Desperate times called for desperate measures. My daughter had completed a lot of jobs around the house to earn enough money to order two outfits from the Target brand American Girl Doll series, Our Generation. Persistently, she earned the money, researched the outfits, and had us place the order online for curbside pickup at Target. Finally it arrived via email notification, and it was ready for pickup. Trouble is, we weren’t ready to drive up to the store in Poughkeepsie until days later, and that’s when the next email came in on a Sunday: “You missed your pickup window, and your items have been placed back on the shelf, and your order refunded.”
#ParentFail. The Sunday that the refund email came, I got into the car and headed up Route 9, mask and wipes in hand, to go inside of Target to get those outfits back off the shelf. At the time, Target had a corner in the front of the store that contained bags of orders, similar to how they do it at Christmas when orders from other stores get shipped to yours for pickup. This corner has since been replaced with swimwear, but at the time, it’s what a store associate searched through to find the outfits.
The outfits weren’t there, so I went deeper into the store, all the way to the Kid section, to sadly not find those outfits, but did find two others that would work. It was 6pm on a Sunday, and foot traffic in the store was low. Social distancing felt fine. In the name of journalism, I headed back to Target the following Sunday at 2:30pm to test a busier time, days after the May 15th Reopening Day in New York.
Social distancing had gone out the window at Poughkeepsie’s Target. Being used to Beacon’s vibe of politely moving out of the way for each other in the social distance dance, this two-step wasn’t really happening here, yet. There were some COVID-19 changes, however.
Clothing, Beauty and Book Isles Are More Spacious
Target in Poughkeepsie used to have some very cramped clothing isles. So cramped in fact, that a Target shopping cart wouldn’t fit through. Those isles have since been cleared out a bit, and the feeling is more breathable. The Beauty section has been opened up, where once it too had corners so tight, the cart would barely turn the corner. The books, which were crammed into the back of the Electronic section, have been brought out more into the Toy section, so browsing through them is easier and more spacious.
The entire Sports section has been moved and replaced with Pets, yet in the back corner of the store, which is usually reserved for changing seasons (think Back To School, Christmas Decorations, Patio Furniture) also has more room to browse. When asked if these more spacious changes were COVID-19 related, a store associate answered that they were planned in the works the before the pandemic hit, and just happened to be COVID-19 friendly. ALBB has not confirmed with Target Corporate yet to see if this layout change really was a coincidence, but if we get confirmation, this article will be updated.
The main isle of Target is still crowded, with people moving in any direction, not minding how close they are moving past each other. Another citizen shopper reports in to A Little Beacon Blog that at Adams, just down the Route 9 strip, isles have been marked with direction arrows, and the number of people allowed into the store at Adams has been limited.
Masks and Cleaning Inside Of Target
Signs posted at the entrance tell everyone to wear a mask inside of Target. Most everyone had one on, and at one point, an announcement came over the loud-speaker, thanking people for their cooperation in wearing masks, and to continue doing so.
Target associates have been assigned to cleaning surfaces of the drink refrigerators and shopping carts. Meanwhile, up the parking ramp at Best Buy, that retail location remains closed to the public, but with curb-side pickup that has been happening since the shut-down. In-home installations, however, have resumed. For example, if you buy a stove from Best Buy, their team can come in and install it for you.
As of this post (5/19/2020), Starbucks inside of Target remained closed.
Overall, the vibe at Target was crowded. If social distancing is important to you, and you don’t want to leave feeling like you need to take a shower, then you’ll want to go at off-times, like in the morning during a weekday. This writer did take a shower after the afternoon trip on Sunday. There were too many people.
It's Reopening Day today in New York State! That brings mixed feelings for different people, but we know this: you need a face covering when you venture out to that gardening center, golf course (already has been open, sans bathrooms or food), or drive-in movie theater.
And you need more than one face covering. A Little Beacon Blog has started our list of local recommendations - who is sewing and making local. See our Face Mask Gift Guide here.
If you are making and selling dynamite masks, we want to know about it. Please contact us with details on how to purchase. We know that there is an army of Makers who have been strictly making for the front lines. Now that the public is mandated to wear them when 6' social distancing is not possible, we want to help people feel proud and confident in their mask fashion.
BEACON NATURAL MARKET
Beginning Friday May 15, Beacon Natural Market will open their doors to the public with these Safety Guidelines:
-Only Five customers allowed in the store at a time.
-Mask must be worn to enter the store.
-Hand sanitizer will be provided at the front of the store and must be applied upon entering.
-Please observe the six foot distance tapes marked on the floor.
-Additionally, only one customer at a time will be allowed in the bulk section.
- Gloves provided at the station must be used.
Hours are 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday & 10am-5pm Sunday. Curbside pickup and delivery orders will still be available with a processing fee of 5% (Min $5.00 charge) View ordering instructions at www.beaconnaturalmarket.com Information >
EAT CHURCH
Thursday through Sunday you can grab a bite to eat from Eat Church. You can grab their daily special or pick from their menu. Visit their website to view current menu & place your orders for pickup or delivery or call (917) 364-0838. Online ordering is super easy! And the view of the mountain is spectacular.
Eat Church food truck located on the hill at Industrial Arts at 511 Fishkill Avenue. Plenty of parking in the swooping parking lots.
Follow them on Instagram (@eatchurch) for daily specials only available at the truck. Eat Church is a ALBB Sponsor!
BARB'S BUTCHERY
We are absolutely drooling over this bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit sandwich from Barb's Butchery. (Have we mentioned how happy to have you back??) They're also keeping their cases filled with lamb hotdogs, smoked kielbasa, smoked linguica, and a new smoked tomato sausage!
Give them a follow on Instagram @barbsbutchery or on Facebook.
LAST OUTPOST
It's chilly outside, now it's almost 80, back to chilly - we can't keep track! One day we are sipping iced coffee, the next a hot scotch! Get yerself a cup that does both! Stainless steel tumblers available on LastOutpostStore.com (free local delivery with code LOCALDELIVERY). Information >
COLORANT
Check the new naturally-dyed cotton face masks by Colorant. Infused with Indigo & Cutch. Solid & Two-tone available. Made in partnership with @sigunikstudio to support the continuation of mask donations to the frontlines and community organizations in NY's Hudson Valley region. Information >
BINNACLE BOOKS
If you see a book on Binnacle Books's Instagram account that you’d like or if you can think of a book you’d like that they might have, please special order it here. Include your address in the notes! They will find that book for you, invoice you, and then they will bike it over to your home or ship it, depending of course on where you are. View Binnacle Book's Instagram Here > Binnacle Books is a ALBB Sponsor, thank you!
PTACEK HOME
The Spring Sale continues! Your food is local, but your table might not be! Chow down on PTACEK's Chow Table! Order now with curbside pickup or front door delivery. The Chow Table is now 30% off which means now it is $1,330. Visit their website for more information! Shop Now > PTACEK Home is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
Remember this guy? Ryon from Luxe Optique misses you too. Check out this photo shoot he did pre-pandemic. Photographers are looking at ways to safely photograph once again. Luxe Optique is looking to work with new people for photo shoots. "Bringing together talented people from all over the Hudson Valley is one of the reasons we enjoy our photo shoots so much." Let them know if you or someone you know is interested in modeling for them! No prior experience required. Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
CUTE STYLES FOR KIDS
Put the scissors away!! Check out these cute style for the little ones! They are quick and easy. Send a DM to @audrinashair on Instagram for suggestions on styles and products. Let her know A Little Beacon Blog sent you!
BEAUTY TIP
Are you trimming your own bangs? Shaping your own beard? Plucking your own eyebrows? Massaging your own neck? If you miss your stylist for these things, go ahead and send them some cash when you're doing this beauty update to yourself. They will thank you, and it helps them see you on the other side.
