Building in Beacon is happening very quickly right now. While it seems overnight to people who have not followed the news about it, or attended meetings of the City Council, Zoning Board or Planning Board, it is very much the norm for Beacon residents who have followed those meetings.
The thing is, many buildings that you have been looking at for years and years are about to go away, to be replaced by new construction. In most cases, that will mean taller buildings. Arguments can be made about whether that's a good or a bad thing, but no matter what, when you eventually see them, those new structures will likely induce some feelings in you.
For instance: A project called Edgewater plans to have seven buildings and 307 apartment units, to be located in the woods along the Hudson River, slightly northeast of and uphill from Riverfront Park. The project has been granted a vote to go through the process of getting approvals to move forward and get closer to building. This project was held up for several months while attorneys for the Beacon City Schools' Board of Education argued that so many new residents would have a negative effect on the current school district, as the rapid influx of new kids would overwhelm classrooms. The development attorneys and the City Planner did not agree. Yesterday, finally, a vote was cast by Beacon's Planning Board, and it was voted that the impact would not negatively effect Beacon City School, and that the project could move forward. There are many other potential issues with this project. Among them: anticipated traffic impacts. The official projection is that vehicular traffic from this 307-unit collection of buildings (essentially a community) will not impact current traffic. This is just one example.
Up on Main Street, the old single-story building across from Homespun Foods was demolished this week; a new building is set to replace it. The empty factories at Madam Brett Park are proposed to be new apartment buildings. All of these projects are moving forward at the same time, and while it's exciting in theory to watch it all, people living in Beacon are feeling a desire to take a minute to catch up, to see how these are planned to progress, before it all happens, and to learn more about who owns these properties.
More and more residents are "coming online" about this issue. People who normally don't pay attention to boring Zoning Board meetings are starting to pay attention, so that they can know what to expect - what's coming down the pike. Because no matter what, when you see major construction happening, it can be surprising.
In Beacon, there are only a few local media sources. A Little Beacon Blog, The Beacon Free Press, and based in Philipstown but covering Beacon, The Highlands Current. Which sometimes makes it difficult to get information. Facebook groups often turn up leads, but are awash with emotion, speculation, facts, and everything else. Beacon beat reporter Jeff Simms has been covering these building projects for some time for The Highlands Current.
A Little Beacon Blog will begin covering development as well, and we will do so as carefully as we can. The learning curve is steep, and we are all in this learning process together. The feeling of Community is very strong in Beacon. That feeling does not exist in every community - it's something really special here. There is a desire to preserve that feeling, and continue living small, even while the city grows. Living smaller but bigger. It's possible, it's just a careful job.
This Saturday, The Beahive is hosting a public forum that focuses on zoning in Beacon. It seems to serve as a Zoning 101 for people who are unfamiliar with nuances in Beacon's code that could allow - or not allow - buildings to get built in a certain way. And exactly what that "certain way" is, is varied and can look like pretty much anything. To help see what that looks like, the forum this Saturday at Beahive will be facilitated by City Council Member Lee Kyriacou (who will be acting as a private citizen, not representing Beacon in any official capacity). Those who watch City Council meetings or other meetings know that Lee is one for detail, whose jam seems to be property issues. At a recent City Council meeting that had a very large public turnout to discuss the rezoning of Central Main Street, Lee commented that he was happy to see how many people were "nerding out" about issues that usually very few do. The whole City Council, the Mayor and the City Administrator are working together to address growth issues in Beacon.
A number of planning and zoning experts will be at the Beahive event to take questions from the audience.
The forum is on Saturday, December 15, from 9:30 to 11:30 am at Beahive, in the Telephone Building at 291 Main St., Beacon, NY.
Just when there seemed to be a settling in of the stores, a whole lot of movement happened in the storefront community on Main Street Beacon. Here are a few moves:
Closed: Trendy Tots - Beacon's Kids Consignment Store
296 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508 Trendy Tots Take Two, the kids consignment store in the sweet corner yellow house, has closed. Owned by a husband and wife team, this store had been a resource for parents who consigned gently used kids' stuff, and bought low-priced, high-quality items. Owner Jenn had a discerning eye for threads and did not accept everything that was brought into the store. Toward the end of summer 2017, the store posted a sign that said it would be closed until September. Small business owners often make personal choices like this - basing Open Hours around family needs. One time, Jenn was in a car accident and hurt her hip. Another time, the couple were caring for an aging parent and their open hours became inconsistent, but later returned to normal.
But September came and went, and the shop never reopened. In fact, the building and the grassy lot next to it, as well as the warehouse behind that which was known to be rented by artists from time to time, were put on the market to be sold. Asking price was $1 million. According to the realtor, there has been an offer on the property. The merchandise inside of the store has been removed, and we were unable to reach the owners to see if Trendy Tots is relocating.
Open: Wee Bitty Kids - New Kids Consignment Store
178 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508 Just in the nick of time, a local mom, Jenny Donovan, opened Wee Bitty Kids, LLC, near Artisan Wine Shop on the west end of town near Bank Square Coffee. This has replaced the vintage shop Classic Couture Fashion Boutique. The owner of Classic Couture, Leah, has said she will send us an update when she finds the next location for her collection of vintage fashions.
In the meantime, Jenny is taking new consigners and has new and gently used clothing and items for sale. You can learn more about the store via Classic Couture's website and Facebook page.
Note: The new shop, Wee Bitty Kids, has no connection to the volunteer-based nonprofit group, the Wee Play Project, who runs the annual Ree-Play Sale fundraiser every April to raise money for Beacon's parks and library projects.
Loopy Mango Replaces Heart & Soul Apothecary
500 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508 Longtime oils concoction artist, Leah Quinn, maintained a storefront at this corner store. Inside, she carried anything you might need to solve most any ailment. If it wasn't there, Leah would tell you how to make it. Over the summer of 2017, Leah packed it in at the storefront and went digital all the way. She seems to be exploding from her website, offering Subscription Boxes, workshops, and what looks to be a new line of clothing, like this hoodie. Don't worry, you can still get Leah's Wonder Salve online here! It truly is wonderful, especially for eczema and sufferers of super chapped lips.
Loopy Mango has replaced the physical location of Heart & Soul, and ... all we can say is Wow. No stranger to retail, Loopy Mango has over 41,000 followers on Instagram, and has had a store in New York City since 2004. This location is all about "big loop" yarn, which is some really big and soft strands of yarn. They are so into it, they make their own in Key Largo, FL. Who is "they"? The business owners are corporate refugees who met in an art class, while "Loopy" is a German shepherd, and "Mango" is an orange cat. As for the people, according to their website:
Waejong Kim was born in Korea. She moved to Japan for college and after graduating from Tokyo University of Foreign Studies she worked as an interpreter and later opened a Korean fusion restaurant in Nagoya, Japan. She moved to New York after 9/11 and worked for a corporate housing company. She taught herself how to crochet, took a long vacation, and never returned to the corporate world. Waejong has a German shepherd named Loopy and and orange cat named Mango.
Anna Pulvermakher was born in Russia. She moved to Seattle, WA, with her family and after graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in Mathematics, she worked for Microsoft and Expedia as a Software Test Engineer. In 2003, she moved to New York to pursue her dream of becoming a professional artist.
