Halvey Funeral Home Replaces Vacant Restaurant on 9D at 2 Beekman Street

Former shell of restaurants at 2 Beekman.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Just up the road from the world famous art museum Dia: Beacon, sat Lucky's (formerly River Terrace), a closed restaurant with an often-chilly patio that occupied a prime location on the Hudson River. For two years it sat vacant, and for the past six years it housed a succession of floundering restaurant business models that failed and fled. The most action the property saw was when the parking lot was used for overflow parking from Rose Hill, the childcare center across the street, during its toddler graduation each spring. For prospective new restaurants, an advertised rent of $7,000/month to fill the space was extremely unattractive, and the former Lucky's sign, long forgotten and broken with exposed, burnt-out fluorescent bulbs, littered 9D as people drove into downtown Beacon.

A Business Relocation & Expansion

The Halvey Funeral home at 24 Willow St., soon to relocate to 2 Beekman. The home will be put up for sale on the residential market.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Enter Halvey Funeral Home, a third-generation Beacon business established in 1933, currently based at 24 Willow St. in a residential neighborhood. According to Patrick Halvey, the third-generation son who is taking over the family business, locating funeral homes in neighborhoods was historically preferred by grieving families and well-wishers in times past. Times have changed, and the trend of funeral homes being located in actual houses has shifted to their presence in more commercial areas. Halvey Funeral Home is now moving from Willow Street into its new home at 2 Beekman Street. It can be viewed from Route 9D, if one were turning down Beekman to go to Dia or Long Dock Park. The home at 24 Willow St. will be listed for sale in the residential market.

Location, Location

The prospect of locating a funeral home on riverfront real estate had some Beacon residents questioning if that was the best use of the property. But the building had been vacant and decrepit for two years. The climate for development and change in Beacon right now is ultra-sensitive; so many projects have green-lit their intentions simultaneously now that there is a population to buy what developers are building. This momentum puts the spotlight on all types of projects being built, as well as on each project's plans for parking, which would be necessary for people to take advantage of whatever business services fill those projects.

Improvements From Expansion

The ugly, broken sign touting a former restaurant will be gone now.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Beacon-based architect Aryeh Siegel was hired for the funeral home project to design a building that highlighted the riverfront views to friends and families who came to remember loved ones. Beacon's Planning Board recommended adding landscape design, to cushion the building. At Halvey Funeral Home's Willow Street location, parking was an issue as gatherings grew quite large. More spaces drew Halvey to the Beekman location. "Parking is the main advantage that attracted us to that site," says Joe Guarneri, construction manager of the project. "We have 36 marked spots in the new lot, with room for parking in back and front yielding another 12 spots, for a total of 48 [parking spots]." 

Planning Board Member Jill Reynolds, who is also co-artist/founder at Ten Willow Studio, a glass design partnership specializing in architectural installations, had recommended that the funeral home extend the sidewalk. She pointed put during a Planning Board meeting that the sidewalk there is incomplete. Regular walkers experience the sidewalk's end, and either walk in the street or on the grass to complete their journey to 9D from the train station area. Halvey agreed to expand the sidewalk. "We are extending the Beekman Street sidewalk on the city-owned lot at the corner of Route 9D and Beekman," Joe confirmed.

New Life for Halvey Funeral Home

Opening soon, Halvey Funeral Home will be operating under the new name Riverview Funeral Home by Halvey LLC, under the ownership of third-generation Patrick Halvey. If, on Saturday November 11 from 11 am to 4 pm, you see white doves flying into the sky, know that they have been released during a celebratory, public ribbon-cutting for the new facility. If you hear music or see tents, it may remind you of the sounds emanating from the former restaurants, but it is part of the funeral home's festivities. To celebrate the new riverview patio during the ribbon-cutting party, there will be beer, spirits, soda, coffee, donuts, and food from Beacon merchants.

The new Riverview Funeral Home on Beekman Street in Beacon, just down the hill from Route 9D.
Photo Credits: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Editorial Note: Riverview Funeral Home by Halvey LLC has advertised on A Little Beacon Blog, but their ad campaign is separate from this article. Their promotion of their ribbon-cutting is a coincidence to our publishing of this milestone notice for this property in Beacon, which we have been researching for some time. We do appreciate their support!

Happening This Weekend - 11/3/2017

Don't put those costumes away just yet! Thanks to some rain last weekend, the Halloween fun has been extended a little bit. To really turn you topsy-turvy, Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday. Tell Your Friends: Anything they need to know about Beacon, like where to shop or eat, or take a class of any kind, can all be found in A Little Beacon's Guides: Art Galleries Restaurant Guide Shopping Guide Beauty Guide Adult Classes or Kids Classes Seasonal: Pumpkins & Parades Guide

Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance.   Book Signing w/ Francie Webb Day: Friday, November 3, 2017 Time: 5 to 7:30 pm Location: Waddle n Swaddle, 484 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Kindness Rocks Workshop Day: Saturday, November 4, 2017 Time: 11 am to noon Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Read more about the Kindness Rocks Project on our blog! Carnival featuring Judith Tulloch Band Day: Saturday, November 4, 2017 Time: 7:30 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > "A Very Beacon Halloween" 21st Annual Kids Halloween Parade aka The Hocus Pocus Parade from the Beacon Chamber of Commerce Day: Sunday, November 5, 2017 (See our article about it here) Line-up Time: 12:30 pm at the Visitors Center Parade Marching Time: 1 pm Locations: Costumed kids start lining up at Polhill Park (South Avenue/9D and Main Street) for a parade all the way down Main Street stopping at Teller Avenue, trick-or-treating from Main Street businesses. After the Parade: The Roundhouse has opened their Patio to marchers to enjoy cider, bottles of water and treats. Parade Information > Grace Smith Pumpkin Parade Day: Sunday, November 5, 2017 Time: 11 am to 3 pm Location: Pulaski Park, 162 Washington St., Poughkeepsie, NY Information >  Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.     Stowe Bag with Toni Maeck Day: Saturday, November 4, 2017 Time: 1 to 5 pm Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Easy Peazy Pajama Pants with Katy Hope Day: Sunday, November 5, 2017 Time: 1 to 5 pm Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide. Game Club Day: Friday, November 3, 2017  Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Wee Play Clean Up Day: Tuesday, November 7, 2017  Time: 7 to 11 am Location: Memorial Park, Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.     BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END Bellus on Main 181 Main Street This faux fur coat by Joseph Ribkoff is warm, stylish and ridiculously soft and cozy - we tested it. Detailed with cuffed, full-length sleeves, a button closure on a funnel collar, and front pockets to protect your hands and keep you warm. It's reversible, too! Where is Bellus? Next door to Luxe Optique. Luxe Optique 183 Main Street You know what you need? Prescription sunglasses. Because now that you are wearing glasses full time, you need some shades. Like these by Christian Roth. The bold, high-fashion, unique design features an ultra-thin custom milled metal inlay with lightweight metal temples, all striking a delicate balance against the frame’s exuberant, angular proportions. Where is Luxe Optique? Across the block from Beacon Bread Company.   BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main by the Hudson Valley Brewery and use the back walkway to head up to Main Street! Style Storehouse 484 Main Street SAVE THE DATE Alert your friends in Poughkeepsie and book a wine date with them for Friday, November 10, from 6 to 10 pm at Vino (the private room at Crew). Style Storehouse is packing all of their inventory from their Beacon location to set up with other shops in Poughkeepsie for one night at this pop-up Holiday Market. Come shop while enjoying hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle. Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique 1 East Main Street, Retail #3 This bridal shop on Beacon's east end has everything to complete your look, including gowns by Lillian West, Justin Alexander (shown), Sincerity and Sweetheart. and a beautiful selection of veils, jewelry, headpieces, shawls and boleros. Lambs Hill is a walk-in friendly shop, so take a peek! Where Is Lambs Hill? One of the new boutiques in the renovated factory building near the Dummy Light. Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide!  Bellus on Main, Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse. River Therapeutic Massage 612 Route 52 Beacon, NY (845) 379-1956 What is eco-fin, and why will you love it? Eco-fin is a natural, petroleum-free alternative to paraffin. A rich blend of palm, soy, jojoba and organic coconut oils are gently warmed with shea butter, vitamin E and essential oils, then applied to your hands and/or feet with a brush, and covered with heated mitts/booties. When the mitts/booties are removed, the remaining product gets massaged into your skin, leaving it soft and supple. This treatment makes a delightful Add-On to any massage. Book Now > Where is River Therapeutic Massage? Sharing space with Karen's Place Salon on Route 52. Thank you River Therapeutic Massage for sponsoring the Beauty Guide!     The Vault 446 Main Street We are getting into SOUP season! The Vault offers seasonal and fresh soups daily. Pictured is an apple cinnamon butternut squash version. You know what pairs perfectly with this? The Vault's Burrata Cheese. Yum. Where is The Vault? Near Beacon Bath & Bubble. Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide! SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Rhinebeck Bank Learn all about First Friday Poughkeepsie on this week's episode of Wake Up with Rhinebeck Bank! See some highlights from last month's San Gennaro event, and watch Michelle's interview with U.S. Representative Sean Patrick Maloney. Watch the Video > Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency As you finalize plans for Thanksgiving and the upcoming holidays, are you renting a vacation home? If anything happens to the homeowner's property, or to your own property while staying there, would your homeowners insurance policy cover it? Get the Answers from Antalek & Moore > Beacon Chamber of Commerce Join the Beacon Chamber of Commerce on Sunday, November 5, as they celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Lady Gray Bridal! This is one of the oldest bridal shops in Beacon, and is located next to Key Food. The celebration will take place from noon to 2 pm with a Ribbon Cutting by the Beacon Chamber taking place at 12:30 pm. The Chamber hopes to see you there! BeaconArts : Windows on Main (WOMS) It's your last chance to see the artwork in the Windows on Main exhibit all over Beacon. The art will come out of the windows in a week, so be sure to read up on which artist is where on the interactive WOMS website. Pictured here is the art by Keith Decent in the reMADE shop, and yes, it will make you want ice cream sandwiches. A Little Beacon Space :  Next Pop-Up Shops It’s November! That means pop-up shop time at A Little Beacon Blog’s Space! Two great ones are prepping their inventory now... Made and Given on Second Saturday Weekend, Friday through Sunday, 11/10-12, and 50 Roots on the Black Friday Weekend, Friday through Sunday, 11/24-26. InHouse Design Media InHouse Design Media redesigned The Vault's logo and business cards for their evolving image. Have you picked one up yet? InHouse Design Media is the design arm of A Little Beacon Blog, and can redesign your logo and business cards also. And even your website. Learn More > Tin Shingle : Live TuneUp Interview Join us for our first live interview with Jenn Sullivan, founder of Waddle n Swaddle. We will talk to Jenn about expanding her stores to three locations, managing staff, and life as a business owner with three kids. This event is free, but seating is limited. RSVP to info@tinshingle.com if coming in person. Register for the online Webinar to watch it online. NEWSLETTER SIGNUP We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog. Until next week!

"Kindness Rocks" Project Launches at Beacon's Howland Public Library

Published as submitted via Press Release from the Howland Public Library in order to get the word out to you faster...

A little bit of kindness can go a long way. Young people ages 10 and up are invited to The Howland Public Library on Saturday, November 4, to help spread a little kindness in Beacon and beyond via The Kindness Rocks Project.

You’ve probably seen them popping up all over the place, brightly painted stones with inspirational words on them. The Kindness Rocks Project began in Cape Cod when the project’s creator, Megan Murphy, began leaving messages on stones for people to find on the beach. Her thought, “Sometimes the right message at the right time can change someone’s entire day, outlook, life.” Since then, The Kindness Rocks Project has spread throughout the country and the world.

Stop by the library on Saturday from 11 am to noon to paint your own Kindness Rocks to share with the community. No experience needed. All supplies will be provided.

RSVPs are requested to ensure there are enough supplies and rocks. RSVP by contacting Michelle at community@beaconlibrary.org or (845) 831-1134, x101. The Howland Public Library is located at 313 Main St., Beacon, NY. To find out more about programs for tweens and teens at the library, go to www.beaconlibrary.org.

Dear Drivers on Main Street: No U-Turns Please, and Other Safety Suggestions

Dear Wonderful Readers:

It's time to have a heart-to-heart with ourselves about driving, especially on the narrow streets of Beacon. I know that some of you live in Beacon, some in other river towns, and some in NYC. If you live in NYC and are visiting us up in Beacon, your regular city-driving habits may stick with you when you get here. Namely: driving fast (you have to in NYC, otherwise you'd get get eaten by other cars), making U-Turns in the middle of the street, or swerving around cars who are parallel parking or turning left. The thing is, those driving habits don't work in Beacon, and will cause you to crash into another car. It's time to leave this habit on the curb for no one to pick up.

If you've migrated to Beacon from NYC, and even if you've lived here for 10+ years, those city tendencies may be ingrained in your brain, and the habit is hard to kick. You may have already had spousal or partner fights about this while taking a hard left out of nowhere in order to snag a parking spot. Does. Not. Work. That. Way. In. Beacon. In Beacon, there are lots of one-way streets heading the opposite way for you to go, and you just need to go down one of those roads in order to get back to where you want to be.

The U-Turn Epidemic - It's Real

There's been chatter about the growing number of U-turns. I'd heard it, but figured it was nothing more than disgruntled Road Ragers. Normally I avoid driving on Main Street because it's so narrow, and there are so many ways to have accidents: grazing car doors as people open them before looking, hitting jaywalkers who pop out between parked SUVs, or just having a hard time parallel parking, unless you've got skillz (which I do have, I just don't like to use them unless I really really have to). So I don't see the crazy driving on Main Street much. Until I drove a friend to The Dump last Saturday. A very short cruise down Main Street - about 300 feet - was packed with crazy drivers. There's no other way to put it.

First there was the guy who was driving west down Main Street, saw the free parking lot on Cliff Street, rubbernecked it, and made a U-turn in Cliff Street in order to veer back east into the parking lot (which was full...so little did he know he would be stuck in that parking lot because it's very narrow and hard to get out of once you're in, if you do not score a parking spot). He was so focused on the parking lot, that he didn't see the two cars behind him who had to hit their brakes, fast. Those two cars had just passed me as I turned right out of Willow Street (already a very hard turn because of the way parked cars hamper visibility), so I almost drove into these cars, who were almost driving into the Party Foul U-Turn guy. (If only Party Foul U-Turn Guy had checked our Parking Guide ahead of time for more lot options...)

