Affordability In Beacon - Personal/Residential and Businesses Staying In Beacon - Or Leavaing.

UPDATE 2/27/2021: ALBB published an article titled “Rent Increases In Beacon - Sometimes 12% - Driving Beaconites Out Or Stress On How To Stay” - but we linked to this page (also related) by accident! Click here to find that article. Thank you!

With the 2021 Budget discussion hot off the City Council books - which has been voted on to be approved - there was much chatter about the items in - or not in - the budget. Chatter is an understatement. There was a large evening protest about the 2021 budget when the budget first came out because of the unavoidable headline of the Police budget being increased despite wide calls for a decrease in police funding. The increase was a matter or pre-negotiated contracts with the Police Union that does not fit into the bars of this rhyme, as well as the long haul that is union negotiations and the power that unions hold - for better or worse.

While the Police budget was the lead character in the protest, many members of the public during Budget Season (October - December) called into City Council Meetings every other week during Public Comment to voice their concern for the lack of focus on affordable housing in the budget. At the same time, some members of the public were calling for the property tax increase to go to cap, of 2%, in order to fund more community services. However, this would result in more of an increase for all in some form, either directly as a homeowner, or indirectly as a renter if the landlord raises the rent. Ultimately, Mayor Lee Kyriacou maintained his direction of not going to cap, and was supported by City Council in the budget.

Personal/Residential Rent Experiences

People did begin writing into A Little Beacon Blog with the concern of affordable housing and rental as well. One reader, who wanted to remain anonymous because, they stated, “everyone knows someone” in a small town, wanted to share their concern of rising rents. They stated:

“I’ll share my experience about affordable living. I’m originally from (somewhere in the 5 boroughs) but my family lives in (somewhere up north) for the last 20 years and I moved to Beacon about 6 years ago.

“The rent was very affordable. A year ago, my house was sold to an investor and immediately he tired to raise my rent $150 a month after living in the space for 4 years. I very kindly said no way - and then asked him down to the original rent and had to school him that everyone in the building had lived here for years and that our landlord only raised the rent $20 years for cost of living.

“Needless to say, 2 tenants moved out because of that and of course people from Manhattan moved in who paid $1,600 instead of the going $1,300/$1,400.

“So because of the stay at home work order, you have NYC salaries coming in, drawing up every price while the Hudson Valley local residents stay within their former means as prices are driven up on real estate and other goods. It’s a huge shifting around.

“I am happy I know how to advocate for myself, and I’m always looking on the bright side. There are some good things to everything.”

This reader is not the only one. In A Little Beacon Blog’s immediate sphere, one of our own was threatened by their landlord with a raised rent, all of a sudden. The landlord wanted to sell the house at an inflated price that they were sure would attract New York City folk. This ALBB person left their rental house, and pursued buying a home in Wappingers Falls. After a questionable process, the move ended in success, and they are now proud homeowners in Wappingers, leaving the landlord of their formal rental house a bit surprised. They aren’t the first one with a story like this.

Business Rent Increases

In the business world, there are about 20 business turnovers in Beacon, which A Little Beacon Blog hasn’t been able to blog about yet, despite this chronic turnover starting during the pandemic.

Businesses are usually quiet about how they negotiate with their landlords. The landlords hold power over them, as their landlords hold the keys to their shops. They can pull the lease, and out the shop goes. In fact, simply knowing the going rate for square footage can be difficult to come by, as business owners keep their cards close to the vest.

In terms of how businesses fared during the first shutdown, many of whom continue to suffer from reduced capacity and overall comfort levels of returning to offices, some Beacon landlords gave no concessions during the pandemic. While some businesses were shut, not bringing in any income, some landlords pondered if the renter would stay, and wanted to see financials and projections of shut-down businesses. This was especially true for fitness studios - as the landlords considered keeping the business in the space or not.

Some landlords are out of town people, who we will never meet, while other landlords are locals, including Mayor Lee Kayriakou, who owns several properties in Beacon; Nick Page’s family Hudson Valley Todd, LLC (Nick is a Dutchess County Legislator); the owner(s) of Brothers Trattoria; the owner of Minute Men Construction down on Tioranda; and other longtime Beacon residents who have made property ownership part of their profession.

Landlords, Relationships & Pricing

Many times, the reason a business stays or goes in a space can be directly tied to the relationship between the tenant (business owner) and landlord. Some building owners are compassionate with their tenants, as mine was when I had my office in the Telephone Building at 291 Main Street when it was under the ownership of Deobrah Bigelow, who fully renovated the building and it sold to a new owner - Shady Twal - who was much different.

In Beacon right now, we are seeing many turnovers. We may never know - publicly - the details of why those businesses are leaving. So I will share while I left my place on Main Street. Why I left 291 Main Street when a new building owner came to town. It may shed light on what goes on behind the scenes of why your favorite business leaves their storefront.

Personally - I don’t believe in regulation controlling this. I do believe in math, and relationships. Math means that numbers need to add up. A new building owner does need to earn something profitable to sustain their livelihood and their bills. But the relationship is just as important. And can lose a tenant.

Why ALBB Left The Telephone Building

When the new owner came in - Shady Twal - he showed much interested in my business. At the time, A Little Beacon Blog and Tin Shingle did 2 revenue generating models in that building:

• Hosted Pop-Up Shops

• Hosted Private Meetings

• New: started to host a co-working space. In addition to the original business model that is there - Beahive. I did this in an effort to buy the building and keep us all there in one big co-working family. So many ideas were flying around for any of us to stay there.

When the new building owner, Shady Twal, and I first started talking, he loved my business model. He thrived on the pop-up concept, telling me that “his investors” were old-school, and didn’t understand it, but that he did. He told me that because his investors were so old, they weren’t sure if the concept of pop-up shops were legal in this historic building. However, he said, his people in Chicago were looking into it. By the way, he said he was originally from the Hudson Valley, and had moved back to this area - Wappingers Falls specifically - to get back to family roots.

Shady informed me that while pop-ups might not be legal, his people might be OK with it if I gave them a cut of my business from the event space rental business. I knew that the pop-up shops were legal. My former landlord, Deborah Bigelow, was by the book. Big time. So if she allowed it, it was most likely legal. In due diligence, I called the Building Department. The Building Inspector, David Buckley, told me that the pop-up shops were very much very legal.

To present the rent increase, Shady took me to coffee, and told me that there was a very long line for people who wanted my space. I was paying $25/square foot, but that he was told he could get $75/square foot. He could offer me $35/square foot. Plus, he had big ideas for how he could expand my business with more events. Shady made sure to tell me that if for some reason, I couldn’t get approval on future events for some reason, he and his investors could give me approval, if I gave them a cut of the business. He asked if I understood what he was talking about. I told him I understood very well.

When the lease arrived in my inbox, it included a demand for 20% of my event business. This 20% take also included a percentage of my pop-up shop’s income from their sale. This was a no-go for me. In no way was my landlord qualified to take 20% of my business. Let alone any % of the shops who rented from me. My business model was a flat rate, so that my renters could make as much money as they wanted. They paid me a flat rate, and I did as much promotion as possible to help their chances of a great sales weekend.

Of course, this was a non-negotiable item. When I balked at the item in the lease, Shady tried to backtrack, telling me why this was something I should agree to. I disagreed. He agreed to take it off the table. But by then, all trust was broken. There had been other signs that were glaring red flags, and now they were all flashing and blinking as big as possible. I told him I was out. I gave notice that I would move out by January 31, 2020.

This decision was so hard. I said to myself over and over again: “Just deal with it. Everyone has to deal with sucky landlords.” But, my experience with him on normal days - on weekend days when I was co-hosting events - became painful. He talked to me the entire time of changes he wanted to make. Major security systems he wanted to put in. Locked doors (I had an open-door policy, which is customary in retail pop-ups). He wanted to take ownership of the glass door of my office door - where he would hold 50% of what could be written there. My office windows on Main Street - he wanted ownership of those as well, giving me approval of how I could decorate.

It was too much. I was out. I cried. I sobbed. I was leaving a community space that this person had told me he loved, and wanted to support. But there was no way to nurture it within that environment. The lease also included a Privacy Policy clause, where I could not talk about him or the building or the investors. As a publisher, that was of course impossible. For example: the building had just been tagged in a graffiti artist attack, that damaged many buildings in Beacon. And I wasn’t allowed to talk about it.

I moved out very quickly that month. I painted over my chalk-board editorial calendars on the wall. He told me I didn’t need to, but I insisted. When I brought in professional painters to do it, he demanded to see paperwork and insurance from them. Done and delivered. I did not want to leave one ounce of my vision behind.

All cleared out, I arrived on the final day to show him that everything was neat and clean, ready for the security deposit to be returned to me in full. He was so nice that day, saying that everything was 100% great. Until the time came for the security deposit. His attorney, Patrick from Sobo and Sobo, had sent me a multi-page contract that was mainly comprised of a silence-clause, telling me I could not speak of Shady Twal, or the Telephone Building, or any investor or anyone involved at any time.

Of course there was no way I was going to sign that. That day, while I was closing out my clean office, Shady casually told me I could talk to his attorney about the security deposit. I told him that I had already, and that I wasn’t signing a privacy clause, and to send me a check to my new PO Box. Shady got angry, and told me that I knew everything about him, why wouldn’t I sign this. He then said that there wasn’t any money in his building account, based on how he bought the building.

Fortunately, a woman who he introduced as his business partner, Crystal, who it turns out is a realtor, and who now has an office in the Telephone Building, ominously stated: “There is money in an accountant at Sobo and Sobo,” which was the attorney of the building and of Shady.

Later that afternoon, I emailed the attorney, Patrick, letting him know I had the good fortune of meeting Crystal, after Shady told me there was no money in the account, but that Crystal kindly told me that there was, and to please send the check to my brand new PO Box in the Beacon Post Office.

I tell you this story because one never knows what happens between the lines of a business transaction, or of a business moving out.

What follows this article is a series of articles of the businesses that have left and opened. We wish all of these businesses the best: those who have opened here - in brand new locations - or who moved down the road to occupy a newly empty space - and to those who closed up shop and are trying to do it differently, or maybe here again.

