In this special episode for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are honored to sit down with Tara Simmons, founder of Flip It for Life and a powerful voice for change. Tara shares her personal journey, shedding light on the challenges she has faced, the strengths she has discovered along the way, and what drives her to help others overcome adversity. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and empowerment, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss. Join us as we dive deep into Tara's mission to uplift and inspire those impacted by domestic violence.

In this episode, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon chat with Beaconite Command Master Chief from Submarine Squadron One. With a distinguished career in the US Navy, Command Master Chief shares his remarkable journey and offers deep insights into leadership and personal development. Discover how his experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy and how he’s now channeling these lessons into his podcast, Leadership State Of Mind, co-hosted with Armon Owens. Tune in to learn how you can explore new avenues for personal growth.

To learn more about Leadership State Of Mind and gain insights from seasoned Navy leaders, visit: Leadership State Of Mind" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer nofollow"><a href="Insert URL here">Leadership State Of Mind</a>

In this special episode of the "This Is Beacon" podcast, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a reflective and candid conversation about the evolution of their podcast and its role within the broader mission of the "I Am Beacon" organization. They discuss the origins of the podcast, its development over the years, and its current format which aims to capture the voice of the city and connect its community members.

Throughout the episode, they reminisce about past episodes, the initial challenges of starting a podcast, and the unexpected joys and insights gained from engaging with the community. Brandon reflects on the podcast's impact, noting how it has served as a platform for local heroes to tell their stories and how it has evolved to include discussions on broader community issues.

They also explore the growth of the "I Am Beacon" organization, its new membership program, and their personal roles within the restructured entity. The conversation reveals their dedication to fostering community connections and the significant role the podcast plays in achieving this goal.

Reuben and Brandon's dialogue is interspersed with thoughts on future plans, including continuing to feature diverse community voices and furthering their outreach through special series and community events. The episode encapsulates their commitment to using the podcast as a tool for community engagement and social change.

In this special episode, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon pause to reflect on what they are thankful for in 2020!

Wishing you all a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Born and raised here in Beacon, Tony Lassiter drops in to share his story and wisdom with us!

As a Vietnam veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and community leader, Tony has and continues to give so much to the Beacon community!

Such an honor to spend this time getting to know him on a deeper level- we hope you enjoy this as much as we did!

On this throwback episode, we chat with Lynn and Bob Costello of The Costellos Maverick Pop! Listen in to hear more from the folks behind the music as they share their love of the Beacon community! To download their music and keep up with the latest happenings with the band here on their website: https://www.thecostellosmusic.com Be sure to follow them on Facebook here: https://m.facebook.com/TheCostellosMaverickPop/

Where every day is Fry-Day... Barb’s FryWorks opens tonight at the Food Hall! 10/30/2020 For the past 6yrs, Barb Fisher has been known to the community as the owner of Barbs Butchery. In this episode, we dive in to learn about Barb the person, her journey to becoming a business owner, and her newest adventure Barbs FryWorks opening this weekend! To learn more about- Barbs Butchery: http://www.barbsbutchery.com Barbs Tallow Spa: http://www.barbsbutchery.com/spa.html Barbs FryWorks: https://www.barbsfryworks.com

In this episode, Brooke, Brandon, and Reuben discuss the latest happenings at I Am Beacon and provide a bit of the history and context to the great work they are doing throughout our community! Listen now to get up to speed on the I Am Beacon Strong initiative; I Run Beacon 5K, the Youth Podcast Program, and plans for I Am Beacon to expand into membership in 2021! To find out more, check out iambeacon.org and be sure to like the I Am Beacon Facebook page!

Back with us after completing her 100-mile race, the unicorn, Tara Simmons is in the building! (Well technically she joined us at Memorial Park #PopUpPodcast) We chat about all things logistics, the folks that helped her complete the run, and her mission of raising awareness on Human Rights! To learn more about Tara’s work check out flipit4life.com and find her on Facebook at facebook.com/flipit4life To get your free certification in Human Rights check out www.humanrights.com/course To hear more about her dream of running across the country - go back to our previous episode titled “This is Tara”

In this archive episode, Beacon’s own Tony E stops by with his crew to discuss his background, experience and pride in the community! As of this week, Tony E’s song “Poppa” has nearly 88K streams on Spotify We could not be more proud of this young man for sharing his talent with us for all to enjoy and for showing up for Beacon time and again. Tony E performed for us at many celebrations including the 2019 Rock Out 4 Mental Health event! Check out this song and more of Tony E’s music at:  https://open.spotify.com/artist/6HosMylJ8OOPt9UY7uoDzC?si=z271MNLvTjCJlqkG6n-2Nw

Today is National Voter Registration Day!  Please take a few minutes to listen as Justice explains to us some of the work he and his team Beacon 4 Black Lives have done to make registering as easy as 1,2,3. Also, Do not forget to fill out your 2020 Census!! 

