The questions are flying around Facebook groups and my inbox: "Is the Kids' Parade really this Sunday?" Yes... as is maybe your school Halloween party this week, unless it's on the day of Halloween, or who knows! October turned super-busy last year, and this year has proven no different. Just take a look at how the 2015 Kids' Halloween Hocus Pocus Parade turned out!
Two parades pass through this weekend: The Dark Parade, which is a glow-in-the-dark event for adults on Saturday night, and the Kids' Hocus Pocus Parade on Sunday afternoon.
We dusted off last year's Pumpkins and Parades Guide that contains information on where to find parades, pumpkin carving events, and pumpkin patches and markets. This year, we added a "Watch For It" section to highlight special offerings from stores. Don't let the warm weather fool you - Halloween is coming, and you may need two costumes for all of the display opportunities. By the time trick-or-treating comes around, that well-planned costume may have a few worn patches. Take a look at our coverage of last year's Kids Halloween Parade to get a sense for the day.
PS: The location of this photo is Lawrence Farms, which is in this guide as a beautiful location of pumpkin picking.
For the past two years (that I know of), Dance Bag has had a $10 rack out on their sidewalk for an impressive selection of poofy dresses and other stage-worthy costumes, but they say they won't this year. If making your own costume is not an option right now, really impressive and affordable costumes have been known to be at TJ Maxx and at Cracker Barrel. By now, Cracker Barrel may have their costumes on clearance. So that's a bonus!
two Halloween Events at A Little Beacon Space!
We're about to send an official announcement about it (but all of these parade dates bumped our own article), but A Little Beacon Space is open! We're hosting two pop-up events this weekend: Parent/Child Yoga on Saturday with a Halloween theme (only seevn spots left!), and Kitchen Cuts for kids' haircuts and face painting on Sunday. Hope to see you!
Cruising into its fourth year, the Beacon Auto Show rolled into town with 307 automobiles and trucks. Filing up both sides of Main Street from west to east, stopping at the diner, it was again put on by Beacon's Chamber of Commerce. This year, 2016, marks the largest year for the show, which so far, has only been growing. According to officials, cars were squeezed in anywhere they could fit, including several in the DMV Parking Lot. Live music and an awards show, with several trophies, were anchored at the gas station near the post office and the entrance to Beacon Flea. The day's weather was spectacular, unlike the previous year when we experienced a freak snow shower, sending people into cafes (like Homespun, pictured below) in search of hot chocolate.
Prevalent this year were the props outside and inside of the cars. Looks like we featured this car in the 2015 show! This time, it looks brighter and has plenty of accessories.
And the colors! Painter Jean Noack was overcome by the bright, glossy finishes surrounding her.
A produce truck, quite appropriate for these parts, and adorable!
The old Chevy Caprice, parked in front of the Beacon Natural Market. You could fit a lot of groceries in that vehicle.
Remember the third seat facing backwards in the Chevy Caprice? Complete with seat belts.
Fire breathers outside of the new location of Pizza and Stuff, Quinn's and BAJA 328.
Stingray... no other words needed.
The glass hood ornament in a row of Ford Mustangs. Looks like this Mustang was also featured in 2015, but this year has a flashier scene under the hood!
Halloween was a big theme this year for car decorations.
Beacon's Chamber of Commerce, selling t-shirts UNDER THEIR TENT.
The Beacon Flea was packed with different vendors, several of whom stayed past the usual closing hour of 3 pm because the crowd remained strong.
Our region is famed for its breathtaking mountains and endless hiking trails, attracting nature-lovers from all over the country. The rocky terrain that draws avid hikers to the Hudson Highlands, however, can also be a barrier for people with mobility issues. To remedy that, the Black Rock Forest Consortium created a Visitor Access Pathway that is accessible to wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and anyone else who has trouble navigating other trails.
Construction for Phase 1 of Black Rock Forest Consortium’s new Visitor Access Pathway has been completed and is ready for the public. For the past few years, the Consortium has worked to secure a total of $570,000 for this project, landing two grants from New York State’s Environmental Protection Fund for two phases of construction of the Forest's first accessible trail.
Per the grant requirements, the Consortium provides a one-to-one match of cash, staff and volunteer labor, as well as in-kind materials like native stone, putting the total project cost at well over $1 million. Phase One of the project has created a pedestrian-only trail of crushed stone, similar to a carriage road, extending from the Consortium's public parking lot on Reservoir Road for 1,500 feet through the woods to a scenic area with gorgeous views north to the Shawangunks and Catskills. This approximately quarter-mile trail will be completely accessible to those with mobility impairments. Families with strollers will also enjoy this new path.
About The Trail
The new pathway, opening on October 21, is 10 feet wide and in full compliance with ADA building standards and trail guidelines. At over a quarter-mile long, the pathway meanders through mature forests and past fern-covered cliffs, and it makes some of the region’s most rewarding views accessible to everyone.
“We are looking forward to welcoming many people to Black Rock Forest for the first time, where they will discover an intact, native ecosystem that is home to a great diversity of wildlife, including more than 160 bird species,” said the Consortium’s executive director, Bill Schuster.