This is only one day after a local store's van did the same thing. So it's safe to say that everyone is doing it.

Driving Around Parallel Parkers - Not OK or Legal

Next, after the U-Turn Guy, there was a stream of cars driving east around a Parallel Parker down near Bank Square Coffee. These people had driven into the other lane, oncoming traffic - crossing the double yellow line - in order to get around the Parallel Parker. This, coupled with the sharp bend in the road, when they don't see oncoming cars like mine until it's too late.

A few months ago, I committed a party foul jaywalk on Main Street in front of the Mountain Scout Survival School storefront. I was almost run over by a car driving around another car who was parallel parking. First off, I shouldn't have been jaywalking, I know, but I did so because the crosswalks by Bank Square and by Hudson Beach Glass feel very unsafe to me. One is at a three-way intersection where not everyone stops while coming off of 9D, and the other is on a major bend in the road. So I had been opting to cross on my own without a crosswalk. Needless to say, I don't do that anymore.

Bad Idea when someone decides to go around a Parallel Parker, and isn't expecting to see a pedestrian, and almost hits them. Yes, if you're reading this, that was me, and you (and I) were wrong, despite you shouting that you did nothing wrong. I called the Beacon Police this morning to ask about the rules on this and here it is:

If there is a solid yellow line on your side, then you cannot go around a car who is parallel parking.

Done. So we all just need a little patience. Use the extra few seconds to look around and spy the latest storefront.

Going Around Cars Turning Left Into Driveways

Also a bad idea. If a car in front of you has put their blinker on and slowed down to turn left into a driveway, then you also need to stop until they have turned left. It's common sense, as why would you want to drive into a car who will almost certainly drive into you? But it happens. My street is a bit wider than other streets, and when I slow to turn left into my driveway, it inspires the car behind me to go around me on the left. Just odd.

Patience. Patience. Patience.

That is what small towns are for. Slowing down, looking around, and being kind to one another. If you don't, then the cops are likely to come out, and take their time Party Fouling everyone for these silly traffic violations that are so easily avoided. You don't want a ticket. Police have better things to do. The tickets really aren't a revenue generator because just think about the number of tickets you haven't paid. It's just an administrative clog. So slow down, and think it out. And that goes for all of us. Me, you, everyone.

Beacon's 2017 Kid's Halloween Parade Postponed

We were just headed to the attic to find backup costumes that we didn't care about getting ruined in the rain, which has been predicted since Friday for Sunday's Kid's Halloween Parade in Beacon. Then the call came in from the Beacon Chamber of Commerce that the Halloween Parade is officially canceled for this Sunday. Says Beacon Chamber President Rick Brownell: "We know this is a fun event for the kids, and we didn't want it to be ruined by the rain. We are going to work with the City of Beacon and the Police Department to reschedule, hopefully [for] next weekend, but we need to work with them on that."

For today, Sunday, October 29, 2017, the parade is canceled. A Little Beacon Blog will update here as we get confirmation about a future date.

Happening This Weekend - 10/27/2017

The phone calls are flying... People are writing in... "Will Beacon's Kids Halloween Parade be canceled?! Rain is in the forecast!" And not just regular rain, but a lightning bolt with clouds is in Google's eight-day forecast. As yet, there is no rain date for the Kids Halloween Parade, and the organizers are: "Hoping for shine!" or drizzle. It's a nail-biter! What will Beacon's weather do? We shall see on Sunday. Meanwhile... This weekend is Fishkill Farm's last Fall Harvest weekend with free admission, Apple Picking specials, and a corn maze, so check out their Pumpkin Patch and start picking!  Tell Your Friends: Anything they need to know about Beacon, like where to shop, eat or take a class of any kind, can all be found in A Little Beacon's Guides: Art Galleries Restaurant Guide Shopping Guide Beauty Guide Adult Classes or Kids Classes Seasonal: Pumpkins & Parades Guide

Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance. Children's Museum Not-So-Spooky Fun House Day: Friday, October 27, 2017 Time: 5:30 to 8 pm Location: Mid-Hudson Children's Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie, NY Information > Molsky’s Mountain Drifters Concert Day: Friday, October 27, 2017 Time: 8:30 pm Location: Towne Crier Café, 379 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Fishkill Farm's Fall Harvest Weekend Day: Saturday and Sunday, October 28-29, 2017 Time: 10 am to 5 pm Location: Fishkill Farms, 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY Information >  "Quarry to Quarry" - Manitoga's Last Guided Landscape Hike of 2017 Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 2 pm Location: Manitoga's Visitor/Guide House, 584 Route 9D, Garrison, NY Information > "A Very Beacon Halloween" Psychic Fair Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: Noon to 5 pm Location: Notions-n-Potions, 175 Main St., Beacon, NY Congratulations go out to Sheryl of Notions-n-Potions on her appearance in the Poughkeepsie Journal's feature on Adults Who Love Halloween. Mike Burdge, of Story Screen, was also featured. Information > Pop-Up Concert Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 4 pm Location: Center for Creative Education, 464 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Stony Kill No-So-Haunted Barn and Hay Ride Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 4 to 7 pm Location: Stony Kill Farm, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY Information > October Songwriter Fest With Melissa Holland & Friends Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 7:30 to 9:30 pm Location: BEAHIVE Beacon, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > "A Very Beacon Halloween" Ghoul's Night Out Show from the Beacon Chamber of Commerce Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: Doors open at 6 pm, show starts at 8 pm Locations: Clove Creek Dinner Theater, 18 Westage Business Center Drive #7, Fishkill, NY Information > Dogwood Halloween Spooktacular Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Dogwood, 47 E. Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Hot Jazz, Cool Art Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Classics for Kids Featuring Pianist Michael Brown Day: Sunday, October 29, 2017 Time: 3 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY $10 per adult; children free! Information > POSTPONED: This has been updated from its original publishing: "A Very Beacon Halloween" 21st Annual Kids Halloween Parade, aka The Hocus Pocus Parade, from the Beacon Chamber of Commerce Day: Sunday, October 29, 2017 (See our article about what usually happens at the Parade here.) Rain Date: The Chamber of Commerce has said that there a rain date will be assigned, and they are working with the City of Beacon and Police Department to reschedule. See our article about it here. Line-up Time: 12:30 pm at the Visitors Center Parade Marching Time: 1 pm Locations: Costumed kids start lining up at Polhill Park (South Avenue/9D and Main Street) for a parade all the way down Main Street stopping at Teller Avenue, trick-or-treating from Main Street businesses. Parade Information > After Kids Halloween Parade Community & Cider Gathering at the Roundhouse Patio Day: Sunday, October 29, 2017 Time: After Beacon Kids Halloween Parade. Rain Note: If the Kids Halloween Parade is canceled, then this will also be canceled. Location: The Roundhouse Patio, 2 E. Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Storm King Art Center's Pumpkins and Painted Faces Day: Sunday, October 29, 2017 Time: Noon to 4 pm Location: Near the north parking area at Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor, NY Information > Hudson Valley Restaurant Week Days: October 30 through November 12, 2017 Information > Rascal's Monster Bash Day: Tuesday, October 31, 2017 Time: 4 to 6 pm Location: Dutchess Stadium, 1500 NY-9D, Wappingers Falls, NY Information > Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide. 6th Annual Mike Archer Memorial 5K Run & Walk Day: Saturday, October 27, 2017 Registration: 9 am Time: 10 am Location: Memorial Park, Beacon, NY Information > Sleepy Hollow Halloween 10K Day: Saturday, October 29, 2017 Time: 9:30 am; kids costume 1-mile fun run at 9 am (ages 6 & older), $5 Location: Morse School, 30 Pocantico Street, Sleepy Hollow, NY Information >     Essential Oils Workshop Day: Sunday, October 29, 2017 Time: 5 to 6:30 pm Location: Shambhala Wellness Center, 4 South Chestnut St., Beacon, NY Information > Massage Therapy Class for Couples Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Alma Yoga, 190 South Plank Road, Newburgh, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide. Thank you Ballet Arts Studio for sponsoring our Adult Classes Guide! Ballet Arts Studio Hosts Kindergarten Field Trips from Beacon City Schools Kids come with their teachers and classroom friends to learn about different forms of dance. Says Katie B. of Ballet Arts Studio: "We read a book about dance, warm up our muscles together, do rhythm and acting exercises, and of course, just dance to all kinds of music. Finally, the students conquer a bit of fear by jumping over the teacher on their way out the door!" Kids are also taught a ballet “reverence,” which is all about being grateful for the audience’s applause as well as the body's own ability to move. Visit Beacon Arts Studio's Schedule of Classes > Where is Ballet Arts Studio? On the corner of Henry Street and Teller, opposite the back of the Yankee Clipper Diner. Anime & Manga Club Day: Friday, October 27, 2017 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Babysitters Preparedness Course Ages: 12 and up Day: Saturday, October 28, 2017 Time: 9 am Location: All Sport Health & Fitness, 17 Old Main St., Fishkill, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.     BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END reMADE 133 Main Street Get ready! Bundling up time really will be here soon, despite the unusually warm weather. These knit hats for kids are by Emily Pearson of Pearfectly Handmade in Newburgh, and also feature little shawls to match. Time to get snuggly! Visit reMADE this weekend to pick out your favorite. (They also make great gifts!) Where is reMADE? Across from Tito Santana's, next to Bank Square Coffee. Bellus on Main 181 Main Street Bellus on Main is known for their statement jewelry, and this silver chain-link necklace is no exception. Wear it over fabric or with a low-necked top. Makes for a great layering piece peeking out from a scarf. Where is Bellus? Next door to Luxe Optique. Luxe Optique 183 Main Street Now through November, get $100 off Lafont and Alain Mikli frames. This is a huge deal, and you'll want to check the wide range of designs in both lines. Both are French-designed, are handmade, and are well-known for their outstanding quality and awesome color combinations. Yes, that is a cheetah print frame pictured here, and yes, it probably will look amazing on you. Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company, and across Main Street from Beacon Barkery. BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main by the Hudson Valley Brewery and use the back walkway entrance to come up to Main Street! Style Storehouse 484 Main Street Michele, the proprietress of Style Storehouse, has heard you! You want more shoes and boots? Done. New fall shoes have arrived in the shop in a new display. Styles range from slouchy to straight, heeled to flat. Brands include Coolway, Free People and Musse & Cloud. Try them on! Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle. Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique 1 East Main St., Retail #3 Don't you want to get married right now so that you can wear this headpiece? Or maybe you can come up with another function to wear it to. You have our permission. Lots of beautiful new accessories are in Lambs Hill for you to try on, including veils, belts and headpieces from Richer Designs and Marionet (pictured here). Where Is Lambs Hill? In one of the new boutiques in the renovated factory building near the dummy light. Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! reMADE, Bellus on Main, Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse. River Therapeutic Massage 612 Route 52 Beacon, NY (845) 379-1956 LAST CHANCE: OCTOBER SPECIALS! Aromatherapy Facial Massage $50 (reg $75) Intensive Foot Treatment $50 (reg $70) Hand and/or Foot Massage with eco-fin $50 (reg $70) eco-fin for hands or feet $10 (reg $15) *Cannot be combined with any other offer; no coupons or gift certificates Book Now > Where is River Therapeutic Massage? Sharing space with Karen's Place Salon on Route 52. Thank you River Therapeutic Massage for sponsoring the Beauty Guide!     The Vault 446 Main Street Sit down and sip The Vault's Beacon Rose cocktail, made with Medley Brothers bourbon, apple-pear liqueur, fresh lime juice and house-made spiced pomegranate syrup. Perfect for anyone who isn't in the mood for cider this weekend, but still wants something sweet. Where is The Vault? Near Beacon Bath and Bubble. Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide! SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Rhinebeck Bank Through November 1, Rhinebeck Bank is accepting donations at their branches in support of the Dutchess Outreach Coat Drive. For business hours and branch locations to drop off donations, please click here. Rhinebeck Bank thanks you for your support! Get Details > Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency Does your business have a website? Does it take ecommerce? Does it publish a blog or newsletter? Cyber Liability Insurance is for all businesses, not just big ones. Call Antalek & Moore today to learn more and find out why your website could be vulnerable, and the levels of protection you need: (845) 245-6292 Beacon Chamber of Commerce Join the Beacon Chamber of Commerce on Sunday, November 5, as the Chamber celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Lady Gray Bridal! This is one of the oldest bridal shops in Beacon, and is located next to Key Food. The celebration will take place from noon to 2 pm, with a Ribbon Cutting by the Beacon Chamber taking place at 12:30 pm. The Chamber hopes to see you there! BeaconArts Have you tried the awesome new website for Windows on Main 2017? It's an interactive map that tells you what art is where, and who the artist is. We promise - it's way easier than an app. Click here to try it when you're walking! A Little Beacon Space Next Pop-Up Shop: Made & Given It's getting closer! Friday to Sunday, November 10 to 12. Curated records from Black Gold Records, handmade jewelry by Halmi Co and Rock Dove Rings, sustainable soaps and hand-poured candles by Kala Style, Bowties and headscarves for adults and babies by Moor Berry, Unisex Leather Goods by F&S, and Naughty Holiday Cards from Santa’s Dirty Workshop and more! Looking for more artisan-inspired shops in Beacon after you shop this? We made a mini-shopping guide for you here... Hook into this shop via Facebook if you might come! > InHouse Design Media Over the summer, InHouse Design Media redesigned The Vault's logo and business cards for their evolving image. Have you picked one up yet? They are slick. InHouse Design Media is the design arm of A Little Beacon Blog, and can redesign your logo and business cards also. We'll even revamp your website! Learn More > Tin Shingle Do you want to connect with someone right now about ways to get the word out about your business or art? Tin Shingle's Training TuneUps are just that - videos you can watch in the quietness of your own home or office. You'll come away with instant ideas and confidence to see them through. Click Here to Start Browsing > NEWSLETTER SIGNUP We know what you're thinking... "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog. Until next week!

Cafe Amarcord Set To Open Brick Oven Pizza Restaurant in Beacon - Across the Street!

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

As I was walking down the street one day, I got to chatting with someone about #allthingsbeacon, and they asked me if I knew about the new Italian restaurant going into the former karate school space next to Mr. V's Deli. I had not yet heard about this development, but was intrigued.