TakeOut, Beautiful Candles, More | Retail Therapy Guide 12/11/2020

In a throwback to the Bicycle Menorah, in the olden days of when sculptor Ed Benavente designed and built what became Beacon's annual nightly menorah lighting, organized by Beacon Arts, Beacon Hebrew Alliance, and the City of Beacon...Happy Hanukkah! This photo was taken in 2017, on the 7th night when the lighting was dedicated to Activists. The lights represent "a bright light into the darkness." In New York City, Governor Cuomo has ended indoor dining for now, encouraging outdoor and takeout. Other parts of New York, including Beacon, are still able to offer some capacity of indoor dining. However, ordering takeout is crucial to these restaurants. Quinn's, for instance, announced this week that they are doing takeout only. PRO TIP: If a restaurant does takeout, but does not deliver, tell your friends to keep you on speed-text if they are ever ordering. This way, you can also call in an order, pay for it, and your friend can do a group pickup for all of you. That's what we're going to do for Quinn's. We are putting our neighbors on high-alert, that if they place an order, tell us! Because we will piggy-back on that pickup. Shout-out to Vogel Pharmacy, who despite moving out of Beacon when their building on Main Street went up for sale (now is home to graphic design agency Beacon Digital, next door to Homespun) still reaches Beaconites by delivering to homes. They delivered before the pandemic, and continue to do so. With extra love and a personal note. Vogel's new home on 9D, near the Dollar Store, has plenty of parking, and they will even deliver to your car if you have little kids in the car. LATEST NUMBERS: Beacon has 41 active COVID cases as of today. That number is not going down. East Fishkill has 133 and Poughkeepsie has 90, with Poughkeepsie City at 102. There are 390 cases awaiting address confirmation. ALBB is looking into what that means.     THE SECOND SATURDAY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Catherine Sweet    GET THE FULL SECOND SATURDAY ART GUIDE THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Marilyn Perez and Katie Hellmuth Martin Illuminance - A Fundraising Concert by The Daisy Jopling Band Days: Friday-Sunday, December 11-13, 2020 Time: 8pm (Fri), 10pm (Sat), 2pm (Sun) Location: Zoom From the organizers: "Benefiting The Bannerman Caste Trust & The Daisy Jopling Music Mentorship Foundation. The film will be streamed as YouTube Premieres, and we are asking you all to kindly donate on our website so we can create more magic in 2021. All donations will be split 50-50 between the Bannerman Castle Trust and the Daisy Jopling Music Mentorship Foundation." Sign up for Zoom link half an hour before each streaming, and directly afterwards: https://form.jotform.com/203426577133050   Danskammer: Isn't It Worth Getting Right? Online Briefing Day: Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Time: 5:30-6:30pm Location: Online - Zoom From the organizers: "Presented by Scenic Hudson, when there’s an alternative that would offer lasting economic benefits and pose no threat to your family’s health, it makes even less sense to build a polluting, gas-fired power plant on the Town of Newburgh's waterfront. Hear about a concept for the site that would create jobs, lower taxes and support New York’s clean energy future. The experts in energy project finance and landscape architecture who developed it will explain its positive, long-term impacts to your community." Register Here > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week! Sallyeander Factory Pop-Up Day: Friday & Saturday, December 11th and 12th, 2020 Time: 10am-3pm Location: 18 W. Main Street #6, Beacon, NY Swing on by the SallyeAnder Workshop Friday or Saturday to shop their complete line of handmade, all-natural soaps, balms and more!  Mask required for entry. Four (4) customers at a time. Information > Howland Cultural Center Holiday Small Gift Show Day: Friday to Monday, November 21 through December 23, 2020 Time: 1-5pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St, Beacon, NY Shop Local and celebrate handmade local artists every Friday through Sunday and the Tuesday and Wednesday before Christmas Eve - December 23rd. Information >         EAT CHURCH 3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY Find Eat Church back at Marbled on Route 9 in Cold Spring Friday & Saturday, December 11th and 12th with their Masa Mission Revue 🌮. Follow them on Instagram @eatchurch. PS: Sometimes they have been popping up in Kingston! Watch their Instagram for announcements. Days: Friday & Saturday 4-8pm View all dishes and full menu at eatchurch.com Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor!     MEYERS OLDE DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY New sandwich alert at @meyersoldedutchbeacon! Butter chicken! - south Asian spice rubbed grilled chicken with their take on a tikka masala (or butter chicken) sauce, pickled onions, cucumbers and feta. This sandwich is bold and spicy!   Click here to place your order online! Delivery is possible! More > Meyers Olde Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY and the Cafe at the Dia : Beacon Doesn't this look delish? It's almost too pretty to eat....almost! You can't get let a good cheesecake sit pretty for TOO long! Homespun continues to churn out the goods! HOT TIP: Buying wine and beer from Homespun has helped their business very much. Stock up this weekend! View Menu > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor!    HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY There may be some colder and wetter days on their way so we're digging this combination of @mizhattiesbbq gumbo (which we hear is a secret recipe) and a glass of chianti. Because it's 2020 and there's no rule saying we can't have the two together (yet), so eat/drink up and enjoy! Information > Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY Renovations are complete and holiday decorations are up at Baja 328!  Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor!   LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon Inside of Lewis & Pine are a limited-edition collection of wooden wick candles, which are in handmade concrete vessels with gold, rose gold or silver foil. The vessels are meant to be reused as planters once the candle is gone (visit one of Beacon's many floral shops for plants that fit), which is great for sustainability! This weekend Lewis & Pine will also have their classic Translation Collection candles back in stock. We have on the down-low that maker Yali poured (very) small batches of all 5 of her fragrances, so there aren’t many of each available Shop Now > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! Live Light Travel Often (LLTO) 464 Main Street, Beacon Not gona lie...we have admired this object for a year now, and only recently learned it was a decanter and glass! Watch this video in ALBB's stories in our Sponsors Highlights for how Tamara removes the glass from the top, so that the decanter can pour wine. Or water. Perfect for making your nightstand fancy for a glass of water. A great gift idea for $75. See it in person, or Shop Now > LLTO is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! PTACEK Home 464 Main Street, Beacon PTACEK Home and LLTO go very well together. Pictured here is shelving designed and built by PTACEK Home that would look great in the bathroom, or for exposed shelving in the kitchen. The exposed wood look is signature for PTACEK, as the designer, Tom, works with reclaimed wood. See this in person in the perma-popup that is PTACEK Home and LLTO near Beacon Realty and Beacon Bagel Shoppe. Shop Now > BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon Time or organize that shed! Or garage. Or closet! You know that stuff is spilling out of it when you open the door! Take yourself to Brett's, where you'll find these organization accessories for hanging tools, like brooms, mops, dust wands, etc. Need to know how to hang it? No problem. The experienced staff can walk you through, and even point you to the right hardware. ALBB knows first hand. We did this when replacing our own sink! Bitsy and Sean are big helps. Information > Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon What's on your wish list this year? We're coveting eyewear chains, handbags and frames from @emmanuellekhanh⁠. ⁠Emmanuelle Kanh have been making eyewear since 1969, handcrafted in France and Japan. "At Luxe Optique our main goal (after your vision and the health of your eyes of course) is style! Our expert opticians work with you to find the perfect frame to fit your personal style."  Shop Now > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon Available at Binnacle Books is Virginia Hamilton, “The Dark Way: Stories from the Spirit World” illustrated by Lambert Davis. A collection of supernatural folk tales, legends, and myths from cultures around the world, selected and retold by this cherished and celebrated children’s author. With beautiful and eerie illustrations by Lambert Davis.  Surprise your loved one with literature as a unique stocking stuffer.  Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon If these earrings don't say you're ready for a holiday party, we don't know what will! Come grab a pair at La Mére Clothing And Goods. Even better if you're having a Zoom Holiday party, no one needs to see you from the shoulders down anyway! Information > La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! BEBHAKTI YOGA CENTER 89 DeWindt St. Help keep beBhakti Yoga Center alive! If you can, please make a small donation to keep their doors (virtual and physical) open.You can make a donation through Venmo - click here. Please also check out their online store.  They have many on-demand classes, mala beads, clothing, mats and props available for sale. Perfect for holiday gifts!  ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 340 Main Street, Beacon Congratulations to Antalek & Moore who will be receiving the Henry G. Page Business of the Year Award from Abilities First, Inc.  Joins them at their Community Partner's Virtual Breakfast on December 15th starting at 8AM. Read This > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!   TIN SHINGLE Talking about money goes is really important! Just like losing weight or getting regular with a fitness plan, the more you talk about it, the more regular it becomes. The best holiday present you can give yourself is to make dents in your credit cards. You read a lot about spending in this newsletter, but don't feel badly if you keep your wallet close, in order to kick those cards to the curb. Read All About It >   KATIE JAMES, INC. Eggberts Farm Fresh Eggs is preparing for the winter with a new website. Owner Carrie Sabins wants to reach her customers in case there is another shutdown or if her customers need delivery because they need to isolate. Katie James, Inc. a long-time customer of Eggberts Farm Fresh Eggs via the Beacon Farmer's Market. The branding agency is building Eggberts a website in Shopify, for easy pre-orders of eggs and meat, as well as pickup and select delivery options. Do You Need A Website Too? >

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Beacon Opens Applications For $150K In Microenterprise Stabilization Grants To Up To 15 Eligible Businesses In Select Blocks

During the November 2, 2020 City Council Meeting, the Council voted to begin accepting applications from Beacon businesses negatively impacted by the pandemic and who fall within a block zone for a Microenterprise Stabilization Grant. The City of Beacon aims to distribute up to 15 grants of up to $10,000, from a fund source totaling $150,000. A map of eligible business locations can be seen here.

This grant is made available from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant COVID/CARES Act (CDBG-CV) which was provided to Dutchess County’s Urban County CDBG Consortium, who initially released $430,000 in September 2020 for the region. Community Capital of New York will manage the application and distribution process.

During the 10/26/2020 City Council Workshop discussion of this opportunity with Community Capital of New York, City Council did discuss how the considerations would work for grant approvals, and did want some flexibility in the decision-making process.

There are restrictions on the grant, including income limits, business types, and home-based businesses, who are not eligible. One of the goals of the grants, says Beacon’s City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero, “is for the money to be used to keep commercial areas vibrant.”