Online Philosophers Youth Café via Zoom
Day: Wednesday, May 17, 2020 Time: 4pm Location: Howland Public Library via Zoom
Dan Fisherman will be hosting a Youth Philosophers Cafe for young inquiring minds in grades 6-9. Dan will lead students in in a discussion that explores a philosophical, ethical, or socio-political issue. Information >
Online Socrates Cafe via Zoom
Day: Tuesday, May 19, 2020 Time: 4-5pm Location: Howland Public Library via Zoom
join moderator and Beacon resident, Daniel Fisherman, online on as he leads a Socrates Café program. Email Adult Services Librarian, Alison Herrero, for the invitation link at adults@beaconlibrary.org. Information >
ANTALEK & MOORE
It's Foodie Friday at Antalek and Moore! They really want to know...What did you order tonight? Was it Brothers? Hattie's? Kitchen Sink? Eat Church? MOD's? The Beacon Hotel? The Beacon Daily? OMG, which one!?! Ok, ALBB will go first: Tonight we ordered a pizza from the wood burning oven of Ama. Last weekend Marilyn ordered from the Dutchessbier Cafe in Fishkill. Let Them Know! > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
Are you trying to pitch the media, hoping to get PR about your company? Are you emailing a newspaper, blog or TV station to let them know about something interesting you have done with your business? There is a great way to do this, and an off-putting way to do this. Watch this video tip to learn the difference, and flip the switch on how you are communicating with the media! Watch This >
We got a suggestion in from a reader, who wanted to know how to send A Little Beacon Blog financial support to help us continue to produce. Even just $5. First of all: THANK YOU to that reader for wanting to do this! Support Here >
People Who Have Given Reading your comments of what ALBB means to your life has been humbling and keeps us going. Thank you. See Who Supported >
Due to COVID-19 and state regulations, we are required to wear face masks when social distancing is hard to do. Like, going to the grocery store, post office, gas station, etc. As the reopening starts, you might be coming out of your house more and more. You’re going to need a lot of different face masks! An easy solution is to keep a face covering in your car(s), in your purse, on your key rack, etc. You may have already noticed the new dice hanging above the dashboard in cars - yup - it’s the face mask.
Friendly Facial Cue Alternatives
When you can’t make a smile, here are some facial cue alternatives:
Nod your head & hello.
Make a really big smile so your eyes really crinkle up!
Do a friendly wave.
Talk a little louder than normal so people can hear you.
Don’t be shy!
For all of the years plain white face masks have been worn in China, it is a bit unbelievalbe that they did not use pretty or stylish printed patterned fabric before. During this pandemic crisis, the CDC has issued new guidelines that relax the fabric and construction requirements of a traditional medical mask for a person wearing a face covering in a socially distanced situation out in public. The CDC and the Surgeon General of the United States of America even allow bandanas or T-shirt material folded in a special way and secured with rubber bands around the ears.
Not only can we wear stylish face coverings, we can buy them from an army of makers. Many makers in Beacon have been stitching the face masks since before the mandate went into place. At first they were stitching for front line workers, like nursing home and medical office staff. And some continue to that. Some makers have opened their proverbial shops to sew for the rest of us who want to support them and buy from them. Some are artists who have lost income streams, and others has shifted their fashion production lines to produce masks.
Below is A Little Beacon Blog’s Face Mask Gift Guide. Most are from makers, but if a local boutique is selling them from a larger fashion line, we will include that as well because it helps the shop. Additionally, if we know of a wholesome source of face masks that is out of state, we may include that as well. Please note, these coverings and masks are not medical grade. Use CDC guidelines and use FDA-approved items if possible and these only as a last resort. These products have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These masks are not an N95 Respirator. Use these products at your own risk. I If you cannot afford to buy a face mask, please email Beacon’s Mutual Aid Group mutualaidbeacon@gmail.com who can direct you to a way that free face masks are being handed out for free to those in need.
Beans Cat Café is a cafe in Beacon that offers they baked goods from Frida’s Bakery and Café in Milton, NY, as well as a wide variety of beverages that will only be served in the café area. Included is a cat lounge that includes seating, board games, and up to 8 cats at a time that are all adoptable through Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (HVARS) in Poughkeepsie.
Blackbird Attic is a Modern & Vintage Consignment Celebrating 10 Years in Business. Although there doors are currently closed, they are operating as an Insta PopUp Shop! See their instagram HERE. They will be accepting seasonal items soon (40% pay out) and are offering curbside pick-up, free local delivery, flat rate shipping for $7.50, and free shipping for purchases above $80.
Dulce is a local "Crafter in Training" who has always had the passion for sewing. “The Crafty Squirrels” was in the process of becoming a small home business when COVID happened. Sewing has been helpful for Dulce in these dire times and after many friends and family requested face masks, she decided she would like to also help make them available to our community. Dulce likes to put time and effort into each of the items made. Just recently, she added the "Beacon = Strong" mask for sale.
Masks are $10 each with 3 layers of fabric, choice of pocket filter and elastic around the head or ears. The Beacon Strong masks are $12 with a portion of the proceedings to be donated to Fareground Community Kitchen.
BEACON BEE
beaconbeebiz@gmail.com (845) 337-8319 SHOP MASKS HERE
Beacon Bee has added a handmade, 100% cotton, bee print face mask to their line of honeybee related products. The mask has two layers of fabric (backing fabric comes in dark or light blue), and a versatile loop strap. $10.00 each and 10% goes to Fareground Community Kitchen.
ARIELLE
info@shop-arielle.com @shop_arielle SHOP MASKS HERE
ARIELLE is a sustainable apparel company committed to organic, recycled and zero-waste fabrics, local manufacturing, fair-trade operations and plastic-free packaging & production. Non-medical fabric masks meet the CDC suggestion for face coverings. Organic, washable, reusable mask features interior wool filter for particle capture, moisture wicking, and antimicrobial protection.
Betsy Wise is a local beaconnite making and selling masks out of her home. Typically, Betsy runs Betsy Wise Bridal, a custom tailoring business, but with weddings having to postpone, Betsy has created a temporary new business. Custom made masks for adults, kids and businesses! Her fabrics are featured on her site from Beetle and Fred.
Bendable nose wire conforms to the bridge of your nose for a snug fit
Choose between elastic ear loops or ties
Request an optional pocket to add your own filter. Ideal for healthcare workers!
Choose from a wide variety of colors and patterns suitable for adults and children.
INNER BEAUTY EFFECTS
hello@innerbeautyeffects.com (845) 391-0938 SHOP MASKS HERE
Inner Beauty Effects is a Hudson Valley based fashion design company, who for a brief period rented a hallway studio in Atlas Studios in Newburgh to conduct podcasts with women entrepreneurs. Originally they made durable bags with an exciting pop of fabric on the inside. Now they are making face masks in pleasant fabrics you’ll feel good about wearing around. Inner Beauty Effects is also selling surface & hand sanitizer! Free shipping on 3 or more masks with code: FREESHIP DO GOOD FACTOR: For every mask purchased, one mask will be given away to a health care worker. There is also a way to submit if you cannot afford a mask and need one for free. Additionally, there is an option to simply donate materials.
BEACON NATURAL MARKET
348 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508 Beacon348@verizon.net CONTACT HERE TO PURCHASE MASKS
Beacon Natural Market has been selling face masks from local makers and artists. This is a good opportunity to buy from an artist you did not know about before. Not all masks from the same maker may be in stock. The mask pictured here is made by Brady Quinn, who Beacon Natural says is their “favorite quilter extraordinaire and Habitat for Humanity Newburgh site manager! We’re selling them for $12 each & the money raised will be split between Habitat Newburgh and Beacon Community Kitchen.”
Tara McPherson is a well known artist who moved to Beacon with her family. People collect her art as stickers, posters, dolls, board games, etc. Now her art is collectable as a face mask. Learn more about the meaning of her paintings here. “Tara exhibits her paintings and serigraphs in fine art galleries all over the world. Named the crown princess of poster art by ELLE Magazine, she has created numerous gig posters for rock bands such as Beck, The Pixies, and Metallica. She has worked with Sony Pictures Animation doing character designs & creative development. Her array of art also includes a variety of toys with Kidrobot, painted covers for DC Vertigo Comics, advertising illustrations for Wyden+Kennedy, Barton F Graf, Publicis, and Bernstein Andrulli. She taught in the Illustration department at Parsons in NYC for 4 years.”
LAMERE CLOTHING & GOODS
Online 24/7 436 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508 (646) 236-3908 SHOP MASKS HERE
La Mere Clothing and Goods is a clothing boutique base on Main Street in Beacon. Brands carried include Free People and other labels.
20% OFF SITEWIDE CODE: STAYHOME20 + FREE SHIPPING!
Amy lives in Beacon, with a shop in the Old Beacon High School now known as KUBE. “Amy is a celebrated Spiritual Medium, Psychometrist and practitioner of the Magickal Arts. She is a teacher of Witchcraft, gifted healer, psychic reader and long-time Witch. Amy is much sought-after for her Energy Work and has contributed her impressions in missing persons cases.