"Can you believe it?" they asked, "an Italian restaurant right across the street from Amarcord? The nerve." If you didn't know already, know now: Cafe Amarcord is one of Beacon's favorite restaurants, lauded for its fresh, Mediterranean menu. (Check out this review from Hudson Valley Magazine, who really liked the pan-roasted mussels in a white wine garlic sauce, bucatini Amatriciana, pappardelle with black pepper ricotta and dried tomatoes, as well as "a skewer of rosemary-infused lamb served on creamy polenta with a sauce of lemon.") Beaconites are very protective of their local businesses, so they care about what opens where, and whether a new Italian food business would be opening across the street from a longtime business. Amarcord has been open in Beacon for eleven years, so it has quite a following.

Picture of the building housing Mr. V's Deli before exterior renovations began for Amarcord's future brick oven pizza place.
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Paper went up on the windows of the short building across the street from Amarcord, and construction began, building out a kitchen and transforming the tired space. When the decorative faux windows and new shingles went up on the roof, Rifo Murtovic, owner of Cafe Amarcord, stepped out of his usual perch in the doorway of his restaurant to stand on the sidewalk of the other side of the street, surveying the construction.

#sameteam! Pizza or Fine Italian

Our investigation began immediately, seeking confirmation from Rifo that he himself was the one opening the rumored pizza restaurant. "It will be brick oven pizza," he described. "More casual than Amarcord." The heat source of the oven? Wood. As for making changes to the facade of a building he does not own: "I just want it to look nice," he marveled, while looking at the building seeing in his mind's eye a vision of post-renovation perfection. 

The owner of Royal Crepes was also outside on the sidewalk during the interview for this article, and enthusiastically interjected more detail: "The pizzas won't be like most Mediterranean around here. They will each be personal pies, and the meat for the toppings will be cut right in front of you. It's part of the experience." Personal, flat pizza pies of the freshest ingredients are the norm in Italy, and they are about to become an option in Beacon as well. Wine and beer will also be available. As of now, there are no plans for delivery.

Flavors from Tuscany? Yes, please. Congratulations to Rifo on the new addition.

This article is the first in our series covering businesses in Beacon who have opened second or more locations in Beacon. We are currently brainstorming names for this series. Got any? Submit ideas here in the Comments!

Clearwater gets Rockefeller Brothers Fund Grant for Estuary Education

Hudson River Sloop Clearwater was awarded a $15,000 grant from Rockefeller Brothers Fund to support Clearwater’s Estuary Education Initiative (EEI). This grant makes possible the new curriculum’s aim to teach thousands of children about the links between scientific research and environmental policy.

"Clearwater is pleased to accept Rockefeller Brothers Fund’s grant on behalf of the many students we serve," said Wren Longno, Clearwater's director of development. "As grassroots educators and storytellers, we are in a unique position to tell the story of how partners, including Rockefeller Brothers Fund, have worked together to create a sustainable Hudson Valley." 

Clearwater Board Chair Betsy Garthwaite said, “In 1968, Steven Rockefeller hosted one of the original gatherings to raise funds to build the Sloop Clearwater at the Rockefeller Farm Barn in Pocantico Hills. That history gives this award special meaning as we embark upon new ways of teaching the history of the Hudson River environmental movement, bringing the river to schools, and schools to the river.”  
 
Clearwater anticipates that by August 2019, this science curriculum will reach 50 educators, 5,000 students and 500 members of the public, and will be widely shared through professional development conferences and showcased prominently on the Clearwater website and social media.

About Hudson River Sloop Clearwater

Launched in 1969 by legendary folk singer and activist Pete Seeger, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater has been at the forefront of the environmental movement as champions of the Hudson River. To date, more than half a million people have experienced their first real look at an estuary’s ecosystem aboard the sloop Clearwater. Clearwater has become the grassroots model for producing positive changes to protect our planet. For more information, visit www.clearwater.org.

Rockefeller Brothers Fund

Founded in 1940, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund advances social change that contributes to a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world. The Fund's grantmaking is organized in three thematic programs that support work in the United States and at the global level: Democratic Practice, Sustainable Development, and Peacebuilding; and in two pivotal place programs that address these themes in specific contexts: Southern China, and the Western Balkans. The Charles E. Culpeper Arts & Culture program, focused on New York, nurtures a vibrant and inclusive arts community in the Fund’s home city.

Beacon's Superintendent Speaks Out About Beacon, Resources, and Volunteerism

Beacon's Superintendent, Matthew Landahl, in an office selfie, as requested by ALBB for this article.

Back in the summer of 2017, when Matthew Landahl was moving to the Beacon City School District from his post as deputy superintendent for the Ithaca City School District, there was also a shift at the national level as the new Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, stepped into place. Locally in Beacon, change in the district had been happening quickly, with the resignation of one superintendent, followed by an interim superintendent, then the election of new Board of Education members, and The Big Search for Beacon's next superintendent.

Matthew Landahl (who asks to be called Matt) was vetted and hired. He promptly kicked off a Community Conversation tour to connect with the people of Beacon at different locations. At that time, we reached out to him to learn more about his suggestions for ways to stay up to date on the myriad of public school issues to know about. And then I had a baby, so most articles got promptly shifted out of order. We're ready to dive back into this one, offering a new opportunity to ask him about his experience now that he is several months into the job.

ALBB: What have you observed in the district and community so far?

ML: After being here a few months, a few things have been very evident here in Beacon. The community has a creative and entrepreneurial spirit which is incredible. We have lived in several places, and Beacon is unique in that regard. The community also has a strong "roll up your sleeves" ethic in regards to volunteering and making things happen, which I really admire. In the school district, I am honored to work every day with a group of teachers, administrators, and staff who take great pride in what they do and show a great amount of care for the young people in Beacon. Speaking of those young people, they are an amazing, diverse group.

ALBB: What are you actively working on?

ML: My work is primarily centered on the Board of Education's goals. They are available on our website but my abridged version is this:

• Increase academic offerings
• Provide 21st-century learning environments
• Build trust between district and community through communication
• To seek involvement, collaboration, and participation of the community in the learning process
• Creating a culture of awareness, equality, and safety

My focus is always on all five goals, but I have put a primary emphasis on Community Building and Communication. I have hosted six Community Conversations throughout Beacon, and attended organizational meetings and church services all with the intent of being visible, approachable, and to display an honest desire to hear all community members' thoughts and concerns regarding the district. I will keep that work up all year. 

We have worked hard to create more presence on social media through Facebook and Twitter. We now have a district Twitter account (@beaconcsd) along with having all sports teams tweeting from games along with our athletic department (@bcsdbulldogs). I try to document my travels through the district with my personal Twitter account (@mlandahl). I know we have a long way to go in regards to communication, but we have made some great first steps. Ultimately, the most important focus is our young people's experience in our schools. I will always be working in collaboration with staff and community to provide a more engaging, enriching, and empowering environment for everyone.

ALBB: What do you keep an eye on at the state and federal levels that you would encourage Beacon parents and community members to also follow?

ML: It is a very tumultuous time in education from a policy perspective at both the state and federal level and honestly, it has been that way for the past 15 years. The quickest thing I do to stay on top of policy issues and changes at the state and federal level is I follow several professional organizations on both Twitter and Facebook: the New York State School Boards Association (@NYSSBA), New York State Council of Superintendents (@NYSCOSS), New York State United Teachers (@NYSUT) and the School Administrators Association of New York State (@SAANYS).  

All of these organizations have people who closely follow state and federal policy and funding issues who report out to their constituents and to the public on social media. I like to follow all four organizations because they all have slightly different views on the policy and funding situation in New York. Twitter is a very powerful social media tool in the education world, and I follow over a thousand educators (along with all things Chicago Cubs) from all over the country and world who also give me a sense of how policy changes are impacting their local districts, schools, and classrooms.

