BeaconArts Meets for Voting In New Board Members

Gathering for the first time this year, the membership of BeaconArts will convene on Wednesday, January 31, 2018 for the annual meeting and board elections. The meeting will be held at The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries/Clarkson University, which is the home of BeaconArts' Retrospective : 15, the exhibit showcasing the 15 years that BeaconArts has served the community since its founding in 2002.

BeaconArts is the artery through which much of the city’s creative efforts flow and manifest. BeaconArts serves as a fiscal sponsor for many public and interactive art initiatives that people in the community have come to look forward to each year, including Beacon3D, Beacon Arts & Education Foundation, Beacon Open Studios, Beacon Independent Film Festival, Bike Beacon, Compass Arts’ spring theatrical production “Circle the Sun”, FairyWalk Beacon, Keys to the City, Ren and Luca, Two-Row Totems, and Welcome to Beacon 3.0. The members of BeaconArts include artists, galleries, specialty shops, restaurants, services, and other arts-minded individuals, businesses and organizations who recognize the economic value in supporting local arts and culture.

After 8 years of service, current BeaconArts president Kelly Ellenwood is stepping down in her duties. "Our strategic planning process was very successful, and we have put a lot of time and effort into planning for the future. Five of the nine board members are returning (by design), with plenty of leadership to go around. Change is good! After eight years, my time is up, per our bylaws." Meanwhile, Kelly is promoting the next fundraiser she is associated with, which is BeaconArts + Center 4 Creative Education “Lip Sync Battle.” Kelly is also secretary of the Rombout Middle School PTO, and you can track upcoming fundraisers for that in A Little Beacon Blog's Beacon City Schools' Fundraising Guide.

Currently, four board positions are open. Members are encouraged to attend the meeting to learn more about the candidates and vote.

Board Members continuing through 2018:
Theresa Goodman (current Vice President), 1st term, 2nd year
Christina Jensen (former Board member; appointed by Board in January to fulfill remaining year of Sommer Hixson’s 2nd term), 1st term, 2nd year
Terry Nelson, 1st term, 2nd year
Rick Rogers, 1st term, 2nd year
Aaron Verdile (current Treasurer), 1st term, 2nd year

Candidates for NEW BeaconArts Board Members – Elections 2018
All terms are for two years, with the possibility of a second term.

Hanny Ahern (2 years, 1st term)
Hanny Ahern is a multimedia artist and educator living and working in Beacon, New York. She has a B.A. in Fine Arts From Bennington College and a mmaster's in Interaction Design from NYU’s Interactive Telecommunications program. Hanny works persistently on education and community initiatives - alongside her art practice - and has worked closely to launch early pilot arts education programs at Powrplnt in Brooklyn, NY; Art in your Space, Manhattan; NY, Pepo La Tumaini in Isiolo, Kenya; and the inaugural year of Dia Foundation‘s teen program in Beacon, NY. Her work has been shown locally and internationally. She serves as a consultant on the board to Powrplnt and adFabe, working toward strengthening and pioneering relationships to committees that can benefit from the initiatives. Hanny is a homeowner in Beacon, and passionate and realistic towards this growing arts community.

Karlyn Benson (2 years, 1st term)
Karlyn Benson has worked in museums and galleries for over 20 years. In 2013, she opened Matteawan Gallery in Beacon, NY, specializing in contemporary art by mid-career and emerging artists. As the gallery’s director and curator, she has developed an ambitious exhibition program with a focus on abstraction, process, and materials. In 2016 she curated the exhibition Chemistry: Explorations in Abstract Photography at the Garrison Art Center, Garrison, NY. In addition to managing her gallery, Karlyn works as an executive assistant at AEA Consulting, a cultural consulting firm located in Beacon, NY. For six years, she worked in the Registrar Department at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, where her responsibilities included arranging the safe transport and installation of artwork for exhibitions. Previously, she was the gallery manager at Candace Perich Gallery, a contemporary photography gallery in Katonah, NY. Karlyn received an MA in Art History from the University of Texas, Austin and a BA in Art History from SUNY Purchase. She also holds an associate's degree in Interior Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology. She has lived in Beacon since 2003.

Angelique Devlin (2 years, 1st term)
Angelique B. Devlin is a massage therapist, interfaith minister, life coach, birth doula, and yoga teacher. She practices these healing arts from her Terra Firma Massage studio here in Beacon, NY. Angelique has proudly been calling Beacon home since 2010. She relishes meeting and developing relationships with fellow business owners, artists, gallery owners, and members of the Beacon community. She is a member of the Beacon Chamber of Commerce, Hudson Valley Women in Business, the Sloop Club, and BeaconArts.  Angelique considers the arts to be vital to the vibrancy and future of Beacon, and would welcome the opportunity to play a more active role in the continued success of BeaconArts.

Meghan Goria (2 years, 1st term)
Meghan Goria has spent her career raising awareness for performing arts organizations and nonprofits, first at the New-York Historical Society and Manhattan Theatre Club, then over the course of nearly 10 years at the Metropolitan Opera. She is currently the Director of Digital Strategy and Fundraising at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills, where she oversees the online marketing and fundraising efforts of the organization. She holds a BA in History from Brown University. Meghan is a Beacon homeowner and proud member of the community. Her spare time is usually spent cooking, reading or hiking around the Hudson Valley with her husband and dog.

Linda Pratt Kimmel (2 years, 1st term)
Linda Pratt Kimmel has been a resident of Beacon since 2003, and became a member of BeaconArts in January 2017.  She has volunteered on the Annual Holiday Bicycle Tree for the past two years, and was one of the project managers for the inaugural Keys to the City (KTC) installation. As part of KTC, Linda was specifically responsible for a family event that was done in coordination with the Howland Library, in which a piano-related book served as a launching point for a KTC scavenger hunt down Main Street. Linda has also volunteered for candidates for the City Council and County Legislator this past year, as well. She has become very vested in our community, and the efforts undertaken to bring us together and maintain our unique identity as a city.

Professionally, Linda is a founding partner of Wernick & Pratt Agency, a boutique literary agency based out of Beacon that specializes in representing authors and illustrators of children’s books. As an agent, one of her biggest jobs to listen to artists and help them clarify and fulfill their creative visions.  This involves everything from providing editorial guidance, career planning, negotiating contracts, and acting as an intermediary with publishers and/or licensors. In addition, Linda also oversees the financial operations of the agency, including managing all client monies processed, filing tax reportings, and preparing income projections.

Linda holds a BBA in Finance from the University of Texas in Austin.  She is a member of the Association of Authors’ Representatives (AAR), the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), and served on the board for the Rutgers One-on-One Writers Conference for five years.

Join BeaconArts today online, and you can make it to the meeting to increase your connection and involvement with Beacon and other artists, makers and business owners.


BeaconArts is a Community Partner of A Little Beacon Blog and is part of our Advertising program. This article was part of their monthly messaging partnership. Thank you for supporting organizations who support us!

Food Trucks Approved to Open Near Train in Beacon's Linkage District

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Food trucks will now be able to park and open up for business on vacant lots down near the Metro-North train station in what is known as Beacon's Linkage District. The Linkage District was designated as special piece of property in order "to increase the vitality, attractiveness and marketability of the part of the City of Beacon lying between Main Street and the Metro-North Train Station," according to its stated purpose. In shaping what it hopes will increase "walkability" and encourage a "vibrant" environment in that area, the City Council voted unanimously (Amber Grant was absent from the meeting) in favor of the addition of this type of land use during its meeting on January 16, 2018. (Read the legal-eagle documentation here.)

