Library Budget Vote and Trustee Election - May 18th, 2017

The Howland Public Library will hold the annual budget vote and trustee election on Thursday, May 18, from noon to 8 pm in the library's community room. All registered voters in the Beacon City School District are eligible to vote. Absentee ballots are available at the library. Call Amy at (845) 831-1134, ext. 100, or email Amy at beaconlibrary dot org with any questions.

Board of Trustee Candidates running for Election 2017-2018

There are two seats available on the Library Board, one with a one-year term and one with a five-year term. The candidate receiving the most votes will win the longer term. Here's a bit about the candidates.

Stacy Christensen bought a house in Beacon 10 years ago after being introduced to the city by a friend, and falling in love with all that Beacon has to offer. One of the first things that she did upon moving here was to acquire a library card, and for a few years she volunteered in the evenings and shelved books. Stacy has lived in Putnam Valley, and once worked as clerk at the library there. The first book that she learned to read was "Green Eggs and Ham," and ever since, she has been an avid reader and supporter of all the programs that libraries have to offer. Stacy works as a bookkeeper, and has three grown children and one small granddaughter.

April Farley is a long-time resident, born and raised in the City of Beacon. As parent and community volunteer, she believes that the Howland Public Library has been one of the greatest resources for her family and community over the years and now. Her son has attended youth programs since he was young and as a teen had the opportunity to be part of the Spark Media Project. April says, "It would be a great honor to serve on the board and give back to the library and help the library to continue to bring diverse services to our community, youth and seniors."

Library Budget

If the budget passes, taxpayers will find that the increase in their library tax (appearing on the School Tax Bill) ranges from a low of $2.60 (property assessed at or below $150,000) to an average library tax increase between $4 and $6 for the year.

Click here for annual report to the community and library budget vote information.

Click here to see the "very visual" annual report to the community.

Beacon City Schools Budget Vote and Election of Board Seats May 16, 2017

The Voting Details

WHEN: Tuesday, May 16, 2017
TIME: 7am-9pm
WHERE: Beacon High School for all voters living in Beacon, or Glenham Elementary School for voters residing in the Town of Fishkill or the Town of Wappinger
DETAILS: Find more details about what is in the proposed budget here.

The School Budget Vote and Election will take place on Tuesday, May 16, 2017.  Polls are open from 7 am to 9 pm. Beacon City School District will have four propositions on the ballot. They are as follows in general form, as shared on the BCSD Facebook page and Budget newsletter for May 2017. All tax-paying citizens are eligible to vote.

1. The first proposition is the budget.
2. The second is the proposition to purchase school buses.
3. The third is to have a student board member hold a non-voting seat.
4. The fourth is to authorize the district to transfer money to a capital reserve. The money in a capital reserve would be used for future capital projects. The district is planning a capital project in the near future, and this reserve will be used to help keep the school taxes the same.

Details of what is in the proposed budget can be found here in a newsletter from the Beacon City School District.

There will also be a board election of four seats.
Three Board Members are for running for three-year terms running from July 1, 2017, through June 30, 2020. The candidate who receives the largest number of votes cast will also fill the remainder of a vacant term for six weeks, commencing May 16, 2017, and expiring June 30, 2018. Vote for up to four candidates.

Board Members up for re-election:
Anthony White
Kenya Gadsden
Craig Wolf
Kristan Flynn

Location & Eligibility
Voting takes place at two locations: 

• Beacon High School, for all registered voters who live in the City of Beacon, and
• Glenham Elementary School, for voters who reside in the Town of Fishkill or the Town of Wappinger. 

For help in determining your voting location, please call (845) 838-6900, ext. 2032.

Beacon Open Studios 2017: Pirates, Paintings, Treasure

Beacon Open Studios (BOS) is a signature, citywide event in Beacon. For some, including myself and this year's new director, Samantha Palmeri, the discovery of this citywide art show happened quite by accident while meandering outside. Every year, dozens of Beacon artists clean up their studios, organize their brushes, and put out their best tools and works of art. Through this project, the public is invited in to directly access artists and their productions. Beacon Open Studios is going on now, on May 13 and 14 from noon to 6 pm. The kickoff party was Friday evening at Oak Vino.

How to Experience Beacon Open Studios

Open studios are identified by a large red dot in the yard of the artist's home studio, or on the studio door of an artist's space in a building. There is an official map that you should pick up or visit on the BOS website, but there is something quite special about stumbling upon a red dot and following your curiosity inside. This wonderment continues to be my favorite way to experience Open Studios.

However, the more one learns about each artist, the longer the list of which artists to visit. Some participants are longtime artists who dropped "practicing artist" for a few years and are returning anew, while others are artists who make commissions for private clients or advertising agencies, while others still are artists who produce fantastic work yet only display during times like these.

Who Is Participating In Beacon Open Studios This Year?

Over 50 artists are taking part this year. Several of them are emerging artists and some are simply to to the event. The physical map, which you can pick up at Hudson Beach Glass or at many restaurants or shops, is organized by artist, but also groups artists by location. For instance, if there are six artists showing in one location, you can search by geography as well, if you wanted to see a bunch at once. 

Let's take a peek!

Artist: Chris Sanders, "Treasures of the Hudson Highlands"
Photo Credit: Treasures of the Hudson Highlands

"Treasures of the Hudson Highlands"

Chris Sanders is a storyboard artist for the film and television industry. Pirate lore of the Hudson River and Valley captivated her, and she began creating graphic novels inspired by pirates who did travel up and down the Hudson River years ago, in search of treasure, or hiding their own. Her first book, a historical fantasy, was published in November. You can meet the artist and see the original pages during Beacon Open Studios. The best part? She's full of Hudson Highlands pirate knowledge, so best ye get thee there.

Location: 45 Beekman Street, one of the artists in Spire Studios

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Artist: Stan Lindwasser
Photo Credit: Stan Lindwasser

Stan Lindwasser

Stan Lindwasser is new to Beacon, but not to the art scene. Stan has been a professional painter for decades, and has designed installations that were shown at the Brooklyn Museum and the Brooklyn Public Library in Brooklyn, NY, and the Bertha Urdang Gallery in New York City. An excerpt from his artist statement includes: "I question the place and role of color: on lines, as lines, or replacing lines. The works I have been doing reflect my careerlong interest in the details of line and color, the creation of shapes and the placement of these on paper, or in space. These paintings reflect my thinking about direction and how changes in density of paint or use of water define and subtly change the composition."

Full disclosure, the design services extension of A Little Beacon Blog works with Stan on his website, so we are familiar with several years of his work, and appreciate his fascination with color.

Location: 35 Monell Place

Rosemary Braghieri Rednour

Photo Credits for above photos: Rosemary Braghieri Rednour

Rosemary makes "jewelry and sculpture from a different perspective," as she puts it. She's opened up her studio for visitors to see how she does it all.

Location: 17 East Main Street

Here's a sampling in video of what the Open Studios experience is like:

The New Director at Beacon Open Studios

This year marked the event's transition to a new director, Samantha Palmeri. She too discovered Beacon Open Studios while meandering around town, and for her, it made a life-altering impact! We interviewed her for this article:

What is your background?

I'm from Staten Island originally. I've lived in Beacon 2 1/2 years now. This will be my third year as a participating artist in BOS. I graduated from the School of Visual Arts with a major in painting, and since graduating I've held practically every job in the art world, including teaching, directing, curating, art handling etc. I've owned and directed two separate art galleries, one in Staten Island and one in New Jersey. And I've been a practicing artist for the last 20 years.

Why did the directorship appeal to you?

Open Studios' Director Samantha Palmeri's artwork, on display at 11 Creek Road.
Photo Credit: Samantha Palmeri

When I moved to Beacon I was very content to just be in my studio working. We moved here because we liked that there was already an art community happening. I wanted to join something that was already established and not have to start from scratch. When I heard that BOS was in need of a director and it might not happen this year, I didn't even hesitate to find out how I could volunteer.