In addition to the birds and rare species of flora and fauna, visitors will be able to see 50 miles up the Hudson Valley, north to the Catskill and Shawangunk mountains. “The Black Rock Forest Visitor Access Pathway will provide meaningful outdoor experiences for people in places where they have not had them before,” said Douglas Hovey, the executive director of Independent Living, Inc. “There are very few outdoor resources for people with disabilities; therefore, this addition at Black Rock Forest is significant for thousands of people living with disabilities in the Hudson Valley.”
Visitors will be able to sit along the pathway on ADA-accessible benches built from Black Rock Forest wood. A second building phase to expand the trail is planned for 2017-2018.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony - Open to the Public
The Black Rock Forest Consortium, Independent Living, the New York State Parks Commissioner, and local government representatives are hosting an opening ceremony event on Friday, October 21, at 10 am for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and ecology stroll. RSVP to (845) 534-4517 or brfoffice@blackrockforest.org.
Parking Nearby
Parking for the Visitor Access Pathway will be at the main Black Rock Forest parking lot, which is off of Reservoir Road (off of 9W). The lot is to the right just before you reach the Black Rock Forest green metal entrance gate. This is also where the trailhead for the pathway is.
Your Weekend Guide to events, shopping, restaurants and beauty.
Hello!
This weekend is loaded with options! Here is your easy access to planning. These are weekend dates pulled from some of A Little Beacon Blog's 10 Things To Do In Beacon Guides, so be sure to check them during the week.
Screening of "Curfew" with Shawn Christensen Day: Friday, October 14, 2016 Time: 7:30 pm Location: The Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Elks Lounge Dance Night Day: Friday, October 14, 2016 Time: 7 to 11 pm Location: Beacon Elks Lodge, 900 Wolcott Ave. (Rt. 9D), Beacon, NY Information >
Cold Spring Farmers' Market Tree Walk at Boscobel Day: Saturday, October 15, 2016 Time: 10 to 11 am Location: Boscobel, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, NY
The Cold Spring Farmers' Market presents Tree Walk at Boscobel! Meet tree expert Paul Markwalter at the Market Tent at 10 am this Saturday for a Tree Walk on Boscobel grounds. Topics include tree identification, pruning, tree pest identification, and uses for wood from different trees. Tree climbing and cutting tools will be on display. Paul was a tree surgeon for over 40 years before focusing full-time on his guitar amplifier business, Beacon Tube Amps. This is the perfect opportunity to learn a bit about what's going on in your own back yard! Great for families and homeschool groups, too! Information >
Hudson Hills Used Book & Board Game Fundraiser for a Playground Day: Saturday, October 15, 2016 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center
Help raise funds for our children’s playground at our Used Children’s Books and Board Game Sale. Enjoy apple cider, face painting, and a 50/50 raffle. Cash only, please. All proceeds benefit playground improvements at Hudson Hills Montessori Beacon Campus.
Walking Tour of Beacon's East End: A Taste Of History Day: Saturday, October 15, 2016 Time: 1 pm or 2 pm Location: Tour starts and ends at Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
New York State Sheep & Wool Festival Days: October 15 & 16, 2016 Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Information >
Crafted Days: October 15 & 16, 2016 Time: 9 am to 5 pm Location: Dutchess Stadium, 1500 Route 9D, Wappingers Falls, NY Information >
The 3rd Annual Flavors of Haverstraw Food Crawl Day: Sunday, October 16, 2016 Time: 2 to 6 pm Location: Downtown Haverstraw, New York Information >
Free concert celebrating opening of American Center for Folk Music Day: Sunday, October 16, 2016 Time: 4 pm Location: Pete & Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, Beacon, NY Information >
5th Annual Classic Car Show In Beacon
Presented by Beacon's Chamber of Commerce and Dutchess Cruisers
Day: Sunday, October 16, 2016 Time: 11 am to 4 pm Location: Main Street, Beacon Information >
Beacon Sloop Club Pumpkin Festival
Day: Sunday, October 16, 2016 Time: Noon to 5 pm Location: Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, Beacon, NY Information >
Fishkill Farms Fall Festival Day: Every weekend starting Saturday, September 10, 2016 until October 29 and 30. Time: 9 am to 6 pm Location: 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY
Celebrate the first Fall Harvest Festival of the 2016 season with us this weekend. 'Tis the season of hayrides, live music, fresh-pressed cider and delicious cinnamon-sugar donuts! Harvest Festival Weekends run every weekend and holiday through October 29 & 30 (or until we run out of apples). Information >
Visit our 5K Race Guide for upcoming races in the area.