Where Is The Linkage District?

Some of your favorite businesses are located in the Linkage District, like BCAP (Be Creative As Possible), 2 Way Brewing, SallyeAnder's warehouse (not the public retail location - that's at the far other end of town near the mountain), and others. New to the area are Beacon Pilates, which has been in town for 13 years but has moved to a new location, and a soon-to-open TrueValue Hardware store from Brett (!!), filling the void left after the beloved Nichols closed a few years ago.

Linkage District, as published on the City of Beacon's Zoning Map included here, and modified by A Little Beacon Blog in order to show you where the Linkage District is. It's easy to get lost in the lines!Graphic Art Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Linkage District, as published on the City of Beacon's Zoning Map included here, and modified by A Little Beacon Blog in order to show you where the Linkage District is. It's easy to get lost in the lines!
Graphic Art Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

New hardware store coming to Beacon in the Linkage District.Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

New hardware store coming to Beacon in the Linkage District.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

New apartment buildings are going up on Beekman Street. They are among the development projects that have been green-lit recently, which you can read more about in A Little Beacon Blog's Development Guide.Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

New apartment buildings are going up on Beekman Street. They are among the development projects that have been green-lit recently, which you can read more about in A Little Beacon Blog's Development Guide.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

So When and What Can We Eat?

Several regulations are in place for how the food trucks need to operate. For example, there's a rule that a truck shall put spikes down on a vacant lot that has no other use, and that it can only operate for "a maximum of only one two-consecutive-year" period. During the Public Comment portion of the food truck consideration, which was open over the course of several City Council meetings, Beacon resident Theresa Kraft spoke to request that the treatment of trash be more closely monitored or enforced by a "Garbage Police." Tables and chairs will be allowed, but cannot block the sidewalk or fire hydrants, and the whole setup must be ADA compliant. So many more details can be found here at the City's website.

Beacon has experience with food trucks, like the hot dog kind near the post office, and high-concept ones, like the former Beacon Bite, who made their own ketchup (to the horror of some children who needed to BYOK - bring your own ketchup) but whose food was delicious and made for foodies, neighbored by a second cart - The Beacon Pie Company - which made that corner of town near Ella's Bellas especially delicious and invigorating.

Beacon Chamber of Commerce Elects New Board for 2018

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The Beacon Chamber of Commerce's Annual Meeting is Monday, January 29, at 5:30 pm at the Elks Club, 900 Wolcott Ave. The names listed below will be submitted for election by the members in attendance. There is one vote per member. This process also allows for nominations from the floor. The Chamber encourages your participation, so come down! A light dinner will be served, so there's no excuse to miss it. Join the Chamber today online here!
 

Nominees

President, Rick Brownell of Freedom Ford
Vice President, Carl Oken of Beacon Elks Club
Treasurer - Open (might this be you?)
Corresponding Secretary, Teresa Williams of Antalek & Moore Insurance
Director, Sheryl Glickman of Notions ‘N Potions
Recording Secretary, Kathy Sandford of Antalek & Moore Insurance
Director, John Gilvey of Hudson Beach Glass
Director, Annemarie Sipilief of CIA Security

Continuing Board Members

Director, Kate Rabe of Kate Rabe Consulting
Director, Michele Williams of Style Storehouse

Happening This Weekend - 1/26/2018

Whoosh - this has been a fast and blustery January! The month is ending with a few notable business membership meetings, so if you aren't hooked into the organizations already, make sure you check them out now! Scroll to the bottom to look for member meeting notices from BeaconArts, the Beacon Chamber of Commerce, and Tin Shingle. BeaconArts and the Beacon Chamber of Commerce have board member elections happening very soon, so don't miss out.
Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance.
 

Beacon Film Society Presents: “Walking Out”
Day:
Friday, January 26, 2018
Time: 7 pm (6:30 pm doors)
Location: BEAHIVE Beacon, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

International Film Night: "Tanna"
Day:
Friday, January 26, 2018
Time: 7 pm
Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Beacon Open Studios' Roaring Twenties Costume Ball & Fundraiser
Day:
Friday, January 26, 2018
Time: 8 pm to midnight
Location: Denning’s Point Distillery, 10 N. Chestnut St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Hudson Valley Wingfest 11
Day: Saturday, January 27, 2018
Time: 5 to 9 pm
Location: Mid-Hudson Civic Center, 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie, NY
Information >

Kirtan Music Album Release
Day:
Saturday, January 27, 2018
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Location: beBhakti Yoga Center, 89 Dewindt St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Roman Rabinovitch, Piano
Day: Sunday, January 28, 2018
Time: 4 pm
Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
 
 


Beacon Pilates
18 W. Main St., Suite 3
(near the train station)

SAVE THE DATE!
Beacon Pilates Grand Re-Opening Party
Day
: Saturday, February 10, 2018
Time: 5 to 8 pm
The Grand Re-Opening celebration will kick off “Goods for Good,” a weeklong sporting goods drive for The Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie, which is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment to improve the lives of and empower at-risk children and families in the Hudson Valley and surrounding communities. Donations of newly purchased indoor or outdoor sporting goods can be brought to Beacon Pilates on (Second) Saturday, February 10, or dropped off during business hours the following week. Equipment needed includes basketballs, volleyballs, soccer balls, skateboards, roller skates, safety equipment like helmets and pads, lawn games, double-dutch jump ropes, wooden baseball bats, and tennis balls.
Information >

Beginning Painting Workshop
Day:
Saturday, January 27, 2018
Time: 10 am to noon
Location: River Winds Gallery, 172 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Knitting 102 - Beanie Workshop
Day:
Sunday, January 28, 2018
Time: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Location: Loopy Mango, 500 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Business Strategies for Freelancers
Day:
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
Time: 6 to 8:30 pm
Location: The CINEHUB, 20 W. Main St., Suite 4, Beacon, NY
Information >

Knitting Studio w/ Kit Burke-Smith (four sessions)
Level:
 Beginner-Intermediate
Days: Mondays, January 28 to February 18, 2018
Time: 1 to 3pm
Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Taking Excellent Measurements w/ Hilary Oak
Level:
Open
Day: Saturday, January 27, 2018
Time: 2 to 4 pm
Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Thank you, Beacon Pilates, for sponsoring the Classes for Adults Guide! For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide.



Anime & Manga Club
Day: Friday, January 26, 2018
Time: 3 to 5 pm
Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Little Buds, for Babies 6 Weeks to 12 Months and a Caregiver, with Sarah Schulman
Day: Wednesday, January 31, 2018 (free trial class)
Time: 2 to 2:45 pm
Location: Compass Arts, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.
 

NEW GUIDE! The Public School Fundraising Guide
Parents, teachers and students are hard at work producing creative ways to raise money for Beacon's public schools. Some of those ways involve events. A Little Beacon Blog has dedicated an editor to tracking these and updating this new Guide!
Below are upcoming opportunities. See the full Guide for great events to look out for, like the Wizards coming to the Beacon High School, or the Matt Stevens Magic Show coming to Glenham Elementary.

ROMBOUT MIDDLE SCHOOL
Dinner at Chipotle

Day: Monday, January 29, 2018
Time: 5 to 9 pm
Location: 10 Westage Drive, Fishkill, NY
When you get your dinner at Chipotle on Monday night, tell them to put your purchase towards Rombout Middle School PTO, and Chipotle will donate 50% of proceeds to Rombout's PTO - which goes back to students, teachers and the building!
Information >

J.V. FORRESTAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Vote Now!