For five years, Kenya Gadsden served on the Beacon City School Board. She is the founder of Diamonds Unveiled, leads the Open Arms Ministry Food Pantry, and currently serves on the Fishkill Town Board. Listen in as we discuss her work in the community, diversity, and her program YES (Youth Equipped for Success) For more information, you can find Kenya on Facebook at Kenya Hendrickson or by email at gadsdenkenya@gmail.com

Check out this latest episode to catch the happenings around Beacon this past weekend!

📣 Welcome back to Beacon's West End Story! 🏙️

In this episode, Reuben and Brooke share their reflections on the enlightening discussion with Professor Hochfelder and Connie Whitener Perdreau. We take a trip down memory lane into the experiences of West End residents, offering a glimpse into the vibrant community that once thrived.

To stay connected with our ongoing journey through the rich tapestry of Beacon's West End, don't forget to subscribe!

But that's not all; be sure to explore the exhibits that highlight this vital piece of our history:

🏛️ At Beacon Historical Society, the exhibit is open now until February 2024. Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of the West End.

📚 At Howland Public Library, the exhibit opens on Saturday, October 14th. Be among the first to discover the West End community.

Join us for these exciting live events:

🗓️ Tuesday, October 24, 7 PM | Panel Discussion: Beacon's West End Story, Community Perspectives at Springfield Baptist Church, 8 Church Street, Beacon, NY

🗓️ Wednesday, November 15, 2 PM | Community Sharing, Beacon's West End Story at Dutchess County OFA Friendship Center, 1 Forrestal Heights, Beacon, NY

If you're passionate about preserving our community's history and would like to contribute by sharing your voice, photos, or artifacts from the West End, please reach out to us at ⁠⁠iambeacon.info@gmail.com⁠⁠.

Learn more about this collaborative project with Beacon Historical Society, Howland Public Library, Highlands Current, and I Am Beacon at beaconlibrary.org/westendstory. 🌐

Let's celebrate our community's history and the vibrant West End together! 🌟📜 #Community #iAmBeacon #BeaconWestEnd #UrbanRenewal

It’s that time of year!!! With the 43rd Annual Spirit of Beacon Day just around the corner, we check in with Gwenno James to discuss the history of this top community event and how the committee is planning to put it on this year, socially distant friendly yet strong in spirit! To keep the celebration special, we need all hands on deck! Listen in to find out how you and your organization can participate and check out their website at www.spiritofbeacon.org Let’s Go Beacon!!! #iAmBeacon #BeaconStrong

The more you know, the better you'll be. Check out the happenings around town.  This TMYK highlights the Story Screen Beacon Drive-in at the Beacon Settlement camp at 724 Wolcott Avenue, Beacon New York. Here's a link below for more information https://www.storyscreenbeacon.com/

Recently appointed to the Human Relations Commission here in Beacon, meet John Galloway Jr. also known as "John John." He is born and raised in Beacon and has a passion to serve the community. Listen as we take a look at an unfortunate incident John John experienced as an adolescent which fuels his passion for helping others, discuss his goal of landing a seat on the Beacon City School Board and learn about his non-profit, The Label Foundation. Check out The Label Foundation at http://www.thelabelfoundation.com/

As an avid runner, Tara Simmons is often seen running the streets of Beacon. In recent months, you may have seen her out even more as she is training to run an incredible 100 miles this October. But that's just the beginning. Listen to learn more and check out her website Flip It 4 Life to follow her journey and see how she gives back to others. www.flipit4life.com

People across the United States have flooded the streets to protest police violence and reform. Here in Beacon, there have been local efforts to raise awareness of such issues including how we can do better for our community. Join us in this discussion with police reform expert, Mark Ungar, who is also a Beacon resident and member of Beacon Now, a community group working to improve police-community relations. Police Reform Resources: https://www.joincampaignzero.org/ To have your thoughts, experiences and voice heard please visit: https://www.iambeacon.org/beaconnow

As one of I Am Beacon's den mothers, Yvonne has raised her family during over three decades of evolution here in Beacon. She has seen the good, bad and everything else in-between. This podcast is brought to you by I Am Beacon and the fantastic people of the city of Beacon.