Glass Bead-Making Workshop With Stephanie Maddalena Day: Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16, 2016 Time: 10 am to 5 pm Location: Hudson Beach Glass - 162 Main St., 2nd Floor, Beacon, NY Information >
Breastfeeding Essentials Day: Friday, October 14, 2016 Time: 6 to 8 pm Location: Waddle n Swaddle - 484 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
How to Promote Your Art: Word Artist Panel II Day: Sunday, October 16, 2016 Time: 2 to 4 pm Location: Hudson Valley Center For Contemporary Art, 1701 Main St., Peekskill, NY Information >
Saturday Morning Makers: Design Your Own Button Day: October 15, 2016 Time: 11 am to 12 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
SAVE THE DATE Parent/Child Yoga: Halloween Theme Day: Saturday, October 22, 2016 Time: 9:30 to 10:15 am Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
Enjoy a Saturday morning of duo yoga poses with a parent and child in this Halloween-inspired yoga class. How will you and your little one rattle your skeleton bones? Arch into a Spooky Cat Pose, bend into an Eerie Crescent Moon, and take flight in a Flying Bat Pose. Information >
Kitchen Cuts and Face Painting Day: Sunday, October 23, 2016 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
Our space gets transformed into a salon for kids' haircuts and face painting! During or after the Kids' Halloween Parade down Main Street, bring your kids in for a $16 cut and $1 face painting. (Face painting funds raised get donated to Beacon elementary schools.) Thanks to our sponsor It's All About The Mouse Travel by Teresa Marra for sponsoring and helping to make this salon possible! Information >
**Host your own pop-up shop at A Little Beacon Space! More details here.
Deciding which cupcake to try can be daunting, especially with the new flavors that Get Frosted bakers are always creating! Next time you’re in, try this week’s most popular cupcake: tiramisu, complete with mascarpone whipped cream frosting and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Barb’s Butchery always has new sausages in the works, like these delicious lamb shepherd’s pie sausages with potatoes right inside them. Come in this weekend to sample these and two other lamb sausages while you peruse the meat selection and pick up some lunch!
This Sunday. Oct. 16, enjoy breakfast burritos at BAJA 328 from 9 to 11 am during the annual City of Beacon Car Show! Not a morning person? Come in for a lunch burrito special from 11 am to 2 pm, and round out your meal with a seasonal Apple Cinnamon Margarita.
Save the date: BAJA is celebrating its anniversary for a whole week from Oct. 22-29, and they are planning some fabulous specials! Check back here next week for more details.
Our Restaurant Guide has all of your options - even eateries you didn't know about! Keep it open on your phone, because we list everyone's phone number and website, making it super easy for you to tap-to-call!
Fresh from renowned German manufacturer Deuter is this old-school style hiking pack, perfect for all-day hikes, picnics, weekend getaways, and more. Add on this bestselling Osprey day pack, and you’ll be prepared to get out and enjoy whatever the season brings! Both available at Mountain Tops.
What do you give the person in your life who loves spicy food and has already tried every hot sauce you can find? How about this make-your-own hot sauce kit, along with a pithy card from The Pfotoshop?
Get these frames or any others (except sunglasses) from the Ray-Ban line for 50% off when you buy new lenses at Luxe Optique! Head in for expert help to find the perfect frames to help you see in style.
Style Storehouse welcomed this new line of stamped bracelets in plenty of time for you to check a few gifts off your holiday shopping list. The best part: You can order customized bracelets in brass, silver, gold, and rose gold with just a few weeks' notice!
All shops in Beacon are listed in this Shopping Guide, from Home Decor to Kids Fashion to Vintage and more. Keep it open on your phone as you're walking around shopping!
From the hairs on your head to the toes on your feet, there are many ways to pamper yourself and your pet in our Beauty Guide.
We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!"
Pictures shown here are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too!
BeaconArts is sponsoring the Folk Legends concert this Sunday, Oct. 16, at Long Dock Park. The concert is to celebrate the opening of the new headquarters for the American Center for Folk Music (ACFM) at Scenic Hudson’s River Center, the restored red “barn” building in Long Dock Park. This free concert will feature Grammy Award-winning folk legends John McCutcheon and Tom Chapin and W.C. Handy Award-winner Joe Louis Walker. Admission is free, but donations are accepted to benefit ACFM.
Antalek & Moore
The agents at Antalek & Moore live in this community, and know the needs of you living here very well. Whether you're insuring your home, apartment, car, or business, Antalek & Moore can listen to your needs and help you. Call them when you need to at 845-245-6292.
Tin Shingle
Membership prices at Tin Shingle are changing and evolving into Membership Packages, with Private Training available. Currently, the price is $39 per month for the All Access Pass to all of Tin Shingle's educational videos, templates, and Community Boards. Consider this your Groupon or Steals and Deals price, because the All Access Pass will be back to its original price of $150 in the coming weeks.Anyone who subscribes to membership now can lock in this price, but it's only available until this weekend. So, now is your time to lock it in at this rate!
InHouse Design Media
Need help coming up with ideas for your social media streams? Do you wish your website looked or did something different? InHouse Design Media can help!
All Sport Health & Fitness
October 15 at 9 pm, All Sport members and friends will Walk A Mile In Her Shoes to raise awareness of gender violence and sexual assault. Men are encouraged to walk in high heels to show support for women in the community!