If a business was located within the designated area and left their physical space to conform to COVID-19 guidelines and is now working from home, an appeal could be considered, Anthony tells A Little Beacon Blog. “If the business was formerly in a commercial building, but workers are now working from home to abide by the COVID guidelines, I would think it could be considered. We would want to know if they had a commercial lease that was still in effect, and if it is their intention to return to that space once we have the all clear. One of the goals is for the money to be used to keep commercial areas vibrant. We would give priority to those businesses that are still out there on Main Street or even require that they are still operating from that space.”

Businesses must show that they are not duplicating federally granted money from the CARES ACT, such as PPP or EIDL or other similar programs. If a business already received a Microenterprise Grant from Dutchess County, they are not automatically declined, but “priority will be given to those businesses who have not received a Dutchess grant,” Anthony tells A Little Beacon Blog. “The funds for both programs are limited and both the City and the County want to make sure that as many businesses as possible get some help.”

For grant considerations and to apply, click here.

Possible COVID-19 Exposure To Beacon's Highway Department - They Are In Quarantine

During the City of Beacon’s City Council Meeting, City Administrator Anthony Ruggiero announced that there had been possible exposure to COVID-19 to Beacon’s Highway Department. “Services will be affected,” he shared. “They will be getting done, but in a limited bases, as they come off of quarantine, which will be some this week, towards Wednesday or Thursday. Again, people really need to take this seriously. We need to follow the guidance, the masks, the distancing. The County conference calls have now started back up as weekly calls, and the Governor is doing his press briefings 3x/ a week now. The numbers are increasing. The hospitalization rates are increasing. This is not going to go any time soon. We still need to be mindful and take the persuasions. We are working with the health department as we always do.”

Beacon City Council Members Share Their Personal Connections To At Least 10 COVID-Positive Friends And 1 Death

During last night’s public City Council Meeting, where City Council Members go around the table (or the Zoom screen at this point) to share their Ward reports, 3 City Council members shared that their friends had contracted COVID-19, and implored for people to continue to act safely. While the number of COVID-19 positive cases in Beacon today hovers in the 30s (it is 38 today, according to the Dashboard), which is relatively low to the higher end it reached in the spring of 127ish, numbers become relative when those numbers become a face, and in this case, families.

Terry Nelson, representing Ward 1, told the public that a friend of his was recently infected with COVID-19, along with his entire family. Terry encouraged people to continue wearing masks and social distancing, and insisted that this pandemic was not a hoax.

Air Nonken Rhodes, representing Ward 2, shared that one of their neighbors tested positive with COVID-19, and did pass away. “I found out that a neighbor of mine just around the corner passed away from COVID this past week. It’s such a sad reminder. I’m so grateful that my family is ok, but just around the corner, another family is not ok.” Air stressed that people continue to wear masks, but not just wear masks, and to stay home. Air encouraged alternate forms of shopping and ordering takeout from restaurants.

Jodi McCredo, representing Ward 3, disclosed that she knew 7 people who were diagnosed in the past week. “The numbers are on the rise. It seems to be everywhere at the moment.”

Anthony Ruggiero, the City Manager who is leaving Beacon for the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral and Community Health to serve as Assistant Commissioner for Administration, which happens in January 2021, stressed that “people really need to take this seriously, with the guidance and the masks…The numbers are increasing; the hospitalization rates are increasing.” He mentioned this as he announced that the Highway Department had possible exposure to the coronavirus and have quarantined.

Local Ohio News

As for local news in Ohio (which is where this blogger is from), patrons went to a popular and very cozy (aka un-ventilated) bar in a small town east of Cleveland during the Thanksgiving weekend. As would happen during any classic Thanksgiving weekend in most small towns across America. Ohio has had a stubborn resistance to containing the virus with rebellions to restaurant closures and social distancing.

According to a person standing in line at a CVS picking up medication, 30 of the patrons came away testing positive with COVID. A few days later, the town endured a large snowfall, being in a snow-belt, causing a loss of power. Many people merged households in order to stay with relatives who had power. Several of those people are now awaiting test results and the elderly without power who went to their children’s homes (or vice versa) are fearful of experiencing symptoms.

Back in Beacon, restaurants and patrons are respecting social distancing and putting out heaters for outside dining.

Staten Island Pub Defiance Ends In Serious Injury For Deputy Sheriff

In Staten Island, the pub owner, Daniel Presti, 34, who is a leader in the “Autonomous Zone” movement, which rejects the closure of restaurants and has lost his liqueur license as a result but serves patrons anyway, allegedly hit a Deputy Sherriff with his car early Sunday morning, according to the Sheriff’s Office, as reported by Gothamist.

After Presti allegedly hit the Deputy Sheriff, "the deputy clung to the hood of the car while Presti kept driving off for 100 yards before the other authorities forced him to stop...The deputy sheriff was injured and taken to Staten Island University Hospital with multiple bone fractures,” according to Gothamist.

According to the report, Presti “faced 10 charges for the incident—including a felony charge of second degree assault causing physical injury to an officer. He was also charged with menacing, reckless driving and endangerment, obstructing governmental administration, fleeing an officer, and resisting arrest, according to court records.”

According to the article, Presti was released without bail, according to the report, and his next court date is January 11th.

If Presti had been Black, it is fair to say, based on numerous online videos of Black men being shot for maybe having a knife near them or not, or maybe having a fake $20 bill on them or not, Presti’s chances of being shot in the back or in the car while driving would be probable. And no bail set might also not be the case.

A Temporary Closing; A Move; Gift Ideas; Great Food | Retail Therapy Guide 12/4/2020