JV Forrestal School is a finalist in the latest Project Fit Grant Contest.
Help JVF students win new playground fitness equipment and Physical Education equipment for their school! Vote once per day, per email right here (super easy).
 

 
Thank you to BAJA 328 for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!

 
 
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
 

Luxe Optique

183 Main Street
(near Beacon Bread Company)

Look at this trio! What dreamy eyewear to round out your wardrobe. There are subtle differences in each style, from the location of the bridge to the precise shape of the circles. Come into the store and try them on. From the top: Dita, JF Rey, Oliver Peoples.





 

 

BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END
PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main, near the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the back walkway to head up to Main Street!


Style Storehouse
484 Main Street
(near Utensil)

This is your intro to spring! Soft, fun and versatile tops are in the shop, and this one by Free People with flared sleeves and playful tie bottom is just the beginning...








Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main Street, Retail #3
(near the dummy light)

If you've ever wanted to wear a wedding gown designed exclusively for a Beacon boutique, now is your chance. This Sweetheart mermaid gown was designed and made exclusively for Lambs Hill, featuring luxurious faux fur throughout.





Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique, and Style Storehouse.



Where can you get your hair done in Beacon?
Or find a beard trim? Or even eyelash extensions?
Find out in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide!
SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS

Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency

And now, for your moment of zen, Antalek & Moore's Instagram account is up and running! Warning: You will see more puppy photos representing Antalek & Moore's ability to connect you with a New York Pet Insurance Policy. Connect with Antalek & Moore on Instagram.

Rhinebeck Bank

Do you know the history of the Vassar Brothers? Did you know that one of the brothers died in a fire in Vassar’s Brewery, which stood on the same spot where the Vassar Institute (now known as Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center) was built? During this episode of Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank, Michelle interviews Executive Director Andrew Bergreen to learn about the art center. Rhinebeck Bank has been a longtime sponsor of the art programs here. Increase your Hudson Valley and Poughkeepsie trivia by getting some Vassar family history during this episode of Wake Up with Rhinebeck Bank. Watch it here!

Beacon Chamber of Commerce
The Beacon Chamber of Commerce's Annual Meeting is Monday, January 29, at 5:30 pm at the Elks Club, 900 Wolcott Ave. The names listed below will be submitted for election by the members in attendance. There is one vote per member. This process also allows for nominations from the floor. The Chamber encourages your participation. Not a member yet? Join the Chamber today online here!
Nominees
President, Rick Brownell of Freedom Ford
Vice President, Carl Oken of Beacon Elks Club
Treasurer - Open
Corresponding Secretary, Teresa Williams of Antalek & Moore Insurance
Director, Sheryl Glickman of Notions ‘N Potions
Recording Secretary, Kathy Sandford of Antalek & Moore Insurance
Director, John Gilvey of Hudson Beach Glass
Director Annemarie Sipilief of CIA Security

 

BeaconArts: Membership

The Annual Meeting and Board Elections will be held this Wednesday, January 31, 2018, at 6:30 pm at The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries/Clarkson University Gallery, 199 Main St., Beacon. Current board members are listed below, as well as candidates. You must be a current member of BeaconArts to attend. You can join online here!
Board Members continuing through 2018:
Theresa Goodman (current Vice President), 1st term, 2nd year
Christina Jensen (former Board member; appointed by Board in January to fulfill Sommer Hixson’s remaining year), 1st term, 2nd year
Terry Nelson, 1st term, 2nd year
Rick Rogers, 1st term, 2nd year
Aaron Verdile (current Treasurer), 1st term, 2nd year

Candidates are:
Hanny Ahern (2 years, 1st term)
Karlyn Benson (2 years, 1st term)
Angelique Devlin (2 years, 1st term)
Meghan Goria (2 years, 1st term)
Linda Pratt Kimmel (2 years, 1st term)

Tin Shingle: Member Meeting

Tin Shingle is an empowerment zone for artists, makers, and business owners who want to get the word out about their projects, initiatives and businesses. Every last Monday of the month, at noon, Tin Shingle hosts an opportunity to connect, to share ideas and get support in Tin Shingle's office at 291 Main St. Membership at the entry level is required to attend, and you can learn more about that here. Join us!

InHouse Design Media

Now available: glamour shots! For businesses who are looking to jazz up their social media accounts with professionally taken photos. Have InHouse Design Media's photographer, Leigh Baumann, take a bunch of photos for you - of your office, gallery, shop, products and/or staff - and use the photos whenever and however you like. Leigh takes the photos you see here for A Little Beacon Blog's advertisers. See more photos here!

A Little Beacon Space

The time is right to host your workshop, now you just need a venue. A Little Beacon's Space is a perfect location, conveniently right in the heart of Beacon, to fit your audience.
NEWSLETTER SIGNUP
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
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Be a part of this publication - be the support that makes it happen! Reach our readers, align with the community, and get your message out. See our Media Kit for ideas!

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Until next week!

Beacon Continues In Stage 2 Drought - But Good News - It's Raining and Snowing!

Photo + Graphics Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

Photo + Graphics Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

Who's only happy when it rains (and snows)? It's not just the '90s alternative rock band Garbage, who wrote that song for their self-titled debut album. Closer to home, Beacon's Waste and Wastewater Superintendent Ed Balicki is who you can thank for doing the rain and snow dancing, according to Anthony Ruggiero, City Administrator for the City of Beacon at the January 16, 2018 City Council Meeting.

Beacon is in a Stage 2 Drought, which means that the city is asking residents to conserve water. Beacon pulls water from three reservoirs: the Mount Beacon Reservoir, which was down 8 to 9 feet last week; the Cargill Reservoir, which is the largest; and Melzingah, the smallest. "We are waiting for a greater recharge from the Cargill," says Ed. As for the Melzingah, "It’s the smallest, and drains the fastest. It typically goes offline during the summer. The fall rains in October and November usually fill it, but there was not as much rain then."

Ed explains that the reservoirs are like bowls, and fill up with precipitation. "We had a late snowfall back in March 2017. We had rainfall through the spring, but since June, we had very little rainfall that would replenish the reservoirs." Ed's team goes out on Wednesdays to make the Reservoir Rounds to measure them all. During last week's city council meeting, Beacon Mayor Randy Casale said the Melzingah is getting put back online. "When it fills up, it fills up quick, and then runs off," explained the mayor. "So that's why they are turning it on, so that we don't lose it in runoff."

Do all water supply systems depend on these big bowls of water? Or can groundwater be counted on, too? Ed says that the two wells that Beacon can tap into gain water that way, and that reservoirs can have springs running into them. However, the Mount Beacon reservoir was built in the early 1900s, before Beacon's current development was even a glimmer in the eye of builders' ancestors, and before the nearby correctional facilities also began using the water. Concern over the limited water supply was the inspiration for the current building moratorium in Beacon right now.

Said Anthony of the current water supply: "The snow is definitely helping. With the weather, we are doing OK." For more information and latest on Beacon's water, you can visit the City's water page, and download past reports.

What's New In Adult Classes Guide - Beacon Pilates & Shambhala Wellness Update

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New Year's resolutions are in full effect, and fitness centers across Beacon are heating up! A couple of local businesses have recently made changes, and we've updated A Little Beacon Blog's Adult Classes Guide to reflect the changes. Be sure to check in regularly to see the latest changes and additions to the classes lineup! There are a lot of great lifestyle, business, and fitness classes to choose from.