In this week's episode,  we sit down with Madeleine Ouellette. Madison is a Beacon, New York-based female chiropractor who is specialized as General Chiropractor. Madeleine Ouellette is qualified as a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.), licensed by the State and who practices chiropractic medicine -that discipline within the healing arts which deals with the nervous system and its relationship to the spinal column and its interrelationship with other body systems.  This podcast is brought to you by I Am Beacon and the fantastic people of the city of Beacon.

On this week's episode, owner of The Pandorica restaurant ( THE Doctor Who themed restaurant of the Hudson Valley) Shirley Hart,  discusses her experience in Beacon with Brandon and his pal, host of the Steady Geekin podcast Blake. As a business owner on main street, Shirley has seen what  the transformation of main street has brought to the city.  This podcast was brought to you by I Am Beacon and the amazing people of the city of Beacon

Our first episode of " This is Beacon" podcast, we sit down with our friend and long time Beacon resident Anna. We had a blast discussing growing up in this city and Anna family's connection to the growth of the city. This podcast is brought to you by I Am Beacon and the amazing people of the city of Beacon.

Welcome to Beacon's West End Story! Join us on an extraordinary journey through time as we delve deep into the intricate history of Urban Renewal and its profound impact on the community of Beacon's West End.

On this first episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with historian and University at Albany Professor, David Hochfelder. Together, we navigate the complex landscape of Urban Renewal, exploring its multifaceted aspects. Professor Hochfelder acts as our guide, leading us through the maze of funding sources, policy decisions, and urban planning strategies that shaped the course of Urban Renewal. We'll peel back the layers, unraveling the complexities of this historical phenomenon, and examine its intentions, successes, and the far-reaching consequences it left in its wake.

But this episode isn't solely about historical analysis; it's about personal experiences too. We're honored to welcome a special guest, Connie Whitener-Perdreau, a former resident of the West End. Connie shares her unique perspective, providing a personal lens through which we can gain insight into the profound impact of Urban Renewal on Beacon's West End neighborhood.

Subscribe now to stay connected with our ongoing journey through the rich tapestry of Beacon's West End. If you're passionate about preserving the history of our community and would like to contribute by sharing your voice, photos, or artifacts from the West End, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at iambeacon.info@gmail.com.

Join us in celebrating the spirit of our community, exploring the complexities of Urban Renewal, and preserving the invaluable stories that define the Beacon's West End. 🏡📚 #Community #iAmBeacon #BeaconWestEnd #UrbanRenewal

Heather Ann Pitcher, founder of The Brain and Body Coalition, joins us to discuss the significance of BB Moore BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month. We explore the importance of self-care and upcoming events planned by the coalition to celebrate the month. Heather highlights the unique challenges faced by BIPOC individuals and emphasizes the need for cultural sensitivity in mental health initiatives. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to engage with the coalition and support mental health advocacy.--

On this episode of the #JoinTheConversationSeries, we spotlight “This is Beacon’s “ own Brandon Lillard. Brandon shares his 20 year professional experience in mental health. We chat about his journey, his insight, working with youth and more.Without further ado, this is Brandon.

This is Beacons 100th episode!!!!

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Happy Veterans Day!

In celebrating our local heroes, we sat down with Beacon's own Tina Grover to hear about her military career serving 30 years to our country and what she is up to in retirement. We talk about her decision to join, experience as a woman in the military, and learn about her new adventures in retirement with meditation and reiki! 

If you'd like to get in touch with Tina, please reach out to us directly at iambeacon.info@gmail.com or...

- Check out Sister Soldiers on Facebook

- For more info on the U.S Airforce  check out Careers - U.S. Air Force

On this episode, Christian Campbell stops by! We discuss his background, journey to Beacon and dive in to learn about the upcoming Beacon Bonfire Music & Arts Festival happening November 4th and 5th!  To find more information and to grab your tickets to Beacon Bonfire check out: beaconbonfire.com  #Beacon #Community #BeaconBonfire #Festival #Music #Art #iAmBeacon #ThisIsBeacon #BeaconNY

In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party -

Check out this episode as we hear from the Pastor Nikki with Open Arms Christian Ministries International - learn about their mission, services and ways you can be involved!

#IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer

In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party -

Check out this episode as we hear from the Rombout Middle School!

#IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer

On this episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben, Brooke, and Brandon are back with the latest updates from Beacon.

They recap the I Am Beacon Making A Difference Scholarship, discuss the Elks 100th Celebration Parade, and the Brain and Body Coalition's Mental Wellness event. The team also explores the current discussion surrounding Veteran Banners.

- Register for the Back to School Block Party: https://iambeacon.org/beacon-back-to-school/

-Register for I Run Beacon 5K:

https://iambeacon.org/i-run-beacon-5k/

- Learn more about the Brain and Body Coalition: https://brainandbodycoalition.org/

- Check out City Council meetings and recordings: https://youtu.be/ybw9xdfH0sk?si=MkzWW-ORH42sKK55

In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party - 

Check out this episode as we hear from the Children's Home of Poughkeepsie - learn about their mission and services and ways you can be involved!

#IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer

On this episode, the team recaps the latest happenings with I Am Beacon. 

As we kick off our busy season here, listen in to learn about our Making A Difference Scholarship, iGotGame eGaming League, and Digital Art Program. The team also touches on our annual events Back to School Block Party and I Run Beacon 5K and more...  

To learn more about I Am Beacon visit us: www.iambeacon.org

Follow us at Facebook.com/iambeacon Instagram @i.am.beacon

#iambeacon #thisisbeacon #Beacon #community #2022

On this episode of the #JoinTheConversation series, we are joined by mental health specialist and Dutchess County Legislator, Barrington Atkins.

We learn about his journey into the field of mental health and dive in to hear his work in this space as both a practitioner and legislator.

To get in touch with Barrington: Cell:  845-518-0056 | E-Mail: bratkins@dutchessny.gov

To email all legislators: CountyLegislature@DutchessNY.gov

To learn more about our co-host Heather-Ann and Nami Mid-Hudson:

• Listen to This Is Beacon episodes #45 and #48
• Visit: @namimidhudson | Linktree
• Mental Health Marathon Event details: Saturday, May 21 9AM-2PM, 49 Pershing Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY

#JoinTheConversation #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealth #Wellness #GoodVibesWellness #Beacon #BeaconNY #Community

This Oscar's, we all witnessed Will Smith slap Chris Rock. On this episode, we get a look at Men and Mental Health from a male perspective. 

Listen in as the team gives their reaction on the incident, share their thoughts on the potential pressures that contributed to the incident and dive into the explore the pressure, stigma and unease around mental health for black men. 

To learn more about I Am Beacon visit us at: www.iambeacon.org | facebook.com/iambeacon | IG @i.am.beacon

#JoinTheConversation #MentalHealth #MensWellness #IAmBeacon #ThisIsBeacon 

On this episode of the #JoinTheConversation series, we are joined by local "eclectic-therapist" Jessica Mills. 

We learn about her background, journey to Beacon and dive into hear her perspective on all things boundaries. 

To get in touch with Jess or view her bookshelf check out her website at: www.goodvibeswellness.com

• Learn more about the 5 Love Languages: Discover Your Love Language - The 5 Love Languages®

To learn more about Heather-Ann and Nami Mid-Hudson:

•  Listen to This Is Beacon episodes #45 and #48
• Visit: @namimidhudson | Linktree
• Mental Health Marathon Event details: Saturday, May 21 9AM-2PM, 49 Pershing Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY

#JoinTheConversation #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealth #Wellness #GoodVibesWellness #Beacon #BeaconNY #Community

On this episode, we are joined by Megan and Mike with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

We discuss their background, the tough topic of suicide and their upcoming event Hike for Hope happening right here at Mount Beacon.

To register for the Hike for Hope visit: https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&eventID=8441

Event Details

• Date: 05/21/2022
• Location: Mount Beacon Park, Beacon, NY 
• Registration: 8:00 am
• Event Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

For more information, please contact:

• Contact Name: Megan Tarantino & Michael Stewart 
• Contact Phone: (845) 554-6604
• Contact Email: meganmccabe89@gmail.com

If you or someone you know is in need of support: 

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.
• ***988 dialing code discussed on the show today will be available beginning July 16, 2022
• To learn more about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention visit: www.afsp.org

To learn more about I Am Beacon visit us at: www.iambeacon.org | facebook.com/iambeacon | IG @i.am.beacon

#JoinTheConversation #Beacon #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #AmericanFoundationforSuicidePrevention #HikeforHope #iambeacon 

May is Mental Health Awareness month. With 1 in 5 adults experiencing mental illness and 18% of adolescents reporting the pandemic had a significantly negative impact on their mental health it is imperative that we come together to ensure all members of the community feel seen and supported.

