin in Sunnyvale, California, due to its production of F-35s and other weapons used by the Israeli military in Gaza, per Democracy Now.
“This action is in solidarity with a global moment exposing the terror manufactured at facilities such as Ametek Rotron,” said the Woodstock activists in their press release. “... Activists made it clear that there will be no business as usual while these facilities are enabling massacres occurring in Gaza.”
As first reported by the Beacon High School Newspaper Club April 2023 print edition, the Breaking Beacon, high school students in the Muslim community in Beacon fought for the last 2 years to have both of Islam’s holiest holidays, Eid al-Fitr (celebrating the completion of Ramadan) and Eid al-Adha, be recognized as official school days off. According to reporting in the article, the students encountered a “back and forth” resistance from Beacon’s Superintendent Matthew Landahl and Board of Education President Meredith Heuer.
After presenting quotes from emails from the Beacon City School Board of Education, which stated “excuses” on why the holidays could not be made official, student reporter Nadeen Ahmed, in the final sentence of her article titled “School Inclusion For Muslim Holidays," stated: “We are hoping when developing the 2023-2024 calendar, these holidays will be considered.” Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the month long holiday of Ramadan, was recognized as an official holiday in April 2023, and experienced for the first time in 2024, during the time of the escalated genocide of the Palestinians of all faiths but mainly Muslims in Gaza.
“Muslims already have to deal with not being respected as a religion. People think our beliefs are fatuous and too oftenly get called oppressed when that simply isn’t true. We realize we cannot change everyone’s opinions, but not even being recognized, that is our breaking point,” Nadeen wrote.
She went on to report: “Students in the Beacon City School District have gone back and forth with the superintendent and the president of the school board, but have made no progress in getting them to consider having the rightful days off for these significant Muslim holidays.”
Why An Excused Absence vs School Holiday For Either Muslim Holiday of Eid Is Harmful and Dismissive
While the school board offered to give an excused absence to Muslim students recognizing the holidays, the reporter described why that was insufficient and harmful: “Offering us an excused day off will cause more harm than it will benefit us. The day will be filled with stress about the work that we will have to make up as well as any final, Regents, or AP exam review we might be missing, or even the test itself.”
Nadeen described the feelings around both Eids, to help non-Muslim readers identify: “Imagine. It’s Christmas Day, you wake up full of joy and excitement to continue the traditions that have been in your family for what seems like forever. To open presents in your cozy pajamas, spend the day with the family you haven’t seen in months or years, and to dine on the most delicious feast that you have been longing for since last Christmas. Stop imagining. Muslims don’t get the luxury - scratch that - we don’t get the right to honor our holidays’ true intentions. Days that should be spent celebrating, are instead being spent at school.”
Nadeen described the meaning behind both Eids: “During the holidays of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha, students are still expected to attend school. During Ramadan, Muslims don’t eat or drink anything from sunrise to sunset with a few exceptions to break their fast, this holiday lasts a month. Eid al-Fitr is a day Muslims spend celebrating the end of the hard month of Ramadan; celebrating our devotion and perseverance through the hardships. Finally, Eid al-Adha is a day commemorating the willingness of our prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as an act of obedience to God’s command. None of these holidays are being given their rightful days off to be truly celebrated and honored in our school district.”
District Stated That Eid-Adha Was In Summer - But It Rotates and Is Here Now
According to the article, the Beacon Board of Education provided several excuses of why the Eid holidays could not be written into the school calendar as full days off. One of them including the timing of Eid al-Adha, which is happening right now - June 16th and 17th 2024. According to the BBC and to Muslims in Beacon: “Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu-al-Hijjah - which is the twelfth and final month of the lunar Islamic calendar. The exact date depends on the sighting of the moon. On the morning of Eid, Muslims gather to perform Eid prayers in congregation. People traditionally wear new clothes and visit family and friends.”
The Breaking Beacon article presented pieces of emails and logic to debating the adoption of this holiday. The reporter pointed out: “These holidays have been during that time of year for many years [Regents, AP exams, finals].”
The article quoted an email from the District: “Our first read of our calendar was approved at the last meeting….” But the student reporter disputed: “The calendar had not had its final approval, so why can’t it be considered? This is not a valid excuse for not taking our holidays into account since they’ve had constant reminders about it.”
The reporter continued commentating on quotes from the emails from the District: “They [the District] also replied with: ‘Eid al-Fitr is on a Saturday and Eid al-Adha is after school is out for the summer, so I am not sure these holidays impact our calendar directly this year.’ It was said that for the 2022-2023 school year, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha do not fall on school days. Not only is that not true, but it would only be justifiable for that one year. While Eid al-Adha is on a day during the summer break, Eid al-Fitr does lie on a Friday. They use these as reasons, but in reality, these are excuses.”
Both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha Fell On School Days For 2024
This year, Ramadan was from March 10 - April 9, 2024 (as noted at MIT, which outlines accommodations given to Muslim students during that time, but also fails in giving both Eid holidays off as full school closures). Eid al Fitr fell on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Superintend Landahl made the announcement in his email to district families a year in advance, stating: “The BCSD Board of Education adopted the 23-24 calendar last night (April 24, 2023). The calendar has some changes from the previous years. Eid al-Fitr, the final day of Ramadan, is now a school holiday on April 10.”