Beacon Pilates Moves to New Location

After 13 years on Main Street, Beacon Pilates has moved to their newly designed location at 18 West Main St., Suite 3 - the same building that houses 2 Way Brewing and BCAP, right by the train station. What's a bonus to that location, besides being so close to BCAP's pre-K and summer camp center? Parking. Tons of it. Park right in front of the building, or along the street.

You can check out Beacon Pilates' new digs at their Grand Re-Opening Party on Saturday, February 10, from 5 to 8 pm. All are welcome, even if you have no experience with Pilates.

P.S.: Thank you, Beacon Pilates, for coming on as an advertiser with us! Support from local businesses like theirs helps keep our publication crankin'!

Shambhala Wellness Center

This week, Karla McGuire, owner of Shambhala Wellness Center, announced that the center is changing owners and its name. Alison Jolicoeur, Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified Health Coach, and Certified Shamanic Reiki Master Teacher, will be taking over. The space's new name will be Beacon of Light Wellness Center, still located at 4 S. Chestnut Street, just off the middle of Main Street near Rite Aid. The official opening of Beacon of Light Wellness Center will be Thursday, February 1, and the Grand Opening celebration will be on Second Saturday, February 10, from 10 am to 8 pm.

Tin Shingle Offers New Website Design Class

If you're stuck on starting your website, Tin Shingle has the class for you: Make Your Website With Markers. That's right - you'll be setting up what will go onto your website, how you sell to your clients or customers, and what you want people to think and feel when they get to your website. It's an easy and fun workshop that will knock out that creative block.

Happening This Weekend - 1/19/2018

If you've had cabin fever this month, upcoming days hold the cure! You have a lot of great options right now in the Classes department, from fitness to iPhones. Several other goings-on are scheduled, so get your boots on, get some fresh air, and enjoy the weekend!
Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance.
 

Thom Joyce’s Open Mic Night
Day:
Friday, January 19, 2018
Time: 8 pm
Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Live Concert: Shapiro/Kerr Duo
Day:
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Time: 8 pm
Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
 
 

Beacon Pilates : We Moved!
Thirteen years ago, Beacon Pilates set up equipment in Beacon, and at the end of last year, they moved to their new home, near the train station! Now located in the same building that houses 2 Way Brewing Co. and BCAP, at 18 West Main St., Suite 3, Beacon Pilates is on the side of the building that has beautifully renovated interiors with plenty of parking.
SAVE THE DATE!
Day:
Saturday, February 10, 2018
Time: 5 to 8 pm
Beacon Pilates is having a Grand Re-Opening Party at their new space, and you're invited! Owner Juliet Harvey says: "Come celebrate 13 years of Beacon Pilates in our newly designed, light-filled studio! Anyone is welcome, even if you've never been to the studio before."
Information >

AcroYoga Fundamentals Workshop
Day: 
Friday, January 19, 2018
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Location: Shambhala Wellness Center, 4 S. Chestnut St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Stretch Your Soul Workshop
Day: 
Friday, January 19, 2018
Time: 7 to 8:30 pm
Location: Firefly Yoga, 992 Main St., Fishkill, NY
Information >

iPhoneography Workshop
Day:
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Time: 10 am to noon
Location: River Winds Gallery, 172 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Quilting 101 w/ Katy Hope (four sessions)
Level:
 Confident Beginner
Day: Saturdays, January 20, 27, February 3 and 10, 2018
Time: 10 am to 1 pm
Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Knitting 101 - Big Blanket Workshop
Day:
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Time: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Location: Loopy Mango, 500 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Knitting Studio with Kit Burke-Smith (four sessions)
Level:
 Beginner-Intermediate
Days: Mondays, January 22 to February 12, 2018
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Thank you, Beacon Pilates, for sponsoring the Classes for Adults Guide! For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide.



Hudson Hills Montessori Open House
Day:
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Time: 11 am to 1 pm
Location: Hudson Hills Montessori, 12 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY
Information >

Art & Zine Club Meetup
Day: Friday, January 19, 2018
Time: 3:30 to 5 pm
Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Learn Beat Boxing & Body Percussion
Day: Saturday, January 20, 2018
Time: 11 am
Location: Beacon Music Factory, 333 Fishkill Ave., Beacon, NY
Information >

For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.

 
Thank you to BAJA 328 for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!

 
 
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
 

Luxe Optique

183 Main Street
SALE ALERT!
Get your shades out, it's sunny! What's that? You have boring sunglasses, or you finally lost your old trusties? You're in luck then, because all Oliver Peoples sunglasses are $100 off at Luxe Optique right now! Get them with or without prescription lenses.

Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company.


 

 

BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END
PARKING PRO TIP: Park behind 1 East Main, by the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the back walkway to come up to Main Street!


Style Storehouse
484 Main Street

Just look at this sweet stack of threads. Your closet is in need of some fresh denim, and Style Storehouse is where you will find plenty of styles, sizes and stretchy fabric. There are lots of sales currently going on now at Style Storehouse, including this denim deal for 25% off! 

Where is Style Storehouse? A few stores down from Utensil, as you round the bend.




Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3

Featured in the most recent issue of Chronogram as part of their curated Wedding Venue Guide, Lambs Hill is the destination for a wedding in a beautiful mountaintop setting. The Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique enhances the bridal experience with a showroom of wedding gowns at the base of Mount Beacon, in the newly renovated 1 East Main building. New styles are in store now, with more to come! Find a wide range of sizes from brand names like Lillian West and Justin Alexander.

Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the dummy light.



Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide!  Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse.



Where can you get your hair done in Beacon? Or find a beard trim? Or even fluttery eyelash extensions?
Find out in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide!
SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS

Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
CONGRATULATIONS!

Were you driving down Main Street on Thursday afternoon and saw the exuberant gathering outside the normally-quiet row of storefronts across from the post office? In case you were wondering, that was the crowd that showed up to support one of Beacon's longest-running businesses, Antalek & Moore. A torch was being passed to the new Executive Partners, Susan Antalek Pagones and Vince Lemma. Read more about it!

Rhinebeck Bank

Rhinebeck Bank has enabled several Hudson Valley bussiness to grow, including Crunch Fitness. In this episode of "Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank," Michelle Barone-Lepore interviews Tom Van Pelt to learn about 2018's fitness trends, which include Small Group Training, HIT (High Intensity Training), and Wearables. Want to learn more? Watch it here!

Beacon Chamber of Commerce
The Beacon Chamber of Commerce's Annual Meeting will be Monday, January 29, at 5:30 pm at the Elks Club, 900 Wolcott Ave., Beacon, NY. On the agenda: voting for new Board Members. Mark your calendar, and Join the Chamber today!

BeaconArts : Open Studios

LAST CHANCE!
Tickets are on sale for only a little bit longer for the Beacon Open Studios fundraiser.
Day: Friday, January 26, 2018
Time: 8 pm to midnight
Location: Denning's Point Distillery
Enjoy live jazz, dancing, a VIP gaming room, and special raffle prizes! Celebrate and support Beacon's vibrant arts community in one fancy party.
Tickets >

Tin Shingle Workshop : Start Your Website With Markers!