Hudson Valley Fitness Center Renames to Zoned Fitness
Hudson Valley Fitness has rebranded to Zoned Fitness, and boy are they in the zone. We've watched their website for a number of years as we looked up information for A Little Beacon Blog's Adult Classes Guide, and the latest updates demonstrate that they are clearly in the zone, and are ready to transform your body. Their services Include food and nutrition training as well. Branding done by Beacon locals Rabe & Co.
New Fitness Center Coming Soon - The Studio at Beacon
Also on our radar! The Studio@Beacon, down near the Howland Public Library and Royal Crepes, is opening in January and will have a juice bar. Based on what drives the owners, the studio will likely specialize in boxing and cycling. With creative branding done by Kingston Creative.(P.S. Kingston Creative kind of has a thing for Beacon, and just released a 16 Most Instagrammed Places in Beacon, according to actual numbers. You'd be surprised who made the list!)
Your Winter Wonderland dreams are coming true! This year, there is a good chance we'll all be able to go through a holiday lights show that isn't completely muddy!
We are in the season of Elfing! Elf magic, as made by you. Gifts, cards, porch drop-offs, little special things you are doing for people. For ideas on food pantries to contribute to, see our Food Pantries Guide here. For amazing gift ideas and lustworthy things you might need, see our Shopping Guide. It's always being updated, and currently has new shops on both ends of Main Street.
Article Alert!
Want to be in A Little Beacon Blog? We are going Holiday House Lights Hunting in Beacon and want to know where your light display is. Submit cross streets or addresses in the comments section of this post, or send an email to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com. Bring on the magic!
Tell Your Friends:
Anything they need to know about Beacon, like where to shop, eat or take a class of any kind, can all be found in A Little Beacon's Guides. They're updated pretty much constantly:
SAVE THE DATE:
Beacon's East End Shopping Association Presents
Shop Late!
Sip, Snack + Shop Day: Thursday, December 21, 2017 Time: Shops open until 9 pm! Location: East end of Main Street
Shops on the East End of Beacon have aligned to help bring awareness to that end of town, after the sharp curve in the road where people don't think to venture. Take the adventure! Follow the sidewalk until it ends. Participating shops will be open late, starting at Beacon Bath & Bubble, through Utensil, Waddle n Swaddle and Style Storehouse, all the way to The Blushery. Just keep walking! Park in the free parking lot by The Green Room, or down behind SallyeAnder in the free public parking lot at Hudson Valley Brewery. Information >
Beacon Historical Society Holiday Party & Open House Day: Friday, December 15, 2017 Time: 4 to 8 pm Location: Beacon Historical Society, 17 South Ave., Beacon, NY Information >
Thom Joyce’s Open Mic Night Day: Friday, December 15, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Beacon Zoning Forum Day: Saturday, December 16, 2017 Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am Location: BEAHIVE Beacon, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
In light of the current development boom in Beacon, with some resulting snafus and public outcry, the City of Beacon is reviewing its zoning laws. Come to this open meeting to learn how zoning works, what current zoning laws are, what proposed changes would do, etc. Questions are welcome. City council member Lee Kyriacou will facilitate the discussion — operating in this capacity as a private citizen. He’ll be joined by a number of planning and zoning experts. There’s no particular stance at the meeting, just open and honest information sharing. Information >
Annual Fine Arts & Craft Small Gifts Holiday Show Opening Reception Day: Saturday, December 16, 2017 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Chaotica Day: Saturday, December 16, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Blue Christmas Day: Saturday, December 16, 2017 Time: 5 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church of Beacon, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY
Feeling blue right now? Then this event may be for you. Information >
Live Performance with Joe McPhee & Billy Stein Day: Saturday, December 16, 2017 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: Hudson Valley Vinyl, 267 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
“Christmas from Ireland” with Irish ensemble Lunasa & Ashley Davis Day: Saturday, December 16, 2017 Time: 8:30 pm Location: The Towne Crier, 379 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Children’s Christmas Pageant
Day: Sunday, December 17, 2017 Time: 10 am Location: First Presbyterian Church, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY Information >
"Deck The Halls At Cafe Sizzle" Day: Sunday, December 17, 2017 Time: 5 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.
Coloring Books for Adults Day: Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Time: 6 to 7:30 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Snapology Lego Holiday Workshop Day: Saturday, December 16, 2017 Time: 1:30 to 3 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Printed Patterns Family Workshop Day: Saturday, December 9, 2017 Time: 1 to 3 pm Location: Compass Arts, 395 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
The Vault
446 Main Street
Come in to The Vault, and relax with a nice Vanilla Old Fashioned, mixed with Beacon Bourbon, housemade vanilla simple syrup, fresh orange and apricot bitters. Take in the aroma, then order a cheese plate for a perfectly paired snack!
Where is The Vault? Near Beacon Bath & Bubble.
Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street
Gorgeous. That's how these festive, cat-eye, high-end handcrafted frames by Thom Browne will make you feel. The square semi-rimless glasses in gray and silver are luxurious, indulgent, and bold. Where is Luxe Optique? Across the block from Beacon Bread Company.
BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main, by the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the back walkway entrance up to Main Street!
Style Storehouse
484 Main Street
A rotating cast of accessories completes an outfit, while keeping it distinct from the last time(s) you wore it. New jewelry by Five and Two is on the shelves at Style Storehouse, where there's always good music playing and sweets at the counter. Charm necklaces are gold-plated and great for layering, or are lovely alone. Try them on. Play!
Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle.
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3
This dreamy two-piece gown by Lillian West features sequin embellishments, a sweetheart neckline and natural waist. The perfectly shaped ballgown skirt is made of tulle and has a chapel-length train. Simply beautiful. Where is Lambs Hill Bridal? In the renovated factory building near the historic dummy light.
Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! Bellus on Main, Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse.
The easiest and most loved gift certificates are those that take care of Beauty!
Find gift certificates to any of Beacon's service businesses - for hot stone massage, hair, makeup, or lashes - in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide!
Rhinebeck Bank
It's your last chance to participate in Rhinebeck Bank's collection of new toys for Grace Smith House's annual toy drive, benefiting kids who stay with them during times of safety and transition. See here for more information on how you can donate.
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
Gift the gift of a Whole Life Insurance Policy to your children or grandchildren while they are healthy, thereby making it easy for them to take over as adults and keep the lower rate. Call Antalek & Moore today for more information: (845) 245-6292.
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Are you new in town? Join the Beacon Chamber of Commerce to connect with other businesses and show your support for the community. Elections for new board members are in January, so now is the time to hook in with this organization! Click here to join online.
BeaconArts GOING ON NOW The Illumin8 2017: BHA + BeaconArts Bicycle Menorah has begun. You'll find the unique menorah on display at its new location, the Beacon Building at 427 Main Street (the building with the green NuSpecies sign). A new wheel lights up on each of eight nights in honor of different groups: Volunteers, Educators, First Responders, Children, Business Owners, Clergy, Activists, Artists and Musicians.
One of the best ways to make sure this uniquely Beacon tradition continues is by making a donation to BeaconArts, which you can do right here, online.