Another great place to learn about policy and funding issues is the Beacon City School District Board of Education meetings. They are published on Youtube on the BCSDBOE channel. These meetings consistently have discussions about policy and funding at the state level and how it impacts our district.

Into the Wee Woods - Expansion Begins on the Wee Play Tot Park at Memorial Park

Ground is breaking on the latest expansion project for the children's playground located at Memorial Park, officially known as the Wee Play Tot Park. The park is undergoing an imaginatively ambitious project rooted in, literally, trees. The plan involves 50 new trees that would be planted on the lower end of the existing locust forest to the immediate left of the swing sets at the base of the Memorial Park hill, and fundraising efforts have begun alongside construction endeavors.

Concept Design for Woodland Playground at Memorial Park, by One Nature. Drawing part of proposed plan.

An image of what the arched willow trees could look like, if properly trained after the young willow shoots are planted.

The new poplar trees, specifically Eastern Cottonwoods, will be known as the Wee Forest. In the center of the grove will be a shaded sandbox, surrounded by a path of willow trees that will be trained to grow in an arch over the bordering path, making for a natural tunnel.

The fundraising campaign to purchase and plant the poplar trees has started (donations can be made here), with a goal of acquiring and planting 50 trees for $100 a tree. Sponsors can have their name, or that of children, friends or a business, on the Forest Map that will be in the middle of the Wee Forest. Click here to donate your first tree. (Donations in smaller amounts toward the project are also gratefully accepted.)

The Wee Play Community Project has allocated funds raised through their annual Ree Play Sale to pay for the labor of the project, and the City of Beacon, through the Parks and Recreation budget, has agreed to fund material and mulch, details of which can be read in the coversheet proposal here.

The Easter Bunny at the 2017 Easter Egg Hunt at Memorial Park.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

When presenting the project to the City Council, Parks and Recreation Director Mark Price described the desire to incorporate the large swath of mystical forest that exists above the park, as a way for older kids to experience the park. The idea occurred to him after the 2017 Easter Egg hunt, which was held in the trees of the locust forest instead of the great lawn. He and several others realized that the wooded area has been underutilized, even though it is just steps away from the park. By adding the 50 new trees, "it informs people that this is a play area. Some folks need a little more coaxing to [go up and play,]" explained Mark to the City Council during a Workshop on September 25, 2017.

The Big Picture

Volunteer organizers have big plans for the park, and envision structures being added around the existing playground. In her proposal letter to the City Council, Wee Play Community Project Board Member Lori Merhige discussed the findings of a survey that the group sent out to the community, which set the stage for who wanted the new approach to the playground and why:

Our survey yielded many opinions on what are the most treasured as well as the least favorite aspects of the playground. One piece of feedback we heard
repeatedly is that people were tired of all the plastic - the riding toys and the play structures. When asked what parents would like to see at the park, the majority of replies included having more natural play elements, areas for climbing, and free, unstructured nature play.

As we know, the popular metal and plastic playground play structures of today can cost tens of thousands of dollars each, they don't always hold kids' attention for
very long, and older children often don't find them engaging. The beauty of designing a natural playground is that it utilizes many available resources that we already have, as well as fostering imaginative play in children of all ages.

Natural playgrounds are surprisingly simple, safe, and affordable, and research shows that there are many benefits to kids playing creatively in nature.

A nature-based playground could involve a simple ropes course, wooden balance beams/bridges, boulders for jumping (carefully!), additional swings, and other ideas that are built as living things, or with living things, much like the nearby Hudson Highlands Nature Museum. Acting as project architect with a donation of time and ideas is Bryan Quinn from One Nature, who has designed and built nature-based playgrounds before, with a most recent one opening at Safe Harbors in Newburgh. The trees serve as strategically planted connection points for such structures to be built, or for kids to easily run through.

Sand Not Playing Nice In The Sandbox

A catalyst for this big change was the sand in the sandbox in the corner of the existing Tot Park. While people have mixed feelings about outdoor sandboxes - that they can turn into giant kitty litter boxes or encourage bugs - many families love them. However, the "rogue sand" coming from the sandbox was damaging the surface of the playground, Mark said, making it irreparable until the sandbox was gone. In the new plan, the sandbox will be in the middle of the Wee Forest, surrounded by mulch and other natural elements, hurting nothing when sand spills over, and not being a large issue if the sandbox needs to be replaced by something else.

About the Wee Play Tot Park

The public park is enjoyed by all people for free (even those who venture in from beyond Beacon) and maintained by volunteers of the Wee Play Community Project, in partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department and the City of Beacon. If you've been following A Little Beacon Blog's coverage of the park's expansion, you'll know that something is always going on over there, from community cleanups to new projects.

Kids searching for candy in the locust forest of Memorial park's Hill during the 2017 Easter Egg Hunt.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

5th Annual "Pink Kiss" Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show Moves to Atlas Studios

You've seen the magazine cover–inspired flyer around town and on Instagram. Now you can attend "Pink Kiss," the fashion-forward event from Beacon-based Lorraine Tyne Bridal & Sparkle My Head Scarves. The fashion show promotes Breast Cancer Awareness while highlighting cancer survivors on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 6 pm at Atlas Studios, 11 Spring St., Newburgh.

During years past, the show has been hosted in Beacon. This year it will be in the Atlas building, an old factory that has been refurbished as a home for artist studios and event spaces. Other Beaconites have moved to the building as well, including the hair dresser Joshua Boos, formerly of The Green Room.

To celebrate its fifth year, the group is hosting a Benefit Fashion Show and honoring local area cancer survivors - at any stage of treatment - with recognition and gifts. Local hospitals have nominated cancer survivors from St. Luke's Hospital, Mid Hudson Regional, and NY Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital, as well as patients from the Hudson Valley community.

Beacon's Draught Industries is donating the prosecco, and models from Couture Modeling of Wappingers Falls will be showing gowns. A portion of the night's proceeds will be donated to local nonprofit Sparrow's Nest, who delivers home-cooked meals to families and caregivers of cancer patients.

Tickets can be purchased via EventBrite here at this link. Tickets are $10, or you can buy a ticket and not go, and simply make a donation. Day-of tickets at the door are $15.

Big Movie with Emily Blunt and John Krasinski to Film at Beacon Natural Market

Get your grocery shopping done now, folks, Paramount Pictures is coming to town, specifically to the aisles of Beacon Natural Market, on Monday through Wednesday. The market will be closed to the public while the filmmakers work their magic inside (and maybe outside! Who knows, but it may be dramatically blacked out, like when The Vault hosted a TV production company, which A Little Beacon Blog covered here in an interview with the co-producer). Beacon Natural Market announced the news via Instagram this week.

The movie is "A Quiet Place," starring real-life married couple Emily Blunt and John Krasinski. You might know John, who's also directing "A Quiet Place," from his role as Jim on TV's "The Office," and Emily from dozens of film roles, including the assistant Emily in "The Devil Wears Prada." The real-life couple were both in the movie "The Muppets," though they did not appear on screen together. In this movie, however, they will act together.