This workshop went well, so Tin Shingle is offering another round! Look for a new website from Evey Amaris, who is launching her long-awaited business in creating sacred space for homes and businesses. This workshop takes you through the process of thinking out how your website will be presented to, and received by, your customers. Sign up for the next one!
Price: $185
Day: Tuesday, February 6, 2018
Time: 2 to 4 pm
Tickets >

A Little Beacon Space

The time is right to host your workshop, now you just need a venue. A Little Beacon's Space is the perfect location, conveniently located in the heart of Beacon, to accomodate your audience.

InHouse Design Media

InHouse Design Media can produce pretty, compelling pictures for your social media stream that will make your brand extremely attractive to prospective clients and customers. Flyers, invitations, business cards, and more stationery can also be designed for you as needed. InHouse Design Media is the design arm of A Little Beacon Blog, and can be hired by you for marketing services. Reach out to see how they can help you.

NEWSLETTER SIGNUP
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
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!

Sponsors make the local media go 'round. Reach our readers and support our publication at the same time. Advertising with A Little Beacon Blog is effective because we design ways to make it work for you. See our Media Kit for ideas!

Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog.

Until next week!

Congratulations to Susan, Vince, and Everyone at Antalek & Moore

It was an emotional afternoon on Thursday, January 18, for a multigenerational business in Beacon. We send all of our congratulations to Antalek & Moore as the torch is passed to Executive Partners Susan Antalek Pagones and Vince Lemma. When you attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the normally quiet storefront of an insurance agency, and when well-wishers have poured out onto the sidewalk and into the intersection because so many are in attendance, it really is so heart-warming. 

Several dignitaries - including Beacon Mayor Randy Casale and State Senator Sue Serino - attended the Ribbon🎀 Cutting, a joint celebration of the Dutchess Chamber and the Beacon Chamber of Commerce. As the mayor pointed out, Antalek & Moore is one of Beacon's longest-running businesses, and employs several people.

The food at the party was local and amazing, with dishes from Mr. V’s, Leo’s wings, treats from Ella’s Bellas, Drink More Good, Alps Chocolate, BAJA 328 and others blessing the new office. Susan forced a to-go plate on my hungry eyes, and I’m so glad she did. Congratulations!!

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High School Students Can Get Writing Help In Writing Lab Thursdays at Library

Beacon High School students looking for help with writing projects can stop by the High School Writing Lab on Thursdays, after school from 2:30 to 4 pm, at the Howland Public Library. Support, assistance, and encouragement will be available for students in grades 9 to 12 who are working on school or personal writing projects and college essays.

Drop-ins are welcome; no registration is needed. Facilitator Jess Conway is an instructor at Teachers College, Columbia University.

To see more opportunities like this one for kids, see A Little Beacon Blog's Classes for Kids Guide.

Happening This Weekend - 1/12/2018


 

 
 
This weekend is Second Saturday! You have plenty of time to see many of the art exhibits going on now, including the exhibit from all four Beacon Elementary Schools at the Howland Public Library. The galleries are so diverse, offering you different experiences on your way up and down Main Street - or on other streets as well. We have the full Second Saturday Guide for you here. (It's still being updated as usual because it's a live guide!)

Highlighted below are the events, classes, workshops and shopping that you need to factor into your weekend plans, as well as your week next week!
Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance.


“Art Is Elementary” Reception
Day:
Saturday, January 13, 2018
Time: 2 to 4 pm
Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at The Studio @ Beacon
Day:
Saturday, January 13, 2018
Time: 2 pm
Location: The Studio @ Beacon, 301 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Anna Polonsky/Orion Weiss, Duo Piano
Day: Sunday, January 14, 2018
Time: 4 pm
Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Day Celebration
Day: Monday, January 15, 2018
Time: See below for schedule, starting at 8 am
Location: Springfield Baptist Church, 8 Church St. aka 8 Mattie Cooper Square, Beacon, NY
Theme: "If I Can Help Somebody, Then My Living Will Not Be In Vain"
8 am: Free continental breakfast, provided by The Southern Dutchess Coalition
9:30 am: 5th Annual Dr. King Community Parade Lineup. Participants are encouraged to bring American flags, posters and banners.
10:45 am: Annual SDC/MLK Essay Contest award presentation to young writers, mainly Beacon High School students, according to the Beacon Free Press, for a cash prize of $50. Rhinebeck Bank has sponsored this prize since the contest's inception.
11 am: Annual youth/adult talent presentation
11:50 am: Annual youth, choir members and seniors celebration lunch
12 pm: Annual adult celebration lunch
1 pm: Annual celebration service
Details >

Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
 
 

Chaturanga, Up Dog, Down Dog!
Day:
Saturday, January 13, 2018
Time: 1 to 3 pm
Location: Firefly Yoga, 992 Main St., Fishkill, NY
Information >

Coloring Books for Adults
Day: Beginning Sunday, January 14, 2018
Time: Sunday, 4 to 7 pm; Tuesday, 1 to 4 pm
Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Tin Shingle's Workshop: Start Your Website With Markers!
Day: Thursday January 18, 2018
Time: 2 to 4 pm
Location: 291 Main St., First Floor, First Door, Beacon, NY
Information >

For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide.



Lightning Bugs Kids Yoga Camp
Day: Week of January 15, 2018
Time: 9:15 to 11:45 am
Information >

For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.

 
Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!

 
 
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
 

Luxe Optique

183 Main Street
Stylish yet classic Dalziel sunglasses are handmade by Barton Perreira using unsurpassed craftsmanship and ingenious design. A style like this is often sold out at the limited number of shops it's carried in, but you'll find it available now at Beacon's own Luxe Optique. Barton Perreira’s approach to fashion redefines style and elegance. Patty Perreira’s language of inspired design focuses on the evolution process and continues to challenge the industry by unveiling the next new thing.

Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street 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 come up to Main Street!


Style Storehouse
484 Main Street

Meet the Queen of Leggings (and denim) on Main Street: Michele Williams, owner of Style Storehouse, keeps her collection of leggings fresh and in stock for many sizes and shapes of ladies. Pictured here are super soft rainbow leggings by Hard Tail, 100 percent lycra with a mesh detail.

Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle.




Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3

This Lillian West gown, featuring "power mesh" lining at the waist and hip, is hanging at Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique right now. It has a unique scalloped hem and soft Venice lace throughout. This style also comes with an optional slit. Clearly, mesh is a thing right now, fits the curviest of body types, and can drape quite well while ensuring comfort.

Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the dummy light.



Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse.



Where can you get your hair done in Beacon? Or a beard trim? Find out in
A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide!
SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS

Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency

SAVE THE DATE!
This Thursday, January 18, from 4 to 5 pm, meet Vince Lemma and welcome him to his new role as partner at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency. Read our article about him here, and drop by their offices on your way home from work or play on Thursday to toast him.

Rhinebeck Bank

Big things are happening at the Underwear Factory in Poughkeepsie! The Art Effect - the collaboration and merger with Mill Street Loft and Spark Media Project - is based in the serious spot with the funny name, and has all sorts of creativity going on for young kids! Michelle Barone-Lepore interviews Executive Director Nicole Fenichel-Hewitt and Gaye Mallet, Board President, to learn more about the program and show you behind-the-scenes tidbits of kids making films, graphic designing and more. One of the student-produced films has even traveled through several film festivals including the Tribeca Film Festival. Learn more about it here in this short episode!

Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Are you a new business in Beacon? Joining the Chamber of Commerce shows your support for the business community in Beacon, and connects you with others during monthly member meetings. Join today online!