A Little Beacon Space
Need a last-minute location for your holiday event? A Little Beacon Space has our sleek tree up! To book your private event, see here for pictures and details.
InHouse Design Media
Are you stuck on something with your website? Do you have bunches of questions? InHouse Design Media is designing in-person classes for you to attend. Got questions? Let us know about them and we might offer a class to find answers!
Tin Shingle
Coming Soon to Tin Shingle's Community Membership Level... Hudson Valley Monday Morning Meetings! Inspired by our super local community awesomeness, we are starting monthly meetings for members to connect. More to come, so keep your eyes on this space...
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
All of the 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!
It is time once again... We are going Holiday House Lights Hunting in Beacon and want to know where your light display is. Submit cross streets or addresses here in the comments, or send to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com. Bring on the magic!
Beacon is Open Late on the East End! Sixteen shops have joined together to stay open till at least 9 pm tonight, Thursday. Happy shopping! Next Thursday, they'll offer another late night, in addition to being open extra days, to optimize local shopping convenience.
The Sip, Snack, & Shop is presented by the Beacon East End Association, a group of 16 stores working to bring more awareness - and people, especially local Beaconites - to follow Main Street's curve to explore all of the shops on the east end of town. Kitchenware, underwear, boots, skirts, jewelry, art - there's so much!
The Monday evening after Thanksgiving, Peter and Ruth Robillard were inside their home watching a movie when Peter heard a popping sound outside, and ran out to find his front porch on fire. At 7:13 pm, first responder units were dispatched "for trees on fire next to the residence," according to the Beacon Professional Firefighters - IAFF Local 3490 via their Facebook page. The couple got out of the home safely, and a fundraising page has been set up in their name, collecting over $8,000 so far from 109 people.
According to The Beacon Professional Firefighters - IAFF Local 3490, less than 2 minutes later, the first to arrive found a large blaze on the front of the house, with the fire reaching into the porch area and inside the home from the brush near the sidewalk.
Photo Credit: Unknown
"A second alarm was transmitted at 7:17 pm by Assistant Chief Lahey, which provides for station coverage and a callback of off-duty firefighters for assistance," according to The Beacon Professional Firefighters. At the scene were Career Firefighters, an Interior Volunteer Firefighter, and three Exterior Volunteers.
Beacon was also assisted by the Village of Fishkill, initially as FAST (Firefighter Assist and Search Team). They were used to assist with overhaul and ensuring that the fire was out. At 7:54 pm, the fire was declared under control, and the salvage and overhaul process got under way. By the end of the incident there were approximately four interior, four exterior, and four fire police volunteers, according to The Beacon Professional Firefighters - IAFF Local 3490 Facebook page, all of whom left by 11:08 pm.
From the Beacon Professional Firefighters: "Due to the fast actions by the Career Firefighters on the initial responding units, the fire extension and water/smoke damage was limited to a portion of the house. Remember, the Beacon Career Firefighters are dedicated to your safety 24/7."
When the trees were taken down at 51 Orchard Place in Beacon, one resident who was watching them fall said she felt "scared." The home that sits up on the mini-hill at 51 Orchard Place, at the base of the Y that loops East Willow and West Willow to regular Willow Street, had recently come under new ownership by Fortress Enterprises, LLC, after being empty for quite some time, according to a parcel search with Dutchess County.
"I have watched this house deteriorate for over 6 years. I was really excited to see that someone had bought it and was beginning to bring it back to life," said Karen Nelson on December 4, 2017 at the City Council meeting. She spoke during the Public Comment portion of the meeting, where people can address the council members with anything on their minds.
Several mature trees were cut down at 51 Orchard Place - more than the three mature trees that are allotted for in Beacon's city code. "After all the trees fell, the light had changed. The noise level was higher," Karen said. "The sight lines into neighbors' houses across the street were clearer. And theirs into mine." The noticeable shift to the space, as well as the addition of a new driveway, prompted Karen to look into the matter. Word on the neighborhood circuit was that the house was being refurbished to be a $500/night Airbnb property. This house wouldn't be the first in Beacon to be used for Airbnb, but it seems to be in the first wave of properties used solely for different short-term renters without owner occupancy.
Beacon has yet to create regulations around Airbnbs, while New York City has addressed them. Fines of $1,000 per violation have already been issued. According to The Verge, "The law under which they were charged fines people who rent out entire apartments for fewer than 30 days. State lawmakers believe those rentals encourage property managers and owners to construct what essentially amount to hotels in residential buildings."
Airbnb sued New York City in 2016 over the law, according to The Verge, but dropped the lawsuit after it settled with the city in December. "Airbnb agreed to allow New York to pursue violators so long as prosecutors only went after hosts, as opposed to the company itself."
Airbnb has disrupted the travel and hotel industries, and now the change is coming to smaller destination communities as they decide how to fit vacation rentals alongside full-time residents. Beacon has yet to regulate the issue, but the easy access Airbnb gives to creative locations has spurred people from all over to visit Beacon. Personally, we have received an Airbnb's order of pizza (wrong address), and people from California one day came to our front porch and rifled through our mailbox looking for house keys - because they had the wrong address for their Airbnb.
51 Orchard Place after the removal of trees and the addition of a driveway.
"This is shocking to me," said Karen before the City Council. "In every Beacon zoning map I could find, it shows that this neighborhood is zoned for [Single-]Family Homes. And I emphasize the word 'homes.' It doesn’t say houses or structures or buildings. It is a residential neighborhood."
Hey, You Dang Kids... Get Off My Lawn!
"Kids" here being the figurative word for the sudden attention on this private property and their choice to take down trees that were unhealthy, that did not produce full greenery anymore, and were gangly, virtually hiding the home from view. Depending on which side of the house you are on, one may even say there is now a better view of Mount Beacon as you drive around Orchard Place to turn onto any of the Willow streets.
Google Maps photo of 51 Orchard Place, screenshot on 12/8/2017, after the trees were cut, but before Google updated their photo inventory. Photo Credit: Google Maps
Regardless, there are laws that homeowners must follow. Unless you are living in the Wild West on dusty land in a log cabin you built yourself, with trees you cut down yourself, surrounded by nothing but distant mountains and rolling weedy meadows, sometimes there are rules one must follow in one's city. Rules are more obvious when they are delivered from an apartment complex manager, or condo community homeowners association. When it's individual homes on acres of land, the rules can be little harder to anticipate, since it feels like land that you own, where you should be able to do what you want.
Loud Outcry After the Trees Fell
Rules can be tricky to know about! Unless, of course, you pore over every line item in the Zoning Code. Beacon voices spoke out first via Facebook to discuss the incident. During the City Council meeting, Mayor Randy Casale addressed some of the concern:
“They [the homeowners] didn’t go to the Planning Board. They didn’t go to the Zoning Board. We got an ordinance that says you can’t cut more than three mature trees down without getting a permit. They didn’t do that. The Building Department is over there. It’s probably going to wind up in court. That’s where we are right now. That’s the best I can tell you.”
To get clarification for this article on which ordinance the mayor was referring to, A Little Beacon Blog emailed the mayor's office to find out exactly which ordinance this is, but did not get a reply by the time this article published. There are sections of the code that refer to trees, but we want to link you to exactly the right one, as provided by a city official. We also emailed the Building Department for a report on the current status of their actions, as alluded to by the Mayor, but also did not receive a reply before publication.