First of all, it's one of my favorite events of the year in Beacon, plus it was good timing for me, and again, it was already an established community event that had its own footprint and identity. I felt especially as a participant myself I had enough ideas and experience to be able to add to what was already a great event.

What was your favorite thing about Beacon Open Studios the first time you experienced it?

There are a lot of artists in Beacon! There's a lot to see and experience. The overall quality and diversity of the artwork is great, and it's special to this town because a lot of events like this [in other locales] tend to all look the same with the majority of artists all making similar looking things.

The first BOS I went to was before I lived here. We had sold our house and were coming up here expecting to get confirmation on a place to rent. That place fell through and we were wandering around BOS a little depressed because we didn't know if we could find a place to live. We happened to start up a conversation with one of the participating artists and she said, "Oh, I know another artist in town who has a place for rent." We ended up calling her that day and finding the house we rented for the next 2 years. So, I suppose BOS will always be extra-special to me and my family because of that! It just was a perfect example of how welcoming and awesome this art community really is!

What can we expect this year from Beacon Open Studios?

Because it's my first year directing, I really didn't want to make too many drastic changes. We ended up picking the second weekend of May for the date. That's the first thing, the fact that it will fall on Second Saturday this year. I thought it would only bring more visitors so it's a win-win. It happens to also fall on Mother's Day but again, I think the town will be hopping that whole weekend! We're also revising the color catalog. The more sponsors and registered artists we get, the bigger the budget we'll have to work with. We'd like to make a fold-out map this year so it's easier for visitors to find artist studios and figure out how to spend their day in Beacon. There will be musicians playing at certain venues and there are a few new locations to visit this year, including the Shambhala Yoga Center and the Creekside Lofts behind the Howland Cultural Center.

Does this kind of event run in other cities? If so, where? Is it all connected? Or a general concept that gets picked up?

There are open studio events all over the place. They're not connected in any way. It's a boost to any community to be considered a cultural destination. Not every town or city has a substantial community of artists like Beacon does. And even places that do, don't necessarily have open studio events. It takes a lot of dedication and hard work. BeaconArts and BOS is run completely by volunteers, and believe, me these people work hard!!

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Beacon Open Studios is made possible with funds from the Decentralization Program, a re-grant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature and administered by Arts Mid-Hudson.

Beacon Open Studios is a sponsored project of BeaconArts, a 501(c)(3) organization supported through grants and donations and run entirely by volunteers.

Chime in here with where you were able to visit, and tell us your favorite parts!

OPEN! LulaRoe Pop-Up Shop with Erin and Leigh at A Little Beacon Space - This Weekend Only!

There is a cult of women who love LuLaRoe, and members of that cult can now come into A Little Beacon Blog's Space this weekend only - Friday to Sunday - to shop from Erin and Leigh, two moms who were born and raised in Beacon. They've been popping up in people's homes to hold these sales, and now they are popping up in A Little Beacon Space at 291 Main Street, in the Telephone Building across from Key Food. Come into the building. We are on the first floor, in the first door.

If you're aren't familiar with LuLaRoe, here's a primer: It's a brand of clothing designed by a woman who wanted to build a business around her children and family life (pretty much the best goal ever). It quickly grew via its house-party sales model, where the products are not sold in stores, and can only be found at house parties. It's unusual for the brand to be in a location like this, open to the public, but not so unusual for the dynamic duo of Erin and Leigh, who reach people via their Facebook page using videos and pictures galore.

If you're walking by our space with kids in tow, bring them in. There are kids-sized leggings, tops and dresses. Sizing is pretty easy, so you should have plenty of options and several pieces should work.

In addition to the stretchy LuLaRoe fits you may be used to, there are a few pleated styles as well. They've set up a popup changing room behind the curtain, so you can try items on to make sure things fit you just right.

Leggings...there will be leggings. The sizing is unique yet consistently flattering. Pictured here is a batch of size TC, or "Tall and Curvy". Leigh tells me that the TC would fit a pregnant belly nicely. We shall see when the truth is revealed in the popup dressing room, but it's nice to have that sizing label! I will take it!

Hours

Friday: 3 to 7 pm (5/12/17)
Saturday: 10 am to 8 pm (5/13/17)
Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm (5/14/17...Happy Mother's Day...#treatyoself!)

291 Main Street
A Little Beacon Space - First Floor and Door
Across from Key Food

Rain? What Rain?

It's supposed to rain Saturday and Sunday. People came on Friday because they were walking by or made early plans to come over quick. Good choice. This popup is happening rain or shine. Wear your galoshes! Because you don't want to miss this chance to add pretty and comfort to your wardrobe. We know you'll be out this weekend because there are just too many one-time-only events going on. So dash into here while you're out!

Happening This Weekend 5/12/2017

Step out of your house this weekend, and you are surrounded by choices of where to go. This is the weekend to steep yourself in art and in Motherly Love. It's all at your fingertips. Read on to get bookmark-worthy ideas for all of the things you want to make sure you do. Rain Tips: No excuses! Your favorite galleries, shops and eateries get so sad when they don't see you if it rains. So get cute rain boots from Echo, upside-down umbrellas from Bellus, and maybe a couture rain coat from Classic Couture. Lots of weekend events included here are featured from A Little Beacon Blog's Things To Do In Beacon Guides, so be sure to check them during the week. Second Saturday Alert! It's that time again! Our Second Saturday Guide Editor is updating the Guide as we speak, as some art galleries release their themes just days or hours before opening for the big art-inspired weekend. You can always find the current Second Saturday Guide at A Little Beacon Blog here at this link. Just hit refresh every time!