”Amy has worked in various New York City occult stores for over 25 years, specializing in healing others through Candle Magick. She is presently the proprietress of Other Worldly Waxes, an online and brick-and-mortar magickal apothecary located in Beacon, New York, that features magickal oils and incenses for spell-work, and custom-dressed and ritually charged spell candles for both online customers and her private clientele.”
HONORABLE INK
Honorable Ink is a tattoo shop located on Main Street in Beacon, and is selling masks made out of the sleeves of T-shirts! SHOP MASKS HERE
ALABAMA CHANIN
462 Lane Drive Florence, AL 35630 +1 (256) 760-1090 office@alabamachanin.com SHOP MASKS HERE
Alabama Chanin is “slow design” pioneer in fashion design. She began early in 2000 with the creation of hand-sewn garments made from cotton jersey t-shirts. “We are a leader in elevated craft due to a strong belief in tradition and dedication to locally sewn garments and goods—both hand and machine-sewn. We maintain responsible, ethical, and sustainable practices holding ourselves to the highest standards for quality. We are makers and educators, working to elevate and merge design, craft, and fashion.”
ZAKKA JOY
177 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508 (845) 632-3383 SHOP MASKS HERE
Zakka Joy is a boutique on Main Street that has lots of fun things in stock. Now, they have face masks.
This face mask has a filter pocket and great reviews.
KENNY’S MASKS
kennysmasks@gmail.com (845) 240-0039 SHOP MASKS HERE
Please your orders through Instagram direct message @kennysmasks, email or text.
LILAC HILL DESIGNS
PO Box 3672, Kingston NY 12402 (845) 853-6068 SHOP MASKS HERE
Lilac Hill Designs is run by a creative who has been a graphic designer for 30 years, but returned to her love for sewing which started at age 10. She is an avid gardener, developed a cross-body gardening bag, and is making masks with a bendable nose and filter.
MIXTURE
1607 Route 300 Suite 1 Newburgh, NY 12550 (845) 561-2857 SHOP MASKS HERE
Mixture is a screen-printing shop based in Newburgh who prints t-shirts, bags, and more for many local businesses, including A Little Beacon Blog! They printed our totes.
Gardening centers in New York are open on the first reopening day in New York state - May 15, 2020 - but retail floral shops have to keep their doors closed. But that does not mean they aren’t open for business and slinging flowers from inside behind a closed door. According to Governor Cuomo, “Certain low-risk business and recreational activities --including Landscaping, Gardening, Tennis & Drive-In-Movie Theaters -- will reopen statewide on May 15th.”
A garden center is usually outside, but can have a retail component to it inside, like Sunny Gardens on Route 9D in Wappingers. A retail flower shop on Main Street, however, falls under retail, and shops on Main Street have been keeping their doors closed, but doing as much business as they can from the inside via curbside pickups and deliveries.
Since the beginning of the PAUSE order, retail shops have been able to have one person in the store to process orders and get shipping ready. Many shop owners in Beacon have been doing personal deliveries - sometimes same day!
Retail In Dutchess County As Of Reopening Day: Doors Closed, But Owners Serve As Personal Shoppers From Inside Via Phone
The physical shopping experience inside of retail shops remains on New York’s PAUSE plan, and when a region meets its metrics, Retail is in Phase 2. Dutchess County has not yet met its metrics. According to a press release sent by Dutchess County earlier this week, the County Executive Marcus Molinaro at a Town Hall delivered digitally on May 13, 2020, indicated that the reopening would come in time.
“The final two criteria the region must meet – 14 consecutive days of decline in new hospitalizations and 14 consecutive days of decline in deaths – will prove extremely difficult for the region, including Dutchess County, to meet. A single day with an increase over the previous day in either category resets the 14-day clock. The County Executive noted that without some adjustment to those metrics, the Mid-Hudson Region could be forced to wait much longer than originally anticipated to enter ‘Phase 1’ even though there is overall improvement in all categories.”
Shop owners of all kinds - from clothing to floral - have turned into personal shoppers for people. During this spring season, floral shops on Main Street have been busy - as busy as they can be in a shut-down. Says Courtney Sedor of Raven Rose: “Raven Rose is open per the mandate for curbside pickup and delivery Tuesday-Saturday 11am-3pm. Flexible pickup is possible as I live above the store so have accommodated customers for early morning pickups or evenings if they are still working.”
Flora Good Times’s owner Corinne Bryson has been taking questions and special requests via her shop’s Instagram, and even started a new virtual consulting service for people needing to know how to plant indoors or out and need a plant whisperer.
Ordering From Flower Shops On Main Street
Batt’s Florist and Sweets in the middle of Main Street has been delivering almost daily since before Easter, Raven Rose on Beacon’s east end (near the mountain) has been inside her shop making bouquets and arrangements for pickups, Mother’s Day, weddings, elopements, baby showers, and funerals. Flora Good Times has been hosting bouquet making video workshops, slinging a subscription flower service, and making deliveries.
“Can I Come In…?”
People are ready to shop. That much is clear. Target has been open, hardware stores are open, grocery stores, etc. The social aspect and visual experience of shopping is real, and people want it back. Corinne of Flora Good Times told A Little Beacon Blog: “I had a dozen or more people hell-bent on coming into the shop last weekend.”
Last weekend was Mother’s Day, and Flora Good Times had been heavily promoting Mother’s Day bouquets that people could come pick up outside of the store, or could arrange for delivery. Flora Good Times is a very small shop with somewhat of a greenhouse in the back, so the humidity factor inside is high, and social distancing inside would be difficult. “I had to keep the door locked and I put a sandwich board out saying ‘curbside pickup pre-orders only.’ I made people order from their cars, to be honest.”
Back on the east end of Main Street, at Raven Rose, owner Courtney has been inside of the shop during her regular open hours, “partially to keep my sanity,” she told A Little Beacon Blog, but with the door closed. “People can pick up, and I am inside making arrangements for delivery orders like weddings for a single bridal bouquet and boutonniere, and funerals. One woman pre-ordered a bouquet, picked it up, and as she was walking down the street with it in her arms, another woman asked where she got it. So, that woman called the store to ask if she could buy one too, and I said sure, and had it ready in 20 minutes.”
Flora Good Times’ Home page, letting visitors select the online retail side, or the brochure side of the site. Photo Credit: Flora Good Times
Website Shopping - The Floral Shops Go Online For Pickup Orders
What has been one of the biggest trends in storefronts staying alive or keeping a pulse - is building a website that makes their inside inventory available online. Not all brick and mortars go down the path of offering a website, as it is a daunting task, but the pandemic called for desperate measures. Several of store owners took deep breaths and took the plunge into building a website in order to keep selling to their customers.
Both Flora Good Times and Raven Rose were florists that put energies into getting their inventory online quickly. Flora Good Times launched a second website via Square that just lists the items for sale right now. This includes seeds, planters, indoor plants, bouquets, home goods and plant care like this very necessary metal watering can.
Raven Rose has a large store with an open-air feeling. Her inventory goes well beyond flowers to include home goods, books, interior design items, and gardening items like these totes adorbs pruning sheers.
However you get your flower on this spring, you do have options in Beacon. See A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide to COVID-19 tips and retail discoveries.
Mothers love a good snuggle with their children (even older ones!), and they love some pampering too. And for people to just read their minds and do the things that need done! If you are buying for your mom this Mother’s Day, go wild. Because she needs the brightness in the day (but stay within budget…she might hand-slap you), and local businesses need the support too.
Below is A Little Beacon Blog’s Mother’s Day Gift Guide, where we feature our advertisers who continue to support us and help make this all possible. Thanks everyone!
LUXE OPTIQUE
181-183 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508 (845) 838-2020 Shop Now
The easiest thing you could do here, is to buy Mom a Gift Certificate. She may be holding out - denying herself the super special pair of glasses that Luxe Optique specializes in sourcing the world for. That’s right - the world. Because these are not mass produced glasses. These are hand-crafted glasses that we promise you - will get your mom compliments from everyone. That’s right - everyone. She deserves this. Make her go.
PTACEK HOME
146 #2 Main St. Beacon, NY (845) 424-6112 Shop Now
PTACEK Home is your local source to exceptionally made furniture. Pieces you are not likely to see in stores. Unless you are in their own store! On Main Street in Beacon. Help them stay in Beacon by taking advantage of their Sale. Just look at those wooden planters!