December's Second Saturday is the sparkliest! With the tree lighting this weekend, the art galleries are alive and lit, several loaded with art gifts and small works. Find them in our Second Saturday Guide! This is the time to find the most special things of the season, and Beacon is filled with fantastic options. Anything you want, you'll find it here. All you need to do is walk around and step inside. And now... for the weekend's Things To Do!
Tell Your Friends:
Anything they need to know about Beacon, like where to shop, eat or take a class of any kind, can all be found in A Little Beacon's Guides:
Elf The Musical JR Day: Friday & Saturday, December 8 & 9, 2017 Time:Friday, December 8 at 7 pm - Opening Night Saturday, December 9 at 2 pm Saturday, December 9 at 7 pm Location: Beacon Performing Arts Center, 327B Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Breakfast with Santa at County Fare Day: Saturday, December 9, 2017 Time: 10 am to 2 pm Location: County Fare, 2652 E. Main St., Wappingers Falls, NY Information >
BeaconArts & The City Of Beacon Annual Tree Lighting Day: Saturday, December 9, 2017 Time: 3:30 pm, 5 pm (Tree Lighting) Location: Polhill Park / Beacon Visitors Center (Main Street & Route 9D) Information >
Live Concert with Kofi & Sankofa Day: Saturday, December 9, 2017 Time: 7:30 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Coffee with Santa at Bank Square Coffeehouse Day: Sunday, December 10, 2017 Time: 10 am to noon Location: Bank Square Coffeehouse, 129 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
“Nick of Time” and “Scrooge, A Christmas Carol” Day: Sunday, December 10, 2017 Time: “Nick of Time” will be at 1 pm and “Scrooge, A Christmas Carol” at 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Joy To The World Pints & Prayers Day: Sunday, December 10, 2017 Time: 3 pm Location: Dogwood, 47 E. Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Get Lit Beacon - A Literary Salon Day: Sunday, December 10, 2017 Time: 5 to 7 pm Location: Oak Vino Wine Bar, 389 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
Work:Shop Winter Market Day: Saturday & Sunday, December 9 & 10, 2017 Time: Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm Location: Wickham Solid Wood Studio, 578 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Ete-Noir Trunk Show Day: Saturday, December 9, 2017 Time: 5 to 7 pm Location: KAIGHT, 512 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
If you are hosting a true pop-up shop - a limited-time-only shopping event that is more than a trunk show - then you can submit it to A Little Beacon Blog's Pop-Up Shop Guide with flyer. Pop-ups are fun!
Bakeology 101 Day: Friday, December 8, 2017 Time: 3:30 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Rig-ama-jig Builders' Club for K-5th grade Day: Friday, December 8, 2017 Time: 4 to 5:30 pm Location: Compass Arts, 395 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Printed Patterns Family Workshop Day: Saturday, December 9, 2017 Time: 1 to 3 pm Location: Compass Arts, 395 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
The Vault
446 Main Street
Check out this healthy and delicious brunch salad - grilled Scottish salmon with quinoa, arugula, grape tomatoes, chickpeas, roasted peppers and a lemon vinaigrette. Pinkies out for the clinking coffee cup toast!
Where is The Vault? Near Beacon Bath & Bubble.
Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
Bellus on Main
181 Main Street
Bellus has #allthegifts! And everything in the shop is 40% off, including this festive silk scarf and beautiful vintage-inspired brass lantern candleholder (may as well pick up a pair, while they're 40% off). Decor treasures are waiting to be found in Bellus, so pick up a gift or treat for your home this weekend. Where is Bellus on Main? Next door to Luxe Optique.
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street
Shopping for glasses at Luxe Optique is half the fun of finding your favorite pair. And the rumors are true - you'll find a favorite pair, and then you'll find another, and another. It's ok - break free from the mold of glasses, and treat these accessories as you would jewelry or shoes! Give the gift of selection, and liberate your loved one with a gift certificate. You can never go wrong with a gift card! Luxe Optique has them available for your gift-giving needs. Where is Luxe Optique? Across the block from Beacon Bread Company.
BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main, by the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the back walkway entrance up to Main Street!
Style Storehouse
484 Main Street
There's no such thing as having too many scarves. Especially when they're as cozy and soft and versatile and gigantic (46 inches wide by 100 inches long) (that's about 4 feet by 8 feet, folks) as this waffle knit one by Free People. Yes, the Scarf Blanket is back and it's a style you want to wrap yourself in. Available in ivory and black. Get both.
Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle.
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3
This Lillian West gown is extra special because it's both a mini-gown and a full gown. The full ballgown skirt has tiers of chiffon and a cathedral-length train, which can be removed to reveal a minigown featuring a halter neckline, all-over lace, and crisscross lace-up back. Get married in the gown, then dance in the mini! Where is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the dummy light.
Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! Bellus on Main, Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse.
The easiest and most loved gift certificates are those to meet beauty needs!
Find gift certificates to any of Beacon's service businesses - for hot stone massage, hair, makeup, or lashes - in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide!
Rhinebeck Bank
Rhinebeck Bank is collecting new toys for Grace Smith House's annual toy drive, benefiting kids who stay with them during times of safety and transition. See here for more information on how you can donate.
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
Happy Holidays from Antalek & Moore! The agency's windows are decorated brightly as they are every year. Take a picture with them when you're out, and don't forget to tag their Instagram!
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
The Beacon Chamber of Commerce has a jam-packed evening of celebration and excitement coming up! Next Wednesday, at 4 pm, there will be a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Beacon Creamery and Kringles' Christmas Shop at 134 Main Street. Also, Kringles has opened for the season, so pick out some new Christmas-themed decor and gifts! After the ribbon-cutting, walk across the street to Chill Wine Bar (173 Main Street) for the Chamber's December Member Meeting and holiday get-together. Become a member of the Chamber online here.
BeaconArts IT'S HERE!
The annual lighting of the bicycles is this Saturday! The City of Beacon + BeaconArts Annual Bicycle Tree Lighting is Second Saturday, December 9. The Illumin8 2017: BHA + BeaconArts Bicycle Menorah will be lighted beginning December 12, lasting for 8 nights.
One of the best ways to make sure these luminous traditions continue is by making a donation to BeaconArts, which you can do right here online.
A Little Beacon Space
Need a last-minute holiday event location? A Little Beacon Space has the tree up! To book your private event, see here for pictures and details.
InHouse Design Media
Part of our mission is empowering business owners to take their websites and social media into their own hands. To do that, you just need a little visual inspiration, some systems, and the gumption to promote what you've got. Contact us today to set up Private Training Sessions to get you on your way.
We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!"
Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too!
Hot off the Beacon City School District's Twitter account! Beaconites voted yesterday to approve the Capital Project, which includes designing a modernized science room at Rombout Middle School, and at other schools, ripping out old carpet from several classrooms, fixing doors, turf for sports, and other improvements. Votes were 480 Yes to 98 No. When this writer voted at 2 pm, the total number of voters was at 95. It was a long election day. Read more about the Capital Project here.