Hop And Shop Beacon, the annual holiday event created in 2018 in effort to show off and support businesses in Beacon, continues today with special deals and offers. Some stores will be open late. When inside of a store, be sure to ask about their deal. PSA For Boutique Shopping Main Street: When you're out boutique shopping, if you pick up an item and think to yourself: "This is too expensive!" there are a couple of things you need to remember that goes into that price (and by the way, most of the stores on Main Street are not too expensive): Experience: You are shopping in an experience. When you walk into a shop or restaurant, the owner has carefully set it up to delight you. If you want to keep them there, for you to walk past most every day because their window is pretty, you need to buy from them. Health Insurance: The shop owner may be paying their employees Health Insurance. If they aren't yet, they may be working their way up. This is a major expense, and by you buying something without huffing about a price, know that you are helping to make that insurance possible. Windows and Siding: Sometimes buildings get vandalized with spray paint. No matter what the message - if you agree with the message or not or are a fan of street graffiti - that business owner or building owner (sometimes the same person) needs to remove the paint, as required by City Zoning Code. Lately, businesses have been catching someone etching wording into their storefront glass. That's a problem, and something the business owner needs to pay for. Give Them Another Try: If you went to a store one time years ago, and did find it too expensive, walk in again. They may have totally changed their price-point. If you went to a restaurant and thought your burger was too small, walk in again. Something may have changed. Be Nice: If you are going to question a price or attempt to hold someone to an expired deal, just know that we're all just trying to get along and have nice experiences with each other. xoxo Ok! And now you're off to the races of shopping and eating! Though if you need a reminder to achieve a $0 credit card balance, we have an article for that too!)   THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Marilyn Perez and Katie Hellmuth Martin Grand Opening: School of Rock Day: Saturday, December 5, 2020 Time: 12-4pm Location: School of Rock Beacon, 344 Main St, Beacon, NY Meet our teachers and support staff. Free lessons and safety first. Contact us to learn more. Information > The Summit: Knowing More Day: Saturday, December 5, 2020 Time: 4-6pm Location: Zoom - http://bit.ly/NACSSummit The Summit brings together members of the Newburgh community for an online, creative gathering. Learn about and discuss the initial findings of the Newburgh Arts & Cultural Study. Your feedback and input will contribute to the final report. The event features and celebrates Newburgh performers, makers, and visual artists. Information > Wickham Is Moving To Newburg - SALE This Weekend Day: Saturday, December 5 - Tuesday December 8, 2020 Time: Appointment Only (do connect! just for COVID precautions) Location: 578 Main Street, Beacon, NY How It Works: In person by appointment through Tues Dec 8 at 578 Main St. Covid precautions in place. Cash, Venmo, Zelle. Email jessica@wickham.com or 917-797-9247 The rumors have been swirling for some time, that Wickham Solid Wood Studio was moving from owner Jessica's longtime studio, that hosted one of the first annual pop-up shops featuring many makers and a bake sale. In an announcement sent today, Jessica wrote: "I'm so excited to announce that after a (very) extended search I have found a new location for Wickham Solid Wood Studio...  we are moving to 20 Chambers Street in Newburgh, NY!  The new space is wonderful and offers many possibilities for evolution and growth.  Newburgh is burgeoning with interesting energy and projects... I couldn't be more excited about the change!" This moving sale is to help fund the move. An Instagram account just for this moving sale has been created. Prepared to be overcome with desire for many of these things... Moving Sale Instagram > Caroling Anytime Christmas caroling may look a little different this season, but the Beacon Performing Arts Center is here to bring you some cheer. "Since in-person holiday caroling cannot happen this year, we gathered BPAC families and made a caroling video with 7 holiday songs for people to enjoy. We are sharing with nursing homes, assisted living communities, etc. and want the community to be able to enjoy some good ol’ Christmas classics!"  You can watch the videos on Google by clicking here. Watch Now > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week! Howland Cultural Center Holiday Small Gift Show Day: Friday to Monday, November 21 through December 23, 2020 Time: 1-5pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St, Beacon, NY Shop Local and celebrate handmade local artists every Friday through Sunday and the Tuesday and Wednesday before Christmas Eve - December 23rd. Information >         DOGWOOD 47 East Main St, Beacon, NY We are sad to hear Dogwood will be temporarily closing for the winter this Sunday, December 6th.  You can see the announcement on their Facebook page and on their Instagram. "If all goes well in these coming months, we plan to reopen in March." they say. You have until Sunday to stop by for a beer which they are selling 1/2 off. Please stop by and have a toast to the future or grab a growler to go. Information > EAT CHURCH 3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY Eat Church is back at Marbled on Route 9 in Cold Spring Friday & Saturday, December 4th and 5th with their Masa Mission Revue (which means tacos!🌮). Follow them on Instagram @eatchurch. Days: Friday & Saturday 4-8pm View all dishes and full menu at eatchurch.com Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor!   MEYERS OLDE DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY Between all the gift shopping & wrapping, we know you probably don’t want to cook... so hop on over to @meyersoldedutchbeacon 's website and get your dinner and cocktails delivered to you! That's right - you see a can of beer in that to-go drink holder! What's better than that!?! Click here to place your order online! More > Meyers Olde Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY and the Cafe at the Dia : Beacon Behold! All the ingredients you need for a Hot Cider Cocktail from @homespunfoods . Hot Cider for here or to go with amazing products from @varnelli1868 @orchardhillny @minardfarms #valdespino #nymaplesyrup They add star anise, ginger, a bit of clove, green cardamom and a cinnamon stick to garnish. HOT TIP: Buying wine and beer from Homespun has helped their business very much. Stock up this weekend! View Menu > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor!    HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY The Roosevelt, located inside of the Hudson Valley Food hall, is one of the swankiest cocktail bars in town. And just for you, they made sure to have food at your fingertips for when you need to nibble. Like Barb's Fry Works. Information > Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY Still thirsty? It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Baja 328! In between all your holiday shopping don’t forget to order a Don Julio margarita with your to go order! Think warm quesadilla with a side of guacamole. ⠀⠀ Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor!   LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon The signature pieces featured here are designed and made by owner Yali, who makes them with Argentium Sterling Silver, which is a premium grade of Sterling Silver that is environmentally friendly because it’s recycled. As an added bonus, it’s tarnish-resistant, so it needs to be cleaned less frequently than regular Sterling Silver. The gold pieces are also made from Argentium Sterling Silver which is then plated with a very thick layer of 18K gold. This process is called “Vermeil” and is the next best thing to solid gold :) HOP + SHOP DEAL: Online and in-store: All Lewis & Pine diffusers and candles buy one get one 50% off! Code: HOPANDSHOP2020 Shop Now > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! Live Light Travel Often (LLTO) 464 Main Street, Beacon LLTO has found the smallest incense sticks ever! The size of matches - they behave like matches! The Hibi Incense Match. Light one, and put it on a stone to let it burn. These hand-crafted incense match sticks are the combination of both trades on Awaji Island, which has produced matches and incense for nearly 150 years. It took years of trial and error to perfect this ingenious strike-able incense. Each fragrance is derived from herbs grown by local farmers. Only $12 (we already checked this off our list). HOP + SHOP DEAL: Shop 11am-8pm + and enjoy 15%-10% off all merchandise! See it in person, or Shop Now > LLTO is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! PTACEK Home 464 Main Street, Beacon The shelving designed by PTACEK Home is identifiable to none other than its designer, Tom Ptacek, based in Garrison. A home builder for many projects, you may have seen his work in people's homes. Now his work can be in yours. Or, if you need more or fewer shelves, that can be arranged. Tom teams with interior designer Tamara of LLTO for this pop-up shop and home projects. Shop Now > BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon Everyone's coming in for...lights and tiny Christmas trees. And this snowman! Brett's is stocked with lights of different colors, and different sizes of faux trees. Perfect for a kid's room for their own tree, or a front porch. Or a hallway! Information > Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon Take a closer look at these Haffmans & Neumeister frames. They are handmade in Germany with a screwless design. Incredibly delicate looking, and lightweight, but very durable, as they are made with titanium. One customer of Luxe Optique was chopping down a tree and got them caught in the branches when it fell. The lenses were scratched, but the frames were unharmed! Shop Now > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon COMMUNITY FRIDGE UPDATE There has been so much support for the community fridge that Binnacle Books have set up in their backyard in collaboration with @beacon4blacklives and @fareground. They decided to offer the option of donating directly to their new Venmo account. The handle is @ binnaclefoodjustice If you donate here, the money will be used in one of a few ways: 1) to cover ~$20 / month to keep the fridge plugged in  2) to keep the fridge stocked and clean 3) to keep the tiny food pantry out front stocked with nonperishables, toiletries, etc Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon Check out La Mére Clothing And Goods in their new digs! Located a few doors down in the previous Echo location. One thing we love about regularly visiting small boutiques is how they are constantly able to bring you new, trendy and fun styles. But that also means our best sellers dhttps://www.instagram.com/lamereclothingandgoods/ don't last long! Don't let your favorites sell out! If you saw it in their Instagram, hit their website in their bio and buy it, then pick it up in store. Information > La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! BEBHAKTI YOGA CENTER 89 DeWindt St. Help keep beBhakti Yoga Center alive! If you can, please make a small donation to keep their doors (virtual and physical) open.You can make a donation through Venmo - click here. Please also check out their online store.  They have many on-demand classes, mala beads, clothing, mats and props available for sale. Perfect for holiday gifts!  ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 340 Main Street, Beacon Antalek & Moore's agent Ed Petruska was quoted in this article about how to best use dividends from Whole Life Insurance policies, and if you have them for kids. As you're looking at your bills this weekend, consider this. Additionally, COVID has impacted people's eligibility for life insurance, and rates. Read This > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!   TIN SHINGLE Tin Shingle's advice to their business community as they market to their newsletter lists is: "Words matter, and saying the right words helps fight denial of actual events." The next time you write a blog post, share on social media, send out a newsletter or podcast, be mindful of the words you choose to define your message. Read All About It >   KATIE JAMES, INC. Katie James, Inc. finished the design of the painter Stanley Lindwasser's website. He did pass away in 2020, and Katie James, Inc. has been working with his manager and wife to feature more of his work on the website, in order to reach the public for private sales or licensing. In making these website design updates, Katie has been making videos of her work under-the-hood of the SquareSpace website at their new Instagram account: @katiejamesdesign. Watch a couple - you might get a fresh idea for your own website! Watch Now >

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Beacon's 3rd Annual Hop And Shop Kicks Off Today!

It’s that time of year again! Beacon’s 3rd Annual Hop and Shop aka festive shopping, services, sales & specials on Main Street! TODAY 12/3 and Friday 12/4. Perfect opportunity to #ShopSmall & #ShopLocal!

Let’s get to the good stuff…

Which Businesses Are Involved?

Lewis & Pine
Kringle’s Christmas House
Blend Smoothie & Salad Bar
Alton Road Pottery
Tito Santana Taqueira
Utensil
Beacon Tintype
Play
Beetle & Fred
Hudson Land Design
Zakka Joy
Beacon Bread Company
Flora Good Times
Lucky Thirty One
Ziatun
LotusWorks
Happy Valley Arcade Bar
The Studio @ Beacon
Last Outpost Store
Binnacle Books
Beacon D'Lites
Vincent’s Eat Paint Love
Beacon Pantry
Beacon Bed & Breakfast
Blackbird Attic
Wonderbar
The Vault Restaurant
Sullivan & Main
NFP: New Form Perspective
Reservoir I Clothing & Home
LLTO / Live Light Travel Often
La Mere
Raven Rose
Vintage Beacon
Hyperbole
Solstad House
Beacon Mercantile
Village Jerk
The Chocolate Studio
The Leaf NY
Berte
Maria Lago Studio 502
Vegetalien
BAU Gallery
The Snooki Shop
Hudson Valley Marshmallow Company
Kaight
Holistic Living with Doctor Dardano
Miss Tea
The Blushery
King & Curated
Beacon Aesthetics
Melzingah Tap House
Urban Links Design
The Roundhouse
Inglenook Marketplace

What Are The Discounts?

Find out HERE at Hop & Shop Beacon.

Turkey On Many Tables - 3 Organizations Came Together To Distribute 100 Turkeys To Families

Thanksgiving 2020 was here all of a sudden, and many people were making their usual rounds to hit the grocery stores, as well as food pantries. In non-pandemic times, soup kitchens tend to cook a meal for a designated group of people, like seniors that the Salvation Army of Beacon usually cooks for, but could not host anyone this year, but still managed to help families get meals for Thanksgiving. They will do so again for Christmas (donations for that effort can be accessed by texting rescuechristmas to 91999, where Captain Leilani Rodríguez-Alarcón, Corps Officer / Pastor is in receipt of the donations, or contact Leilani.Alarcon@use.salvationarmy.org).

At the food pantry at St. Andrews Church, who collects and distributes non-perishable items, an unexpected call came from this united group of 3 organizations to donate 25 turkeys to the regular participants of that church’s pantry. I Am Beacon, Key Food Beacon, and Salem Tabernacle teamed up to raise money and distribute the turkeys to families using their local channels, with a goal of reaching 100 families.

Starting in 2014, I Am Beacon started doing the program called Turkey On Every Table to use their community connections to find those in need, and raise the money to deliver. Large organizations are important, but often local, grass-roots organizations have boots on the ground with friends and relatives getting first-hand information on what people need during any time - pandemic or not.

This year, the three organizations teamed up. Says I Am Beacon’s founder, Reuben Simmons: “We worked in a collaborative effort on raising money for the food asked for on our list, packing the bags, and making the deliveries. Salem Tabernacle scheduled a pick-up at their church.”

Pat Lassiter, longtime Food Pantry Manager for St. Andrews Church that opens its doors to residents of Beacon on Saturday mornings, was pleased when she received a call from Reuben, that the group would be donating 25 turkeys to people who come to get food from St. Andrews Food Pantry that Saturday.

Some members in the group who organized the Turkey on Every Table: I Am Beacon, Key Food Beacon, Salem Tabernacle.
Photo Credit: Key Food Beacon

Says Reuben: “I Am Beacon used their network to identify a couple of outlets to also distribute the program through. We worked with Mrs. Lassiter from St. Andrews pantry located on South Avenue, and Kenya Gadsen to distribute to families through Opens Arms Ministry at the Beacon Recreation Center at 23 West Center’s Food Pantry.” Due to state funding requirements, St. Andrews needs to limit giving to Beaconites only, and the Open Arms Ministry at Beacon Recreation Center is open to anyone, regardless of residency.

After hearing of Pat’s appreciation for the gift of turkeys, Reuben replied: “I am happy to hear it all worked out that day. She has been doing an amazing job for many, many years with so many amazing volunteers.”

How To Get Involved

To get involved with any of these organizations, you can donate to food donations bins periodically at Key Food, and follow along on a more personal level with I Am Beacon’s podcast on Spotify. I Am Beacon will be gearing up for Membership 2021, and will be moving forward to a non-voting membership organization in 2021.