If you’ve heard that local honey is the best, then you’re going to love these all-natural beeswax-based skin and hair products from Beacon Bee. Started by Deb and Matt, who became beekeepers years ago when curiosity and appreciation for bees drove their passion to develop balm in a variety of sizes, scents, and formulations. The beeswax is taken from their own hives. The scents are delicious, and everything can be packaged into wedding favors as well. A perfect gift for a person who loves Beacon and beeswax based beauty.
READER SUPPORT
A Little Beacon Blog would not be here if it weren't for YOU, our dear readers. And we wish to share our heartfelt thanks and acknowledge you for your continued support.
If you've been following us on Instagram (@alittlebeacon), we've been sharing messages from readers who have contributed through our Readers Support page.
FUNDRAISERS - HELP IN THE TIME OF THE PANDEMIC
At the request of one of our new reader supporters, A Little Beacon Blog complied an easy list of fundraisers to contribute to whenever you want to. Some of these are date driven. Those will be posted to the top of the list. This is a live guide, so refresh the page, and give when you can! Start Here >
MEET THE ARF ALL STARS
Now more than ever ARF Beacon need your support and have launched for #givingtuesday Meet The ARF All Stars! Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, they are not able to maintain operations as normal. The main source of funds for ARF come through fundraising events & food/supply drives which have all been postponed indefinitely. They have many animals that have been here a long time that may never be adopted through no fault of their own, "but we love them all," says ARF. Your donation for one will help continue to provide the care needed for that pet and all of the ARF dogs and cats until they find their forever homes or no longer need ARF. But some pets come back, like Max, who came to ARF as a 3-month pup when a high-kill shelter wanted to put him and his siblings to sleep. He's back after his adopter needed to move and surrendered him. You can select the pet you want to donate to, as well as other animals in ARF's care, as needed. To see the individual animals you can donate to, click here.
The shelter will be closed to the public until further notice. This campaign is only a week long, and there are only 6 days left! Please contact ARF at www.arfbeacon.org if you are considering adoption.
FIREFLY YOGA FUNDRAISER
Yoga is a passion for our Managing Editor, Marilyn Perez. She practices yoga, completed her teacher training, and currently teaches at Firefly Yoga in Fishkill. They just set up a GoFundMe page in order to help with rent and utilities, continue to provide free morning meditations, free classes on Wednesdays, as well as a full digital class schedule. Check out Firefly Yoga GoFundMe Page to learn more about this community and to donate.
BEACON HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS The Governor announced today that both grade schools and colleges were officially closed for the remainder of the school year. In his message to the community sent via robo-call, Beacon's Superintendent Matthew Landahl gave a moment of consideration for the Senior class. A fundraiser has been started for them, by way of yard signs. Buy a sign for $20 and show your support in your yard. Donate Now >
Howland Public Library presents "Finger Fables For Families!" Facebook Live
Day: Sunday, May 3, 2020 Time: 11am Location:Facebook Live - https://www.facebook.com/beaconlibrary/
Got some squiggly squirming children? Get them engaged with "hands-on" storytelling! Join local storyteller Jonathan Kruk, live on Facebook Sunday 11am-12pm. Guided by a master tale-teller, children turn their hands into fabulous characters. Information > The CINEHUB Virtual Coffee Hour
Day: Wednesday May 6, 2020 Time: 1pm Location: The CINEHUB via Zoom RSVP via Facebook or send them an email! Staying connected with peers is a part of staying positive and being ready for work when it returns. Join them at the next virtual coffee event! Information > Stony Kill Spring Plant Sale
Days: May 7-9, 2020 Time: See below Location: Stony Kill Foundation, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY
Stony Kill is pleased to bring you their annual Plant Sale to help generate much-needed funds for the Farm. With the recent announcement that NYS remains on pause till May 15, their plan for pick up of your plants at the farm will no longer be an option, so they are delivering your plant order to your home. This is an important fundraiser for Stony Kill right now. Orders due by Tuesday, May 5th. Information >
Digital Theater with Story Screen Days: Every Day Time: Any Time Location: Your Couch
Have you checked out any of the digital movie offerings from Story Screen you can watch from your home? Movies are curated by Story Screen. You can even buy a gift card for the movie lover in your life! Make tonight a movie night! Information >
THE BEACON HOTEL RESTAURANT The Beacon Hotel Restaurant is re-opening! The restaurant will be opening their doors for delivery and takeout/curbside pick up starting next Wednesday, May 6th. They will be introducing an exclusive express menu and operating with limited hours for the time being. "To do our part to support the local community, we will be providing all meals at reduced prices!" New hours starting next Wednesday are:
They will also be donating 10% of all sales each week to various local “non-essential” small businesses. We are all in this together! Information > KITCHEN SINK
Rejoice! We are so excited to learn that Kitchen Sink is launching STUFF’d! The KS team will be bringing you a fun take-out pop up for the next few weekends. "Over the past 5 years we have loved making all different types of “dumplings” from the kreplach we served on opening night, potstickers, raviolis, empandas and more," says Kitchen Sink via Instagram. This weekend’s menu is now live their website (http://www.kitchensinkny.com/). Order online or via phone starting take-out this weekend 4-8pm. Hungry yet? Information >
YANKEE CLIPPER DINER
Nothing says mouth watering like a diner breakfast right? The Yankee Clipper Diner is once again OPEN for take out, curbside pickup, delivery, and pick up in vestibule. Hours are 9:00am - 8:00pm 7 days a week - classic diner-style. Due to increased precautions and government mandates, they are not allowed to have multiple customers in the diner at once. "If you would like to place your order in person, come in and place your order at the register and please wait for your order too be ready outside or in the vestibule," they instruct.
MEYER'S OLDE DUTCH FOOD & SUCH
Make your own with Meyer's Olde's Dutch Sangria kits - everything you need to make your own sangria for $30.
Kits contain:
1 bottle Teira Sauvignon blanc
1 container MOD pink mix - Gifford pamplemousse, Beefeater gin, Campari and Grapefruit juice
1 container sliced grapefruit
Meyer’s Olde Dutch is going take out only for now. We encourage you to order online at www.meyersoldedutch.com. Hours are currently 11:30am until 8pm Sunday through Thursday; Friday and Saturday 11:30am until 9pm. Scheduled orders for pickup only. Information >
BARB'S BUTCHERY
This was exciting to see in our Instagram feed! Barb's Butchery is coming back! Beginning with a freezer sale next Friday, May 8th, and opening shop "somehow" Saturday, May 9th. Stay tuned and give them a follow on Instagram @barbsbutchery or on Facebook.
BAJA 328
It's gonna warm up this weekend, stay cool with a Baja 328's Signature Margaritas! Baja 328 is still offering pick-up and delivery orders, including go-to drinks. This includes one of their signature margaritas! Information > Baja 328 is a Sponsor, thank you!
MOTHERS DAY GIFT GUIDE ALERT
Yes, A Little Beacon Blog is having a Mothers Day Gift Guide this year! Can include food or shopping. From time to time, we curate a gift guide for something special, like Candles for a moment of thanks to those who have passed during the pandemic, to great Easter ideas for those egg hunts. For those types of gift guides, we open it up far and wide for submissions at no charge. For traditional Gift Guides, like a Mothers Day, we can do this, but in order to help us continue to run this publication, we need to charge for placement in this type of traditional gift guide. PRICING: Current Advertisers: Free Level 2 Treatment - the works! Level 1: $50 (listing in Gift Guide) Level 2: $100 (listing in Gift Guide + Instagram feature)
If interested, please email us and we'll send you the link to purchase/support, and we'll get your promotion set up!
BINNACLE BOOKS
Forget Amazon! Order Binnacle! Support Main Street for your literary needs. Visit binnaclebooks.com and select “SHOP ONLINE” and search, browse suggested titles and new releases, and click to order. What's your next book order? Ours is Chronicles of Narnia for the kids, and maybe this one by Kelly O'Connor McNees, "Undiscovered Country," a novel inspired by the lives of Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok.
Follow their eye-catching Instagram account at @binnaclebooks to see what's in stock! They are still taking care of local delivery for in-store stock as well, so keep those requests and inquiries coming! Information > Binnacle Books is a Sponsor, thank you!