Beacon Superintendent Matt Landahl tweeted his approval: "The Beacon City School District capital project passed today with 480 yes votes and 98 no votes. Thanks to the community for the support of the project!" According to Dr. Landahl, the next steps for the district include going through a review process by the state, and seeking bids. "Most construction will take place during the summer of 2019. We put out for bids around January 2019 give or take. The state has a lengthy review process before we begin but the planning work with architects, engineers, district staff and board members begins immediately."
Today is the day for voting on the Beacon City School District Capital Project. The proposal includes a lot of improvements in all public schools, while not increasing taxes. We reported on it a bit ago, so go refresh your mind about what's in the proposal. Then head to Beacon High School or Glenham Elementary School (depending on where you live) by 9 pm to cast your vote.
The ballot pictured here was, at 2 pm, the 95th ballot to be cast.
Festivals of lights are starting, making for a bright opening to the Holiday Season. Enjoy your weekend - we've got plenty of ideas to get you started here!
Tell Your Friends:
Anything they need to know about Beacon, like where to shop, eat or take a class of any kind, can all be found in A Little Beacon's Guides:
The Celebration of Lights Day: Friday, December 1, 2017 Time: 6 to 9 pm (parade starts at 6:30 pm) Location: Main Street and Garden Street with tree lighting on Main Street and Market Street. Information >
A Charlie Brown Christmas Day: Friday to Sunday, December 1-3, 2017 Time: 8 pm Location: County Players at the Falls Theatre, 2681 W. Main St., Wappingers Falls, NY Information >
Breakfast With Santa Day: Saturday, December 2, 2017 Time: 11 am Location: The Towne Crier, 379 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Sinterklaas Festival Day! Day: Saturday, December 2, 2017 Time: All day! Location: Village of Rhinebeck, NY Information >
Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
Self Made: A Makers Collective Presents Holiday Bash Day: Saturday, December 2, 2017 Time: 11 to 7 pm Location: The American Legion, 413 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Psychedelic Sparkle Christmas Party Day: Saturday, December 2, 2017 Time: 4 to 11 pm Location: Beacon Art Studios, 211 Fishkill Ave., Beacon, NY Information >
If you are hosting a true pop-up shop - a limited-time-only shopping event that is more than a trunk show - then you can submit it to A Little Beacon Blog's Pop-Up Shop Guide with a flyer. Pop-ups are fun!
Intro to AcroYoga Workshop
Day: Friday, December 1, 2017 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: Shambhala Wellness Center, 4 S. Chestnut St., Beacon, NY Information >
The Vault
446 Main Street
Looking festive! The Vault is decorated and ready to host your holiday party. They are taking reservations now, so dial it in! Your guests can enjoy their wonderful tapas menu, small-batch spirits, specialty cocktails and local craft beers. Call (845) 202-7735.
Where is The Vault? Near Beacon Bath & Bubble.
Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
Bellus on Main
181 Main Street
The "Office Urban Bag" by Burel Mountain Originals is made with 100% pure sheep wool and natural leather and is lightweight, sturdy and ideal for everyday use. SALE ALERT: The entire store at Bellus is 40% off, so you could apply that to this bag, which is beautifully handsome. Where is Bellus on Main? Next door to Luxe Optique.
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street
These "Rhythm" frames by Dita are meticulously handcrafted, using thin titanium inlay that extends the entire length of the frame. These specs include custom wire core with intricate pressed detail and Dita's proprietary hex screw hinges. Go into Luxe to take a closer look...
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
While we're talking about holiday parties, why not outfit yourself with one of these chunky knit sweaters with a surplice neckline by Mink Pink, paired with a fun pair of leggings and boots? The entire outfit - boots included - is available inside. Don't forget to take in Style Storehouse's beautiful holiday window display!
Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle.
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3
Chantilly lace covers this entire Justin Alexander gown to create a stunning effect. A deep V-back and drop waist complete the look. The barely-there headpiece by Bel Aire is a perfect complement to the super-soft faux fur shrug by Blue Ribbon. Available at Lambs Hill now.
Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the dummy light.
Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! Bellus on Main, Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse.
Teacher gifts are coming up!
Treat your (or your kids') hard-working teachers with gift certificates to any of Beacon's service businesses, offering hot stone massage, hair, makeup, or lashes!
Rhinebeck Bank
Lou Stripoli, owner of Caffe Aurora Pastry Shop, is the featured guest on this week's episode of Wake Up with Rhinebeck Bank. Caffe Aurora is a pastry shop in Poughkeepsie's River District, and they are celebrating their 77th anniversary this year! Not only that, they are involved with The Celebration of Lights celebration in Poughkeepsie to be held December 1, 2017. Enjoy a fireworks display, food and a parade. Michelle Barone-Lepore of Rhinebeck Bank (pictured here) will be singing at the event!
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
The people at Antalek & Moore are reminding you to pay attention to your pipes as the weather gets colder. They have frozen pipes tips from Travelers, their partner insurance company, that you can act on now.
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Have you been to the Clove Creek Dinner Theater on Route 9? The Beacon Chamber of Commerce held their last Member Meeting there, and pictures have been posted. Take a peek!
BeaconArts SAVE THE DATES!
The annual lighting of the bicycles! It happens every December. The City of Beacon + BeaconArts Annual Bicycle Tree Lighting is December 9, Second Saturday. The Illumin8 2017: BHA + BeaconArts Bicycle Menorah starts December 12 and will be lighted for eight nights.
One of the best ways to make sure this continues is by making a donation to BeaconArts, which you can do right here online.
A Little Beacon Space
A Little Beacon Space is the HQ for A Little Beacon Blog, and is available for private bookings for your own work retreats, workshops, and other events. See here for pictures and details.
InHouse Design Media
Part of our mission is empowering business owners to take their websites and social media into their own hands. To do that, you just need a little visual inspiration, some systems, and the gumption to promote what you've got. Contact us today to set up Private Training Sessions with you. They'll get you on your way.
Tin Shingle
Members of Tin Shingle are on missions to get media coverage. Where are they getting featured? See Tin Shingle's Press Portfolio where members upload their PR coverage. Get ideas for how the media might cover your business.
We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!"
Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too!
The very first pioneers to The Lofts at Beacon Falls, the new apartment complex located in Beacon's Historic District at 50, 52, and 54 Leonard Street (between Grove and Amity), were true out-of-towners: Many of them were parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, of couples who had moved to Beacon with their young families to start their new lives as Beaconites. The Lofts at Beacon Falls are located on the mountain side of Fishkill Creek, just up the road from Dogwood and The Roundhouse. If you sit on the benches across from Wickham Solid Wood Studio and what used to be The Hop, you are looking right at them, though they are hidden behind trees (see the picture below). Current residents moved from Florida, Michigan, North Carolina and other far-off states to settle in here and live within walking distance of Beacon's businesses. Small city living has a strong appeal, and The Lofts at Beacon Falls are delivering on that.
The Historic District
Because the Lofts at Beacon Falls are nestled into Beacon's Historic District, the newly designed buildings needed to conform to certain standards to keep with a historic look. You'll notice similarities between The Roundhouse complex and The Lofts at Beacon Falls on Leonard Street, with the gray-brown coloring, brick and black trim on the exterior. According to Bob Murphy of the Beacon Historical Society, the property was part of the Matteawan Manufacturing Company; by the mid-1930s, it was the Braendly Dye Works.