Poughkeepsie Nissan Poughkeepsie Nissan Fall Sales Event is going on now, so head on in for the best deals of the season!
Save the Date: On Thursday, October 27, Poughkeepsie Nissan is hosting Line Dance for a Cause to benefit Grace Smith House, a nonprofit organization providing support to victims of domestic violence.
A Little Beacon Space
Read all about new events hosted at A Little Beacon Space on our new Schedule page to see all of the different happenings coming to A Little Beacon Space! Want to set up your Pop-Up Shop here? Or other event? See here for rental details!
Alvin Bell moved to Beacon from Virginia when jobs were scarce in the South, and booming in Beacon. Twenty-seven years later, Beacon hemorrhaged jobs and Mr. Bell quickly experienced again what he had fled in the first place. Now with deeper roots in the Hudson Valley, Mr. Bell stayed and did not move to pursue healthy job markets in other areas. Instead, he created his own. And he's still here, 25 years later in a barber shop. Many of you have sat in his red leather swivel hair chair, but some of you may not yet have walked in for a cut, or even peeked your head in to look inside of Main Street Beauty Salon. Well you can here, and after our interview with Mr. Bell for this edition of our "Come In!" series, Mr. Bell extends his walk-in invitation to you. Even if it's to play checkers with him. But watch out, he's the "Checker Champ!"
Barbershop owner Alvin Bell moved to Beacon from Virginia decades ago "when jobs were scarce in the South," according to the Beacon Historical Society's "Heroes of Main Street" book of profiles of longtime business owners in Beacon. At the time, Beacon was flourishing as a factory town. When Mr. Bell moved here, he took a job of pressman at the Nabisco Company right away, working in the building that is now Dia: Beacon. Rising up to become Top Pressman, Mr. Bell was "responsible for everything that came off the press," he says, which meant that he spent a lot of time under the large ceilings and north-facing skylights to inspect the color and design of everything printed.
That is, until Beacon went through a change of a different kind, and the factories began to empty out, including Nabisco. After 27 years, his position was downsized. Mr. Bell was left without a job at age 54, too young to start drawing from Social Security. That's when the lightening bolt of entrepreneurship hit him, and his life changed forever. Mr. Bell, a spiritual man, credits Proverbs 3:5-6 for his guidance: "He will direct your path." (Note: This is Mr. Bell's quote of the wording.)
"Out of nowhere, God gave me a vision," he recalls. Mr. Bell's wife, Shirley Bell, was "doing hair" as he calls it, and Mr. Bell always had dreams of opening a salon. He got a license, and moved forward even through his family "looked at me like I was a little crazy." However, his wife Shirley was excited, and he opened the shop as Main Street Unisex Salon, which he changed to Barber and Unisex Shop years later just to stir things up. It is currently called Main Street Beauty Salon.
At first, mothers brought in their kids, and their client base built up. The Bells dove into community work by giving away clothes and food. A spiritual man, Mr. Bell says "The spirits showed me how to run the business." Call it intuition or a good business sense, the path that Mr. Bell followed was clear for him from days after he got laid off, continuing today, and hopefully for many tomorrows.
When asked what he credits his success to, Mr. Bell looked straight ahead and out his storefront window, past the barber chairs and magazines and to Main Street and replied: "Be loyal to your customers. And be polite."
Though not a boastful man, Mr. Bell has kept his years of press coverage and special involvements in a cardboard box in the back of the shop, or has hung pictures on the wall. Insider info for you: There is one bit of printed press on the wall that identifies Mr. Bell as "Albert Bell." Believe us when we tell you his name is Alvin. But it's framed, and he blows it off with the brush of his hand, appreciating the acknowledgment.
A singer and performer in his heart, Mr. Bell relives the days of performing numerous times with Pete Seeger and other band members. Mr. Bell held a solo performance at the Howland Cultural Center in 2009, performing 10 songs by himself, a memory he is quite proud of and can re-live for probably the whole day with you if you stayed to get a perm.
A blue banner hangs above the barber shop on Main Street next to BJ's, congratulating Mr. Bell for 25 years in business. When the banner went up, his building's landlord, Janelle Piccone Styles, wrote into A Little Beacon Blog to make sure we knew about him, as she was responsible for making and hanging the sign. When asked what she thought was the reason for his success, she replied: "I would say Mr. Bell's attitude! He is always smiling, always has a kind word. It's contagious."
As for Mr. Bell's parting words and advice for staying in business: "Show love."
Sit if you dare, in Mr. Mac's chair at this checker board, and take on the Checker Champ, Mr. Bell. Tell us when you do - we'd love to watch and learn from both sides!
The Hudson Valley music community will celebrate the opening of the American Center for Folk Music (ACFM) with a concert on Sunday, Oct. 16, at 4 p.m., at Long Dock Park on Beacon’s waterfront. The performance will feature folk legends John McCutcheon and Tom Chapin and W.C. Handy Award winner Joe Louis Walker.
Admission is free, but donations are suggested to benefit the ACFM, whose headquarters are located in Scenic Hudson’s River House, the restored red “barn” building in Long Dock Park.
