Historical Society to Present “Beacons of History”

BEACON – The Beacon Historical Society will present its eighth annual “Beacons of History” awards on Thursday, Nov. 7 to a family and an organization who have made substantial contributions to Beacon and helped to preserve its history and sense of community. The 2024 recognition will be presented to:

Individual Honorees:
Ken Berisha & Family
Ken Berisha symbolizes the generations of men and women who chose Beacon to write their chapter of the American Dream. Born in Kosovo, he immigrated to the United States in 1987 and started his first pizzeria business in Beacon three years later. In 1998, Ken opened Brothers Trattoria, becoming one of the first business owners willing to invest in the East End of Main Street before its renaissance. Now, in addition to owning his original building at 465 Main, Ken and his extended family own 193-195, 169-175 and 530-534 Main Street. In each case, they have kept the historic facades of the structures compatible with our city’s Hudson River Gothic architecture in scale and design. Ken, who became a U.S. Citizen nearly 30 years ago, says he felt “at home” as soon as he arrived in Beacon. Join us to recognize his more than three decades serving Beacon’s people – and saving Beacon’s historic buildings.

Organizational Honorees:
Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps
When Walter Detwiller, Joe Catalano, George Cable, members of Beacon Fire Engine Company and 29 volunteers launched the Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps in 1958, could they have imagined that the corps would ultimately save thousands of lives? Fortunately for us, the volunteers who followed in their footsteps have continued to selflessly serve our community for more than 65 years. From modest beginnings – the first BVAC ambulance was a donated 1948 burned-out Cadillac and an old two-bay garage served as its headquarters – BVAC has grown to answer about 3,500 emergency calls each year, making it one of the busiest in Dutchess County. Come answer the call to recognize their service.

The cocktail party will be held at the Roundhouse as both a friend- and a fund-raiser for the Historical Society, which is headquartered at 61 Leonard Street. Tickets are $75 per person and sponsorship opportunities are available. Memorial donations, contributions and other means of financial support are most appreciated in order to assist the Society in paying for its headquarters expenses, establishing new displays and caring for its vast collection.

“We hope that local businesses and residents will support this event to celebrate Beacon’s past and future,” said Historical Society President Denise VanBuren, noting that it is the Society’s single largest fundraiser this year. “In addition to honoring outstanding award recipients, the proceeds will be used to assist our Society in celebrating the history of Beacon at a time when our city is experiencing a great deal of interest and rebirth. Come join us – support the work we do as volunteers to preserve Beacon’s history.” All are welcome to attend, but reservations must be made and paid in advance for what is expected to be a sold-out event. Contact VanBuren for more information at DVB1776@gmail.com.