Insider Tip: If you sit on the benches across from Wickham Studio or the former Hop to reflect on things on the Fishkill Creek, you can see parts of The Lofts at Beacon Falls through the trees.
Another Insider Tip: Leonard Street is one-way if you are driving towards the Lofts at Beacon Falls, so you'll need to take a right on Amity to drive around the block to come into the entrance down Grove Street, which turns into Leonard Street.
Modern Apartment Life in Beacon's Historic District
Inside, you'll find modern design and amenities of apartment living. Designer kitchens and open floor plans make for a spacious feel in the one- and two-bedroom apartments, trimmed with granite counters, laminate wood floors, and Edison-style lighting. A washer and dryer come with each unit, making it super convenient to plan a cozy day of laundry, tucked inside an apartment surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Fishkill Creek.
Walk outside of the apartment complex and follow East Main down to Main Street at Beacon's famed Dummy Light, and you're just about at Beacon's East End, an area dominated by more former factory buildings with renovations under way, making room for more art galleries, boutiques and eateries to frequent. Numerous boutiques, including Style Storehouse, Kaight, King + Curated, Lambs Hill Boutique, and more, cater to a variety of personal styles. Need something as specific as a brow wax? Find it at The Blushery, at the T where Main Street meets the end of East Main - just one of the niche storefronts available to Beaconites.
The Perks
A full workout center is located in the heart of the apartment community for anyone who needs easy access to a quickie workout on the machines. Residents may even bring in their personal trainer for a guided workout. Staying fit is certainly do-able from this location, with access to trailheads on Mount Beacon, as well as nearby fitness centers on Main Street like Zoned Fitness (formerly Hudson Valley Fitness), and the Shambhala Wellness Center and Live Your Life Gear.
The planners at The Lofts at Beacon Falls made certain to build pet-friendliness into their offerings, allowing animals as residents for an additional fee. No one's circling the neighborhood looking for parking, because one spot is allotted to each unit, and additional parking spots are available. Security is of top importance, so there is surveillance inside and outside, as well as keyless entry that can even work from a smartphone. The full list of what's included can be found here on their Amenities page.
Pricing for 1- & 2-Bedroom Apartments
There are 78 apartments available at The Lofts at Beacon Falls. The community of already-established residents is waiting to grow. Monthly rental prices range from $1,800 to $2,700, with spaces ranging from 800 to 1,400 square feet. Some apartments boast an office, a feature that has attracted people who work from home as well as commuters who want to set up a workspace in their home.
About the Developer, James M. Bello
James founded James M. Bello and Associates, his family-run business, in 1985. In the decades since, he has employed several hundred subcontractors to design and build homes, renovations, and light commercial projects. A native of Brooklyn, James and his wife have lived in Dutchess County for the last 18 years, and currently reside in Hopewell Junction. Says James: "We noticed a big change in Beacon and we wanted to be part of it. We want to offer value to some of the people who live in Beacon, or are moving here."
Looking to Move? View an Apartment
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT Dorothy Bizzoco Call: (845) 765-8044 Email: Dorothy@loftsatbeaconfalls.com
You can view the apartments any time, just contact Dorothy Bizzoco, who would love to show you around. Who knows, maybe you'll be moved in in time for their Christmas Party this December. Bring the eggnog from your kitchen down to the party!
Publisher's Note: This has article has been produced as Branded Content, and was written in partnership as an advertisement for The Lofts At Beacon Falls. It is through sponsorships like this one that A Little Beacon Blog can continue to bring you coverage of Beacon and beyond. Please see our Editorial Policy for more information. Thank you for supporting businesses who support us!
This article was written and prepared by Diane Lapis, Trustee of the Beacon Historical Society.
The hand-written signature discovered on a section of window molding in the Telephone Building tells two stories: one of the man who signed it, and the other of the woman who saved it.
Deborah Bigelow was established in the business of conserving antique furniture and decorative arts when she purchased Beacon’s original Telephone Building in 1992. Historic building restoration calls upon the talents of many artisans. Deborah’s passion for fine craftsmanship, as well as her conservation skills, are on view in the impeccable adaptive reuse of this early 20th-century building.
The First Telephone Service in Beacon Conducted from The Telephone Building, 291 Main Street
The Telephone Building, 291 Main Street, circa 2017.
An original telephone in the Hudson Valley with the familiar 914-831 digits. Photo Credit: Beacon Historical Society
Travel back in time to 1880 when telephone service first arrived in the twin villages of Fishkill Landing and Matteawan (now Beacon). According to the Beacon Historical Society, telephone service started with 37 subscribers who had devices connected to an exchange. As the two villages grew, so did the need for additional access to telephone service. The Hudson River Telephone Company provided the technology, and moved into its new quarters at 291 Main Street in 1907.
It had taken two years to modernize the lines, with over 15 miles of cable and a million feet of wire strung between Fishkill and Beacon. Newly designed phones replaced the old ones, and huge storage batteries, charged by an electric generator in the basement, powered the system. Telephone operators ran a switchboard, connecting calls when a subscriber lifted the receiver off the hook. The first floor of the building had special booths for transient users of the service – a precursor to the modern-day telephone booth.
Beacon's Telephone Building, as replicated on a postcard, circa 1910. Photo Credit: Beacon Historical Society
Photo Credit: Beacon Historical Society
Not one Telephone Building, But three Sister Buildings
Completed at a cost of $18,000, the modified Italianate masonry structure - faced in brick and trimmed with limestone, bluestone, slate and tin - was considered an important civic building of its day. Campbell & Dempsey, and A. E. Dederick, contractors and builders from Kingston, built both the Beacon structure and a similar one on Brown Street in Peekskill, NY, in 1907. They knew what they were doing: Two years prior, the team had built a larger building on Broadway in Kingston, NY.
All three buildings share common elements, but it was A. E. Dederick’s signature on a section of window molding, found while renovating the bathroom in the Beacon building’s basement, that linked together the construction of the three sister buildings. The Kingston Daily Freeman newspaper reported on the construction of these early communication exchanges by this crew.
Today, only the Beacon building is a thriving concern: The Peekskill office was demolished in 1952, while the Kingston office is used as a storage facility for Verizon.
While the Peekskill and Kingston offices featured the title “TELEPHONE BUILDING” engraved in limestone above the door, the Beacon office’s imposing Roman letters are today made of cast iron, assembled with pins on a 10-foot-long cast iron plaque set in the Main Street cornice. According to Beacon architect Aryeh Siegel, the brick and limestone columns are unique for a Main Street façade, signifying the importance of this civic building. Siegel’s comment directs a passerby's attention to the limestone capitals atop the brick columns and the keystones above the windows and front door, along with the elaborate tin cornice featured along the roofline - all hallmarks of the building’s classical influences.