There was no mention of Eid al-Adha, which was Monday and Tuesday of this week, which has been a time of finals, Regents, and a heat wave which has resulted in early dismissals.
However, this recognition of Eid al-Fitr seems like a win for Muslim families and the community at large. Other districts in the area, like Wappingers Falls, do not give the day off. In the Breaking Beacon article, published before the decision was made, the reporter wrote: “These holidays are coming up soon, and the Muslim students of our schools have other choice but to dread these days. Our school district has done nothing to recognize the importance of Muslim holidays. We understand that making a school calendar does happen after a lot of planning to meet the ‘necessary parameters,’ but these days should be considered one of them. In recent years, Eid al-Adha hasn’t been during the school year, but in upcoming yeras it will be. When this day comes, we expect to be at home, not worrying about the schoolwork or test preparations we’ll be missing.”
During last night’s City Council meeting (6/17/2024), Councilperson Molly Rhodes of Ward 1 wished those celebrating Eid al-Adha a Happy Mubarak.
It's Monday! For citizens of Beacon, that means City Council Meetings (the back to back meetings are tonight). For self-employed business people, that means Go Time! Main Street businesses may be taking a breather from the weekend (or it's an extra heavy day) and service businesses are back at it. However your Monday is going, you may need to play this song by Gloria Gaynor on repeat: "I Will Survive." Good Luck and you got this.
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HUDSON VALLEY AUCTIONEERS
Been wondering what the Free Things are that keep appearing outside of 432 Main Street down near the Beacon Movie Theater? It is the storefront of Hudson Valley Auctioneers, LLC as they get ready for a new live auction. Their latest auction was Monday afternoon, and they offered all sorts of rare finds. Keep your eye on A Little Beacon Blog for when their next auction is.
Hudson Valley Auctioneers is a ALBB Business Directory member and you can find their listing in the Art category!
THE LUMINOUS BRIDE
The Luminous Bride is the makeup loft located inside of Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique in the historic factory building at 1 East Main. Soft looks with clean, natural makeup for those who love looking like themselves, enhanced by the enchanting lift makeup can give them. Established.in NYC, Jules (Owner) was a regular artist at NY Fashion Week, and continues styling celebrities for press, print, TV and the red carpet. Book for Weddings, Special Occasions, Trials or Makeup Lessons if you're interested in learning yourself!
A Little Beacon Blog celebrates Black Lives Matter every day with our “Black Owned Businesses in the Hudson Valley Directory” — a directory of local companies to support which started in the racial re-awakening of the Black Lives Matter movement of 2020. To include as many businesses as possible, while keeping it easy for you to use, this directory is organized by region first, and then area of business. Listing in this Category is free for Black-owned or co-owned businesses. Email us to let us know about your business: editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com.
*SPECIAL FEATURE* Accuprint Your go-to resource for packing, shipping, printing and business service needs of the residents and businesses of Beacon, NY.
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There are many CSA options in the Hudson Valley where you can find local meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and more. Check out Common Ground Farm, Fishkill Farms, Obercreek Farm, and more! Support your local farmers!
Beacon Dental is a group of friendly and experienced dentists and team that are dedicated to providing you with individual, high-quality care. Your health, smile and comfort are always their first priorities, and they will work with you to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health and a beautiful smile. Teeth whitening available! Call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hongli Wang and learn more about complete dentistry.
The Main Office Space is a coworking and collaboration space located at 234 #1 Main Street, Beacon, NY, in the scenic Hudson Valley. A quick 70-minute train ride to NYC’s Grand Central Station, they are conveniently located for remote workers who still need access to all the City has to offer. Locals can rent desks weekly or monthly; visitors are welcome to rent space daily or for specific events. A Little Beacon Blog rents a desk there too!
There are many opportunities to get your fitness on in Beacon & the Hudson Valley! From Crossfit, Yoga, and Barre, to your General Fitness Centers, Martial Arts, Cycle, and more.
Karen Meyer, the owner of this practice, specializes in helping women manage stress, anxiety, muscular tension, and fatigue in a safe & nurturing environment. RTMBeacon is a Woman owned business, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a safe space for ALL.
A Little Beacon Blog celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month yearly & supports Hispanic Owned Businesses in the Hudson Valley. This is a directory of local companies to support Hispanic Businesses & recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements. Listing in this Category is free for Hispanic-owned or co-owned businesses. Email us to let us know about your business: editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com.
Miss Vicki's Music Miss Vickie is part of the heart and soul of Beacon. She has been volunteering in the community and teaching music in Beacon for years and years. Her patient disposition with people of all ages makes guitar lessons not intimidating for beginners and novices. Born left-handed, she speaks to both sides of the brain and teaches and plays right handed. Miss Vickie can make house-calls for private guitar lessons for kids and/or adults. Private Classes go by the half-hour or hour.
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