To the Editor:

In a time when many communities are searching for ways to reconnect and local businesses continue to face economic uncertainty; we believe it is more important than ever to create opportunities that bring people together while strengthening the foundations of our local economy. As we are witnessing more long-standing businesses shut their doors there needs to be more community involvement. 

That is why we created V.I.B.E. (Visibility, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity), a collective of Peekskill residents volunteering and dedicated to creating meaningful, community-centered events that foster fellowship, celebration, and connection. V.I.B.E. was founded on a simple but powerful idea: when people come together and feel welcomed, communities grow stronger. 

The inspiration for V.I.B.E. came from witnessing the joy and sense of belonging that emerged when I DJ’d 60th birthday celebrations where people from different backgrounds gathered to celebrate together. I saw firsthand how shared experiences can break down barriers, spark new friendships, and remind us that despite our differences, we all benefit from feeling connected to one another. That experience inspired me to gather some residents creating this collaborative, to create events that would bring that same spirit of unity to the broader Peekskill community. 

Today, many small businesses are facing significant challenges. Rising costs, changing consumer habits, and economic uncertainty have made it increasingly difficult for local establishments to thrive. These businesses are more than storefronts; they are gathering places, employers, and vital contributors to the character and identity of our Peekskill.

For that reason, supporting local businesses and local artists is central to our mission. V.I.B.E. partners with local venues to host our events, and all events proceeds go directly to the host venue. By doing so, we not only create opportunities for residents to gather and connect but also help drive customers and revenue to the businesses that help make Peekskill special. Our goal is to circulate support within our local economy, create opportunities for entrepreneurs, artists and vendors, and ensure that our community’s success is shared by all. 

Equally important is our commitment to inclusion. V.I.B.E. events are designed to be safe, welcoming spaces where people of all ages, backgrounds, cultures, interests, and experiences can come together to enjoy music, entertainment, and community. We believe that everyone deserves a place where they feel seen, valued, and connected. Our events celebrate the rich diversity that makes Peekskill such a vibrant and unique city.

At its heart, V.I.B.E. exists to strengthen the bonds that make a community resilient. When neighbors gather, local businesses prosper, and people feel a sense of belonging, we all benefit. Through every event we host, we hope to create positive experiences that not only bring joy in the moment but also contribute to a stronger, more connected Peekskill for years to come.

We invite the community to join us in this effort—to celebrate together, support one another, and invest in the people and businesses that make Peekskill home.  So, we have tentative engagements with RameNesque, and the studio in Exile.  We welcome any other business in Peekskill that would like to collaborate with us to reach out.  Our inaugural event will be this coming Saturday, July 11 (rain date July 12) from 3 pm to 7pm in the courtyard of Birdsall House.  We can be reached at [email protected].

Sincerely,
Antonio Knott
(“DJ Toney da Tiger”)
On behalf of V.I.B.E. (Visibility, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity)
Peekskill, NY