Ownership History of The Telephone Building
The Telephone Building served the Beacon community for almost 60 years before it was sold to James Letterio, CPA, who operated his accounting business from the location for decades. When Deborah Bigelow purchased it, the building had been in use for roughly 85 years. While the original front doors were gone, the rest of the original work remained intact, though buried under layers of flaking paint, a drop ceiling and linoleum flooring. Prior to renovation, the entire building was featured in a B-rated film called “Super Troopers.” With the building transformed into a police station, the film’s art director judged the old battery room’s flaking paint perfect for some of the scenes. He noted that the “look” of the room was almost impossible to fake.
Restoration of the Telephone Building Since 2003
Since 2003, Deborah has been on a mission to restore the architectural beauty of the building by recovering and saving original material wherever possible. For example, the original oak windows are preserved with their weights, pulleys, and slate sills intact. The building displays other beautiful features such as intricate iron grillwork, elegant cast-iron radiators and staircase, floating maple floors, and brick-lined arched doorways. When Deborah and her crew sandblasted the interior brick, she discovered that the brick came from Dutchess Junction’s own Budd Brick Company (1888-1910). Today, she replaces missing mortar with a version that has been color-matched by Package Pavement in Stormville, NY.
Photo Credit: Beacon Historical Society
The cornice was painted with a sand-filled paint to look like the limestone foundation below and was constructed of galvanized tin fascia and dentils nailed into the brick wall. Paint samples analyzed by the Williamstown Art Conservation Center identified the original materials and colors used in 1907, and this information guided Deborah’s choices during restoration. The icing on the “cornice cake” came when she discovered fragments of original, 24-karat gold leaf on the TELEPHONE BUILDING letters that had eluded sample analysis. A master gilder, Deborah replaced the gold leaf last summer.
Beacon's Telephone Building Today, Circa 2017
Deborah enjoys sharing the beauty of the Telephone Building and its history with her tenants - many of whose 21st-century businesses fittingly involve communication and public service. Among her tenants, Beahive and A Little Beacon Blog occupy the first floor. The second floor includes individual Beahive office spaces, apportioned by shoji screens to provide privacy without loss of light. Deborah’s own business, Gilded Twig, shares the lower-level suite of offices with financial advisor Aaron Verdile.
Now that Beacon is fast-growing and changing, the Telephone Building stands like a stalwart sentinel guarding the past as well as embracing the future. Deborah’s notes and photographic documentation of the building before and after renovation inform its history. Her research will remain part of the building’s, as well as the city’s, historic record.
Live Presentation of the Telephone Building with the Beacon Historical Society
Deborah Bigelow, art conservator, master gilder, and owner of Beacon’s original Telephone Building will talk about her renovation of the building since purchasing it in 1992. Ms. Bigelow will show before and after photographs, artifacts found during its renovation, and offer a glimpse of preservation procedures and the art of gilding. BHS Trustee Diane Lapis will discuss the 1907 building’s architecture and its place in the city’s history. The presentation will take place on Tuesday, November 28, at 7 pm at the Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St. in Beacon.
Deborah Bigelow up on the boom in 2017, completing her restoration of the cornice of the Telephone Building at 291 Main Street. Photo Credit: Beacon Historical Society
Making their return to A Little Beacon Space on Thanksgiving Weekend will be the wonderful folks at 50Roots.com for their Second Annual Pop-Up Shop! Watch for the sidewalk sign to be out, and then come on in! Here's what the weekend will look like:
Friday: OPEN! 1 pm(ish) to 6 pm Saturday: 11 am to 8 pm Music by Rich Michos and a Complimentary Happy Hour! Sunday: Noon to 5 pm
Normally, the collection from 50Roots.com is only available online, as the digital retailer (wife-husband team Christa Gray Page and Patrick Page) is based out of Newburgh, NY. "Like a lot of Americans," says Christa, "we believe in supporting our economy, and we appreciate the designers and businesses that put their hearts into every product that they create."
This weekend only, you can interact with everyone shopping the pop-up. You never know what will happen in a pop-up experience. Remember last year when 50Roots did the Mannequin Challenge? Watch the video below to see how everyone stood still in fun poses (like mid-dancing). Have fun as you shop all of Main Street!
A LITTLE OF WHAT YOU'LL FIND IN THE 50ROOTS POP-UP SHOP
TRIXIE & MILO COCKTAIL SHAKER Says Patrick: "Alcohol is a misunderstood vitamin. It’s vitamin A, isn’t it?" Better not take the malnourishment risk. Enjoy your favorite beverage with this 1950s-style cocktail shaker.
GREEN TREE JEWELRY STEAMPUNK ROCKER THROW SWITCH The Frankenstein Light Switch cover goes over any standard and medium size residential single rocker light switch and installs over the existing plastic cover using the existing screws to fasten to the wall (in some cases longer screws may be required; for these cases 50Roots has supplied two extra, longer screws)
BOARDING PASS YOU EARNED IT BOTTLE OPENER The You Earned It bottle opener is made in the USA of solid brass. It is sand-casted, tumbled, polished and hand finished making it the smoothest bottle opener ever used. Says Christa, of all the praise: "That’s not just the post-work beer talking."
LOVE THY BEAST CANVAS PET TOTE Carry your dog around in style! This utilitarian tote is made with 18-ounce weight double layer of cotton duck canvas and is double topstitched for extra durability. There is a comfortable scoop for your woof's head and has two outside pockets in the front for you. The inside features a collar-to-leash attachment with solid brass hardware and a removable sturdy, bonded leather foot pad.
BOARDING PASS LEGO CUFFLINKS Why not have a reminder of being a kid when you’re climbing your way up the corporate ladder? Repurposed and recycled lost and forgotten pieces of memorabilia are converted into Lego Cufflinks. Hand-crafted using real Legos, the tiles are secured with super strong epoxy to silver plated bezel cufflink posts.
BOARDING PASS WHISKEY AND HOW TO ENJOY IT GIFT SET This gift box is designed to provide an introduction to this fine spirit, and features two hefty eight-ounce whisk(e)y tumblers, two premium leather coasters, and a guide book written and edited by the gents of Boarding Pass. The booklet is a highly informative guide to understanding whisk(e)y, how it’s crafted, and most importantly, how to enjoy it with friends.
BOARDING PASS WORK HARD/PLAY HARD DUFFEL Made from 18-ounce duck canvas, 1000-denier nylon on the exterior and 4420-denier nylon on the interior, this duffel offers durable, water-repellent quality that looks as good as it protects. It’s the perfect size for a weekend getaway or carrying your gear to the gym.
FABRIC HORSE EVERYDAY TOTE in EVERGREEN Says Christa: "Possibly our favorite bag to date from our dear friends at Fabric Horse." This bag fits in your bicycle basket and is shaped to hold a 13" laptop. Water-resistant, and made from waxed canvas and factory rejected seatbelt webbing.
KIT-CAT CLOCK This clock was so popular last year, it sold out! So 50Roots brought it back. Check out the Scarlet Limited Edition Kit-Cat Clock. Add some pop to your home or office. Perfect for the holidays and every day!
This weekend, let the entire Shopping Guide and Restaurant Guide be your road maps to entertainment. Whether you need to eat clean (with a little bit of dirty) at Stock Up or Meyer's Olde Dutch, or go gluten-free at Ella's Bellas (even Brother's Trattoria has a gluten-free pizza), the Things To Do In Beacon Guides are at your fingertips in our mobile-friendly design.