Sponsored by Antalek and Moore for car insurance. LuLaRoe With Erin and Leigh LIVE in a Pop-Up Shop Day: Friday to Sunday, May 12-14, 2017 Time: Friday, 3 to 8 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 8 pm; Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Beacon Open Studios Kickoff Party Day: Friday, May 12, 2017 Time: 6 to 9 pm Location: Oak Vino Wine Bar, 389 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Beacon Open Studios Days: Saturday and Sunday, May 13-14, 2017 Time: Noon to 6 pm Location: Residences, galleries and studios all over Beacon. Look for the brochure that has a map and details for all participating artists, or click here to read about the artists to figure out where you want to go. Information > 2017 Hudson Valley Family Fest Pet Expo Day: RESCHEDULED! It's set for June 17th now. Information > Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique Day: Saturday, May 13, 2017 Time: 1 to 2 pm Location: Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique, 1 East Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Common Ground Farm Spring Plant Sale MOVED to Rain Location! Day: Saturday, May 13, 2017 Time: Noon to 3 pm Location: 327B Main St. (next to Beacon D'Lites, across the street from All You Knead bakery) Information > The Louie Tunes Band Day: Saturday, May 13, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Women's Work - Benefit Concert for The Sloop Woody Guthrie Day: Sunday, May 14, 2017 Time: 3 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Story Screen presents “Tarnation” Day: Sunday, May 14, 2017 Time: 7:30 pm doors, 8 pm movie Location: More Good, 383 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >   Rhinebeck Hudson Valley Full & Half Marathon Rain or Shine Day: Saturday, May 13, 2017 Time: 6 am (full); 8:30 am (half) Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY Information >   LuLaRoe With Erin and Leigh LIVE in a Pop-Up Shop Day: Friday to Sunday, May 12-14, 2017 Time: Friday 3 to 8 pm, Saturday 10 am to 8 pm, Sunday 10 am to 4 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY You’ve heard of the leggings and funky patterns everyone is talking about. Now is your chance to touch and feel them in person - and probably walk away with a few pairs. Erin and Leigh are bringing in their entire collection of inventory, which includes skirts, tops, coverups, all in many sizes to fit any body. Hurry in! Opens Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Then poof, gone! Information > Mid-Hudson Etsy Makers Pop-Up Day: Saturday, May 13, 2017 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY   A Little Beacon Blog's Annual Summer Camp Guide has over 20 camps for all age ranges and passion areas. Cross-reference ages, days, times and prices in our easy-to-use guide that is many parents' go-to source for summer planning. FEATURED SUMMER CAMP SPONSOR: Ballet Arts Studio Summer Camp Several programs are available this summer at Ballet Arts for little ones and for teenagers. Consider this early-evening program for ages 12 and up: Ballet, Modern and Jazz Technique The faculty of Ballet Arts Studio will teach technique classes in a different discipline each day: jazz on Tuesdays, ballet on Wednesdays and modern on Thursdays. Ages: 12+ Dates: June 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29, and August 22-24, 2017 Time: 5:30 to 7 pm Price: $18 single class or $50 for three classes To Register: Call (845) 831-1870 or email info@balletartsstudio.com See All Camp Sessions from Ballet Arts Studio >   For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide. Cheese and Wine Tasting - Great Women Cheesemakers Day: Friday, May 12, 2017  Time: 7 pm Location: Beacon Pantry, 382 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >   Classified Ad: SallyeAnder is Hiring a Manager for New Main Street Location Get Job Details >   This weekend's Shopping Guide issue is dedicated to showing you the storefronts of our sponsor stores, to help you have the "aha!" moment of knowing whose shop it is when you pass it! Niche Spring Factory Sale Dates: Saturday and Sunday, May 13-14, 2017 Times: Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm Location: Niche Studio, 310 Fishkill Ave., Unit 11, Beacon, NY Information > reMADE 133 Main Street This double-wide storefront, reMADE, is owned by Liz Ferrara and features lots of little but carefully crafted pieces of jewelry, items for the home, as well as larger pieces of furniture to outfit your space. Where is it? Across from Tito Santana's, next to Bank Square. Mother's Day Gift Idea: These adorably sweet magnets for your fridge or office. Such an easy gift for little hands to grab and give. Handcrafted by Beacon native Susan DiGilio, owner of DiGilio Designs. These cheerful magnets are made with jewelry-quality glass domes backed with a metal base and a rare earth magnet. Bellus on Main 181 Main Street Bellus on Main is one of the newer boutiques on the block in Beacon's West End, and if you haven't been in yet, you really need to change that. Lots of jewelry and home decor is from South America, and many of the accessories are hand-picked from different artisans that the owners discover. Where is it? Next door to Luxe Optique, up the road from Notions-n-Potions. Mother's Day Gift Idea: Necklaces like this beaded blossom design at Bellus on Main are uniquely made, and your love will wear it as her own style, with maybe no one else having the exact same necklace. Luxe Optique 183 Main Street Luxe Optique moved to town not too long ago, and immediately began changing how people saw glasses. Pun intended. From holding parties to celebrate when new handcrafted lines arrive in the store, to custom fittings to their top-notch eye doctor seeing patients, Luxe Optique has brought the excitement and hand-craftmanship back to eye-wear. Where is it? Across the block from Beacon Bread Company, and across the street from Beacon Barkery. Mother's Day Gift Idea: These bad boys right here. Need we say more? Other sunglasses are available if your lady goes for less pizzazz, but really, why? Get these. Style Storehouse 484 Main Street Style Storehouse opened in Beacon one year ago. Owner Michele Williams lives in Poughkeepsie with her three sons and husband, and is constantly on the road between the shop and family. Her special gift is style, and making you feel very comfortable in styles you might not have considered for yourself. Come into the shop this weekend, let her pick out a few things for you, and then trust her opinion. Where is it? Near Waddle n Swaddle, and across the street from the old Matteawan train station that now holds Gino's Italian Ice. Mother's Day Gift Idea: Easy breezy dresses to wear to brunch or to work or on a playdate. Because they're all washable. Find a lot of Free People and Hard Tail in the store, which means soft fabrics with stretchy fits. SallyeAnder 1 East Main Street SallyeAnder is the newest shop on the block on the East End! Though their neighbor Lambs Hill is hosting their Ribbon-Cutting on Saturday, SallyeAnder has opened their second location in Beacon. The first is near the train station and is their soap-making and shipping factory. Where is it? Just down the hill from the dummy light in the building that housed Electric Windows. Mother's Day Gift Idea: Every hour on the hour from 11 am to 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday, join a demonstration of how to make lip balm. SallyeAnder is teaching you their secrets! The aroma of soap is instantly relaxing once you walk into the peaceful store, so do drop in and find a sweet-smelling soap gift for Mother's Day!   River Therapeutic Massage Every woman should indulge in a #treatyoself session this weekend. Book with Karen at River Therapeutic Massage and always check to see if she has a special going on. You can tack on foot rubs, facial scrubs, and more. Gift certificates are available for Mother's Day, graduation gifts, Bridal Party gifts and more! Peruse River Therapeutic Massage's services, and pick one now. PS: Did you see our Guide's new "Lashes" and "Laser Hair Removal" sections? Yes, all in Beacon! Visit our Beauty Guide for a complete list of beauty sources in Beacon, including hair, nails, barbers, and even lashes.   The Vault 446 Main Street The Vault wishes you a Happy Mother's Day, and is ready for your family for Sunday brunch. There's plenty of room inside or outside (weather permitting). On Friday night, The Vault is closed for a private party, as wedding season has started and a couple wanted to celebrate with friends and family at The Vault. Where is it? Located at 446 Main St., down the street from Ella's Bellas and across the street from Terreson: Beacon. Mother's Day Idea: Reservations are recommended but not required. Walk-ins are welcome. Call (845) 202-7735. Visit our Restaurant Guide for a complete list of eateries in Beacon. SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Antalek & Moore So you just bought a totally rad RV and now you need to insure it. Walk on down to Antalek & Moore and let them research the lowest RV insurance rate for you! Or call them - from your RV while you're dusting it off! Antalek and Moore is located at 340 Main St., near Beacon Natural Market, or can be reached by phone at (845) 245-6292. BeaconArts Fiscal Project: Beacon Open Studios Beacon Open Studios is finally here! It's a city-wide art show, and it happens rain or shine inside of artists' studios. That could be in a gallery location or inside of their homes. Beacon Open Studios weekend is one of the biggest group productions in the Hudson Valley, and is a defining annual event for today's Beacon. Artists range from painters to sculptures to jewelers. The kick-off party is tonight (Friday, May 12) at Oak Vino. Be there! Be everywhere! Pick up one of these brochures to be your map. Beacon Chamber of Commerce The Beacon Chamber of Commerce congratulates Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique on their grand opening at 1 East Main St., and is hosting a Ribbon-Cutting this Saturday from 1 to 2 pm. Lambs Hill is an equestrian-themed bridal boutique, opened by Main Street real estate veteran Charlotte Guernsey. Join the shindig! And book your own Ribbon-Cutting when you're ready!                                  Tin Shingle Tin Shingle is all about empowering business owners, but they are also about saving, spending or donating the money you bring in from all of the buzz-building that Tin Shingle teaches you how to do. For entrepreneurs, Mondays can often be full of action and optimism, compared with the back-to-the-grind dread felt by some. Tin Shingle dedicates some Mondays to be Money Monday, and shares how to save, earn, spend or donate. Read Tin Shingle's founder's creative way of saving $200/month on the mortgage (fired the PMI!) and applying it instead to the loan principal each month. You can do this too! InHouse Design Media Are you afraid of social media? Do you have a business but dread putting anything out there? It just isn't your style? Your business needs that presence, and there are ways to craft it gracefully. Book a Private Training Session with us to come up with a plan. A Little Beacon Space 291 Main Street Meetings, workshops, gatherings - they can all be booked and hosted by you at A Little Beacon Space at the historic Telephone Building at 291 Main St., in the heart of Beacon. THIS WEEKEND! The LuLaRoe Show with Erin and Leigh! Racks and racks of clothing have arrived inside of our space, and are ready for you to start shopping today, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Find leggings, tops, dresses, and more. See what upcoming events are being hosted in A Little Beacon Space, and click here for more details and to book online. NEWSLETTER SIGNUP We know what you're thinking... "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our Guide 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!

