Skip to main content
This is Beacon

This is Beacon

By I Am Beacon

This Is Beacon offers a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of a city, told by those that call it home. Serving as the audio scrapbook of the community, join us as we discover Beacon's history, celebrate local heroes, and dive into issues impacting our community.

Presented by I Am Beacon, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to serving and empowering the Beacon community.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Ep. 49 #Jointheconversation: This is Dr. Tom

This is BeaconMay 31, 2021

00:00
01:01:36
Beacon's West End Story | Revisiting The Community Through The Voices That Once Called It Home

Beacon's West End Story | Revisiting The Community Through The Voices That Once Called It Home

📣 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

Oct 06, 202324:56
Beacon's West End Story | Exploring Urban Renewal w/ Professor Hochfelder and Connie Whitener Perdreau

Beacon's West End Story | Exploring Urban Renewal w/ Professor Hochfelder and Connie Whitener Perdreau

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

Sep 01, 202355:42
Ep. 102 Celebrating BB Moore BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month with The Brain and Body Coalition

Ep. 102 Celebrating BB Moore BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month with The Brain and Body Coalition

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.--

Jun 26, 202341:33
#JoinTheConversation | This is Brandon

#JoinTheConversation | This is Brandon

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.
May 03, 202301:21:57
Ep. 100 '' Keeping it 100''

Ep. 100 '' Keeping it 100''

This is Beacons 100th episode!!!!

Like

Subscribe

Review

Dec 05, 202252:10
Ep. 99 Celebrating Our Veterans | This Is Tina
Nov 10, 202201:40:28
Ep. 98 This is Christian with Beacon Bonfire: Music + Art Festival

Ep. 98 This is Christian with Beacon Bonfire: Music + Art Festival

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
Oct 23, 202249:02
Ep. 97 Part 3: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is Pastor Nikki

Ep. 97 Part 3: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is Pastor Nikki

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

Oct 07, 202215:23
Ep. 97 Part 2: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is Rombout Middle School

Ep. 97 Part 2: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is Rombout Middle School

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

Sep 23, 202212:58
Ep. 97 Part 1: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is the Children's home of Poughkeepsie

Ep. 97 Part 1: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is the Children's home of Poughkeepsie

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

Sep 09, 202212:53
Ep. 96 Checking in with I Am Beacon

Ep. 96 Checking in with I Am Beacon

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

Jun 10, 202251:05
Ep. 95 #JoinTheConversation | This Is County Legislator Barrington Atkins

Ep. 95 #JoinTheConversation | This Is County Legislator Barrington Atkins

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

Jun 03, 202201:08:03
Ep. 94 #JoinTheConversation | The Slap! A Look at Black Men and Mental Health
May 27, 202201:07:17
Ep. 93 #JoinTheConversation | Good Vibes Wellness with Jessica Mills

Ep. 93 #JoinTheConversation | Good Vibes Wellness with Jessica Mills

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

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

May 20, 202201:27:52
Ep. 92 #JoinTheConversation | American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Ep. 92 #JoinTheConversation | American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

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 13, 202250:13
Ep. 91 #JoinTheConversation | Mental Health Awareness Month

Ep. 91 #JoinTheConversation | Mental Health Awareness Month

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

May 02, 202245:37
Ep. 90 Catching Up w/ I Am Beacon

Ep. 90 Catching Up w/ I Am Beacon

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 


Apr 28, 202248:02
Ep. 89 'Leadership in Action | This is Rob Part 2’

Ep. 89 'Leadership in Action | This is Rob Part 2’

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.
Apr 20, 202201:07:37
Ep. 88 ‘Good Cause Eviction | This Is Councilwoman Paloma Wake’
Apr 05, 202201:56:34
Ep. 87 'Traction Park…This is Seth’

Ep. 87 'Traction Park…This is Seth’

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
Mar 28, 202201:05:43
Ep. 86 'You grow, girl...This is Mrs. Flowers'

Ep. 86 'You grow, girl...This is Mrs. Flowers'

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!

Mar 20, 202250:03
Ep. 85 'Council Meeting Reaction 2-22-22'

Ep. 85 'Council Meeting Reaction 2-22-22'

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

Mar 07, 202201:13:57
Ep. 84 'Beacon's West End Story| This is Connie'

Ep. 84 'Beacon's West End Story| This is Connie'

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.

Feb 26, 202201:22:04
*VIDEO Version* Ep. 83 'Black History Month 2022'

*VIDEO Version* Ep. 83 'Black History Month 2022'

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

Feb 18, 202257:17
*VIDEO Version* Ep. 82'This is EriK'

*VIDEO Version* Ep. 82'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

Feb 11, 202201:29:49
Ep. 82 'This is Erik'

Ep. 82 '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

Feb 10, 202201:31:05
* VIDEO Version* Ep. 81 Tara's Mission: The Saga continues...
Feb 03, 202249:59
Ep. 81 Tara's Mission: The Saga continues…
Feb 03, 202246:50
Ep. 80 'I Love Local Rewards'

Ep. 80 'I Love Local Rewards'

On this episode, the team is joined by Ramon Pinero of I Love Local Rewards.

We discuss his background, his passion for community building and dive in to understand how his business serves to help local small businesses thrive while promoting the importance to shop local!

Without further a-due, this is Ramon.
Jan 20, 202259:27
Ep. 79 "The Raven and The Wolf: This is Shannon"

Ep. 79 "The Raven and The Wolf: This is Shannon"

As we kick off the New Year-

Shannon with Raven and the Wolf Spiritual Services drops by to chat with the crew

Located here in Beacon, the team discusses her background, and work as a spiritual guide, medium, and more...