Listen in as the team is joined by Heather Ann from NAMI Mid-Hudson joins us to chat ways in which you can celebrate and share your message of hope this May!

Big shout out to local Girl Scout Troops 10459 & 10293 who made and hung all the ribbons here in Beacon! 

To learn more about I Am Beacon please visit www.iambeacon.org or follow us on social media at facebook.com/iambeacon or on IG @i.am.beacon

To learn more about NAMI Mid-Hudson check out www.namimidhudson.org

#JoinTheConversation #iAmBeacon #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #NAMIMH #NamiRibbonCampaign

Curious about I Am Beacon and all they have going on, well this episode of for you! Listen in as the team checks in to discuss what they are proud of so far in 2022 and what they look forward to in the coming months.

To learn more about I Am Beacon visit us: www.iambeacon.org 

Follow us at Facebook.com/iambeacon Instagram @i.am.beacon 

#iambeacon #thisisbeacon #Beacon #community #2022 

Back with us this week, Rob Lanier drops by for a Part 2... So if you missed our first episode go back and check out Episode 74. One this episode, we get a glimpse of the great work Rob is involved with today and his role sitting on the board of the Highland Current. Without further ado, this again is Rob.

On this episode, councilwoman Paloma Wake drops in to help us unpack the new local law... Good Cause Eviction Listen in as Paloma and the team discuss just what exactly is in this new law, it’s intention and potential impact. If you are interested in learning more please reach out to your local councilman or contact Legal Services of the Hudson Valley at 845.253.6953 or online at www.Lshv.org

In this episode, Brandon and Brianna welcome two Beacon talents, Teron Wright and Devon Howard. Teron Wright, a visual artist, shares his journey from Beacon to rediscovering his passion for art. Follow his work on Instagram at thewrightexpressions. Devon Howard, also known as Noetic, discusses his music and entrepreneurial career, emphasizing community support. Connect with him on Instagram at noetic_pclawd and safecreatives. Listen as Teron and Devon talk about their experiences, the impact of Beacon, and their visions for fostering a creative community. Hear about Teron’s “Synergy” art show on July 6th at 6:00 PM in Troy, New York, and their efforts to inspire the next generation of artists.

Remember Action Park? Well for those who do, this will be a trip down memory lane... for those of you who don’t, welcome to what was once... America’s scariest little water park! On this episode, director Seth Porges joins the team to discuss his documentary film Class Action Park now streaming on HBO Max. The team dives in to understand Seth’s journey to making the film, his passion behind the project and all the fascinating tales and facts behind the park. Without further a due - this is Seth

In this episode, it’s all things, Mrs. Flowers!

The team is joined by local shop owner Sara Leonardo Taylor aka Mrs. Flowers and her husband, Jamie.

We discuss their connection to Beacon and the journey that led them back, their business, and the services offered!

Without further ado - this is Mrs. Flowers!

In this episode, the team reacts to the hot button topic of Good Cause Eviction and statements made at the recent council meeting.

To view the full council meeting, check out The City of Beacon's YouTube channel at the link below.

#ThisIsBeacon #IAmBeacon #BeaconNY #Community

https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCvPpigGwZDeR7WYmw-SuDxg

In this episode, the team is joined by Connie Perdreau, the daughter of Henry and Mazie Whitener.

Connie drops by to discuss her experience growing up in Beacon, how Urban Renewal efforts impacted her family, and the West End Story Project.

Without further ado, this is Connie.

West End Story: Urban Renewal in Beacon project:

www.beaconlibrary.org/westend

For those who may be familiar, Mr. Whitener worked at Castle Point and owned a sanitation business with clients including the previous A&P Grocery Store and Grant’s on Main Street as we as an auxiliary police officer.

On this episode the crew discusses the Joe Rogan fall out and review ways you can celebrate Black History Month locally.

#ThisIsBeacon #IAmBeacon #BeaconNY #Community #BlackHistoryMonth

On this episode, Erik Orquist drops by... We discuss his experience growing up bi-racial and how it has informed his parenting style today. Without further adue, this is Erik

On this episode, Erik Orquist drops by... We discuss his experience growing up bi-racial and how it has informed his parenting style today. Without further adue, this is Erik