To get familiar with all of the Food Pantries in Beacon and how they work, see A Little Beacon Blog’s Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen Guide. There are volunteer opportunities with several organizations listed there. You can call them directly for inquiries, or see their websites (if they have one) for published volunteer opportunities. Directions on how to donate to them are published in that Guide as well.

Food Pantry & Soup Kitchen Guide For Resources In And Near Beacon Updated For 2021

Updates in the world of Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens are ongoing. The main focus happens at the end of the year, starting at Thanksgiving, but their use happens 365. As do opportunities to donate to them, and changes to how one gets food and hygiene products from them. A Little Beacon Blog has made a big update to our years old Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens Guide, as new people are in place, new organizations have been created, and changes have been made to accommodate the pandemic.

The thing about Food Pantries, is that some of them are really hard to figure out how to donate to, or to use. For instance: finding the correct door of a building to access or drop off food. Knowing what kind of identification to bring - if any. What kind of money to donate - Gift Cards or Checks or Venmo or PayPal?

A Little Beacon Blog has always wanted to make knowing how to access the food and to donate super easy. Years ago we compiled this Food Pantry & Soup Kitchens Guide, which is available to anyone online 24/7.

Sponsorship Opportunity

We are hoping to dedicate an editor to the Food Pantry Guide order to keep it updated more frequently. In order to do so, we need longtime sponsors for that Guide. Sponsorship of this Guide comes in a bundle pack that also sponsors the Beacon City School District Fundraising Opportunity Page (ie. events from PTOs, etc.), and the Kids Sports Page (when there are sports, promotes registration openings, etc.). You would be promoting 3 Guides at once.

Sponsorship is monthly, and 5% of the sales from this sponsorship will be donated to a Food Pantry or Soup Kitchen in the list. Please click here if interested in being a sustaining sponsor of the Food Pantry Guide.

Money Monday: Ways To Spend Money To Save Money During Low Or No Holiday Budget Time (Sponsored Post)

Today is Cyber Monday, and your inbox is lighting up with email after email of cyber deals you could score with your favorite brands now. If you have the budget to spend, YAY! If you have the budget to buy products or supplies for your favorite non-profit, YAY! If you don’t have the budget to spend, and you do have some money somewhere, you may be able to pay that money in a long-term beneficial way, and that is a double-YAY. This article takes a different approach to Cyber Monday, to focus on what you can do during your normal day to make your money work for you, if you do spend it.

Over at Tin Shingle, Mondays usually mean Money Monday. Tin Shingle is an empowerment and education platform for business owners who are learning how to get the word out about their businesses and innitiatives. A good amount of Tin Shingle’s programming is dedicated to money issues, because people usually go into business for financial and creative freedom. Money issues exist both in the personal and business side of things for business owners. This money tip focuses on the personal side.

Here are suggestions you can do on a Money Monday to feel good about money progress. Being in a pandemic is a great way to remind yourself and others around you to be financially responsible. It’s so easy not to be. Most of us are not. Even celebrities! Most people spend all of their money. Here’s how we can take a check on that, and apply what money we do have to forward progress with money health.

Money Monday is a good day to address things like medical bills, car payments, paying invoices, sending invoices, etc. During the pandemic, your holiday gift list and donation list may be stretched or non-existent. Thankfully, some of you still have jobs or other income, and are spending on Main Street and non-profits. YAY.

Here are some tips on what to do to increase your money health overall, which can make you feel great for more days of the year:

• Pay Credit Cards. This is an annoying one, because it always feels like there is no money to pay the credit cards. Vow to not add to them, and pay money toward them. Once you pay money to them, and not add to them, this will feel like money well “spent” (even though you already spent it via the loan that the credit card gave you).

• Don’t Add To The Credit Cards. This is a hard answer to give to a life partner or children who want things for the holidays. If this is your habit each year - adding to the credit cards - break this cycle. Adding to them will not end the cycle of debt. Talking to your kids directly will help their understanding, and may decrease the intensity with which they ask you for things.

• Say “No” To The Credit Card Bonus Point Cash: Credit cards get you to spend on them by dangling 5% discounts on your total. But this only works if you pay that balance in full in a couple days after your purchase. If you wait for months or years, you are paying 29% interest rate additional on your balance (maybe you have a 16% interest rate if you have a great credit). If, after years and years, you are not paying that balance in full in a couple of days, then stop using the card and use your cash, because you are not saving any money and that 5% is just a mirrage.

• Cycle The Credit Cards By Tiny Amounts: If you stopped using a card because of the above reasons, you may get a threatening letter a year later saying: “Hey, you need to use your credit card really soon or we are going to close your account.” This is all part of the game. The game that banks don’t want us to win. But we will win! You want that credit history for a good credit score. Don’t let your account close, do use it a tiny amount (Maybe $5? Or $20?). But be careful. Once you use the card that you have successfully stopped using for a year, it is easy to get sucked back in, by thinking “Oh, I can use this card just a little bit…” Pay that card exactly 100% in a couple of days.

• Look At Your Dividends: If you have dividends from stocks (free money sent to you every now and then from your stocks if your stock issues it) or Whole Life Insurance policies, look at if you want to keep that cash, rather than reinvest it in your Whole Life Policy or stock. Tin Shingle published an article on this today. The article focuses on the benefit of buying Whole Life Insurance for your kids while they are healthy, as it locks in their low rate. This is important for times during pandemics (like right NOW) where if they test positive for COVID-19 and have long-term problems in the recovery, they could be denied coverage, or have a higher rate. Or for yourself, if you don’t have life insurance. This is a time to consider having it. This article explains more.

The best thing you can do during a pandemic is to reclaim your financial health. Even with the lowest budget, and no additional income coming in, choices can be made. At Tin Shingle, business owners try to hustle it up to earn more money and raise their incomes. Always a challenge, but usually a challenge that fuels a small business owner to wake up every day.

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Editorial Note For Sponsorship: Tin Shingle is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, and a sister company of A Little Beacon Blog. Tin Shingle teaches how to pitch the media and work your social media in order to get the word out about your business. This article was developed in partnership with A Little Beacon Blog. To learn about how to develop a paid partnership for an article with A Little Beacon Blog, please see here.