BeaconArts: Membership

A big meeting is coming up for BeaconArts! It's the annual meeting and board elections. Current board members are listed below, as well as candidates. You must be a current member of BeaconArts to attend and vote. Join online here.
Board members continuing through 2018:
Theresa Goodman (current Vice President), 1st term, 2nd year
Christina Jensen (former Board member, appointed by Board in January to fulfill remainder of Sommer Hixson's term), 1st term, 2nd year
Terry Nelson, 1st term, 2nd year
Rick Rogers, 1st term, 2nd year
Aaron Verdile (current Treasurer), 1st term, 2nd year

Candidates are:
Matthew Agoglia
Hanny Ahern (2 yrs, 1st term)
Karlyn Benson (2 yrs, 1st term)
Angelique Devlin (2 yrs, 1st term)
Meghan Goria (2 yrs, 1st term)
Linda Pratt Kimmel (2 yrs, 1st term)

More details about the candidates, including their bios, are here.

Tin Shingle Workshop: Start Your Website With Markers!

This class is this Thursday! In this workshop, Katie Hellmuth Martin will lead you through the organization process of starting your website, in order to help you decide what you're going to put on your website. What kind of pages and pictures will be there? What is the point of it? You will use markers, the dry erase board, and plenty of paper to help you map this out visually with your hands, before diving into the digital version on the computer.
Price: $185
Day: Thursday, January 18, 2018
Time: 2 to 4 pm
Buy ticket here

A Little Beacon Space

The time is right to host your workshop, now you just need a site. A Little Beacon's Space is a perfect location, conveniently located in the heart of Beacon, to fit your audience.

InHouse Design Media

InHouse Design Media can produce pretty pictures for your social media stream in order to make your brand extremely attractive to prospective clients and customers. Flyers, invitations, business cards, and more stationery can also be designed for you as needed. InHouse Design Media is the design arm of A Little Beacon Blog and can be hired by you for marketing services. Reach out to see how they can help you.
NEWSLETTER SIGNUP
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
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!

Sponsors make the local media go 'round. Reach our readers and support our publication at the same time. Advertising with A Little Beacon Blog is effective because we design ways to make it work for you. See our Media Kit for ideas!

Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog.

Until next week!

New City Council Ward Members and Dutchess County Legislators Sworn In for 2018

Photo Credit: Screenshot of swearing-in ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.Graphic Art Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

Photo Credit: Screenshot of swearing-in ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.
Graphic Art Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

On the first day of the new year of 2018, Beacon held a swearing-in ceremony for the brand new City Council ward members and two Dutchess County Legislators - all Democrats - who swept local elections after a tumultuous year in politics nationally. As reported by Jeff Simms for the Highlands Current, all citizens running were "first-time candidates, each [winning] by wide margins." The two at-large council members were old hands at this: Lee Kyriacou has served nine terms, and George Mansfield has served five terms so far.

Former City Council member Pam Wetherbee presided over the ceremony. Several notable people attended, including Kenya Gadsden, board member for the Beacon City School District Board of Education, and former Beacon Mayor Steve Gold, who is currently the Chief of Staff for New York State Assemblyman Frank Skartados.

Kicking off the ceremony were Cub Scout Pack 1, Boy Scout Troop 1, and Boy Scout Troop 141 of Beacon. Next, the Beacon High School Chorus, led by teacher Susan Wright, sang "This Land Is Your Land" by Woody Guthrie, which was a "song special to Pete Seeger, who was someone important to Beacon," Susan stated. (See this stellar New Yorker profile on Pete Seeger by Beacon local David Rees).

The Swearing In

Terry Nelson, representing Ward 1, was sworn in by his daughter and wife, promising: "I will do the best job I possibly can to represent everyone in the City of Beacon." Terry is also a founder of the Beacon Independent Film Festival, and a board member for BeaconArts.

John Rembert, representing Ward 2, was sworn in by his wife, showing gratitude: "I thank the citizens of Ward 2 and the citizens of Beacon, NY, and I will do my best for the citizens of Beacon, NY."

Jodi McCredo, representing Ward 3, was sworn in by her children. Jodi was also one of the founders of the Advocates for Beacon Schools, a group of parents and community members who pushed for change and awareness of the politics and policies in public schools. They were active during the time of a resignation of a Beacon superintendent in 2016 and in the election of three new board members to the Board of Education. That group built a website for publishing information, advocates12508.com, and a similar website has been created for disseminating information about building development projects in Beacon, development12508.com. Said Jodi: "I'm looking forward to what we can do together for Beacon and for Dutchess County."

Photo Credit: Screenshot of Swearing In Ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.

Photo Credit: Screenshot of Swearing In Ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.

For her swearing-in, Amber Grant, representing Ward 4, placed the Constitution on her small niece, who was held by Amber's sister. Amber said: "I look forward to getting to work. Hopefully I'll see a lot of you here tomorrow as well (for the next City Council meeting)."

After George Mansfield was sworn in for his at-large position, he reflected: "I was first here eight years ago, when I first ran for office, and it never gets any less exciting. The burden of responsibility is great."

Lee Kyriacou, the City Council's other at-large member, selected The Constitution as his object to be sworn in on. He thanked his family, "my spouse, my two lovely daughters who indulge my passion to indulge in community service., and to the voters who turned out in amazing numbers. Please keep doing that." Lee continued, reflecting on what he called Beacon's journey of renewal. "Beacon has probably done the biggest turnaround of the Hudson Valley, if not, almost anywhere. It's been a pretty important set of roles for us to undertake. I've said from Day 1 - my first Day 1 was 1994 - that Zoning and Enforcement are the most important things that we do." He added, "We aren't going downhill - which is where we were heading in those days. We are headed uphill, but we have to chart a journey that works for our entire community. I look forward to my colleagues on the Council and the County Legislature in charting that journey together."

Frits Zernike for Dutchess County Legislator, District 16. Frits stated: "District 16 extends into Fishkill. It was Beacon's energy that won us this election. I hope to take the energy we have in southern Dutchess County and infuse the entire county legislature with it... Democracy is not a spectator sport. It's nice to be participating this way. I hope and I trust that you all will continue to participate, show up, pester us, and get done what we need done."

Nick Page for Dutchess County Legislator, District 18, was eager to get started, stating: "The election effort in Beacon was truly astonishing."

The event concluded with a benediction by Reverend Perry from the Springfield Baptist Church.

The local paparazzi (aka friends and families showing support).Photo Credit: Screenshot of Swearing In Ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.

The local paparazzi (aka friends and families showing support).
Photo Credit: Screenshot of Swearing In Ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.

2018's Spirit of Beacon Day Will Be Under New Leadership - Gwenno James Steps In

Photo Credits: Dan Rigney

Photo Credits: Dan Rigney

UPDATE April 2, 2018 - Spirit of Beacon Day now has a website - www.spiritofbeacon.org and you can now follow them on Facebook.

An almost-big local story of 2017 was that the volunteer organizers of the annual autumn Spirit of Beacon Day were stepping down, and would not be appointing a successor. Panic set in among those who heard the fringe rumors, but those who keep an ear to the ground didn't miss a beat. Longtime Beacon resident, building owner and textile designer Gwenno James heard the open call for replacement volunteers voiced by Mayor Randy Casale during a City Council meeting in July 2017, and decided to step in and step up to take on the enormous task of organizing a parade to celebrate the entire city.