Without further ado, this is 

Shannon

Jan 06, 202201:21:18
EP. 78 2021, The Year of Growth'

EP. 78 2021, The Year of Growth'

The group shares some of their favorite community initiatives from the past year, as well as some things they're looking forward to doing in 2022!

Dec 30, 202101:55:37
Ep. 77 A Career in Architectural Design, This is Susan
Dec 17, 202101:23:37
Ep. 76 'Unconventional adventures... This is Mike'

Ep. 76 'Unconventional adventures... This is Mike'

On this episode, Beaconite and friend of the cast... Mike Lentini drops by...

We discuss his background and dive into all things soccer... listen in to hear Mikes experience in the game and get his perspective as a long time coach!

Mike also shared his unconventional career path in finance!

Without further ado, this is Mike!
Dec 02, 202101:46:25
Ep. 75 Faith at Work in Our Community... This is Pastor Bill
Nov 17, 202101:32:02
EP. 74 US Veteran and Local Hero... This is Rob

EP. 74 US Veteran and Local Hero... This is Rob

On behalf of us here at This Is Beacon, Happy Veterans Day to all the Beacon Veterans and their families! We thank you for your service! On this special episode, we sit down with local hero, retired US Coast Guard, Robert Lanier Rob joins us to share his background and experience serving our country and the many ways he has and continues to serve here locally, in the Beacon community! Enjoy!


#Community #Veteran #ThisIsBeacon #IAmBeacon #Beacon #GiveBack #Volunteer

Nov 11, 202149:44
Ep. 73 I Am Beacon-Giving Back This Fall

Ep. 73 I Am Beacon-Giving Back This Fall

On this episode the team recaps all things this fall with I Am Beacon. Listen in to learn about the recent I Am Beacon Mural installation, Giving Tuesday and ways you can support the Annual Turkey On Every Table Thanksgiving Food Drive.

#iAmBeacon #GivingBackDoingMore #BeTheChange #Beacon #Community
Nov 04, 202101:05:49
Ep. 72 Nonprofit Leadership... This is Devin
Oct 20, 202101:01:28
Ep. 71 Our Local Guide to Beacon

Ep. 71 Our Local Guide to Beacon

Check out this episode as the crew discusses their take on what to do, see, explore and experience here in Beacon! For visitors and community members - listen in to hear what the team enjoys here at home! :) #VisitBeacon #IAmBeacon #ThisIsBeacon #Community #Vacation #Hike #MtBeacon

Oct 06, 202101:09:43
Ep. 70 This is Contender eSports
Sep 29, 202142:54
Ep. 69 TMYK: The Library of Things
Sep 23, 202113:40
Ep. 68 TMYK: What's Happening with the Spirit of Beacon This Year?
Sep 15, 202112:50
Ep. 67 A Legacy of Love... This Is A-Sicka Heals Foundation with Pam
Sep 09, 202101:05:17
Ep. 66 #RunIt: The 10th Annual I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk

Ep. 66 #RunIt: The 10th Annual I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk

On this episode, the team discusses the 10th Annual I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk.

Listen in to hear about the mission behind the run and how to participate in this virtual race. 

To learn more or to sign up - check out irunbeacon.com

Aug 30, 202127:44
Ep. 65 This is the Girls Scouts with Troop Leader, Rhonda

Ep. 65 This is the Girls Scouts with Troop Leader, Rhonda

On this episode, Rhonda Altonen drops by to chat all things Girl Scouts!

As part of the Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, Rhonda is a troop leader here in Beacon!

Today, she shares with us her experience with the Girls Scouts, how the program works and the benefits for participants!

Without further adue, this is Rhonda
Aug 25, 202101:29:19
Ep. 64 Youth Podcast Club: This is Skhy

Ep. 64 Youth Podcast Club: This is Skhy

On this episode, the team is joined by a local youth Skhy. Skhy participated in the This Is Beacon Youth podcast program put on through in partnership with the Howland Library. Today we get to hear her experience and listen in to the episode she created. If you are interested to learn more about the This Is Beacon youth podcast program, email us at iambeacon.info@gmail.com

#Youth #Beacon #Podcast #iAmBeacon #ThisIsBeacon

Aug 19, 202125:12
Ep. 63 This Is... The Annual Back 2 School Block Party!

Ep. 63 This Is... The Annual Back 2 School Block Party!

 In this episode we dive into to chat about the Annual Back 2 School Block Party happening this weekend! Listen in as the crew discusses the background, what to expect and the Class In A Bag initiative. #Beacon #Back2School #BlockParty #IAmBeacon #ThisIsBeacon #Community

Aug 16, 202140:36
Ep. 62 A Career In Graphic Design... This Is Brianna

Ep. 62 A Career In Graphic Design... This Is Brianna

On this episode, we chat with Brianna Rascoe. This Beaconite is an alumna of SUNY New Paltz and a powerhouse in all things branding and graphic design. Listen in as the crew gets to hear how Brianna’s love for art was born and the journey she took to explore her talent and build her career. #IAmBeacon #Journey #Design #Art #Career #Community #Beacon #HudsonValley

Aug 11, 202101:31:49
Ep. 61 She's Going 400+ Miles for Human Rights...Catching up with Tara Simmons
Aug 04, 202122:33
Ep. 60 A Career in Criminal Justice and All Things Civil Service...This is Josayne
Jul 28, 202101:00:59
Ep. 59 This is Leman
Jul 21, 202159:20