The riverfront City of Beacon has long been a cornerstone of American folk music. Now that relationship is being formally cemented with the ACFM, established one year ago to honor folk legends and to sustain the folk music process as a vibrant part of American culture.
In case of inclement weather, the concert will be held at the Towne Crier Cafe, 379 Main St., Beacon.
The ACFM benefit concert has been coordinated with the Beacon Sloop Club’s annual Pumpkin Festival, which will be held the same day at nearby Pete & Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park, just north of the Long Dock concert site. Both events are within walking distance of the Metro-North railroad station. Arrive early to purchase pumpkins and pumpkin pies from the Sloop Club, and enjoy Festival activities from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The ACFM is part of BeaconArts, a collaborative of cultural organizations working together to support Beacon’s creative community. Use of Scenic Hudson's River Center is provided by Scenic Hudson, the leading environmental organization focused on the Hudson River Valley.
About the Performing artists
John McCutcheon: Pete Seeger said, “John McCutcheon is not only one of the best musicians in the USA, but also a great singer, songwriter and song leader.” No less a figure than Johnny Cash simply called him “the most impressive instrumentalist I’ve ever heard.” McCutcheon’s 30-plus recordings have garnered every imaginable honor, including five Grammy nominations. He is considered the most influential hammered dulcimer player in the country.
Tom Chapin: In a career that spans five decades, 24 albums and three Grammy awards, multitalented singer/songwriter/guitarist Tom Chapin, a Hudson Valley resident, has covered an incredible amount of creative ground. In addition to his work as a recording artist and concert performer, Chapin has acted on Broadway and worked extensively in films, television and radio.
Joe Louis Walker: Multiple Grammy and W.C. Handy Award winner Joe Louis Walker is one of the most heralded blues artists of our time. Walker has recorded with B.B. King, James Cotton, Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, Branford Marsalis and Ike Turner. Walker has become an international ambassador for the blues overseas, having played at countless festivals throughout Europe, South America, Australia, the Middle East and Asia. Walker is already being referred to within the blues world as a living legend. However, as Walker himself would say, “The best is yet to come!”
Jordan Garrand and Bryn Morgan organizing some of last year's donations
With the fall chill in the air, many people are pulling out warm coats for the season and perhaps even buying new ones. Others in the community, however, don't have the resources to keep their families warm this winter, and they need help from friends, neighbors, and community members.
The Dutchess Outreach Susan DeKeukelaere Annual Coat Drive, sponsored by Guardian Self Storage, has been collecting and distributing thousands of gently used coats to people in need for the past two decades, and the need is ever-growing. Last year, the drive collected over 8,000 coats and still had to turn people away!
This year, make a huge difference in someone's life simply by donating an extra coat. Did your child outgrow last year's parka? Donate it! How about that ski jacket you don't need anymore? You'll appreciate the extra space in your closet, and you'll keep someone warm all winter. All clean coats in good condition are welcome, though the need is greatest for adult plus sizes and children's coats.
The drive is going on through October 31, and there several convenient collection places. The closest Guardian Self Storage to Beacon is located at 1078 Route 9 in Fishkill. You can also drop off donations at All Sport Health and Fitness, located at 17 Old Main St. in Fishkill, and at several local schools. For more information, contact Judy Motter at jmotter@guardianselfstorage.com.
The Second Saturday Guide Edition...Your full guide for the day/night is here!
Hello!
This weekend is loaded with options! Here is your easy access to planning. These are weekend dates pulled from some of A Little Beacon Blog's 10 Things To Do In Beacon Guides, so be sure to check them during the week.
Happy Second Saturday! Day: Saturday, October 8, 2016 Time: All day. Times different per event. Location: Beacon Get This Guide >
Second Saturday is a celebratory day in Beacon, started in part by visionaries at BeaconArts and other folks in the early 2000s. Special events and art openings happen throughout the day. Each month, A Little Beacon Blog complies a Guide of the art showings at galleries, stores, churches, outdoor events, and anywhere else where art is happening.
Because this Guide is new every month, we gather event information from newsletters, social media streams, and other sources and are always adding things! It's almost ready, so keep checking the website home page for the final lineup!
A Sneak Peek From Our Sponsor Partners:
STYLE STOREHOUSE
On Saturday, Style Storehouse is having a Miles of Hope fundraiser at the store. Sasha Dobson will be singing live, and an acupuncturist will be there giving mini treatments and samples of apothecary. Also, there will be raffles and giveaways. Ten percent of sales will go to Miles of Hope.
LUXE OPTIQUE
Luxe Optique will be presenting their entire collection of Zero G Eyewear Saturday from 3 to 7 pm. Be sure to stop in to check out the whole line and get $60 off your purchase!