Gwenno James, the new volunteer organizer for the Spirit of Beacon Day, in her Beacon textile studio.Photo Credit: Gwenno James

Gwenno James, the new volunteer organizer for the Spirit of Beacon Day, in her Beacon textile studio.
Photo Credit: Gwenno James

Over the years, organizers have for the most part been invisible enigmas, except to their friends and community members who knew who they were. While the succession of the organizers is described clearly in "Celebrating Our Centennial," a book produced by the Beacon Historical Society, the newest members of the Beacon population tended to not know who produced the parade, only that it happened year after year and was the most celebrated time to show off public schools, nonprofit groups, and other initiatives that strengthen the Beacon community by helping neighbors get to know neighbors.
Trivia tip: Gwenno herself penned several pages in the Historical Society's book! 

We wrote about the Spirit of Beacon's backstory here, and have interviewed Gwenno below for the latest on what the future holds for the Spirit of Beacon Day.

ALBB: Some have said: “Beacon has changed. It doesn’t need a Spirit of Beacon Day anymore.” What’s your response to that?

Gwenno James: The Spirit of Beacon Day has been a wonderful celebration bringing everyone together across our community for forty years. When the original founders met in 1977 at the Howland Cultural Center, they agreed that “the community should get to know one another better. We should learn to know each other’s likes and dislikes regarding conversations, feelings, entertainment, education and food." I think that this intention/manifesto is as relevant today as ever, and helps us continue to grow together as a community.
 
ALBB: How did you come to take over the Spirit of Beacon Day Parade?

Gwenno James: First of all, I’d like to say that we are all so grateful to the committee who have been running the Spirit of Beacon Day parade for many years, for their dedication and hard work, including Rose Story, Roy Ciancanelli, Diane Sedore, Tony Lassiter and Bob Outer. They will continue to provide their support and advice going forward, which is great, and will enable us to transition smoothly and pass on the “torch.”

I look forward to leading the new committee with volunteers from all across our community. How the transition came about was: In July, an announcement was made at the City Council meeting that the committee would be stepping down. The Mayor and others encouraged folks from the community to step up and help. I had already been in touch with Rose Story, the committee Chair, earlier in the summer to offer help and to volunteer for the 2017 parade, so when I heard the news, I contacted Rose again and said I would be happy to help with any transition and, as needed, lead going forward.

We then further discussed with Mayor Casale, and he gave his support, alongside the City. An announcement followed at the next City Council meeting. Others also came forward to help and I spoke at the Beacon Chamber and Beacon Arts joint meeting, where members showed their support and volunteered.

During this year's [2017] parade, I “shadowed” Rose and Roy to learn more about how the parade is run on the ground. I also connected in person with the volunteer organizations and school groups.

ALBB: What will the upcoming year look like for you as you prepare?

Gwenno James: There will be a kickoff meeting around March with everyone who has expressed an interest to become involved. We will plan from there and assign volunteer tasks going forward. We will have continued meetings throughout the Spring and Summer and there will be plenty of opportunities for folks to provide input and help.

[Editor's note: As for a website and social media presence for the Spirit of Beacon Day - that is coming, and we will return to this article to update it with the new link.]

ALBB: How can others submit to volunteer?

Gwenno James: We welcome anyone who would like to volunteer and become involved. Folks can get in touch via email: spiritofbeacon@gmail.com

The good news is that many members of the original committee would like to continue helping and advising going forward, so we can build upon the great efforts they have done and have continuity. 

ALBB: Will anything different be done for businesses on the day? Traditionally it has been for nonprofits only.

Gwenno James: This is certainly a matter that we will discuss at our next committee meeting. It’s great to get input and we will be connecting with the Main Street businesses to hear their feedback over the coming months.

ALBB: Thank you Gwenno, and good luck! We look forward to experiencing next year's parade!

New Year, New Beginnings, New YOU with Beacon's New Boutique Fitness Studios!

Photo Credits: Instagram feeds of these businesses.Graphic Art Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

Photo Credits: Instagram feeds of these businesses.
Graphic Art Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

It’s a new year, and a new year brings new beginnings and starting new habits for the better! It's a great time to hit the reset button on your health and try new activities. If you are looking to add some fitness into your routine, but may not want to commit to long-term, big-gym memberships, perhaps a smaller boutique gym that specializes in particular workouts may be more your speed. We recently shared what’s new in our Shopping Guide and included The Studio @ Beacon and Zoned Fitness, both on Beacon's Main Street.  

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It’s hard to miss The Studio @ Beacon’s “Coming Soon” sign at 301 Main Street, and it has triggered curiosity from residents peeking through the windows. The Studio owners, Laura and Samantha, shared with me: “We’ve had so much positive feedback and we feel like Beacon is ready for this. We love hearing from people who are excited for what we’re bringing to town.” The Studio @ Beacon specializes in Spin and Boxing classes, which Laura and Sam are very passionate about. They will have their ribbon cutting this month on Second Saturday, January 13.

Zoned Fitness is the first personal training studio in Beacon to offer Heart Rate-Based training, creating a workout regimen specifically for your needs.  Located at 490 Main Street, it was formerly Hudson Valley Fitness, but the business underwent rebranding and reopened in November 2017. They felt the original name did not reflect the type of fitness program they provide - the Zoned Training Method. Zoned training is a style of training that allows the trainee to scale their program, routines and exercise through four zones based on ability or fitness level. In addition to getting in shape, Zoned Fitness also teaches about nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle. You can sign up for an all-fitness-level class like Boot Camp or HIT (High Intensity Training) or Personal Training for more personalized attention, or if you're working through an injury or other physical limitations.

shambhala1.jpg

If you are looking for more than just a physical challenge but also mind and body, there's a Beacon spot to cover that. Last year, Shambhala Wellness Center at 4 South Chestnut Street underwent an makeover to provide more than just yoga. You can also receive massages, reiki (traditional and shamanic), nutritional counseling, health coaching, cognitive therapy, herbal medicine and psychic readings. You do not need to be a flexible yogi with a Lululemon wardrobe to check out one of their upcoming workshops, like AcroYoga Fundamentals!

[Update 1/12/2018]: And this just in! Beacon Pilates has moved locations after a decade on Main Street in Beacon. Find them now on West Main Street, near the train station. Their upcoming grand re-opening party is in February.

Don't worry about making too much of a change all at once - a big reason why some resolutions don't work out. You don't have to give up (all) of the good stuff. One of the things Laura and Sam love about Beacon is the number of tasty options available. “If you haven’t already, you’re likely to see us around town eating and drinking… We’re not ashamed of our imperfect bodies, so [you might] hear us talking about the Big Bird we just ate at Stock Up, the fish tacos we love from Max’s, or a coffee run to Ella’s Bellas that inevitably includes a few of their insanely delicious salted chocolate chip cookies.” Take baby steps! 

Inclusiveness is the continuing theme for smaller boutiques and studios. They bring a different kind of vibe when it comes to fitness, which can be welcoming for exercise newbies. Being part of a smaller fitness community may be just what you need to stay committed.

Antalek & Moore Announces New Partnership with Vincent A. Lemma, as Longtime Beacon Advocate Pat Moore Retires (Sponsored)

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Antalek & Moore's Upcoming Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

When: Thursday, January 18, 2018
Time: 4 to 5 pm
Where: Their offices at 340 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Stop By! Or RSVP: 845-245-6292

Late in December of 2017, a hand-signed letter arrived in the mail from Pat Moore, partner at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency. The letter announced his retirement from the independently owned firm Antalek & Moore in order to pursue personal interests, which included traveling with his expanding grand-family. Maintaining independence in the insurance world has been deeply important to Pat, as he reiterated in his retirement letter: “We live in a time of high-level merger and acquisition activities of firms like ours. Maintaining our longstanding independence is proving to be the exception in today’s business environment.”
 