Hunting and Gathering via our Guides isn't just for food; it's also for things you need, want, covet. That's the fun of shopping Beacon. And it's all here. Got a style itch? Main Street will scratch it. Need to glam up your eyelashes? Society of Lash is the lash bar you can walk to near Beacon Pantry. Need a brow wax? The Blushery is where to go across from the Dummy Light. Need makeup? The Blushery has that too, but Beacon Natural Market carries incredible brands that are in line with their principles to look great and feel great from the inside out. Need pretty undies? The Bra Fit Expert in the back of Echo is the secret place everyone heads to for so many frilly styles.
Outdoorsy guys (and gals), you know where to get your fix - Mountain Tops. The source of everything outdoors that you didn't know you needed, and didn't know existed. Shop Reservoir and Echo both have rugged styles for men, in shirts, boots, gloves, leather - everything a guy could want. Speaking of leather, check the duffel bags at Bellus on Main. Speaking of Bellus, there is also Nella Bellas Boutique next the Inn & Spa at Beacon (spa services available with discounts to locals) that sells affordable bling and dresses.
And the Pop-Ups! One of Beacon's original Pop-Up Shops (see our Guide here), inside of Sacred Space (formerly perma-popup Colorant, which has moved across the street) is back and has re-opened the space to a rotating display of artisans called Create Space.
All of the awesome cannot be contained in these paragraphs. You must go out and walk/drive/bike/park. See below for the goings-ons and ideas (and click here for where to park for free that doesn't involve parallel parking).
Tell Your Friends:
Anything they need to know about Beacon, like where to shop, eat or take a class of any kind, can all be found in A Little Beacon's Guides:
50roots.com Pop-Up Shop Day: Friday to Sunday, November 24-26, 2017 Time: Friday, 1 to 6 pm; Saturday, 11 am to 8 pm (music and complimentary happy hour!); Sunday, noon to 5 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
The Craft Boutique Day: Saturday and Sunday, November 25-26, 2017 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: Van Wyck Homestead Museum, 504 Route 9, Fishkill, NY Information >
Hudson Valley Farm & Flea Day: Saturday, November 25, 2017 Time: 10 am to 5 pm Location: Motorcyclepedia Museum, 250 Lake St., Newburgh, NY Information >
Presentation - History of the Telephone Building Day: Tuesday, November 28, 2017 Time: 7 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Plan ahead, check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
Financial Management 101 for Small Business Day: Wednesday, November 29, 2017 Time: 5:30 to 7:30 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
The Vault
446 Main Street
Need a shopping break? Swing by the Vault for a refreshing local draft! The Newburgh Brown Ale verges on black, but it's surprisingly light and pleasantly drinkable with a malty sweetness and gentle hints of chocolate and toffee. At 4.2% ABV, you can easily continue to shop post-pint.
Where is The Vault? Near Beacon Bath & Bubble.
Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
Bellus on Main
181 Main Street BLACK FRIDAY SALES:
Everything in the store is on sale! Yes, that even includes 25% off these 100% wool Portuguese blankets, Mantecas by Burel Factory, traditionally made on old looms. Awesome Alert: This is a store that you must walk into slowly, because there are so many high-end treasures you won't want to miss. From hammered jewelry to the leather duffel bags that will last decades. The shop's owners are happy to tell you where each item came from, brimming with pride for the highly cultivated collection on the shelves. Where is Bellus? Next door to Luxe Optique.
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street
Buying designer glasses may be a new concept for some people, despite their having the same price point as traditional, name-brand glasses. So do your loved one a favor, and buy them a gift certificate to any frame at Luxe Optique, then join them in the shopping experience as they find a frame that fits their personality, and ultimately changes the way they feel about glasses. Luxe Optique serves kids, too! Also available: eye exams, performed in the store, by opticians who are obsessed with eye health. BLACK FRIDAY SALES: Alain Mikli and Oliver Peoples: $100 off regular frames, $125 off sunglasses Oakley: 30% off
Additional sales on ic! berlin and J.F. Rey. Where is Luxe Optique? Across the block from Beacon Bread Company.
BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main, by the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the walkway up to Main Street!
Style Storehouse
484 Main Street
Keep warm and cozy with these fun winter hats by Free People. So cute, and so much more in the store. See their photo gallery in our Shopping Guide for even more styles. BLACK FRIDAY SALES: 11 am to 2 pm: Get 20% off your purchase 2 pm to 7 pm: Get a $10 gift card when you spend $100 (need a pair of boots? Pick those up, then spend on some earrings) SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY SALES: Saturday only! 11 am to 2 pm: BOGO!!!!
Buy one item and get an additional item at 30% off (discounted item at lesser value) 2 pm to 7 pm:25% off your purchase!!! Style Storehouse will have mimosas and othertreats throughout the day, as well as complimentary gift wrapping!
Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle.
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main, Retail #3
Delight your eyes in Lambs Hill's new winter window! So many shops are setting the mood with sparkly windows, and this is a great one! Gaze at it, especially at night. SALE ALERT: Accessories are 50% off when purchased the same day as a gown - like the beautiful belt pictured here.
Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the Dummy Light.
Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! Bellus on Main, Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse.
Rhinebeck Bank
Savings accounts are a great plan for your holiday gift-giving! For every dollar spent, match it with a percentage put into your own savings account, CD, 529, IRA, or other savings tools. Always run ideas past your accountant or financial planner first, but do talk to Rhinebeck Bank about financial products you can use!
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
With holiday spending going on, work on your Preparation Plan to manage money for the future. A Temporary or Permanent Life Insurance policy could be a decision that is right for you. Talk to Antalek & Moore today about options that fit your needs.
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Saturday is Small Business Saturday! Come out all weekend to visit our neighborhood shops! Businesses based in Beacon help make this city thrive, and they need your support to stay here!
BeaconArts SAVE THE DATES!
The annual lighting of the bicycles happens in December. The City of Beacon + BeaconArts Annual Bicycle Tree Lighting is Second Saturday, December 9. The Illumin8 2017: BHA + BeaconArts Bicycle Menorah starts Tuesday, December 12, and has a lighting for eight nights.
One of the best ways to make sure these traditions continue is through a donation to BeaconArts, which you can make right here online.
A Little Beacon Space : 50Roots Pop-Up Shop This Weekend!
50Roots returns to A Little Beacon Space for the weekend! Opening today, they are in the space now, decking the halls and crafting their special setup for you to see all of the super cool Made in America products they have sourced from some of their favorite brands and designers. Watch for the sidewalk sign to go up outside to find out when they open! Then come on in, as they are only here for three days!
Tin Shingle
Have a wonderful weekend! Any independently owned store you support is a win-win for your community! Even if you're in big-box stores this weekend and season, look for independent brands on the shelves, owned by mom and pop businesses, who work really hard to get their products on those shelves as wholesalers. Keep your eyes open for these types of brands!
We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!"
Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too!
Support for this publication comes in part from these businesses. We have highlighted what makes them special on their own dedicated pages. Want your business listed here? See the "Sponsor Spotlight" or "Event Promotion" option in our Advertising Page.
A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
Where is Lambs Hill Bridal? In the renovated factory building near the historic dummy light.