Mountainside Dance Night Day: Friday, October 7, 2016 Time: 7:30 to 10:30 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY Information >
Mid-Hudson Etsy Makers Pop-Up Market Day: Saturday, October 8, 2016 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: The Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
City of Beacon Pumpkin Carving Contest Day: Saturday, October 8, 2016 Time: 10 am Location: Pavilion at Beacon Memorial Park, Beacon, NY Information >
Dia: Beacon Community Free Day Day: Saturday, October 8, 2016 Time: 11 am to 6 pm Location: Dia: Beacon, 3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY Information >
DiaTalk with Jeffrey Weiss on Robert Morris Day: Saturday, October 8, 2016 Time: 2:30 pm Location: Dia: Beacon, 3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY Information >
Shop & Chef Event 2016 Day: Sunday, October 9, 2016 Time: 3:30 to 7 pm Location: Blooming Hill Farm, 251 State Route 208, Blooming Grove, NY Information >
Harvest Dinner Day: Sunday, October 9, 2016 Time: 3 to 7 pm Location: Obercreek Farm, 89 New Hamburg Road, Hughsonville, NY Information >
Bonfire Night Day: Sunday, October 9, 2016 Time: 6 to 9 pm Location: Boscobel, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, NY Information >
Fishkill Farms Fall Festival Day: Every weekend starting Saturday, September 10, 2016 until October 29 and 30, 2016 Time: 9 am to 6 pm Location: 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY
Celebrate the first Fall Harvest Festival of the 2016 season this weekend. 'Tis the season of hayrides, live music, fresh-pressed cider and delicious cinnamon-sugar donuts! Harvest Festival Weekends run every weekend and holiday through October 29 & 30 (or until we run out of apples). Information >
Run For Babies 5K Day: Saturday, October 8, 2016 Time: 8:30 to 11 am Location: Stewart International Airport, 1180 First St., New Windsor, NY
Charity race to benefit the March of Dimes. Information >
Newburgh-Beacon Bridge 5-Mile Run Day: Sunday, October 9, 2016 Time: 11 am to 1 pm Location: Race starts on Broadway in Newburgh, crosses the bridge, and ends at the entrance of Beacon Riverside Park. Information >
Couples' Massage Workshop Day: Sunday, October 9, 2016 Time: 2:30 to 5 pm Location: Terra Firma Massage, 60 W. Center St., Beacon, NY Information >
Card and Board Game Club Day: Friday, October 7, 2016 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
COMING SOON! Kitchen Cuts Day: Sunday, October 23, 2016 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
Inspired by actual haircuts done in Katie's kitchen by her neighbor Audrina, of Your Presence Salon! For one day only in this first pop-up experience from A Little Beacon Space, you can bring your child in for a haircut and a face paint! Pre-booking is available for an early-bird discount and to reserve a time. Information >
**Host your own pop-up shop at A Little Beacon Space! More details here.
Get Frosted Cupcakery is known for their outstanding cupcakes, but did you know they also make… non-cupcakes?? Like white chocolate baguettes, cinnamon scones, coffee cake, and other pastries. Yum!
There is so much live music coming up at The Vault, from DJ’d dance parties to solo blues rockers. It can’t all fit here, so check out their Facebook page for all the upcoming events! You don’t want to miss the Food Photography and Social Media Night on Monday, October 17, where those with reservations between 6 and 8 pm receive one free drink and get in on the fun of having great food photos, with live music from Tony DePaolo.
Now that fall is officially upon us, Barb’s Butchery is open Monday to Friday from noon to 7 pm, with the grill on for freshly prepared meals ALL DAY! Her Saturday and Sunday hours are 10 am to 6 pm, with the grill on for lunch from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm. When you go there for your own smoked brisket sandwich or homemade sausage and peppers, bring your dog because Barb’s now has a special menu for the canine loves of your life.
National Taco Day may have come and gone, but you’ll have fantastic tacos any day of the year at Baja! While you’re there, try one of their 110-plus tequilas on its own or in an expertly crafted - and gorgeous - cocktail.
Our Restaurant Guide has all of your options - even eateries you didn't know about! Keep it open on your phone, because we list everyone's phone number and website, making it super easy for you to tap-to-call!
It’s FLANNEL season! Whether you need to chop wood or snuggle up under the blankets, Mountain Tops has cozy gear to outfit the whole family.
Farm2Fashion just made a delivery to The Pfotoshop, dropping off these soft and stylish men’s scarves, fluffy infinity scarves, and so much more on the shelves.
Luxe Optique is presenting the entire collection of Zero G Eyewear on Saturday, October 8 from 3 to 7 pm. Be sure to stop in to see the whole line and get $60 off your purchase!
This Saturday, Sasha Dobson will be back at Style Storehouse singing live from 5 to 8 pm to help raise money for the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation. There will also be raffles, giveaways, mini acupuncture treatments, and refreshments, not to mention the fabulous fashion that’s always in store!
All shops in Beacon are listed in this Shopping Guide, from Home Decor to Kids Fashion to Vintage and more. Keep it open on your phone as you're walking around shopping!
Karen has hand-collected stones from Ruby Beach in Washington for your Hot Stone Massage treatment. She calls them “magical.” Because the stones take time to set up in advance, these sessions must be booked via text or email. Contact Karen directly to warm up in her cozy studio under these stones and her touch. Text: (845) 379-1956 Email: rtmbeacon@gmail.com
From the hairs on your head to the toes on your feet, there are many ways to pamper yourself and your pet in our Beauty Guide.