Classified Ad: SallyeAnder is Hiring Manager for New Main Street Location

SallyeAnder has sold handmade skincare products since 1982 - the company's customers rely on them to keep their skincare pure, and safe from common allergens. The business is family-owned and -operated, crafting products in New York State for the past 30 years. SallyeAnder has been dedicated to the practice of fair-trade sourcing, and using functional ingredients. They produce hypoallergenic products in small batches using the highest quality ingredients.

SallyeAnder is looking to fill their Retail Sales Manager position at their new brick and mortar store at 1 East Main Street in Beacon, NY. As a manager you will bring SallyeAnder’s Leadership practices into all elements of the shop: Transparency, Leading Honestly, Adapting and Developing, Nurturing Talents, and Living with Purpose. You will take initiative to drive your own development and improve your practice of leadership and management to grow into your future role of Sales Manager across SallyeAnder. Hours will be Monday to Saturday, 11 am to 6 pm, and Sunday, noon to 5 pm.

SallyeAnder offers:

• A modern honest store atmosphere where individualism is encouraged
• A 50% discount off all our products
• An unconventional retail structure to support your entrepreneurial spirit
• The opportunity for growth within our brand

Responsibilities:

• Customer service: Ensure a unique customer experience that makes every visitor feel welcome, meets their needs, and makes their day
• Building the Brand: Educate our customers on our brand values, handmade, ingredient knowledge. 
• Driving sales: Demonstrate strong business insight and understand business metrics and reports and how to impact them through behaviors on the floor.
• Stock and Inventory: Keep note of fresh standards and rotation rules, manage ordering the correct products and amounts.

Required:

• Managing sales and merchandising in a retail environment (2-3 years)
• Ability to manage reporting systems, Microsoft Excel and MS word
• Can lift 30 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for any employee when necessary
• Ability to work flexible hours to meet the needs of the shop

Preferred:

• Experience with customer service
• Ability to train and develop staff through positive coaching and feedback
• Strong time-management and planning practices
• Experience working with skincare or cosmetics
• Experience with fresh product, ordering and rotation

At SallyeAnder, we believe when we continue to foster a culture of inclusion and respect within a diverse workforce, we are doing our part in building a world where there is equal opportunity for all. We are looking for employees through a variety of agencies, community groups, nonprofits, and online social job sites, and in our business practices, we strive to leverage the gift that diversity brings. 

SallyeAnder unequivocally supports equal opportunity employment for all applications regardless of religion, race, color, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ancestry, adverse mental health and other characteristics both defined, protected, and enforced by the law under federal or state jurisdiction. 

Interested? Please send your resume and cover letter to: support@sallyeander.com No calls or walk-ins please.

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To place your own Classified Ad, please click here.

Tax Assessment Grievance Day Is May 24, 2017 - Bring Your Comps!

Your tax assessment letter may have just come in the mail, letting you know how the City of Beacon values your property, and if that value went up or down. Maybe it's higher than Zillow's estimate, maybe it's lower. Whatever it is, if you disagree with it, you can dispute it on Beacon's Tax Assessment Grievance Day on May 24, 2017 at 1 Municipal Plaza (City Hall - Lower Level) at 2 pm (oh joy). The City advises that you bring your "comps" in order to aid in your argument. What are comps, you ask? They're the recent sales prices of homes similar (comparable) to your house in the same area.

This real-life Monopoly card could be a real bummer, or nothing at all. "Be aware that if you put the property on the market via MLS, the tax assessor will value the property at what you value it, namely the sales price that you've put on the property. They actually check MLS!" advises local realtor, Daniel Aubry. "I had that happen to me. I put a highly optimistic price on a house that I owned to test the market. The assessor used that price for the following year's assessment, significantly raising my taxes. I've been stuck with that price ever since!"

Can a high assessment ever be useful? "Any savvy buyer knows that the assessment bears very little relationship with the actual market value. So it can't be counted on for establishing a realistic valuation," says Daniel.

[EDITED 5/21/17] From this writer's limited real estate experience, if the bank appraisal value comes in low when you're ready to sell the home to a buyer who wants to pay more than the appraised price (a different valuation than the City's assessment), the bank will only loan as much as the appraised number, putting the responsibility on your buyer to come up with more cash - or for you to lower the house price.

Final Construction at Long Dock Park Has Begun - Here's What's Happening

Residents of Beacon are familiar with the ongoing (over a decade now) development happening at Long Dock Park along the Hudson River. Last month, the final phase of construction at Long Dock got under way. After all the feedback that was received during public hearings with Scenic Hudson, the additional parkland will include space for food trucks, a shaded plaza for informal dining, shade pavilions, lawns and a native-plant meadow, as well as a boardwalk and river overlook deck.

While the park will remain open during the eight-month completion, visitors can look forward to exploring an additional four acres of land that were previously closed to the public.

Overseeing this expansive project are Scenic Hudson Senior Park Planner Meg Rasmussen and Parks Project Manager Joseph Kiernan.

The riverfront land used to be an oil storage facility and junkyard before it was purchased by Scenic Hudson in 1996. Now, Long Dock includes rehabilitated wetlands, kayak/canoe beach and storage, trails, picnic areas and a fishing pier. Recently, the historic red barn has been restored to host the Scenic Hudson’s River Center and American Center for Folk Music. “Scenic Hudson looks forward to expanding Long Dock Park for Beacon residents and visitors to connect," says Scenic Hudson Senior Vice President Steve Rosenberg. "We appreciate all the public input and support we received while designing this last phase of park development. This will ensure the new public space is fun and engaging for everyone in the community. We also are exploring new ways to educate people about the Hudson River and the need for citizens to be involved in creating healthy, vibrant riverfronts."

Happening This Weekend in Beacon 5/5/2017

The Cupcake Festival is coming this weekend...

Happy Cinco de Mayo! Although Beaconites could be forgiven for overlooking the day (unless one was at Baja 328 or Tito Santana’s) because it's overshadowed by The Cupcake Festival, coming to Beacon this weekend for the first time. Despite Friday's rain, K104.7 says their Weather Team gave them the thumbs-up for Saturday, and the station even gave us a sneak peek at the Vendor table map - color-coded to help you find cupcakes, in addition to tables from all sorts of other vendors. They'll join your favorite Main Street storefronts, who are prepping for the big day and look forward to seeing you and new people inside! But that’s not all. A new makers market has popped up at the University Settlement Camp, and there is a major river cleanup on schedule. Once this weekend passes, however, it’s not over! Next weekend is Mother’s Day and Second Saturday. Summer in the Hudson Valley is just getting started… These weekend events are featured from A Little Beacon Blog's Things To Do In Beacon Guides, so be sure to check them during the week.