It's Happening - Holidays, Wreaths, The Works. Retail Therapy Guide 11/27/2020

Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and props to those of you who did it for the first time - If you usually travel, and hosted it yourself this year! Word on the street is that kitchen and food stores like Utensil and Key Food were giving out lots of last minute advice. Today is Black Friday, and it's not always about the sales (see Beacon Mercantile's approach below, where she donates a portion of a purchase during the weekend instead of offering a discount). This year, it's about the business - keeping our shops in business because they are people just like you. Running their business is their job. This is a time when Retail Therapy feels as good for you as it does for them. Pays their rent, pays their bills, pays their paychecks. Even if you go to the mall (we are not mall-shamers!) you are keeping someone employed who goes to work there every day or every week, stocking the shelves, answering customer's questions. If you don't have the budget to buy this year - don't you worry! You being you here in Beacon is all that matters. Keep smiling, and keep in touch with your people. Light a candle, and have a relaxing evening. If you are having a hard time, you are not alone. An early tinsel tree triggered a mini-meltdown 2 weeks ago for this blogger, so if you need to identify, you can read this article. And now, on to the Things To Do! THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Marilyn Perez and Katie Hellmuth Martin Grand Opening Holistic Living with Dr. Dardano Day: Friday to Sunday, November 27-29 Time: 11am-7pm (Fri), 10am-6pm (Sat), 11am-6pm (Sun) Location: 520 Main Street, Beacon, NY A uniquely holistic-based approach that fully encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, the Holistic Living Store offers chiropractic, nutrition, reiki, massage therapy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, thermography, cranio sacral therapy, homeopathy, holistic skin care, meditation, infrared therapy, sound therapy, and ionic detoxifying foot bath therapy. 2020 Tree Lighting Goes Virtual Day: Saturday, November 28, 2020 Time: 5pm Location: Online On behalf of our community, the Traditional Tree Lighting Committee volunteers, and the City of Beacon Recreation Department invites you to the 2020 Virtual Tree Lighting. Most years Beacon has an annual lighting at Pohill Park, but this year’s event cannot be held in a traditional sense. Join the City starting Saturday November 28th at 5:00pm for the release of their virtual lighting video. Information > SAVE THE DATE! In addition to any amazing sales you will find on Main Street this weekend (starting today!), Hop & Shop Beacon is a GO for 2020 and will take place this coming Thursday and Friday, December 3-4th.  Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week! Howland Cultural Center Holiday Small Gift Show Day: Friday to Monday, November 21 through December 23, 2020 Time: 1-5pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St, Beacon, NY Shop Local and celebrate handmade local artists every Friday through Sunday and the Tuesday and Wednesday before Christmas Eve - December 23rd. Information > SallyeAnder Small Business Saturday Factory Sale Day: Saturday, November 28, 2020 Time: 10am-3pm Location: SallyeAnder, 18 W Main St, Beacon, NY SallyeAnder is opening their workshop doors for Small Business Saturday! Fill your holiday shopping sacks and pick up a little something for your post-Thanksgiving self-care from 10am-3pm on Saturday, November 28th. DEAL: 15% off on all purchases up to $100 and then 25% off on all purchases $100+. Enter door between Brett's Hardware and Two Way Brewing.  Information > SallyeAnder is an ALBB Sponsor!       EAT CHURCH 3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY Eat Church continues to take their much needed break this weekend. They will be back at Marbled on Route 9 in Cold Spring December 4th and 5th. Stay tuned and keep updated by following them on Instagram @eatchurch. Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor!   MEYERS OLDE DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY New Salad Alert! Check out this roasted local beets from @fieldandlarder with feta, hazelnuts, currants, baby kale and ginger vinaigrette. You can order food online by clicking here, and get it delivered! No delivery is too short or close. Please wear your mask for the delivery person. More > Meyers Olde Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY and the Cafe at the Dia : Beacon Behold! All the ingredients you need for a Hot Cider Cocktail from @homespunfoods . Hot Cider for here or to go with amazing products from @varnelli1868 @orchardhillny @minardfarms #valdespino #nymaplesyrup They add star anise, ginger, a bit of clove, green cardamom and a cinnamon stick to garnish. HOT TIP: Buying wine and beer from Homespun has helped their business very much. Stock up this weekend! View Menu > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor!    HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY It's been getting quite chilly outside so Himalayan Dumpling Soup is on! @momovalley2018 is back open! Stop by today and try this savory dish! (open at 12). Information > Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY Baja 328 invites you to come see Bones playing the guitar and enjoy an ice cold Modelo with some of their amazing Southwest creations: Baja Nachos, Korean BBQ Wings, Empanadas’s and many more delicious choices. Open all weekend and practicing safe distancing protocol. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor!   LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon Lewis + Pine is known for very large, signature styles. However, their collection of small stud earrings cannot go unnoticed. From plain silver hoops in various sizes - large, medium to tiny - there is also this collection of stones in the small settings. Designed for big impact. Do browse the small earrings at Lewis & Pine online if you can't get to the store, which is open Friday-Sunday. Shop Now > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! Live Light Travel Often (LLTO) 464 Main Street, Beacon This soap, carried by LLTO is the most slipperiest slope-y soap you will ever find. Adorable on a dish, the Erode Soap Summit Series becomes one of desire and play, adding a different kind of beauty to the daily ritual of bathing. Each organic soap is poured and cast by hand, so that the organic scents and botanic ingredients are revealed in layers, carefully chosen to blend together. The design’s luscious and unique shape suggests its own obsolescence—the slopes are meant to be rubbed, the ridges meant to be worn off. Made in Oakland, CA. Pink grapefruit essential oil, purifying rose clay, goji berry extract, and clarifying papaya enzymes combine forces to make abrilliant bar soap. The lather is creamy, moisture rich and gentle and the scent is delicately tart and fresh. Vegan, cruelty free and wonderful for all skin types. The soap pictured here, White Grapefruit, is spotted like a dalmatian. See it in person, or Shop Now > LLTO is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! PTACEK Home 464 Main Street, Beacon This little pop-up store by Beacon Realty and Beacon Bagel Shoppe is just waiting for you to discover it. You will see the items on the tables - but know this - the table pictured here could be in your home or office. Yes, PTACEK Home has put some of their pieces into this seasonal pop-up shop for you to discover and buy. Or, custom order your own piece. But taking home this coffee table made of reclaimed wood is easier. Our hunch is, this will be your first piece... Shop Now > BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon THIS JUST IN: Puzzles for your fidgety fingers. Memory Matching. Make A Pie Fractions. Women's Suffrage. Brett just got these on the shelf - and it's a restock. Customers were buying the puzzles and games as they were placed onto the shelves. Give your game-bin a refresh. Do you have many games that are missing pieces or incomplete? Consider discarding or re-purposing them, get a new system for keeping pieces, and add these to your collection. Information > Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon What might be under the tree for you from Luxe Optique? They are holiday ready for you, with a Johnny Cash carol playing in the background as you finish your eye appointment or browse the styles. Like these high-concept Rigards. Or go with something more casual from La Font. Most frames have been handmade for your face. Now, you just need to  get your face to Luxe Opituqe. Shop Now > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you! BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon Available at Binnacle Books - “Feminism for the 99%”  by Cinzia Arruzza, Tithi Bhattacharya, Nancy Fraser. “Unaffordable housing, poverty wages, inadequate healthcare, border policing, climate change—these are not what you ordinarily hear feminists talking about. But aren’t they the biggest issues for the vast majority of women around the globe?  Taking as its inspiration the new wave of feminist militancy that has erupted globally, this manifesto makes a simple but powerful case: feminism shouldn’t start—or stop—with the drive to have women represented at the top of their professions. It must focus on those at the bottom, and fight for the world they deserve. And that means targeting capitalism. Feminism must be anticapitalist, eco-socialist and antiracist.”  Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon Check out La Mére Clothing And Goods Black Friday Deals! Their hours this weekend are:  Friday 11am-7pm Saturday 11am-7pm Sunday 11am-6pm You can also always and keep supporting small, local business -->  shop online! Also PS: They are moving!! Starting Sunday, La Mére will be moving into the former Echo space (honoring and missing that space). Information > La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! BEACON MERCANTILE 493 Main Street Beacon Mercantile is donating 10% of their online sales from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday to Feeding America, who Beacon Mercantile has been working with and donating to during the pandemic. Donation dollars to their organization go a long way ($100 provides 1,000 meals to individuals and families in need) + they have great community outreach. Learn more about Feed America at https://www.feedingamerica.org/ HOWLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY 313 Main St. The Howland Public Library & book drop will be closed Thursday, November 26th and Friday, November 27th. They will reopen on Monday, November 30th. While the library is closed, their digital library is always open at www.beaconlibrary.org. BEBHAKTI YOGA CENTER 89 DeWindt St. Help keep beBhakti Yoga Center alive! If you can, please make a small donation to keep their doors (virtual and physical) open.You can make a donation through Venmo - click here. Please also check out their online store.  They have many on-demand classes, mala beads, clothing, mats and props available for sale. Perfect for holiday gifts!  ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 340 Main Street, Beacon Antalek & Moore is proud to support Rebuilding Together Dutchess County. What started as a simple act of helping neighbors has now turned into serving over 900 homeowners. Learn more about their story from Executive Director Christina Boryk in their November Spotlight. Click here to watch their video. Information > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!   TIN SHINGLE Tin Shingle's advice to their business community as they market to their newsletter lists is: "Words matter, and saying the right words helps fight denial of actual events." The next time you write a blog post, share on social media, send out a newsletter or podcast, be mindful of the words you choose to define your message. Read All About It >   KATIE JAMES, INC. Katie James, Inc. finished the design of the painter Stanley Lindwasser's website. He did pass away in 2020, and Katie James, Inc. has been working with his manager and wife to feature more of his work on the website, in order to reach the public for private sales or licensing. In making these website design updates, Katie has been making videos of her work under-the-hood of the SquareSpace website at their new Instagram account: @katiejamesdesign. Watch a couple - you might get a fresh idea for your own website! Watch Now >

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Making The Magic During The Pandemic - Budget Or Zero Budget - Holiday Season 2020

When my 10-year old daughter brought down the tinsel tree from the attic - two weeks ago, so that puts us in mid-November - I won’t lie to you by sharing that instead of sheer holiday joy, I hyperventilated and cried. It was a Monday morning. We were on a roll with getting dressed, having enough breakfast to satisfy a morning belly during a Remote Morning Meeting for school, and I was methodically making a dent in the 4 baskets of laundry while making my work to-do list.

There is always talk of decorating for Holiday right after Halloween, and I pushed it off, kicked the can down the road, begging them if I could pick up and organize the house and attic enough before the Christmas decorations came down. So when I saw the tinsel, the amount of loss of control of what was about to happen was overwhelming. The Holiday Season is here, and that means many things, but most physically, it means spending money and existing in pure consumerism. Which as a kid is really fun! But as an adult, has formed an emerging outlook. But the season is so beautiful! And it’s fun to give gifts! But you may not have money. Oye, the agonizing toll. I first wrote about this over at the Highlands Current in 2018.

So here’s the deal. Here’s how we can make it through the holiday season during a pandemic, making it a lot of fun, even if you have no budget. And if you do have a budget, yay! If you don’t have a budget, we are going to yay this too!

ALBB As A Marketer

You’re going to see A Little Beacon Blog go bananas on Instagram for shopping. We usually do anyway, but we will during this season too. Keeping in mind that many of you may not be able to spend on anything at all. We are fans of small business and entrepreneurship, so we like to be a part of keeping people in business, which can give them financial and creative freedoms.

Shops On Main Street Need The Sales

At this point in the pandemic, shopping from the stores is a good deed. Where once retail therapy felt good for you, it is more of a mutual feeling than ever. These shops make our walking and driving experience in any town. If you want that experience to stay, then you need to buy something from the store. If you went into a store one time, and had a bad experience, or someone said or did something to make you mad, and you never go back again, you’re just hurting the vibe in which you live. So give them another try.

Wrap What You Recently Purchased

Holiday gifts don’t need to be purchased after Thanksgiving. That is not the rule. The rule is a feeling of giving and appreciation. If you recently bought a couch, or some shoes that you loved because they were on sale 2 months ago, wrap them. Remember what you have and recently invested in. It all counts!

Schedule Purchases After December 25th

You may need things, like fitness clothing. You may want this to be your gift. But, it goes on mega-sale in the big-box stores after December 25th. Like the Annual Sale at Victoria Secret, where their PINK line includes leggings, sweatshirts, etc. If these are the things you are asking for, let your people know, budget the money, and go after December 25th. If you all know this up front, waiting to make this purchase might make this easier.

Gently Push Back On Those Who Insist On Spending

Yes, we at ALBB encourage people to spend (doing so is our job sometimes!). But for those with no budget, not spending is real. One may either not have cash, or might go back into a cycle of debt. And those are not things we want to do. No debt! Try your best (speaking to the choir, here). Visualize a life with budget buckets, and your life with a pile of savings that you can live from long after you stop working. This doesn’t mean not spending. You can spend! The mindset just needs to shift into when we spend.

There may be people in your life who insist on spending on you, or your little ones. If it’s your own shared budget, and you don’t want to perpetuate the cycle of debt, or take from your safety net, keep talking about the progress of your debt diet, and how having a safety net is important. People build safety nets for emergencies, like when there is a pandemic. And there is a pandemic right now!!

People Who Insist On Spending Their Budgets On You Or Your Kids

Long ago, after donating many, many clothes from my kid’s over-stuffed drawers (we had a great hand-me-down source), I asked some gift-givers to not give us clothes, but to contribute to their college funds. When I bought clothes, I bought them from consignment stores or sale racks, and knew exactly what we needed when we needed it. So I didn’t want heaps of outfits. This did not go over well. The retail itch is strong in people, and wanted to be scratched.

Respecting that the retail itch in someone else is something that I cannot control, I try to direct the gifts to be part of the magical flow for my kids.

Talk About Your Debt Diet Or Money Savings and Growth Plans

Talking about savings - and financial planning - is not part of our normal dialogue. It could be. Showing and celebrating when we make dents in our debt can help keep the debt diet on track. Telling your people about how you want to pay off your car or your home or your outstanding bill somewhere will help them respect your wishes, and either direct their gifts there, or help you yourself not spend.