We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!"
Pictures shown here are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. If you run a business on Main Street, it's in a Guide, like Shopping, Restaurant or Beauty. Upgrade it to the "Stand Out" promotional program, and we'll include your most exciting news here in the weekend newsletter.
Our Spotlight Sponsors have a lot to offer you! We partner with businesses whose products and services fit your life, and we've written about each of them.
BeaconArts sends a “Congratulations!” to Meredith Heuer of Beacon Arts and Education Foundation, and a new board member of the Beacon Board of Education. This week she accepts the Dutchess County Executive's Arts Award for Arts in Education. From BeaconArts: “We are so very proud of you Meredith, and grateful for all you have done and will continue to do on behalf of the children in the Beacon City School District!“
Antalek & Moore
Did you know Antalek & Moore agents are available 24/7? That’s right, no matter when you need insurance help, Antalek & Moore is there for you. Whether you need to insure a new car or just want to find out if you can get a lower homeowners insurance rate, give them a call at 845-245-6292.
Tin Shingle Tin Shingle is not only a public relations training platform, it’s also a community. Here is Tin Shingle viewer Karen showing us how she participates in our weekly TuneUp training webinars! From blogging tips to hashtag hacks, our TuneUps cover what businesses of every size need to know to gain publicity and build buzz.
InHouse Design Media
Monday, October 17, from 6 to 8 pm is a special night at The Vault: It’s Social Media Night! Join us for a tasting of their fall menu and a free drink while we mingle and take pictures for The Vault’s social media.
All Sport Health & Fitness
On Saturday, October 15, at 9 pm All Sport members and friends will Walk A Mile In Her Shoes to raise awareness of gender violence and sexual assault. Men are encouraged to walk in high heels to show support for women in the community!
Poughkeepsie Nissan Poughkeepsie Nissan Fall Sales Event is going on now, and they redecorated the showroom for the season!
Save the Date: On Thursday, October 27, Poughkeepsie Nissan is hosting Line Dance for a Cause to benefit Grace Smith House, a nonprofit organization providing support to victims of domestic violence.
A Little Beacon Space
Read all about new events hosted at A Little Beacon Space on our Schedule page to see all the different happenings coming to A Little Beacon Space! Want to set up your Pop-Up Shop here? Or other event? See here for rental details!
Be sure to check out our latest additions to the Things To Do In Beacon Guides on Sundays to see what events have been added for the upcoming weeks and months, so you can plan ahead! We sleuth around and add activities, eateries and shops all week! If you know of something going on, send it to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com or tag us in your flyer on Instagram - we're @alittlebeacon.
Fall is in full swing and October is a busy, busy month for pumpkin carving and costume preparations. A Little Beacon Blog has got you covered with our new Pumpkins & Parades Guide!
One is never bored in Beacon, thanks to all of the groups that get created by citizens, meeting in easily accessible places like the Library, Quinn's, and the Parks and Recreation Department. Learning about these groups and keeping up with when they meet is a job in and of itself. We're always learning about new ones here at A Little Beacon Blog, and adding them to the Adult Classes Guide when we do.
Jan Dolan, the teacher of the Beacon Thursday Painters Group. Photo Credit: Jean Noack
One such group is having an exhibition at the Howland Public Library during October, opening on Saturday, October 8 - Beacon's Second Saturday. The Thursday Painters group is a weekly three-hour class for seniors offered by the Beacon Recreation Department and taught by local artist Jan Dolan. Many of the Thursday Painters have been painting for decades, while others, like Jean Noack, are enjoying the process of awakening their hidden talent. "I enjoy the class because it is made up of a nice group of students who are friendly, creative and are willing to help each other," Jean says. "Also, our teacher Jan Dolan of Beacon is a talented artist, and in addition, she is a wonderful teacher." The class has been meeting for over two years and, according to Jean, "The Recreation Director, Mark Price, has been highly supportive." The show at the library this Second Saturday will be the group’s second exhibit, and runs through November 5.
While in the Beacon Thursday Painters class, Jean tapped into her fondness of the Dummy Light, located on Beacon's east end, and created a series. "When I started in this class [Beacon Thursday Painters], I did portraits of each of my three cats. Then, I moved on to do an oil painting of Beacon's Dummy Light. I am a native of Beacon and used to pass it each day as I walked to school from my home on Fishkill Avenue to Forrestal School. I took a photo of my Dummy Light painting and shrunk the image and I hand-made Dummy Light Christmas ornaments and magnets at my kitchen table. For a while there, it was a regular production line as I made them for friends and sold others. Never could I have seen myself in retirement making pin money from my art!"
Painting of the Dummy Light by Jean Noack. Photo Credit: Jean Noack
Jean's most recent painting of the Dummy Light will be on display at the Beacon Historical Society's "Hats Off to the Beacon Historical Society!" this Second Saturday at Beacon Bath & Bubble, located at 458 Main Street in Beacon, near the Lauren & Riley boutique (who was just featured in the Highlands Current!).