There is more parking around town than you think! We've got pictures. Sponsored by Antalek and Moore for car insurance. Beacon Flea is the Community Sponsor of this Upcoming Events Guide. The flea market is open - visit them every fair-weather Sunday! Anne Truitt Opening Day: Friday, May 5, 2017 Time: 11 am to 6 pm Location: Dia: Beacon, 3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY Information > What Do We Mean By Conservation? Day: Friday, May 5, 2017 Time: 7:30 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Self Made Market Day: Saturday, May 6, 2017 Time: 10 am to 6pm Location: University Settlement Camp at the base of Mount Beacon, Beacon, NY Information > *Read more about Self Made - The Makers Collective here. K104.7 Cupcake Festival Day: Saturday, May 6, 2017 Time: 1 to 5 pm Location: Main Street, Beacon, NY (between Route 52/Fishkill Avenue & East Main Street) Information > *Read more about the Cupcake Festival coming to Beacon here. Riverkeeper Sweep Day: Saturday, May 6, 2017 Time: 9 am to noon Location: Various locations in Dutchess County Information > Destination Unknown: Watchdogs & Wildflowers - The Music Force & The Minds Eye Day: Saturday, May 6, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Hudson Valley Comic Con Day: Saturday & Sunday, May 6-7, 2017 Time: 10 am to 7 pm (Saturday), 10 am to 6 pm (Sunday) Location: Gold's Gym, 258 Titusville Road, Poughkeepsie, NY Information > Units of Love: Beacon Community Blood Drive Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 11 am to 5 pm Location: Lewis Tompkins Hose, 13 South Ave., Beacon, NY Information > Serenade of the Soul Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 3 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Apple Blossom Festival Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 10 am to 3 pm Location: Fishkill Farms, 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY Information > Story Screen Presents: The Secret Life of the Manic Depressive Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 7:30 doors, 8 pm movie Location: More Good, 383 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Spring Sprint 5K Trail Run Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 10 am to noon (Registration 9 to 10 am; race begins 10:30 am) Location: Shaupeneak Ridge's Upper Lot, 143 Popletown Road, Esopus, NY Information > Sponsor Feature! Camp at Storm King Art Center Art Camp at Storm King puts kids in the center of the art. The center offers programs for kids and teens. Says one parent: "I think my daughter realized that her art and her journal were incredibly impressive and it wasn't about how it compared to the other participants. Sadie really expanded her feelings about art and found that she liked it. I wanted to let you know that it had a powerful impact on her, perhaps life-changing in some way." Details & Registration > For a full list of camps open for registration now (they are filling up!), visit our Summer Camp Guide. Kids Classes Guide Sponsored By: Kids Brunch Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 11 am Location: Beacon Pantry, 382 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Kitchen Cuts (Kids Haircuts & Face Painting) Join us at A Little Beacon office as we bring in a real hair chair (that pumps up) to give your little ones haircuts for $16, courtesy of the ladies of Your Presence Salon. Face painting is $1. Proceeds from the face painting are dedicated to going to the Kindergarten Teams of the Beacon City School District. We have already donated $130 to the Kindergarten Team at South Avenue, and we are trying to match that for the other Kindergarten Teams. Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide. Nourished Yoga: Spring Cleaning with Chef Rena Unger Day: Saturday, May 6, 2017 Time: 1 to 4 pm Location: beBhakti Yoga Center, 89 Dewindt St., Beacon, NY Information > Chalk Paint 101® - The Annie Sloan Method Day: Sunday, May 7, 2017 Time: 9 am to noon Location: Knot Too Shabby, 155 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Two Trees Yoga Gift Cards! Gift cards from Two Trees Yoga are a wonderful way to support someone you love in developing their yoga practice. You can purchase a one-class, five-class, or ten-class card, or a gift card in any amount. Gift cards can be used for classes or workshops at Two Trees Yoga. This is a perfect and easy Mother's Day Gift, and a wonderful way to show your family and friends that you appreciate their efforts by encouraging them to make time for self-care. Information > NEW CLASS at Two Trees Yoga: Yin Yoga with Jen Days: Every Sunday Time: 6 pm to 7:15 pm Location: Two Trees Yoga at Sacred Space, 436 Main St., Beacon, NY Heart Body Mind Acupuncture Musical Opportunity: Heart Body Mind Acupuncture is now accepting new patients in Beacon. Sessions will help patients go through lifestyle changes and set weekly times and contributions towards their healing journey. Maryam has 10 years of experience as a nurse and more than 7 years of study and practice of Chinese Medicine. Here is what her patients are saying: "Maryam is a natural healer, she has a calming voice and presence that allowed me to be supported in the treatments, she is kind, thoughtful, thorough and in-depth... She takes time and genuinely cares about my issues.” Information > reMADE 133 Main Street This marble candle holder currently in the window of reMADE is by John Murnane, husband of chief bubble maker at Beacon Bath and Bubble. John is a retired engineer and retired military member. He makes all sorts of things out of found materials mostly, and you're lucky to find them at reMADE before they are gone. A Classic Couture Fashion Boutique 178 Main Street Graduation parties and fundraisers on the lawn along the Hudson River are right around the corner. What are you wearing? This little strapless navy dress from Victor Costa is a classic and no one will have the same one, because it was personally collected by A Classic Couture Fashion Boutique's owner, Leah Clifford. It's a size 4, and the only one of its kind in the store. Bellus on Main 181 Main Street Welcome! Say hi to your new floral rug at Bellus on Main. It's one of the latest in their Spring, Fair Trade collection. The rug is printed, light, and can work in many rooms with different color palettes. You may need two of them, to be on the safe side. Luxe Optique 183 Main Street Luxe Optique has a dedicated eye exam room in the store, so if it's an appointment you need, an appointment for glasses or contacts you can get at Luxe Optique. Right now, they are running free eye exams for kids or adults, so book that appointment and start seeing straight! After you get checked out, browse the frames. If you're used to getting contacts through 1-800-Contacts, Luxe will beat their price and get your boxes in the same amount of time. Style Storehouse 484 Main Street The Curated Gift Shop is one of the newest fashion boutiques on the East End of town, and while you can browse their entire store, you can also shop them inside of Style Storehouse, who is supporting their neighbor by carrying these customizable stamped bracelets. Don't you need a little self-affirmation on your arm? Styles come in Brass, Silver and Gold-Rose Gold. A great gift idea for the Mama in your life, daughter or friend. River Therapeutic Massage For Mother's Day, River Therapeutic Massage and The Blushery joined forces to make the ultimate gift for you to give the special lady (or ladies) in your life! Special Combo Deal: Purchase a gift certificate for a 60-minute or longer therapeutic massage from River Therapeutic Massage and get a coupon for The Blushery, offering $50 savings off laser hair removal. Special Combo Deal: Purchase a gift certificate for $80 or more from The Blushery, and receive a coupon for a free Enhancement with your next massage service at River Therapeutic Massage. This offer is good until Mother's Day. Coupons expire June 30, 2017. More details on our website. Visit our Beauty Guide for a complete list of beauty sources in Beacon, including hair, nails, barbers, and even lashes. Visit our Restaurant Guide for a complete list of eateries in Beacon. SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Antalek & Moore As lemonade stand season starts, we are revisiting Antalek & Moore's Business Insurance video, starting child star Addy Pagones, and company partner Pat Moore. Do you have all you need for your business should an accident or the unexpected happen? And just what is the unexpected, anyway? Call Antalek & Moore - they know: (845) 245-6292 or visit them at 340 Main St. BeaconArts BeaconArts produced this video, "Welcome to Beacon, NY" that is playing at the Visitors Center right now. Stop into the Visitors Center on Wolcott and Main Street to check out all of the brochures showing off the things to do in and around Beacon. Beacon Chamber of Commerce Speaking of the Visitors Center, the Beacon Chamber of Commerce held its monthly member meeting outside at the center. Members enjoyed an update from Dutchess Country Tourism, ice cream from Beacon Creamery, and coffee from Mountain Tops. If you own a business in or around Beacon and want to align with the Chamber, you can join today online. Tin Shingle Trying to get the word out about your business? Wishing you could get the media to feature your business, but you don't know how? They do want to, but there are good ways to pitch them, and ineffective ways to pitch them. Tin Shingle is a national organization, and is based in Beacon. Every last Monday of the month, they have a Local Member Meeting. This Monday they are opening it up to all businesses and artists at 10 am. Join us! Details are here. InHouse Design Media The media services extension of A Little Beacon Blog, InHouse Design Media, is working on a brand makeover for a crew at TEC Land Surveyors who roam all over the states of New York and Connecticut with their cameras and drones getting precise measurements for building requirements. Stay tuned to InHouse Design Media's blog for more project updates and their soon-to-be-released website redesign... A Little Beacon Space 291 Main Street Meetings, workshops, gatherings, they can all be booked and hosted by you at A Little Beacon Space at 291 Main St., in the heart of Beacon. THIS SUNDAY! Kitchen Cuts is back! Sunday, May 7, witness the return of the shears. Join us for kids' haircuts from 10 am to 4 pm. See what upcoming events are being hosted in A Little Beacon Space. Want to host your event here? Click here for more details and to book online. NEWSLETTER SIGNUP We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our Guide 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!