Making The Magic For Little Ones

Honestly, the holiday season is all about warmth, surprises and thoughtfulness. Surprises can come in many forms. Where once I was a hard “No” on the Elf on the Shelf, I came to terms with it because it brings my kids such joy, to wonder about the Elf and what it will do. We have 3 elves now (one for each child). And they even made an accidental appearance in September! Everyone was very confused. But it added to some fun.

Think of little surprises you can do for your little ones, that make them feel magic around them, that don’t cost anything, or are a part of what you need to get your kids anyway (like gloves). Ignore Instagram trends on what other parents are doing, if those overwhelm you. Do what you feel like is fun for your in your house. Use the elf to translate what you need to.

Teaching Your Little Ones To Make Magic - Activate Elf Magic

I’m not comfortable with the concept of lots gifts showing up without a budget. This is so unrealistic for kids to watch this in movies, and sets their expectations for a pile of presents just showing up. That’s a lot of financial pressure on parents! Instead, I share with my kids the concept of them being elves, and going to get things for people. Then put them in a secret place, because (ok, a little bit of magic is happening) the actual elves will do something to make them show up under the tree.

But this way, we all know what is coming.

Feeling “Enough”

When there are so. many. Instagrams and TikToks and commercials around us, suggesting we get this and that (and ALBB is a part of that), practice feeling “enough.” That feeling of calm, and that you have enough. Look at something around you - a piece of furniture, a journal, groceries, the heat coming out of your heater - and remember that it’s amazing. As for your little kids coming up to you wanting more more more, all I can tell you is….show them your bank account LOL.

Start paying them to clean your house so that they have their own budgets, and start buying their own things. I have different jobs with different rates, like sweeping and wiping down the stairs; Windexing the mirrors; spray-mopping the floor. They need to seek approval each time - because sometimes they just did it and it’s not dirty - but this is good training for a business mindset.

When they can or cannot afford something from their own bank account (if that’s their wallet or an actual bank account), they will truly learn the feeling of enough. And you won’t need to say “no” anymore or as much.

Feeling Sheer Holiday Joy - Feel The Love

During this time in the pandemic, we all need to feel happy. We do! There is a lot of sorrow around us. And those of you with budgets, you are wanting to contribute your means to help other people with their means. That is AMAZING.

Feel OK to feel joy. And keep on with being aware of others and what they need, and helping them and you get there.

Happy Holidays. The Holiday season is OPEN.

SCHEDULE: Donations, Pie, A New Pop-Up, and More | The Retail Therapy Guide 11/20/2020

Lots going on this Friday! The sun is shining, and hope is restoring, despite important news on all topics that continues. First of all, there is pie. Readers want to know where to buy pie in Beacon, and we did the research. Turns out, pie order deadlines have passed, though some are going until November 22nd. We have the list for you here! Next, there is COVID. Dutchess County joined with Putnam County and Ulster Counties, and many governors across the country, to ask you not to travel for the holidays. The Mayor of Beacon also issued a robo-call encouraging social distancing. According to data shared by the 3 County Executives in a tri-county Zoom update to the public yesterday (Thursday), the COVID spread is mainly coming from personal spheres of people letting their guard down with neighbors and friends at their homes (and not in businesses or schools), according to county's contact tracing efforts. We have the article for you here with more details. If you feel awkward wearing a mask inside of a friend's house, it's time to push past the weirdness and just wear it when visiting friends - if you must visit. Consider limiting playdates to outside only, and closing your sphere to no kid playdates in homes, no matter if friends are constantly dashing between the same houses. Many are asking where to donate food or money to Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens (hot meals). A Little Beacon Blog keeps a list of resources in Beacon that includes email addresses of coordinators, and direct lines to churches or organizations that you may not have heard of otherwise. We are in the process of updating it, and in fact, are always updating it as new coordinators come on board and opportunities created. At moment, are are getting several updates from Fareground, a deeply resourced group here in Beacon that distributes food and takes donations. Please visit ALBB's Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen Guide when considering where to donate. And reach out and email someone if you don't see a donation link. Thank you! THE RETAIL THERAPY GUIDE Edited and Written By: Marilyn Perez and Katie Hellmuth Martin Community Forum on Policing and Public Safety Day: Saturday, November 21, 2020 Time: 10am Where: Zoom Hosted by Human Relations Commission Chairperson Pastor John Perez & Reverence and Former City Council Member John Rembert. Both forums will be streamed live on YouTube (comments will be turned off). To submit written comments email communityforum@cityofbeacon.org or send to Attn: Mayor Kyriacou, 1 Municipal Plaza, Beacon, NY 12508. Written comments must be received no later than 2 days prior to event. Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87839512945?pwd=VnNSTFl3RFk4cGhHM1ZXN0VjZ0g2Zz09 Information > Rally To End The New Jim Crow From Beacon4Black Lives Day: Saturday, November 21, 2020 Time: 1:30pm Where: Memorial Park From the Organizers: "Decarceration. Human Rights. End the New Jim Crow. Bring Signs. Wear Masks." If you need a refresher on what Jim Crow laws were, in order to learn more about what people mean when they saw "New Jim Crow," they were segregation laws. PBS describes it: "The segregation and disenfranchisement laws known as 'Jim Crow' represented a formal, codified system of racial apartheid that dominated the American South for three quarters of a century beginning in the 1890s. The laws affected almost every aspect of daily life, mandating segregation of schools, parks, libraries, drinking fountains, restrooms, buses, trains, and restaurants. 'Whites Only' and 'Colored' signs were constant reminders of the enforced racial order...It would take several decades of legal action and months of nonviolent direct action before these efforts achieved their intended result." Renegades Holiday Craft Fair Day: Saturday, November 21, 2020 Time: 10am-3pm Location: Dutchess Stadium, 1500 Route 9D, Wappingers Falls, NY The Renegades will be hosting a Holiday Craft Fair at Dutchess Stadium on Saturday, November 21! Get your holiday shopping done early! There will be a wide variety of vendors offering many different crafts & products, food trucks & music! Information > Check our Calendar and Events Guide regularly for upcoming events throughout the week!       EAT CHURCH 3091 U.S. 9, Cold Spring, NY Eat Church is taking a much needed break this weekend and next. They will be back at Marbled on Route 9 in Cold Spring December 4th and 5th. Stay tuned and keep updated by following them on Instagram @eatchurch. Information > Eat Church is an ALBB Sponsor!   MEYERS OLDE DUTCH 184 Main Street, Beacon, NY Tis the season for a tasty Hot Toddy! You can enjoy this tasty beverage with a burger for lunch. Don’t forget you can also get any of drinks to go.  You can order food online by clicking here, and get it delivered! No delivery is too short or close. If you can't get out of the house or apartment, just dial it in and have it delivered! If you are going out, do order this hot drink, as it won't last. More > Meyers Olde Dutch is an ALBB Sponsor! HOMESPUN 232 Main Street, Beacon, NY and the Cafe at the Dia : Beacon Homespun Foods was featured in the Highlands Current! Pictured here are their amazing cooks Fabiola Diego Herrera & Hannah Ashburn, preparing Fabiola’s empanada special. With cold weather on the way, local businesses and their employees are grappling with how to navigate winter during a pandemic. ⁠Joe Robitaille of @homespunfoods is planning to revamp his takeout menu while looking into delivery. They will be making an announcement soon.  HOT TIP: Buying wine and beer from Homespun has helped their business very much. You can't go wrong with any of their bottles, from a Prosecco to a Côtes du Rhône. Stock up this weekend! View Menu > Homespun is an ALBB Sponsor!    HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon, NY Have you tried the French Fries from Barbs Fry Works yet? It is even easier now that online order is available! Go to www.barbsfryworks.com and follow the link! They are also open 12pm-10pm. Fries are warm. Days are cold. Get warm. Information > Hudson Valley Food Hall is an ALBB Sponsor! BAJA 328 328 Main Street, Beacon, NY Tell someone they're "Burritoful" today!  Although @baja328 will not be open for dine-in services late-night due to mandatory restrictions, they are still open for takeout and delivery service. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So, get your burritos, tacos, empanadas, and more! Because you deserve it & are Burritoful yourself! Baja 328 is an ALBB Sponsor!   LEWIS & PINE 133 Main Street, Beacon GIVEAWAY ALERT! Who wants to win a free diffuser? Lewis & Pine just announced on their Instagram (@lewisandpine) their newest fragrance collection.  All you have to do to win is leave a comment in their IG post of the five fragrances made, share which is your favorite? Fjellvant, Hygge, Komorebi, Xia or Xenia? Post your favorite in the comments and tag a friend who would like it for a chance to win a free diffuser.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Tell them now! > Lewis & Pine is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! Live Light Travel Often (LLTO) 464 Main Street, Beacon THEY'RE BACK! LLTO was a victim of the pandemic, opening on Main Street just months before the shutdown happened. They waited it out, and closed soon after. But LLTO is popping up in a new location on Main Street, next to the new Bagel Shoppe! This gives you one more chance to visit their tightly curated collection in person (always available online). Featured this week is the crane grater. An exquisite combination of function and beauty, this grater is designed by Ooya Seisakusho.  Every "tooth" of this palm-sized copper grater is carved out and pointed upwards by craftsmen using the same technique developed in the Edo period. This technique cuts as opposed to crushes like other steel and ceramic graters (aka, is great for grating ginger). If that's not enough, the crane is a symbol of long life and happiness, bringing good luck into the home. No time to get to the store? You can order it online. ⠀ Shop Now > LLTO is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! PTACEK Home 464 Main Street, Beacon THEY'RE BACK! PTACEK Home is back with LLTO sharing the space at 464 Main Street with their custom designed and built wood furniture. But not just any wood. Reclaimed wood always. If you dream of succulent hanging from wooden boxes in your window (or was that our dream?!) then PTACEK is where you want to buy that plant holder from. Shop them for tables, benches, bed frames, store counters, and more. Visit their website, but see the pieces in person in the store! Shop Now > BRETT'S HARDWARE 18 West Main Street, Beacon Check it out! Brett's Hardware has the hand sanitizer you need! In all different shapes & sizes. Get yours now! As one reader, @rexhill said: "That's the good stuff too, not the sticky stinky random kind you might encounter out in the world these days!" Another reader, @britt_vrossie, reminded everyone that Brett's usually has Lysol spray as well. Go get it! PS: Brett's is hiring an Assistant Manager in their New Windsor location! Get details here. Shop Now > Brett's Hardware is a Sponsor, thank you! LUXE OPTIQUE 181-183 Main Street, Beacon Yeah baby, it's sunny! You need sunnies to coordinate with your mask! Luxe Optique has so many styles that can go prescription, or regular. Go in and try some on, and tag us in your pictures that have your friends voting for their favorites. Shop Now > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!     BINNACLE BOOKS 321 Main Street, Beacon Binnacle Books recently celebrated their 5 year anniversary in the Beacon. They could not have reached this milestone without YOU. Thanking their customers and the greater community, they say "We have been deeply moved by the support of our customers and community during this difficult year, both while our doors were closed and since we reopened. We appreciate both your patronage and your understanding as we adapt to this new reality." Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! LA MÉRE CLOTHING AND GOODS 436 Main Street, Beacon La Mére Clothing and Goods has got a big selection of jeans. And not only that - they have the stylists to tell you what to wear with them. Go into La Mére for ideas on tops and dresses you might not have considered for yourself. And rings! Lots of stacking rings. And necklaces. And candles. And a water cookbook. Yes. A recipe book of how to drink water. As you check off your holiday shopping list, remember to support small businesses. By supporting a small business you are supporting a dream, a family and so much more. ⁣ Check out their website and shop online! Information > La Mere is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you! BEACON INSTITUTE FOR RIVERS AND ESTUARIES The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries is now offering programs for homeschool groups at our Water Ecology Center on Dennings Point.  The programs are STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) oriented with a focus on environmental themes. Information >   View more upcoming classes for in the Adult Classes Guide and Kids Classes Guide. ANTALEK & MOORE INSURANCE AGENCY 340 Main Street, Beacon Antalek & Moore is proud to support Rebuilding Together Dutchess County. What started as a simple act of helping neighbors has now turned into serving over 900 homeowners. Learn more about their story from Executive Director Christina Boryk in their November Spotlight. Click here to watch their video. Information > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!   TIN SHINGLE Wondering what the heck happened to your Instagram? You go to check your Comments or Likes, and the button is gone! The Heart/Comment was replaced by a Play button (aka Reels). What's going on? Read All About It >                 KATIE JAMES, INC. The digital branding agency, Katie James, Inc., the creators behind ALBB and Tin Shingle, have a new Instagram account! Once only available in Katie's personal Instagram, now it has its own, proper, business account. Come follow for design tips, behind the scenes, client highlights, and new website launches! Learn More >