LUXE OPTIQUE
The Beacon Community misses you too Luxe Optique! Don't forget to check out their store online at https://www.luxeoptique.com where you can get $25 off a year supply of contact lenses and free shipping! Look With Your Eyes > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor, thank you!
PTACEK Home
Take a nap on some Hudson Valley wood! PTACEK's Sprawl Day Bed is now 30% off, along with the rest of the Chunk Line and Trim Line, throughout May! Purchasing safe and easy - they offer curbside pickup or front door delivery. Visit ptacekhome.com for more information! PTACEK Home is a Sponsor, thank you!
LLTO (LIVE LIGHT TRAVEL OFTEN)
These sweet hand carved paddle trays bring warmth to any surface. It’s nice to bring the forest inside. Use while snacking, or change up your desk with a new shape made from a natural element to place your pencils on. Each board is rich with its own unique teak root pattern. Sustainably harvested in Bali. Shop Now > LLTO is a Sponsor, thank you!
THE CRAFTY HAMMER
One of the first things The Crafty Hammer did upon moving to Beacon was to advertise with A Little Beacon Blog. We will never forget their support and generosity, and are doubly sad to report that they are pulling up the pins and leaving Beacon. The husband and wife team both have lung diseases that make dealing with the virus too risky. Everything in the shop is for sale (most everything). Find pieces of decor, shelving, bins, and more. See their Facebook page for pictures, and contact Joely Polokoff joely@thecraftyhammer.com with questions and interest. Start Browsing >
BEAUTY TIP
Are you trimming your own bangs? Shaping your own beard? Plucking your own eyebrows? Massaging your own neck? If you miss your stylist for these things, go ahead and send them some cash when you're doing this beauty update to yourself. They will thank you, and it helps them see you on the other side.
BEACON PERFORMING ARTS CENTER The Beacon Performing Arts Center has released a bunch of brand new online classes for the month of May! Classes for as young as 2 years all through college. Each class is 4 weeks only. Plus, register your child for one class, and they can register for a second age-appropriate class for half price! Register two or more siblings and they receive 20% off. "We understand this is a difficult time financially for many families. We have many scholarships available for Hudson Valley area children." Please email Info@BeaconPerformingArtsCenter.com!
Classes include Broadway Babes, Musical Theater Dance, and Nailing Your Audition! You can see the full list of classes and register by clicking here. Please note: Each class much have a minimum of 5 participants to run.
COMPASS ARTS
Compass Arts classes are in the middle of their Spring session. Many of their classes have moved online on Zoom. You can find their current and upcoming sessions online. The next session begins the first week of May and lasts through the first week of June. Check their schedule for specific dates depending on the class. Information >
HOWLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY
The library continues with their Helen Savoit Day Time Book Club. For this month, book club member - and all adults! - are welcome to answer the following four questions regarding "The Last Runaway" by Tracy Chevalier. Email your answers to Alison at adults@beaconlibrary.org by (and including) Tuesday, May 12th. Alison will then compile everyone's answers and email them back to everyone using first name only. The questions are:
1. What roles does silence play in this novel?
2. What friendships meant the most to Honor? Were they surprising?
3. How important is quilt-making to Honor and society at the time? Is a quilt just a quilt or much more?
4. Who, in this novel, is searching for freedom? In what way?
Also at the Howland Public Library for grades 6-9 is their Online Philosophers Youth Café via Zoom this Wednesday, May 6th and 4pm. Dan Fisherman will be hosting a Youth Philosophers Cafe for young inquiring minds in grades 6-9. Dan will lead students in in a discussion that explores a philosophical, ethical, or socio-political issue. This sessions will be held via Zoom. Click here for more information.
ANTALEK & MOORE
Defensive Driving is back! Now you can do the online version of the Defensive Driving Class. Antalek and Moore highly recommends that you take this class in order to qualify for these benefits:
• May reduce up to 4 points on your driving record
• Save up to 10% off on a vehicle liability, PIP (Personal Injury Protection) and collision premium for up to 3 years off Principal Operator
• No formal tests!
From the comfort of your home, only $29.95 per person with PROMO CODE: 501 Sign Up Now > Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor, thank you!
TIN SHINGLE
Late night TV is back. No studios. No Audiences. In the days since the coronavirus pandemic forced hiatus, the late-night comedy shows are gradually coming back. Many of them returned to their familiar broadcast time slots, but in completely different forms. Tin Shingle has researched these shows to include names of producers and assistants to contact, for brands who are getting the word out about their business, and feel that the audiences of these shows would resonate with your message. Learn More >
We got a suggestion in from a reader, who wanted to know how to send A Little Beacon Blog financial support to help us continue to produce. Even just $5. First of all: THANK YOU to that reader for wanting to do this!
If you are feeling like you want to send ALBB anything as a reader then visit thenew link in the ABOUT tab, called: “I Want To Support ALBB!” Different amounts are available, starting at $5. Clickhere or the graphic above to learn more on how you can help! Support Here >
People Who Have Given Reading your comments of what ALBB means to your life has been humbling and keeps us going. Thank you. See Who Supported >
OK, everyone, we are doing this! A Little Beacon Blog is lighting a candle for those who have passed from COVID-19 and other illnesses (perhaps because of coordination issues with this pandemic) on Friday nights at 8 pm. Earlier, at 7 pm, we are giving a round of applause to essential workers and health care workers for all they have done and continue to do into the weekend.
We’ve put together a roundup of candles made in Beacon, or sold in Beacon, for your retail therapy pleasure.
Then, for every other day, you get to burn a fresh candle while working from or quarantining at home! Fresh smells, warm feels, good vibes…
Check out some of the amazing local Beacon businesses below and order your favorite scent right now!
BEACON D’LITE INC 327 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
Beacon D’Lite is one of the first candle companies to be based on Beacon’s Main Street. Well-known by many, you will find a variety of scents here. Their store smells so good in real life when they open back up. Order Candles Online HERE
BEACON MERCANTILE 493 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
Beacon Mercantile makes the candles in the back of the store, and comes out with carefully crafted fragrances often. We love La Lune and a few others. Order Candles Online HERE
LA MÈRE CLOTHING + GOODS
436 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
Newly in stock, La Mère has the candles you need. A favorite right now is the crystal candle, but check out those with the cute container.
Known for their hand-crafted jewelry, Lewis and Pine also stocks candles with a sophisticated scent. Order Candles Online HERE
SOLSTAD HOUSE 17 E. Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
Solstad House has their candles made by a company they love. They put their two scents (get it…scents/cents…) into a candle collection, and you get to enjoy. Order Candles Online HERE
ZAKKA JOY 177 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
Zakka Joy has a gigantic variety of everything, including candles. You can’t go wrong when shopping here. Order Candles Online HERE
RAVEN ROSE 474 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
Raven Rose carries a careful collection of candles (and oils, which make a room smell heavenly without needing to burn a flame). One also can’t go wrong with these aromas. Order Candles Online HERE
KAIGHT 512 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
The fresh scents in Kaight’s collection will have you craving a trip outside on a rainy day. This curated collection of candles will warm any chilly spring day. Order Candles Online HERE
BLACKBIRD ATTIC 442 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
Blackbird Attic carries various Paddywax brand soy candles that look and smell delightful. Order Candles Online HERE
THE BLUSHERY 528 Main St. Beacon, NY 12508
The Blushery carries the Capri Blue Volcano candle, also known as the popular Anthropologie candle. They come in different sizes and designs of reusable glass and tin jars. Orders can be emailed to stephanie@theblushery.com for free delivery and curbside pick up!
Actual question from the reader. ALBB delivered! Photo Credit: A Little Beacon Blog
A reader reached out and asked for suggestions on ways to support locals for Easter this year. We took a deep dive into A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide, which lists all of the shops on Main Street in Beacon, and found the BEST items for a “Spring Hunt.”
Lots of Main Street shops are shipping or personally delivering, so you can check out their websites, and order in time for the Spring hunt!
Candles, Handmade Earrings, Scrub, Hand Rescue, Matches, Body Wash, Soap, Essential Oils, etc.
All can be purchased via Instagram message, Facebook, or email: info@blackbirdattic.com Or, call (845) 418-4840 Free local delivery available or curbside pick up at 442 Main St., Beacon, NY Some items shippable - follow Blackbird Attic on Instagram HERE for updates and videos.
It's a busy Friday. It's a Friday where some banks opened to take applications from businesses applying for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), but there's a flood of applications and some banks are delaying in order to prevent fraud. The new owners of Homespun Foods have been on it like bonnets from the beginning, trying to save their restaurant, and applied today, and have a hopeful response. We'll send you their story soon.