Of the utmost importance to Pat was hand-picking his successor, Vincent A. Lemma, to join his business partner, Susan Antalek-Pagones, in carrying the business forward into its next generation. Antalek & Moore originated in Beacon in 1853 and continues here today with the new leadership and partnership of Susan and Vincent at the helm. They are hosting a ribbon cutting to celebrate the transition on Thursday, January 18, at 4 pm. And you’re invited!

About Vincent A. Lemma, Antalek & Moore's New Partner

Vincent (please, call him Vince, he insists) started working with Pat eight years ago during a time when Vince was employed by an insurance agency owned by a bank. “Crazy things were happening with the banks,” says Vince, “and things were happening that didn’t jive with me for our customers.” He reached out to Pat to begin working in the independent world, and their business relationship blossomed.
 
As a new leader of the firm, Vince is pulling from his experience as an assistant lacrosse coach at several different colleges. As an assistant coach at Randolph Macon College, his team knocked nationally ranked Washington and Lee out of the playoffs in 1997, fueling his competitive drive to work with a team of young people balancing sports, school and teamwork. Coaching also allowed him to leave his home state of New York to experience different parts of the country, and return later to settle down into the insurance profession.
 
“As an athlete, you need to overcome hurdles to win. In this industry, we face those hurdles on a daily basis. As a coach, you need to understand how to help your employees overcome those hurdles.”
 
Vince believes that 90 percent of problems in the insurance world are caused by simple misunderstandings, and he aims to educate current and future customers of Antalek & Moore to help them know their coverage. He believes that working with an independent agent gives customers an advantage. “When you’re not working with your agent and your broker, things get difficult, and you think the insurance companies are out to get you. We fight for the insurance company to cover everything they agreed to cover in the agreement with the customer.”
 
You can meet Vince any time by scheduling an appointment with him, but the most fun way will be to attend their upcoming ribbon cutting, right on Main Street, conveniently located in the middle of town, near Rite Aid. In fact, park in the free parking lot behind Rite Aid and BAJA, and you're on Antalek & Moore's back doorstep! Stop in, welcome Vince to the position, and look for more from this new development at Antalek & Moore.


Antalek & Moore is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, and this article was created with them as part of our Sponsor Spotlight program. It is with the support of businesses like theirs that A Little Beacon Blog can bring you coverage of news, local happenings and events. Thank you for supporting businesses who support us! If you would like to become a Sponsor or Community Partner, please click here for more information.

Happening This Weekend - 1/5/2018

The temp won't go above 18 degrees this weekend. Stay warm! 

Despite this - it's time to get out of the house, and because you took our advice last year and got the most amazing Dig Out Winter Boots at Mountain Tops, you are ready for anything! The sidewalks are shoveled, the sun is shining (for now).

If you're battling the cold or flu that gripped everyone during the Winter Break, we have brewed up a tea for sick folks. Pick up the simple ingredients from a shops in a three-store radius.

And now, onto the things going on this weekend or starting mid-week...
Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance


“Cloth & Memory” Opening Reception

Day: Sunday, January 7, 2018
Time: 3 to 5 pm
Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Open Mic Invitationals
Day: Sunday, January 7, 2017
Time: 7 to 10 pm
Location: Towne Crier, 379 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
 
 

Natural Dye Workshop
Day:
Saturday, January 6, 2018
Time: Noon to 3 pm
Location: Textile Lab, 146 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Workshop: Strong Core & Open Hips with Charles Matkin
Day: 
Sunday, January 7, 2018
Time: 2 to 4 pm
Location: Shambhala Wellness Center, 4 South Chestnut St., Beacon, NY
Information >


For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide.



Card & Board Games Club
Day: Friday, January 5, 2018
Time: 3 to 5 pm
Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

High School Writing Lab
Day: Thursdays, starting January 11, 2018
Time: 2:30 to 4 pm
Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

Sew Cool Tuesdays
Ages: 5-11
Days: Tuesdays, starting January 9, 2018
Time: 4 to 5:30 pm
Location: Beacon Art Adventures @ Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY
Information >

For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.

 
Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!

 
 
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
 

Luxe Optique

183 Main Street
SALE ALERT!
Can you stand it? So much plaid around your eyes, and in a square/circle combo? These frames are incredible, and are part of the Winter Sale going on now at Luxe Optique. $100 off JF Rey (pictured), Boz, Volte Face and Nao Ned frames!

Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street 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 come up to Main Street!


Style Storehouse
484 Main Street

SALE ALERT!
Awesome sales going on now! We especially have our eye on the 50% off (!!) vegan leather legging by Free People. Do go in, and see what Michelle has put on sale - and how low she has gone on these discounts. As you can see - they're clearly marked!

Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle.





Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3

Visit Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique down on Beacon's east end of town, for three floors of gowns, veils, accessories and a private dressing area with room for your best shopping gals. Brides and their entourages get VIP treatment in the beautifully adorned shop with a rustic touch.

Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the historic dummy light.



Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide!  Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse.



Where can you get your hair done in Beacon? Or tidy up with a beard trim? Find out in
A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide!
SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS

Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency

Big things are happening at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency in the new year. Keep your eyes on A Little Beacon Blog for an upcoming announcement and celebration. Meanwhile, look into your home and business insurance needs. Take a look here to learn about your options, then call Antalek & Moore today for more information, at (845)245-6292.

Rhinebeck Bank

Season 3 of Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank has started! Host Michelle Barone interviews local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and public figures of the Hudson Valley. See firsthand how Rhinebeck Bank helps businesses grow and impacts the community! See the latest from Rhinebeck Bank.

Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Are you an expert in your field, looking for ways to get in front of Beacon's business community? Suggest yourself as a speaker for an upcoming Beacon Chamber of Commerce Member meeting. Details here on their website.

BeaconArts

The 2018 Annual Meeting and Board Elections will be Wednesday, January 3. It starts at 6:30 pm with networking; at 7, the meeting starts, running until 8. The election is the only item on the agenda, though attendees will be given updates on the status of BeaconArts projects and a brief Annual Report. You must be a current member of BeaconArts to vote. The meeting will be held at the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries on Main Street, where the BeaconArts Retrospective:15 exhibit is currently on view. This is a great opportunity to take in the exhibit, and renew your support of BeaconArts.

Tin Shingle

In this class, hosted at 291 Main Street in the Telephone Building, you will go through the process to get started on your website. Begin with a blank slate, finish the day knowing what pages will be on your website. We will use blank pieces of paper, colorful markers, dry erase boards, and other easy ways to break you free of your fear of creating a website. Get the details here! Class size is limited, so reserve your spot.

A Little Beacon Space

The time is right to host your workshop, now you just need a location. A Little Beacon's Space is the perfect spot, conveniently located in the heart of Beacon, to fit your audience.

InHouse Design Media

Need someone to take over your social media, or to guide you in what you are already doing? InHouse Design Media can feed you ideas that will make customers take action. Pick one of our Digital Marketing Retainers.
 
NEWSLETTER SIGNUP
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
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Sponsors make the local media go round. Reach our readers and support our publication at the same time. Advertising with A Little Beacon Blog is effective because we design ways to make it work for you. See our Media Kit for ideas!

Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog.

Until next week!