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Sneak Peek of Vendor Map for the Cupcake Festival

Official Vendor Map of the 2017 Cupcake Festival from K104.7

We've been hearing from you... People are wondering about this rain and if the Cupcake Festival is really happening or not. Well, we checked with the folks at K104.7 and they said they got the "thumbs up" from their Weather Team, so they're packing the trucks with the Cupcake Wars stage and coming down to Beacon, NY, tomorrow (Saturday) from 1 to 5 pm. We're still watching the skies and our inbox to see if we get a weather alert from them, but so far, it's on!

Meanwhile, here's a sneak peek of their official Vendor Map. Take a look at who is participating so that you can plot out which vendors you'll visit. Vendors' tables will be nestled between Main Street and the bustling sidewalk of our storefronts and restaurants. Everyone is looking forward to seeing you, so visit A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide and Restaurant Guide so that you can plan which stores and restaurants you want to hit up while you're here!

Towne Crier Hosts Dinner and a Movie to Benefit Clearwater

Most Beaconites have spent a balmy afternoon or two down by the river, marveling at the billowing sails of the Clearwater or Woody Guthrie when the boats are docked here between trips on the Hudson. Some people have had the chance to tour the river during an educational trip.

But even if you’re unfamiliar with those vessels and the organization behind them, you know Clearwater’s work. The river wasn’t always safe to splash in: Clearwater played a pivotal role in getting it cleaned up. Next Thursday, May 11, Towne Crier Cafe will host a screening to raise funds for Clearwater’s next sail to Washington. Doors open at 6 pm, and tickets include a buffet dinner, music, speakers, and a screening of “Clearwater: Hope on the Hudson.” Tickets are available through the Towne Crier Cafe.

The trailer for Oceans 8 Film's Hudson River at Risk series, Part 3: Hope On The Hudson, featuring stories on the Sloop Clearwater. The film will be screened at the Towne Crier Café on Thursday, May 11.

For centuries, the Hudson River provided food and recreation opportunities for nearby residents. As industrial development grew in the Northeast, factories and manufacturing plants looked to streams as an easy way to dispose of business waste products, which often included toxic heavy metals and debris. The streams carried the waste down to the Hudson River, where plants and animals bore the brunt of the pollution.

Starting in the mid-1960s, in conjunction with activism on many other fronts, people in communities along the Hudson River started agitating for its health. Pete Seeger, legendary banjo player, environmental cheerleader, and longtime Beacon resident, helped found the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater organization to provide a literal flagship for the movement. Seeger sailed the sloop to Washington, D.C., in 1970 to draw attention to the importance of clean waterways, not just in the Hudson River watershed, but everywhere. 

Court battles over the past 40 years compelled the industrial giants to stop dumping chemicals, to clean up their messes, or make other types of environmental reparations. Much of that would not have been possible without the Clean Water Act of 1973, and it’s believed that Seeger’s 1970 sail helped that act become law.

Even Seeger acknowledged that individual actions can only go so far. Of the Clearwater’s 1970 visit to the U.S. capitol, he said: “Now we’re going to Washington because the problems of the American rivers can’t be solved by people like me who live on them. Only the Federal Government has the power to enact and enforce the laws that are needed.”

Since the Clean Water Act’s adoption and a cultural shift in environmental values over the past few decades, the Hudson River has been largely restored. It may not be pristine, but species that had taken a dive, like native mussels, are mounting a comeback. Mercury and PCB levels in some fish remain concerning but have fallen precipitously - definitely a step in the right direction! Boating, kayaking, and even bathing have become big recreational draws.

So, Clearwater’s fight continues. The sloop will again travel to Washington, D.C., to call attention to the importance of environmental regulations; they plan to set sail in June. Head out to Towne Crier next Thursday to catch up on the group’s legacy, hear from present-day movers and shakers, and support the future. Visit Clearwater for more information.

Who Is Behind The New Makers Collective, Self Made?

Beacon is known for its thriving creative outlets and is home to many artisans and makers. As popular handmade markets, including Hudson Valley Hullabaloo and the Hudson River Exchange, pop up across the region, a new unique shopping opportunity is coming to Beacon. On May 6, welcome Self Made - A Makers Collective. Self Made is a modern-day marketplace where the top craftspeople of the Hudson Valley and beyond will gather to showcase their work. It will be held at the University Settlement Camp -  a unique location which provides a scenic backdrop surrounded by the beauty of Mount Beacon, but isn't too far from Main Street.

Yes, this is the same day as the first Cupcake Festival in Beacon, but Self Made will be open longer, so you can swing by both events. This Self Made - A Makers Collective will definitely be an oasis of bustling yet peaceful creative browsing and inspiration, compared to the intense jam session vibe of the Cupcake Festival. That festival will feature some of the Hudson Valley's most creative cupcakes, set alongside the top shopping opportunities at Beacon's storefronts, who are eagerly planning for the big day.

University Settlement Camp

So What Is This Self Made Makers Collective?

Bringing their collective 10-plus years experience and creativity to this inaugural event, Self Made is the creation of Holly J. Coley and Christina Silvestris. Christina is the maker behind local skincare brand Hudson Naturals, and Holly is a fashion writer for Organic Hudson Valley Magazine and blogger at The Mighty Mite. They have been working on this event for a year! They were both excited to see how much initiative creative people were taking to turn their talent into businesses, and wanted to encourage more of that in the Hudson Valley by providing a showcase opportunity like this. “If you were creatively inclined, you might just make it a hobby or perhaps take your skill to the city. But what the handmade/Made in America movement has shown is that if you have the drive and know-how, you can create something sustainable.”  

Coffee mugs by Virginia Piazza

Why Beacon For The First Year of the Self Made Makers Collective?

According to the founders, they wanted to make an impression with local shoppers in the first year, and they figured that Beacon would be the ideal place for Self Made to kick off. “Beacon is an area that supports creativity, entrepreneurship and small business, which is what our show is about. In many ways, Beacon embodies the spirit of the event,” says Holly. Both Holly and Christina grew up in the Hudson Valley and have seen a big evolution of the area, especially Beacon, over the last 10 years. Self Made's curators have hunted all over to include something for everyone regardless of age, budget, or interest.

Weird Beard Candle Co.

For vinyl collectors, Sound Shack Beacon will be there; if you’re into fashion, there will be several fashion vendors for men and women. If you’re a foodie, enjoy the food vendors including Beacon’s Glazed Over Donuts and craft beer from Catskill Brewery and food trucks parked on the grounds. You may also see some familiar names like Virginia Piazza Pottery and Weird Beard Candle Co. who sell at Remade, and Tess & James whose work is also carried in Beacon shops.

The Trickle Down Effect of Supporting Independent Designers In Multiple Locations

Supporting independent designers can have a trickle down effect, as makers like to order supplies from other small businesses, which helps those businesses thrive. “In the long run, it helps grow local economy and creates an environment like the one Beacon has,” says Holly. By shopping at Self Made, you can expect to have a good time and find some amazing, unique gifts, but the larger goal is for customers to also walk away with a better appreciation of what is being made in the community, and feel inspired to explore more local shops and discover new brands as the emerging designers create new wholesale accounts with stores.

Check out Self Made: A Makers Collective on Saturday, May 6, from 10 am to 6 pm at the University Settlement Camp on Wolcott Avenue in Beacon. Follow the collective on Facebook and Instagram for vendor updates!