According to The Internet, the plot is being kept hush-hush, but a simple Google search indicates that it's a horror movie. Blunt is no stranger to gory scenes, with her incredible work in the science fiction movie, "The Edge of Tomorrow" with Tom Cruise, in which she plays the best and most feared warrior against aliens that have invaded Earth. That role was in stark contrast to her mega-assistant role in The "Devil Wears Prada" starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway. Currently, Blunt is wrapping production on "Mary Poppins" (in which Blunt plays the title role), set to release at the end of December 2018. Streep is also in that movie, playing Topsy. Gosh, should make for a good season of holiday movies next year!

Movies Being Made in the Hudson Valley

This movie, "A Quiet Place," has been scouting all over the Hudson Valley, setting major locations in New Paltz (you can see pictures of movie people scouting a small grocery store here). This most recent location comes on the heels of a film forum, The Hudson Valley Film Industry Conference in Newburgh at SUNY Orange Kaplan Hall, sponsored by Orange County, Stockade Works (Mary Stuart Masterson's production company in Kingston), the Orange County Film Office, the Orange County Arts Council, and The Accelerator.

Get ready, film industry people who live in Beacon and the surrounding areas...more is coming!

Happening This Weekend - 10/20/2017

It's one of the last weekends to decorate for Halloween! In between hanging ghosts, consider this list of things to do. Meanwhile, we'll be Instagramming a live shopping tour of where to buy or make Halloween in Beacon! Tell Your Friends: Anything they need to know about Beacon, like where to shop, eat or take a class of any kind, can all be found in A Little Beacon's Guides: Art Galleries Restaurant Guide Shopping Guide Beauty Guide Adult Classes or Kids Classes Seasonal: Pumpkins & Parades Guide

Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance. Howland Public Library's Thrills and Chills Day: Friday, October 20, 2017 Time: 4 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Movies That Matter: “Cries From Syria” Day: Friday, October 20, 2017 Time: 7 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church of Beacon, McKinley Hall, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY Information > Catoberfest 2017 Day: Friday, October 20, 2017 Time: 6 to 10 pm Location: Hudson Valley Brewery, 2 Churchill St., Beacon, NY Information > New York State Sheep & Wool Festival Day: Saturday & Sunday, October 21-22, 2017 Time: Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm; Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Springbrook Ave., Rhinebeck, NY Information > 5th Annual "Pink Kiss" Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Event Day: Saturday, October 21, 2017 Time: 6 pm Location: Atlas Studios, 11 Spring St., Newburgh, NY See A Little Beacon Blog's Article > Baba Andrew Lamb Trio Day: Saturday, October 21, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Pumpkin Carving Party Day: Sunday, October 22, 2017 Time: Families in afternoon; adults-only in the evening Location: 2 Way Brewing Company, 18 West Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Dover Quartet Day: Sunday, October 22, 2017 Time: 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Story Screen presents "Child's Play" Day: Sunday, October 22, 2017 Time: 7:30 pm doors, 8 pm movie Location: Quinn's, 330 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Poughkeepsie Nissan's Line Dance For a Cause Day: Monday, October 23, 2017 Time: 7:30 to 10:30 pm Location: Poughkeepsie Nissan, 1445 Route 9, Wappingers Falls, NY Get your boots and join the fun! Join Poughkeepsie Nissan and Grace Smith House for a night of line dancing! All proceeds go to Grace Smith House in Poughkeepsie. Environmental Citizen Soapbox Day: Monday, October 23, 2017 Time: 6:30 to 9 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church, Beacon, NY Information > Pumpkins in the Park Jack-o'-Lantern Lighting Event Day: Monday to Friday, Oct. 23-27, 2017 Time: Monday to Thursday, 3 to 6 pm, pumpkin carving; Friday, 6 to 8 pm, jack-o'-lantern lighting and display Location: Scenic Hudson River Center, 8 Long Dock Road, Beacon, NY Information > Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.       RiverWinds Gallery Day of the Dead Altar Day: Saturday, October 21, 2017 Time: 2 to 4 pm Location:: 172 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > The Anatomy of Yoga Day: Saturday & Sunday, October 21-22, 2017 Time: 8 am to 6 pm Location: Firefly Yoga, 992 Main St., Fishkill, NY Information > FREE WEEK of Yoga Day: October 23-27, 2017 Time: Visit website for schedule. Location: Firefly Yoga, 992 Main St., Fishkill, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide. Thank you Ballet Arts Studio for sponsoring our Adult Classes Guide! Ballet Arts Studio's New Modern Dance Teacher! Chelsea Acree joins Ballet Arts Studio as our new Modern Dance teacher, hailing from New York where she studied with many great dancers, and was a member of the Mark Morris Dance Group. She taught ballet, modern dance and creative movement to children of all ages, as well as adults and pre-professional and professional dancers, at the Mark Morris Dance Center in Brooklyn for 11 years. She has also taught children with physical and developmental disabilities. Visit Beacon Arts Studio's Schedule of Classes > Where is Ballet Arts Studio? On the corner of Henry Street and Teller, opposite the back of the Yankee Clipper Diner. For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.     BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END reMADE 133 Main Street Layering season is upon us! The least bulky fabric you could use to stay warm is silk, and reMADE has sweet scarves made by Patty Villanova of Silkworth in Cold Spring, NY. Lots of patterns and designs available, including this fish. Where is reMADE? Across from Tito Santana's, next to Bank Square Coffee. Bellus on Main 181 Main Street If you have seen these rings in the window of Bellus, go in now and slip them on your finger. Beautiful, sophisticated and unique, these rings by Andronike, a New York-based designer jewelry brand, are inspired by art, contemporary design and architecture, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and enduring quality. Where is Bellus? Next door to Luxe Optique. Luxe Optique 183 Main Street Watch out - if you're on the street wearing your frames from Luxe Optique, we just may snap a picture! Spotting artistic frames in Beacon has become a thing now, thanks to Luxe for transforming the way many wear glasses. Got Luxe frames? Please take a selfie of yourself and email it to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com, or tag us on Instagram! Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company, and across Main Street from Beacon Barkery. BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main by the Hudson Valley Brewery and use the back walkway entrance up to Main Street! Style Storehouse 484 Main Street The weather is still indecisive enough to wear this Florence Mini Dress by MinkPink. It is fully lined, and features neck cut-outs, elastic waist, button sleeves and back keyhole with button closure. Wear with tall boots, jeans or leggings! Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle. Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique 1 East Main Street, Retail #3 TRUNK SHOW NOW The Justin Alexander Trunk Show is this weekend - October 20-22. The Justin Alexander company is showing its entire line of the Spring/Summer 2018 collection at Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique. Special discounts are available for purchases made this weekend. Walk-ins welcome! Where Is Lambs Hill? Next to King + Curated! Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! reMADE, Bellus on Main, Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse. River Therapeutic Massage 612 Route 52 Beacon, NY (845) 379-1956 Autumn is in full swing at River Therapeutic Massage because... You can book a Pumpkin Spice Coffee Foot Scrub! She has other flavor-themed services, too, but they are limited in availability. See these options so you can customize your Spa Treatment.* Pumpkin Spice Latte (warm and spicy) Spiced Orange (refreshing) Vanilla Spice (sweetly soothing) Autumn Breeze (bright and uplifting) *available for massage, salt, or sugar scrubs Snuggle up on the heated table, take a deep breath in, and let. it. all. go!  Book Now > Where is River Therapeutic Massage? Sharing space with Karen's Place Salon on Route 52. Thank you River Therapeutic Massage for sponsoring the Beauty Guide!     The Vault 446 Main Street Here's a healthy way to help you eat clean(er) at The Vault on your weekend: the Seared Scallop Salad with grilled seasonal vegetables, goat cheese and balsamic reduction over a bed of fresh arugula. Enjoy! Where is The Vault? Near Beacon Bath & Bubble. Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide! SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Rhinebeck Bank Did you know that Rhinebeck Bank has one of the best local morning shows in town, Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank? Michelle and Mark interview guests from the local community, including business owners, community leaders, local political figures and Rhinebeck Bank employees. On this episode, Angela Pless and Donna Harris from the US Postal Inspection Service are interviewed. This agency is one of the oldest federal law enforcement agencies in the country. It supports and protects the Postal Service from criminal attack. First established in the early 1700s when stagecoaches carrying mail were attacked by outlaws, early horseback-riding “good guys” were the precursors to current day Postal Inspectors. Fascinating. To submit to be a guest on the show, email PR@RhinebeckBank.com. Watch the Interview > Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency Thinking this weekend about a new career? Or maybe you want some extra holiday cash. Driving for Lyft could be an option for you. Before you turn on the app, read these insurance guidelines from Antalek & Moore to make sure you know when you're covered. Beacon Chamber of Commerce The Cold Spring Area Chamber of Commerce and the Beacon Chamber of Commerce are hosting a joint mixer. On Thursday, October 26, they invite you to come meet your business neighbors at the Dutchess Manor (263 Route 9D, Beacon) from 6 to 8 pm. There will be a chance to talk to fellow “Main Street” business owners and brainstorm around how Cold Spring and Beacon can grow from day trip visits to longer weekend destinations. Tickets are required for this event ($20 for members, $30 for non-members). Hors d'oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available. Tickets can be purchased online here. BeaconArts The last Wednesday (and sometimes the fourth Wednesday) of every month is the monthly BeaconArts Member Meet Up. This month, they'll be meeting at the Inn and Spa at Beacon, hosted by its proprietor Roger Greenwald. This beautifully realized establishment also houses the Anamario Hernandez Gallery. If the weather is good, attendees may even get to lounge on the fabulous rooftop terrace! Must be a BeaconArts member to attend (join online here). A Little Beacon Space Next Pop-Up Shop: Made & Given Curated records from Black Gold Records, handmade jewelry by Haimi Co and Rock Dove, sustainable soaps and hand-poured candles by Kala Style, Bowties and headscarves for adults and babies by Moor Berry, Unisex Leather Goods by F&S, and Naughty Holiday Cards from Santa’s Dirty Workshop and more! Check in via FB to say you're going to stop by! > InHouse Design Media Private training sessions are available to businesses who want to produce their own newsletters, make website changes, or jump-start social media campaigns, but need guidance. Make an appointment with InHouse Design Media, who can make house-calls to businesses located in Beacon. Book Now > Tin Shingle Do you want to connect with someone right now about ways to get the word out about your business or art? Tin Shingle's Training TuneUps are just that - videos you can watch in the quietness of your own home or office. You'll come away with instant ideas and confidence to see them through. Click Here to Start Browsing > NEWSLETTER SIGNUP We know what you're thinking... "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog. Until next week!