In the Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) department, masks are being talked about in a big way for a variety of reasons. There's the shortage of hospital-grade ones. Beacon Makers, organized by the Mutual Aid Beacon and Beacon Moms Group (and possibly others) have also been on it like bonnets and have been making CDC-approved emergency masks for weeks to try to help the front lines at the hyperlocal level in Beacon and beyond. The making continues, as a lot more masks and gowns are needed.
All of these articles are going to come to you, but after our regularly scheduled Retail Therapy Guide. Get this guide, know how to get your wine delivered, treat yourself to a new shirt or pair of glasses, and then continue on with the harder stuff.
BUT FIRST, A THANKS TO OUR ADVERTISERS
As best we can, people are trying to pay in place - keep the system moving as if money is still flowing. A Little Beacon Blog has some advertisers who have stayed on, and we appreciate them so much. Their support helps us report on the virus, and business developments in town. To those businesses who needed to pull out, we get it! And we support you too, and know that we are cheering for you to make it to the other side of the apex.
Advertisers trying to continue to support us (give them extra love!):
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agents.
As you juggle which bills to pay, pay your insurance bill if it's through an agent. If people skip their insurance premiums, the good people at Antalek & Moore don't get their commissions. Antalek & Moore employs several people, and they work hard doing homework to make your home and business insurance life easier. If you aren't in their good hands yet, call them today to transfer your insurance to them. Honestly. They do the work for you. They find the right fit with an insurance carrier, and they do the rest. Need a new Workers Comp policy? They are on it. Change of address? Done.
Binnacle Books.
Huge supporters of many movements. Order your books through their easy web page. The fact that an independent bookstore even opened in the past few years is amazing, and now they're riding out a pandemic.
Eat Church.
Bless them. Their food truck is powered down for now and they are still supporting ALBB. They are also involved with Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF), so any extra love we can throw ARF's way to encourage you to donate to help the dogs and cats, we will. Donate here. Or adopt!
Luxe Optique.
Another huge supporter of local, and thinking outside the box to make things work, and make you happy with your vision and your style. We miss their faces and energy so much!
PTACEK Home.
Newbies to Beacon from Garrison, and they dove right in months before the pandemic shut them down. They have the custom-made furniture shop off the beaten path, but really they make homes and custom-designed furniture. See below for ideas.
LLTO (Live Light Travel Often).
Partners with PTACEK Home in the shop only, Tamara Reynolds is the founder of LLTO and its curated stock of beautiful products from her travels to Japan and knowledge of artisan-made goods.
Virtual Benefit Concert - Howland Chamber Music Circle Presents
Day: Saturday, April 4, 2020 Time: 8 pm ET, 7 pm CT, 5 pm PT PURCHASE TICKETS > OurConcerts.live, a new venture dedicated to supporting and promoting classical music, will bring together some of classical music’s biggest stars in a virtual benefit concert. Proceeds will go to the Artist Relief Tree, a new fund created to financially support artists who are affected by cancellations due to COVID-19.
OurConcerts.live is pleased to present an evening of extraordinary music. Streaming live from their homes, pianists Emanuel Ax and Jon Kimura Parker, mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges, violinist Rachel Barton Pine, clarinetist Anthony McGill, harpist Bridget Kibbey and others will give an intimate view into some of their favorite pieces. The artists are graciously donating their time to benefit their colleagues. Information >
Malfatti Glass: Free Giveaway
Day: Saturday, April 4, 2020 Time: 12 to 2 pm Digital Location: 10 Willow St., Beacon
Malfatti Glass is a local glass-blowing shop right here in Beacon, who is loved nationwide. Also, one of the glass-blowers, Jill, is your local representative on the Zoning Board. She and her husband Joe are giving away 50 pairs of Prosecco "Seconds" (glasses that for one reason or another would be included in their annual seconds sale) to show their support for the community during this time of anxiety and uncertainty. You can pick up, BUT you have to maintain social distance. Grab and go, don't linger, and wait for the person in front of you, six feet away, to leave first. The glasses have been sanitized, wrapped in clean tissue, packed in cardboard tubes, and the tubes wrapped in more tissue by a glove-wearing packer following best practices. Glasses will be available for pick-up from a box at the end of the driveway. Malfatti Glass: Raise A Glass for a Toast (digitally) Time: 8 pm Location: Instagram @malfattiglass or Facebook
Streaming
Day: All Day, Every Day Location: Your House
Local Beaconite Gwynne Watkins is an entertainment and culture journalist for Yahoo Entertainment, Vulture, Elle Magazine, and GQ. She gave A Little Beacon Blog recommendations for family-friendly TV watching. Get Details > SXSW Film Selections Will Stream On Amazon Prime For Free For 10 Days Get Details > HBO To Stream 500 Hours Of Free Programming, Including Full Seasons Of ‘Veep,’ ‘The Wire,’ ‘Silicon Valley’ Get Details >
A Little Beacon Blog updates our Restaurant Guide constantly. When we see changes on social media, or get a tip from a reader, we dive in and update. To cut to the chase of who is delivering and needs your biz: 2 Way Brewing (select days), Baja 328, Bank Square Coffee, The Beacon Daily, The Pandorica (good menu! great desserts), Big Mouth Coffee Roasters, BJ’s Soul Food, Melzingah Tap House, Miz Hattie’s BBQ, MoMo Valley (Himalayan), Max’s On Main, Quinn’s, Enoteca AMA, Roma Nova, Trax Coffee, Végétalien (check IG for dates).
Fundraisers have also been posted to the Guide, like for The Yankee Clipper's GoFundMe and Chill Wine Bar Gift Cert. Rumors of a few new openings may be around the corner, so keep refreshing that Restaurant Guide!
VÉGÉTALIEN
This weekend, Végétalien is doing a test run with DoorDash/Curbside Pick-Up/Takeout starting Friday, April 3, through Sunday, April 5, from 10 am to 3 pm. You can call to order at (845) 765-1943, send a message on their Instagram, order through DoorDash, or email at vegetalienbeacon@gmail.com. They will only be accepting cards or exact cash. If this weekend goes well, their takeout hours will be extended. Follow their Instagram for updates. Information > ARTISAN WINE SHOP
Wine and spirits delivery. Need we say more? Order online. In advance. Delivery or in-store pickup available. Start Browsing >
EAT CHURCH (Closed For Now)
Eat Church shared a super easy recipe for making bread at home. Here's what owner Mark says: "This is the most stripped-down bread recipe I've got, as it makes a great standard white loaf but requires so few ingredients and so little effort. Great one to make with kids as most folks have the ingredients in the pantry." Get the ingredients here > Eat Church is a Sponsor - thank you!
MIZ HATTIE'S - CURBSIDE DELIVERY
(inside Hudson Valley Food Hall)
We ordered it last week. There was so much food, we had lunch well into the next day, and snacks into the night. Bottles of wine are also available. A Little Beacon Blog has written about Miz Hattie's before. Order from Miz Hattie any day of the week.
BEACON FARMERS MARKET OPEN
The Beacon Farmers Market opens for pre-online ordering (Friday afternoon order deadline) and Sunday pickup. Normally, pre-ordering ends on Fridays for Sunday pickup, but you could maybe still try! Now also offering delivery. Details Here >
LUXE OPTIQUE
We know you are in Luxe Optique withdrawal. We are, too. We miss their energy. More importantly, you miss your next pair of frames. Here's what you need now: an easy pair of glasses that don't need the expert touch of Laurie or Ryan for adjusting. You need a pair of La Fonts, which may sit just right from the beginning. This Luxe Optique customer loves jogging in her leopard La Fonts. They never need fixing. Shop Now, Call Later! > Luxe Optique is a Sponsor - thank you!
THE CHOCOLATE STUDIO
Did you know that The Chocolate Studio also offers vegan and gluten-free brownies, vegan/GF cheesecake, cookies, vegan donuts, vegan mini-lemon bundt cakes, and vegan/GF raspberry bars? Order and pay online now! Delivery is FREE! Available on their website!
BINNACLE BOOKS
Binnacle Books is keeping their Instagram updated with books you can purchase online. They'll be delivering stock from the store directly to local customers or special-ordering new books from their distributors, which are shipped directly to your mailbox, whether you’re local or not. Order anything through https://www.binnaclebooks.com/order-books, and reach out via their Instagram DM with any questions! Get Details > Binnacle Books is a Sponsor - thank you!