Career Fair at Beacon High School - Booming With Businesses - Join In For 2017

Beacon High School's Career Day was teeming with businesses last year in 2016, and they are actively booking visiting pros again for this year's event, to be held on Thursday, May 25, 2017. Last year, over 70 professionals in their fields set up information tables at Beacon High School to explain to students the ins and outs of their work. Students checked in throughout the day, during scheduled time periods between 10 am and 2 pm. The Career Fair's main organizer and school counselor, Michele Polhamus, was "floored" by the turnout. "Our students' parents (from grades K-12) and the greater community were so responsive and have been most supportive of the Career Fair!"

The Career Fair is gearing up again for 2017 and is accepting business applicants. To participate, you can contact Ms. Michele Polhamus, School Counselor, at 845-838-6900 Ext. 3025 or by email at polhamus.m@beaconk12.org.

Success of 2016 Career Fair at Beacon High School

Participating professionals who donated their time to present to kids ranged from Entrepreneur to Journalist to Radio Producer to Artist to Illustrator to Police Officer to Attorney to Land Surveyor to Tattoo Artist (one of the most popular).

at left, Tom Cerchiara, founder of TEC Land Surveyors. TEC is based in Beacon and serves architects, engineers and state and local departments while employing a number of people.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Sarah Crow, Freelance Writer for GQ, MTV.com, xoJane, Bridal Guide, and others. Sarah is based in Beacon and writes for the websites of major magazines. Her college major was in Digital Publishing.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Jerry Goodman, freelance Cameraman for shows produced for CBS, HGTV and others. Jerry is based in Beacon and commutes into NYC and other cities to film on location.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Specialists in Aviation.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

An aspiring graphic design student inquiring about internships.

Happening This Weekend - 4/28/2017

It's time for the weekend! We're featuring just a sampling of the weekend's events, all pulled from A Little Beacon Blog's Things To Do In Beacon Guides. Be sure to check them during the week.

There is more parking around town than you think! We've got pictures. Sponsored by Antalek and Moore for car insurance. Beacon Flea is the Community Sponsor of this Upcoming Events Guide. The flea market is open - visit them every fair-weather Sunday! Whiskey Wailets Band Concert Day: Friday, April 28, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Elks Lodge, 900 Wolcott Ave., Beacon, NY This event benefits the Elks scholarships at Beacon High School. Information > International Film Night - "Coming Home" Day: Friday, April 28, 2017 Time: 7 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY This month's feature is "Coming Home," from China. A devoted couple has their world torn apart as the husband is sent to a labor camp as a political prisoner. Information > Second Annual Newburgh Urban Farming Fair Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: Noon to 4 pm Location: Safe Harbors of the Hudson, 111 Broadway, Newburgh, NY The Second Annual Newburgh Urban Farming Fair is a celebration of fresh food, local vendors, crafts and farm fun. There will be children's activities and something for the 'grown-ups'. Information > 10th Annual Beacon Barks Parade & Street Festival Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: 11 am to 4 pm Location: Main Street, Beacon, NY Starts at Mountain Tops, ends at DMV/Homespun, or thereabouts. It’s back! The popular Beacon Barks Parade returns to Main Street this year so get your four-legged friends ready. Beacon Barks! is the street festival for people who love animals, live music, great food, and having fun in the heart of Beacon. See our article on it. Information > People for Beacon presents “Citizen Soapbox” Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: 1 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY A community advocacy group is set to host a springtime "Citizen Soapbox." A group of Beacon residents, gathered under the name People for Beacon, will host a nonpartisan open forum. Information > The Key of Q presents "Finding Home"  Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: 7 pm Location: Hudson Valley LGBTQ Center, 300 Wall St., Kingston, NY Key of Q, the Hudson Valley’s LGBTQ and Allied A Cappella Chorus, will present its Spring 2017 Concert, “Finding Home.” Information > 2017 Helen Savoit Library Advocacy Award Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: 5 to 8 pm Location: St. Rocco Society, 26 S. Chestnut St., Beacon, NY The trustees of the Howland Public Library will be honoring Wee Play Community Project - the recipient of the ninth annual Helen Savoit Library Advocacy Award. Information > TAP New York Craft Beer and Food Festival Day: Saturday and Sunday, April 29 and 30, 2017 Time: 4 pm Location: Hunter Mountain, 64 Klein Ave., Hunter, NY This year's TAP® New York Craft Beer & Food Festival will bring more than 130 New York State breweries to Hunter Mountain, showcasing over 400 brews at this stunning Catskills venue. Information > Book Launch: The Big Fat Activity Book For Pregnant People Day: Sunday, April 30, 2017 Time: 11 am Location: Binnacle Books, 321 Main St., Beacon, NY Binnacle Books hosts a very special book launch with Jordan Reid and Erin Williams, as they present their new book: The Big Fat Activity Book for Pregnant People. Information > Alexander String Quartet Day: Sunday, April 30, 2017 Time: 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY For more than 30 years, the Alexander String Quartet has performed in the major music capitals of five continents, securing its standing among the world’s premier ensembles. Information > Story Screen presents “Much Ado About Nothing” Day: Sunday, April 30, 2017 Time: 7:30 pm (doors), 8 pm (movie) Location: More Good, 383 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Ballet Arts Studio Summer Camp Featured Week: "Musical Theater Intensive" Ages: 12+ Location: 107 Teller Ave., Beacon, NY Picture this: Your teenager's mornings will be devoted to warm-up and dance training, followed by an afternoon of improvisation, theater games, and workshopping a Broadway performance piece. The intensive culminates with an in-studio performance at the end of the week for the whole family to see. This could be in your life when you sign up for a week this summer of "Musical Theater Intensive" at Ballet Arts Studio, one of several weeklong camp sessions offered this summer for all ages. Camp topics include ballet, tap, modern, and more. Summer Camp Information > Call (845) 831-1870, or email info@balletartsstudio.com For a full list of camps now open for registration (they are filling up!), visit our Summer Camp Guide.   Kids Classes sponsored by Kitchen Cuts, whose sponsorship makes creating this curated list of events possible:    Anime & Manga Club Day: Friday, April 28, 2017 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Saturday Morning Makers Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: 11 am to 1 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Babysitters Preparedness Course Ages: 12 and up Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: 9 am to 4 pm Location: All Sport, 17 Old Main St., Fishkill, NY Information > OPEN HOUSE Hudson Hills Montessori - Beacon Campus Day: Sunday, April 30, 2017 Time: 11 am to 1 pm Location: Hudson Hills Montessori, 12 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.   BlisSing Kirtan Day: Saturday, April 29, 2017 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: beBhakti Yoga, 89 Dewindt St., Beacon, NY Information >     reMade 133 Main Street SALE!!! This, like, never happens at reMADE, but owner Liz Ferrara is adding some pizzazz to your shopping experience by posting this limited-time sale at reMADE. That means you could get that furniture piece (or pieces) you had your eye on... Remember the stunning wall pieces you glimpsed on display through the window, or the furniture designs by some of the Hudson Valley-based makers that you've been coveting? Now is the time to stop in. Bring your tape measure. Or pick out a gift for Mom now (or if you are a mom, then find one for you). A Classic Couture Fashion Boutique 178 Main Street Sex-ay! Kick off these Christian Louboutins at the end of the night, tossing aside your feather boa after an evening of dancing, with your new spring pedi popping through the peep-toe. Maybe you'll wear them to The Vault's new Saturday Night '80s and '90s Music shindigs, or a night out at The Beacon Hotel. Only available in a size 36 at A Classic Couture Fashion Boutique, whose owner travels to fashion capitals all over the world to bring you the highest couture fashions. Who will be the lucky lady? Bellus on Main 181 Main Street Last week we covered the rings that were made from recycled spirits bottles, like SKYY Vodka, Corona, or Cabernet. Bellus on Main only works with with cleverly designed jewelry and housewares, so go in and treat yourself or your lady to this drop necklace (we've heard that it reminds some people of water bubbles). Luxe Optique 183 Main Street Yes, that is a single rose blooming from the top of these glasses, and yes, they can be yours from Luxe Optique. While many of the designer frames we have been showing you from Luxe are a heavier frame, this delicate style is one of many unique looks you will find on Luxe's shelves. Just be sure to look in each case, and to look slowly... and don't miss the frames in the window... Style Storehouse 484 Main Street The highly anticipated Poughkeepsie pop-up market from Style Storehouse is upon us! Owner Michele is taking all of the racks from her Beacon store, down by the dummy light, up to Vino at Crew Restaurant and Bar in Poughkeepsie. She has been adding door prizes all week in advance of the Spring Market tonight, Friday, at 6 pm. Door prizes include these Quay Australia Sunglasses, as well as a five-class pack to Elevate, and a $50 Gift Card to Crew. The Curated Gift Shop will also be there. Most importantly, you'll find all of the sexy styles that are carefully curated at Style Storehouse in this evening market, so head on up to Poughkeepie to shop and enjoy the night. River Therapeutic Massage Two words: Mother's Day. Be that mother a dog mom, cat mom, plant mom, or den mother mom for all of the friends. If there is a mother in your life who you want to bestow good feelings on, then a massage is the answer. Gift certificates are available for Mother's Day, graduation gifts, bridal party gifts, and more! Peruse River Therapeutic Massage's services, and pick one now. PS: Did you see our new "Lashes" and "Laser Hair Removal" sections? Yes, all in Beacon! Visit our Beauty Guide for a complete list of beauty sources in Beacon, including specialists for hair, nails, barbers, and even lashes.   The Vault 446 Main Street Look at that, The Vault! New Outdoor Lounge on the opposite side of their Outdoor Patio. Relaxing at The Vault while enjoying one of their wine cocktails just got even better. HOT TIP: We have the inside scoop that they are starting '80s and '90s dance party nights, starting May 6. Visit our Restaurant Guide for a complete list of eateries in Beacon. SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Antalek & Moore So you just bought a totally rad RV and now you need to insure it. Walk on down to Antalek & Moore and let them research the lowest RV insurance rate for you! Or call them - from your RV while you're dusting it off! Antalek & Moore is located at 340 Main St., near Beacon Natural Market, or can be reached by phone: (845) 245-6292. BeaconArts Fiscal Project: Beacon Open Studios With this glorious spring weather, artists open their doors to the public for Beacon Open Studios weekend! It's one of the biggest group productions in the Hudson Valley, and your chance to step inside an artist's studio. Artists range from painters to sculptors to jewelers. It happens Mother's Day weekend, with a kick-off party at Oak Vino on May 12. Make a date. Beacon Chamber of Commerce The Beacon Chamber of Commerce's Monthly Member Meeting is Tuesday, May 2, and involves ice cream and coffee! It is hosted at the Beacon Visitors Center, with ice cream provided by Beacon Creamery, and coffee provided by Mountain Tops. If you're not a member yet, join here online.                                  Tin Shingle Trying to get the word out about your business? Did you just realize you should have a presence on Twitter and on Instagram? Tin Shingle can help. They have over 250 webinars, called Training TuneUps, that you can stream anytime from your smartphone, computer or tablet. A national organization based in Beacon, they have local meeting opportunities for the Community Level of membership. InHouse Design Media Are you afraid of social media? Do you have a business but dread putting anything out there? Self-promotion just isn't your style? Your business needs it, and there are ways to do it gracefully. Book a Private Training Session with us to come up with a plan. Now Mini-Sessions start at $75! A Little Beacon Space 291 Main Street Meetings, workshops, gatherings - they can all be booked and hosted by you at A Little Beacon Space at 291 Main Street, in the heart of Beacon. SAVE THE DATES Kitchen Cuts is Back! Sunday, May 7, return of the shears. Get the kids ready and mark your calendar. See what upcoming events are being hosted in A Little Beacon Space, and click here for more details and to book online. NEWSLETTER SIGNUP We know what you're thinking... "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our Guide 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!