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Dutchess County Declares Most COVID Cases Are Coming From Home

Dutchess County joined surrounding counties including Orange County (Newburgh), Putnam County (Cold Spring) and Ulster County to declare that most COVID-19 cases were coming from people’s homes as they get lax in social circles. “Case investigations in each of the counties show that the majority of new positive cases are transmission from family, friends and close acquaintances in casual settings as opposed to public settings such as schools, workplaces, retail or other businesses where prevention mitigation including mask wearing, physical distance and hygiene are strictly adhered to.”

In Beacon as of today, there are 35 cases. Just yesterday, there were 26 cases. There are 95 cases pending address confirmation. See the Dutchess County Dashboard here.

“Already, 4 children who attended that small gathering were COVID-positive, unbeknownst to themselves or their families. Since then, 15 positive cases have been traced back to that casual get-together, impacting a local college, elementary school, middle school and high school, proving the wide impact of “living room spread.””

— Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan

A joint, public call was held today by the three counties to implore citizens to not get casual about COVID-19, and to not get together with family or friends for Thanksgiving. Yesterday, when the joint call was announced, Beacon’s Mayor Lee Kyriacou issued a robo-call, urging people to socially distance.

Governor Cuomo’s nightly message this evening was the same, and bore down on travel, stating: “Travel is a real concern because New York State has one of the lowest infection rates in the country. If people travel here from states with higher infection rates, that poses a great risk.The CDC is strongly urging Americans, as are we, to avoid Thanksgiving travel. Celebrate this American tradition with just your immediate household to help ensure the safety of your loved ones and your community. Love is sometimes doing what's hard and this year, if you love someone, it is smarter and better to stay away. It's tough to hear but it's better to be safe than sorry—and we can still spread thanks without spreading COVID.”

Dutchess County Urges Residents To Not Cross-Mingle With Households

County leaders are urging people to socially distance from each other on days other than Thanksgiving as well. They made a big plea today via telaconference over Zoom. Presenting leaders included:

Dutchess County:

• Marcus Molinaro, County Executive

• Dr. Anil Vaidian, Behavioral & Community Health Commissioner

Orange County:

• Steve Neuhaus, County Executive

• Dr. Irina Gelman, Health Commissioner

Putnam County:

• Tom Feighery, Deputy County Executive

• Dr. Mike Nesheiwat, Health Commissioner

Ulster County:

• Pat Ryan, County Executive

• Dr. Carol Smith, Health Commissioner

County leaders are asking residents “to remain vigilant in the coming weeks and curtail small social gatherings. Such parties or “hangouts,” even among friends and family members, have led to a recent increase in local COVID-19 cases, raising the Mid-Hudson region’s positivity rate, affecting the ability of schools and businesses to remain open and further stressing the region’s healthcare resources.”

Mid-Hudson Region’s Rate Rises To 4.6%, Attributed To Casual Settings

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said in the past week, 2 COVID-19 deaths in his county were residents in their 20s, proving the virus can affect every individual differently, regardless of age or underlying condition, according to the County’s press release.

Putnam County’s Deputy County Executive Tom Feighery noted that Putnam saw a direct correlation between people ‘letting down their guard’ (not following safety measures in casual, social settings) and COVID-19 transmission in the six days following Halloween when positive case doubled in that county.

Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan described a small Halloween party attended by just 3 families in late October. Already, 4 children who attended that small gathering were COVID-positive, unbeknownst to themselves or their families. Since then, 15 positive cases have been traced back to that casual get-together, impacting a local college, elementary school, middle school and high school, proving the wide impact of “living room spread.”

Many Cases Strain Contact Tracing

Contract tracing is key to keeping Beacon schools open. Once a student or staff member is identified as positive, the district staff goes to work immediately to contact trace to see who else may be impacted, and to ask them to quarantine.

“COVID-19 cases stemming from casual gatherings have a ripple effect on counties’ contact-tracing efforts, by creating an increased workload for contact tracers, which slows down the entire tracing process for all infections,” said the Dutchess County press release. “Leaders today asked residents who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 to please reach out to possible contacts so they can get tested and begin the quarantine process.”

“We know that this is a make or break moment for us as a county and a community,” Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan said. “As we see our numbers increase to levels that we have not seen in months, we must remain proactive to blunt a much more significant second wave. We will be doing everything that we can to remind residents to continue to social distance, wear masks, and take all precautions necessary.”

County Executive Molinaro concluded, “We have been battling this pandemic for 8 months, and we don’t want our best efforts to go to waste. COVID-19 remains a deadly disease, and we must not become complacent and casual in our efforts to fight it. Even when you gather among your immediate family, please wear a mask, wash your hands and remain at a safe distance. The pandemic doesn’t let up for the holidays – neither can we.”

County Executive Molinaro’s father did die of COVID-19 early on in the discovery of the pandemic. From a personal perspective, this blogger’s husband’s best friend in Ohio has been doing his best to avoid COVID by not visiting us in NY. Recently, his father passed away, and they had a funeral for family and friends. A family friend attended the funeral, with no symptoms, who was positive, unbeknownst to her. Since then, the best friend tested positive, and was in bed for a week without being able to take calls, and his sister-in-law (his wife’s sister) has gone to the hospital with breathing problems. Others tested positive from the funeral as well.

Where To Buy Thanksgiving Pies Near Beacon!

And just like that, Thanksgiving is one week away! Although it might look a little different this year, the Hudson Valley is filled with the best places to get the most delicious pies. Plus, what a better time than now to shop small & support locals! Right?!

See below for the list of businesses near Beacon that are selling pies! Some places already closed their pre-order window. Pies are going fast! Can ya blame people?

If we missed you, please email teslie@alittlebeaconblog with your hot tip :)

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BEACON

Beacon Bread Company

Beacon, NY

Pre-order until Sunday 11/22!
Email beaconbread@gmail.com for an order form if you can’t make it to the shop!

BJ’s

Beacon, NY

Small Pies
BJ’s does sell pies (apple, cherry, yam, and others) as well as cheese cake. Your best bet is to call or walk in. (845) 831-1221

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Yankee Clipper Diner

Beacon, NY

Pre-order until Sunday 11/22!
You can also place an order for Thanksgiving meals!

More details HERE.

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Beacon Pantry

Beacon, NY

Pre-order until Saturday 11/21!
You can also place an order for Appetizers & Side Dishes!

More details HERE.

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Kitchen And Coffee

Beacon, NY

Pre-order until TONIGHT 11/20 or inquire to see if you can be squeezed in ;)
More details HERE.

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NEWBURGH

Newburgh Flour Shop

Newburgh, NY

Pre-order until Sunday 11/22!
More details HERE.

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WAPPINGERS FALLS

Sweet Bakes Cafe

Wappingers Falls, NY

More details HERE.

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O’ Heavenly Cake

Wappingers Falls, NY

Pre-order until Sunday 11/22!
Message to order or email oheavenlycake@gmail.com

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FISHKILL

The Cakery

Fishkill, NY

Pre-orders extended until TONIGHT 11/19

More details HERE.

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COLDSPRING

Hudson Hil’s

Coldspring, NY

Call 844-265-9471 or email hudsonhils@gmail.com

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Coldspring Coffeehouse

Coldspring, NY

Pre-order until Tuesday 11/24

More details HERE.

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OTHER

Adams Fairacre Farms

Poughkeepsie, Kingston, Newburgh and Wappingers

See Holiday Catering Info HERE.

Key Food Beacon

Key Food does sell pies, and carries different brands from time to time. They have been known to carry Junior’s Cheesecake, so give them a try.

Beacon Natural Market

Frozen pies including apple pie and others!

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ALL DONE OR NOT OFFERING

We called around to some usual suspects, and they either passed their deadline, or aren’t doing it this year. These include:

Fishkill Farms
The Beacon Daily
Homespun Foods