PTACEK Home
See all of the looks created at PTACEK Home, and start dreaming. These looks can be in your home, too. Either from the showroom store in Beacon (when it re-opens), or custom-built or designed just for your space. Start Dreaming > PTACEK Home is a Sponsor - thank you!
LLTO (LIVE LIGHT TRAVEL OFTEN)
With all that is happening in the world, LLTO is grateful to practice and promote minimal living, rich with connection and quality. They can help you create your home sanctuary, with items that have meaning and purpose, and take advantage of their FREE SHIPPING*. These are naturally scented bath flakes from Tosaryu. Aromatic hinoki (Japanese cypress) chips. Sustainably made from recovered byproducts of the hinoki wood manufacturing process. Includes two pouches. $10. Made in Japan. Buy Online! > LLTO is a Sponsor - thank you!
ZAKKA JOY Shop online, with free shipping on all orders over $50 with coupon code EWGERMS, and free Beacon no-contact doorstep delivery with coupon code SHOPLOCAL.
SALON DAE with DANIELLE
Got transitioning hair? Are you a new curly girl? Not sure how to shampoo and condition? Danielle's got you, over at virtual Salon Dae. In this video, she treated one side of her hair with conditioner and she shares tips for the other side. Watch the video.
People have been craving schedule and routine in their lives. Fitness centers have been providing that. Here are a few:
BEBHAKTI YOGA
Tune into kids yoga on Tuesdays at 3:15 via zoom with BeBhakti Yoga! A great way in which our children can interact in a safe and fun manner, while being physically active and stimulated! And bonus, this can count as P.E. for home schooling! Parents, feel free to join in on sleepy pose at the end of class. Information >
FIREFLY YOGA
Digital yoga classes are also available through Firefly Yoga in Fishkill. Our Managing Editor, Marilyn Perez, teaches Slow Flow (Gentle) class Fridays at 11:30 am via Zoom. Open to all levels! Drop-in rate is $10. Sign up through the MINDBODY app at least an hour beforehand so you can receive the meeting room link.
ANTALEK & MOORE
Antalek & Moore has been hard at work (remotely) researching opportunities for small businesses and sharing them on their Facebook page - such as a recent SBA Webinar on YouTube about Economic Injury Disaster Loan Basics. Be sure to follow them also on Instagram! Antalek & Moore is a Sponsor - thank you!
We got a suggestion in from a reader, who wanted to know how to send financial support to A Little Beacon Blog to help us continue to produce. Even just $5. First of all: THANK YOU to that reader for wanting to do this!
If you are feeling like you want to contribute to ALBB as a reader, then visit thenew link in the ABOUT tab, called: “I Want To Support ALBB!” Different amounts are available, starting at $5. Clickhere or on the graphic above to learn more about how you can help! Support Here >
People Who Have Given Reading your comments about what ALBB means to your life has been humbling and keeps us going. Thank you. See Who Supported >
Storefronts on Main Street in Beacon have been preparing for pandemic protection for the week prior to the shutdown of all non-essential businesses mandated by Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Friday, to go into effect on Sunday night (March 22, 2020) at 8 pm.
If you are vising Beacon this weekend - or any day, now that every day could be a weekend day depending on what industry you work in - you won’t find a shopping experience. We are social distancing, walking past closed shops, longing to go inside, our faces pressed up against the storefront glass. We are walking as families, as dog owners, as solo people. We are trying to stay in our spheres - meaning that tight-knit group of people you live with - to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.
The people we pass on the street might be two or four friends getting out of New York City for the day to get fresh air. Totally understandable. But you have got to get it. You have got to sphere-up. You have got to not walk so close to your friends. Seriously. It’s awkward. Every single celebrity is telling you to do it. Every single celebrity in California and New York are out of work because their production literally has been shut down, or their huge concert canceled.
We HAVE to spread out from one another and stay in out sphere if we want this thing to end and for shops to re-open and for movies to come back into the theaters.
The First Round Of Closures
The first round of closures, with the 50% occupancy mandate, was pretty shocking. Then the mandate of movie theaters and gym closures came. That was devastating to those industries. In one day, everyone got to know the Zoom app (what is this thing?!) when kids started using it for digital playdates, and the parents were using it for work meetings, therapy sessions, and now yoga and Pilates classes to retain an ounce of normalcy.
Can The Internet Hold It All?
The Internet started breaking. Gov. Cuomo mandated that data providers provide more data to customers regardless of what plan they purchased (this is a different problem than all of the bandwidth being sucked up… although it’s a freebie solution that may or may not be possible as infinite data is sucked down into smartphones everywhere).
Netflix throttled streaming in Europe, and today, Disney+ took similar action by limiting streaming by 25% in a move requested by European government. “[Disney+] said Thursday it will limit the streaming quality of its content for the next 30 days for users in Europe to relax the strain on communications networks caused by the coronavirus lockdown,” according to an article in Deadline.
Businesses in Beacon
Businesses in Beacon quickly shifted to online shopping. If some had been doing it only a little bit, they jumped in with both feet to figure out how to make it work.
A Little Beacon Blog is tracking it all in our Shopping Guide. Visit that Guide and refresh it on your phone. As we learn of updates and changes to what shops are delivering, how they are offering contact-less payment, etc. the shop’s information will be updated in the Shopping Guide and Restaurant Guide.
This Tearful (Temporary) Goodbye (But Available For Pick-Up!) From Flora Good Times
This Saturday morning, the saddest Instagram post came up. Sad but truthful and appreciated. It’s from Flora Good Times. Owner Corinne Bryson bought the shop from the former Mary Fris (read her interview with ALBB here after that transition). Within the year she has been told to shut her new business, a move she supports in the name of public health, but one that is not without deep struggle and hardship.
We will leave you with Flora Good Times’s temporary goodbye post. Read it, and then go back and buy from her. She does pickup, and you’ll want to experience whatever energy you can from that sweet shop.
“I know the news is changing so quickly it feels like whiplash these days.
”A few things have changed for us over here today. Previously posted that we would be open tomorrow and Sunday. This is partially true, but only Saturday and only for curbside pickups or pre-orders! Our little store is not easy to socially distance within, so for the next while, only appointments/pickups allowed inside the shop. Sunday we will be closed.
”Secondly, I posted today that I wasn't sure about curbside pickups next week and moving forward. I think we will make it happen for you. I'll take orders Sunday-Tuesday for Wednesday and Friday pickup at designated times. What we have available is on our highlights, but please ask if you're looking for something you might not see. The store is full of treasures!
”Finally, I will not be focusing on flowers until I can properly reopen. We have cleaned out the fresh flower area as it's typically the part of our business running on the smallest margins with the most physical loss. We do have dried flowers available, or if you are looking for fresh flowers, I am happy to turn you to a handful of wonderful local florists who are slinging flowers however they can.
”Today has been weird. No shame in saying I've cried in the grocery store every time I've been in it this week. But, I've also spent a lot of time remembering that this pandemic is really teaching us something that I've been told all along -- health is the most important thing. And I'm grateful that I am healthy and those that I love are healthy. I hope you are also healthy and surrounding yourself with light in whatever way you can ♥️ Last thing, I heard a lovely Norwegian proverb today that I'm holding with me for the foreseeable future: "It will either go well or it will pass." Either sound great to me right about now.”
Wishing all of our Main Street business friends the very best as we soldier through this. Please continue to make your life happy by ordering the treasures you find inside. How fun to shop differently now: by gazing through the storefront window, and the shop owner brings you something.
It’s not often that haute couture or bespoke tailoring is available to Beaconites in Beacon on Main Street. But its time has come this Saturday, February 8, 2020, when bespoke suit tailor David Reeves (who himself is a Beaconite and has a studio in Union Square in NYC) will be popping up at Luxe Optique during their trunk show for Jacques Marie Mage, an eyewear designer of rare frames.
David will be on hand to show his style and fabric recommendations for men’s and women’s suits. Also, look at his fabric swatches for linings that serve as a pop of color, personality and uniqueness to complement the custom-tailored suit. See the video below to get a better idea.
Luxe Optique is in Beacon, NY, at 181-183 Main Street. David’s favorite eyewear designer is Jacques Marie Mage, who will also be having a trunk show at Luxe Optique the same day. This is an amazing opportunity to experience custom design in Beacon at your fingertips.