Come In! Craft Beer Shoppe Opens Next To Key Food

Regulars of the check-cashing store tried to enter the brown paper-covered door while the Craft Beer Shoppe was transforming.

What once was a check-cashing store now is a cash-taking store. The Craft Beer Shoppe is now open to Beacon brew fans, from the people who bring you Key Food, specifically Jb Said (Jb with a lower case "b"). In addition to keeping his regular responsibilities with Key Food, Jb has branched out on his own to open this convenience shop for craft beer. The Craft Beer Shoppe is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm, with an extra hour on Friday and Saturday, when they close at 10 pm.

Although the windows were covered in brown paper during the transformation, regular patrons of the check-cashing store did try to check out the new space - despite the large, red, lit-up new sign above the door that announces what is inside: craft beer. Now, with the store opened and the left side of the store fully lined with refrigerators, there can be no mistaking what one will find inside.

While craft beer connoisseurs have their favorite spots to pick up beer around Beacon - including Dia Beverage way down 9D past Stony Kill Farm, or the beer store next to the wine store on Wolcott and South Avenue in the Beacon Dental plaza (aka Loopers Plaza), or even in the gas station in the middle of Main Street (across from Antalek & Moore) that has a surprising selection of craft beer - Beacon hopheads now have an even more convenient location: right next door to Key Food.

Deep craft beer enthusiasts also pick up from local watering holes like Draught, and take home cans from Stock Up.

What's In Stock?

Plenty, according to craft beer enthusiast David Martin, a weekend customer who usually commutes to the city during the week. In order to stock the shelves, Jb orders from at least 10 different distributors. That doesn't make it easy to get wholesale deals on beer prices, but offering a variety of beer is important to him.

"I was surprised to see the prices displayed under each beer," says David. "Usually, you find out the price after you bring it to the counter. I appreciate the displayed pricing. Speaking of which, the prices are on par with everywhere else." 

David's first purchase from The Craft Beer Shoppe.

During our first visit to the store, we tailed Byrdie from Accuprint, another craft beer enthusiast.

Byrdie was pleased to see the variety, including the selection of ciders. Included in the variety are non-craft beers, old trusties for some, like Rolling Rock, Bud, Bud Light, Stella, Blue Moon, and more.

Let's see what's in stock, shall we?

The Craft Beer Shoppe also has drink mixes, and bottles of non-alcoholic beverages, like Fever-Tree Ginger Ale and Tonic Water. Whisky Sour and Daiquiri mixes are also on hand.

Oops, I Forgot Eggs!

They read your mind! In the last refrigerator case, Jb has stocked the 'fridge with organic Pete and Gerry eggs, organic cheddar cheese, Hudson Valley Fresh whole and chocolate milk (how did he know!?!). Even though Key Food's doors are just a few steps away, you could just grab-n-go here. This is the move of a true small-business person, knowing his customers and delivering.

Hot Tip: Shhh... Don't tell Key Food, but the Pete and Gerry's eggs were $4.99 at The Craft Beer Shoppe, which is a steal compared to the $6.49 they usually are next door at Key Food. Not that you all will be storming this case for the low-priced organic eggs. Besides, you could always storm Homespun just a block down for their $4.99 farm-fresh eggs on your way home (if it's before 5 pm), because their dessert and cheese case is always stocked with dozens of eggs you can buy. Same thing at Beacon Pantry a few blocks in the other direction and open later, and Barb's Butchery has stacks of farm-fresh eggs ready for you to carry home when you pick up bacon or steak. There are of course other sources of farm-fresh eggs around Beacon, so you've got options.

But this isn't an article about eggs, it's about craft beer, and this new supplier in town. Have you checked out The Craft Beer Shoppe? Let us know what you think!