Enviromental Citizen Soapbox Happening - Looking For Speakers in Bursts

If you have a thought to share about the environment, you can do it from a soapbox on Monday, October 23, from 7 to 9 pm at the First Presbyterian Church of Beacon, 50 Liberty St. Hosted by the Green Beacon Coalition, anyone is invited to attend and/or speak about their views, concerns, and visions in order to "work toward creating a more environmentally conscious city," according to Green Beacon Coalition's event page.

This isn't the first such "soapbox"-inspired event at the First Presbyterian Church of Beacon. Past events have included the Springtime Citizen Soapbox, which was an open forum to hear people's hopes for the future of the Beacon community.

Anyone can sign up to speak at the soapbox, and speaking opportunities run for a maximum of "a couple of minutes." Interested speakers and attendees can sign up here at the Green Beacon Coalition website.

"Beacon Speaks Out" Meets Wednesday To Discuss Police and Community Relations

In January of 2015, Beacon Mayor Randy Casale invited government and civic leaders to discuss growing tensions between police and communities around the country and to help Beacon's various groups set a course of improvement with one another. Following the meeting, "Beacon Speaks Out" (or BSO) was formed by Brooke Simmons of I Am Beacon and Rabbi Brent Spodek of Beacon Hebrew Alliance and moderator of Better Together, The Beacon Interfaith Clergy Group. The first meeting was held in May of that year. Participants developed eight initiatives that the Beacon Police Department intended to work on. The BSO would set follow-up meetings to discuss progress; the next one was planned for February 2016.

"Beacon Speaks Out" returns tonight, Wednesday, October 18, 2017, at The Telephone Building from 7 to 8 pm for a third meeting that is open to the public. Participants will include citizens, Mayor Randy Casale, City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero, and city Police Chief Douglas Solomon. The meeting will cover two of the eight initiatives conceived at the first meeting (specifically the fourth and seventh). All initiatives are posted below.

Initiative 4

"We’d like for the police to be better equipped to deal with Beacon’s diverse populations."

Initiative 7

"We’d like data on crimes, arrests, and convictions to be publicized, as well as police policies and procedures."

In the years since the original meeting, improvements have been made that have resulted in satisfaction on both sides - the Police Department and the community. Thanks to a grant, body cameras were given to police officers to be used with the cameras already on police vehicles, which according to an article in the Highlands Current, helped police prove how situations unfolded when challenged. Training for crisis intervention and mediation was increased, as well as hiring to strengthen and diversify the police force. Though for hiring, Chief Solomon encourages those who are students now to get interested in pursuing civil service careers, as he reports a challenge in finding recruits from minority populations.

Agenda

The agenda is as follows:

Setting Expectations
Performance Tracking
Training Effectiveness
Publicizing Police Procedures & Policies
Community Engagement
Quality of Life Issues (Defined)
• Ignoring rules of the road
• Driving around police and other caution barriers
• Driving the wrong way down one-way streets
• Speeding down side streets
• Illegal parking
• Skateboarding on streets and sidewalks
• Bicycling on sidewalks
• Ignoring pedestrians in crosswalks
• Pedestrians who aggressively cross into traffic
• Panhandling
• Loud Noise
• Loitering
• Littering
• Trespassing
• Vandalism to public and private property
• Graffiti
• Spitting
• Urination
• Defecation
• Prostitution
• Drug dealing
• Drug using

The Eight Initiatives of "Beacon Speaks Out"

1. We’d like the police/community relationship to move from a place of intimidation, suspicion, and superiority to a place of kindness, calm, and respect.
2. We’d like for the police to develop positive relations with the youth of Beacon.
3. We’d like for the police to have more face-to-face contact with the community.
Adopt Best Practices to Improve Community Safety
4. We’d like for the police to be better equipped to deal with Beacon’s diverse populations.
5. We’d like a more diverse police force.
6. We’d like for the police to work together with the community to develop a progressive strategy for dealing with Beacon’s drug problem, especially heroin.
Strengthen and Expand Community Communication
7. We’d like data on crimes, arrests, and convictions to be publicized, as well as police policies and procedures.
8. We’d like the Human Relations Committee to be publicized and strengthened.