Maybe you’re done with your holiday shopping (but that depends upon your definition of “done”), so here are a few stocking stuffer ideas you will find on Main Street in Beacon. We don’t call this “last-minute” shopping, because buying stocking stuffers is our favorite part of the gift-curating experience.
This is also the most dangerous time to shop, because you will see loads of ideas for other people that you hadn’t thought of. Pad that budget.
Manic Panic Hair Color
This temporary vegan-based hair color has been available at Play (167 Main Street) for years and years. Perfect for the hair expressionist in your life. Buy a rainbow series for wild experiments, or one or two contrasting colors for a striped design.
The color is temporary, yet stays in decently well post-shower. However, if you wanted the vibrancy to stay, then you would not wash the hair. However, there is a dry bar shampoo at SallyeAnder at the other end of town. We haven’t tried it, but it’s an option.
Art and Socks
Zakka Joy (177 Main Street, formerly Dream in Plastic) is the destination for stationery lovers who also love kitchen decor, Pusheens, stickers, socks, water bottles, pencils, sketchbooks, journals, planners, etc. With glitter pens to match. Socks make great stocking poppers - the part sticking out of the stocking that adds that visual excitement. Most of the themes of these socks are for the sarcastic ones in your life who like a little bit of dicey language, though not all. Sometimes you just need to wear a pretty sock that says: “Delicate f*ing flower.”
Books
Depending on the size of your stocking, for the protesters in your life, this Posters for Change book from Princeton Architectural Press keeps on giving with 50 rip-out-able quote posters that can be hung somewhere. Available at Binnacle Books (321 Main Street). Pro tip: Binnacle Books can order any book for you if it is not on their shelves. Any book!
Hygiene
Alright. So with cancer being rampant, and the quest for deodorant with no whatevers in it grows stronger with each friend who is diagnosed, the answer to an odor-blocking shield is at SallyeAnder (1 East Main Street) is the Deodorant Stone. The stone itself is odorless, and has bacteria-fighting minerals in it (find synthetic-chemical-free perfume and lotion at Beacon Mercantile just up the street, located in the old train station).
To apply it to the skin, you wet it and rub it on. The easiest way to store the stone is in a dish, which you can also find at SallyeAnder, or at most any shop in Beacon (check RiverWinds Gallery for an artisan-made one), or an unused dish in your house that is ready for prime time.
Bonus perk with this deodorant: It uses hardly any packaging. So this is one less piece of plastic you are putting into the trash (or recycling? not sure if plastic deodorant containers are actually recyclable these days). SallyeAnder products are made in Beacon on the west side of town in their manufacturing center, located in the same building as Brett’s Hardware. The 1 East Main Street location is SallyeAnder’s flagship retail shop.
Continuing with the bath theme, Beacon Bath and Bubble has all the bribery you need to get a child into a bath. If the deodorant stone is going to be introduced to the new 9-year-old who needs odor blocking - but you don’t want to hurt her feelings telling her this so why not make it more fun and unusual with the stone and pretty dish - the colorful bath products at Beacon Bath and Bubble will get them into the bath. The soap is made right in the store, so you can expect good ingredients in here as well.
Denise Gianna Designs Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
Interior Design
While these chairs and lamps won’t fit into a stocking, walking by the design store Denise Gianna Designs (494 Main Street, formerly Utensil before they moved to the other end of town) will be one of the perks of walking around finding stocking stuffers IRL (in real life) vs clicking online. Gianna is a longtime Beaconite and interior designer who opened up shop in various other shops (you may remember her from her Chocolate Studio days, which is now occupied by the beef jerky shop, The Village Jerk). Stop in to see what kind of furniture may fit into your space, and if she can help you visualize.
Your Eyewear Game
Photo Credit: A Little Beacon Blog
An easy and flat gift that can slip into a stocking is a gift certificate from Luxe Optique. Especially if you have HSA Flex Spending to use before year end, Luxe can help with that. They also make filling your out-of-network insurance claims easy - they do it for you. So if you haven’t tried Luxe yet, walk in this time. If you collect shoes or jewelry, having the same perception of your eyewear is similar. When you go to Luxe Optique, your adjustments are complimentary, as your vision is their top priority. As featured in last weekend’s newsletter edition, ask about the end-of-year specials they have running, including the 50% off shelf.
Darryl’s Clothing Boutique in Beacon always has a good sale running, and right now is no exception. Perfect for matching sweaters! If you once went all out on Christmas morning with family PJs, now you can with sweaters if that’s your thing.
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique has the sample sales you want to tell your friends about. Not that a dress fits into a stocking, but you may find an accessory or two in the store. You know what would make a great stocking topper? A tiara.
Love these chairs! How about you? You only would have seen them if you were walking the streets of Beacon on Thursday night at 8:30 pm during Beacon’s second annual Hop and Shop, where participating stores stay open until 9 pm.
The shop pictured is The Archive Beacon, which arrived in Beacon during the spring. It is next door to The Vault and just up the block from The Underground Beacon. This vintage shop is a must-investigate if you are collecting pieces for your home.
Learn about this shop and others in A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide!
We knew something was going on when we saw the hole in the wall at Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique right when King + Curated, the bridal boutique’s former neighbor, moved across the street to a larger location. Lambs Hill started as an experiment from realtor and artist Charlotte Guernsey a few years ago. Several storefront windows later in one of Beacon’s renovated factory buildings at 1 East Main Street, the venture has been a success.
“The space itself is what inspired me to design the boutique,” said Charlotte, whose real estate firm, Gate House Realty, represented the retail and commercial sales of 1 East Main Street after it was renovated.
Inside of Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique, which is always undergoing new design transformations. Photo Credit: Lambs Hill
The local bridal shop expanded in order to fit more inventory into the store, and to make more room for their own office. The expansion allows Lambs Hill to fit another 150 dresses into the boutique, bringing the total to 300 dresses from 10 designers at any given time. They also converted a bathroom to add a new dressing room and full-length mirror for brides to try on the gowns, for a total of five mirrors in order to accommodate five bridal fitting appointments at one time.
“In order to carry a designer you have to purchase a certain amount each year,” Charlotte explained. “Therefore, a lot of product is coming in all the time. We are constantly unpacking new dresses.”
Lambs Hill has also dedicated more than one-fourth of the shop to plus-size dresses, ranging from sizes 16-30. Parts of the store have sample-sale dresses, or dresses that a bride can pull off the rack and take home that day. “These are great for last-minute weddings, second dresses, destination weddings. But mainly customers order dresses to their sizes.” Prices in the store range from $1,500-$2,500, while dresses from the popular designer, Haylee Paige, range from $3,000-$5,000.
Charlotte has done many of the renovations herself, including installing the herringbone wall on the new addition.
Main Street is never dull. Get out there and step into the experiences these shop owners have created for you. For more ideas on shopping in Beacon, visit A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide. Lambs Hill is a sponsor of that Guide, which allows us to show you even more of what is going on inside each week.
Check out Beacon’s second Annual Hop & Shop, where participating shops stay open until 9 pm to make your holiday shopping easier - and more fun.
For a detailed guide on your Shopping experience, see A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide for write-ups of many of the boutiques in town, including some pictures for you to get a better idea of what you’ll find inside.
We could talk about the shopping for days, but the only way for you to truly know that Main Street is extremely shoppable with not only unique gifts, but truly awesome finds - is if you walk it. So get out there!
From the organizers:
Hi Beacon! If you haven't already heard, this Thursday & Friday is Beacon's second annual HOP & SHOP!!
This community event is organized by your local Beacon businesses in an effort to give you an opportunity to shop, sip, hop and indulge in all the unique places we have here in this beautiful city.
From tacos to yoga, from antiques to olive oil, from beer to barre, and appetizers to apparel - there are over 60 businesses offering you discounts, specials and reasons to come out and celebrate the holidays and walk your gorgeous Main Street!
Open late until 9 pm 🎉🎉
Follow along on their Instagram stream to get an idea of all of the different products and services you will find on Main Street. Gems. All gems.
Support for this publication comes in part from these businesses. We have highlighted what makes them special on their own dedicated pages. Want your business listed here? See the "Sponsor Spotlight" or "Event Promotion" option in our Advertising Page.
A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
BAJA 328
Malfatti Glass: Free Giveaway
MIZ HATTIE'S - CURBSIDE DELIVERY