Painting on wood by Jean Noack for the exhibit and upcoming auction for "Hats Off To The Beacon Historical Society" fundraiser for the society's new office to store and display their archives.
The Howland Public Library is presenting an exhibition of work by the Beacon Thursday Painters from October 8th through November 5th. An artists’ reception will be held on Beacon's Second Saturday, October 8th, from 5 to 7pm.
The Howland Public Library is located at 313 Main St., Beacon NY 12508. The Community Room Exhibit Space is open during regular library hours. Please note: The gallery may not be accessible during some library programs. Please consult the library calendar at beaconlibrary.org. Artists interested in exhibiting at the library should contact community@beaconlibrary.org.
Scenic Hudson, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Hudson River and the Hudson River Valley of New York State, and owner of the land that is known as Long Dock Park, is presenting their proposal for enhancements to Long Dock Park on Wednesday, October 12 at 7:30 pm. Scenic Hudson is encouraging those who support the enhancements to come to the meeting. The group will be presenting to the City of Beacon Planning Board meeting to make a short statement supporting the newest improvements it wants to make at Long Dock Park. They're outlined below.
The Long Dock Park project proposal includes:
Infrastructure for food trucks
A shaded plaza for informal dining
Shade pavilions, lawns and a native-plant meadow
A boardwalk and river overlook deck
Meeting attendees do not need to speak, but can do so if they wish. Attendance at city meetings does make an impact on the case at hand.
Meeting details: Day: Wednesday, October 12, 2016 Time: 7:30 pm Location: Beacon Municipal Center - One Municipal Plaza, Beacon, NY
Pictured here for you to see is the winner of the "Where Is This" contest from early September, when we shared the sign on the back of the building holding Hudson Valley Auctioneers. Matt Clifton identified it within an hour of it being posted. Lucky for him, he's a newsletter subscriber, so he got advance notice of the post.
Matt is also a local Apple techie, and can help you with your Mac at Lokimac in the friendliest way. So I was quite pleased when he won, as it meant I'd get to double-duty his meeting: he'd pick up the golden ticket for a BJ's sweet potato pie fresh out of the oven, and I'd get to ask a couple of my own recent Apple questions. Matt is also one half to the food blog Nerds With Knives, so when he says that the BJ's sweet potato pie is amazing, you know the pie is serious. But you already knew that, because BJ's sweet potato pie has been famous around Beacon for 35 years.
Onto the next contest! You all were stumped, so the reveal pictures will be posted with no winner. But, I'd like to give you a bit more information on the location, so wait a few days for that article and all of its delicious pictures. You may want to know a bit more about why a purple dinosaur was in a storefront on Main Street.
If you're a #getoutside type exerciser, you might be freaking out right now as the cool nights and mornings linger into an all-day affair, forcing you to think about your indoor workout plan. Well, you're certainly not alone, but All Sport has got your back with lots of great cardio and muscle toning machines and group classes. What's better than a group challenge class? Going to All Sport with your Buddy! October is Buddy Month, and that means you can bring a pal - for free. If that pal has kids, you can give them an entertaining option in All Sport's Kids Club while you work out!
As we type, parents are clicking back into gear checking out School's Out options, looking for special classes that are offered on Monday holidays to occupy busy little minds and lock in childcare during the workday. All Sport has posted their School's Out dates from now through 2017, making it easy for you to plan!
2016 October 3, 10, 12 November 11, 23, 25 December 23, 26-30
Hosting the first curated pop-up experience at A Little Beacon Space was slightly more than nerve-wracking, I must admit! Will anyone come? Will the 6-year-olds who had been pining to face paint for two weeks actually last more than an hour to paint faces? The answers were...yes.
With blessings from Your Presence Salon's owner Danielle and her stylist Audrinna (my neighbor), they jumped into this experiment with me, and it was great. Little families came throughout the day, with children getting their faces painted while their siblings got a hair cut. We even had a bonus flat-iron curl for the girls!
Transformations happened. One little girl with very long hair had never had a haircut in her life. That day, she not only got a trim, but she got bangs, and was the cutest ever, all day long, patting and exploring the new feature on her forehead.
Face painting happened too! Silvery, goopy glitter and all. So much so, that I need to order another flat of colors for our next Kitchen Cuts on October 23! With the face painting, we raised $36 for Beacon Elementary Schools. The total included the donated haircut tip cup from Danielle and Audrinna. Thanks, ladies!
Thank you to everyone who came. It was so much fun, we are doing it again! This time, it'll be during the Hocus Pocus Parade on Main Street, aka the children's Halloween Parade on Sunday, October 23rd from 10 am to 4 pm. A Little Beacon Blog will be handing out candy, and will be open for $1 face painting and $16 haircuts for kids. Book online in advance of the day, and you get a discount.
Your Weekend Guide to events, shopping, restaurants, and beauty.
Hello!
This weekend is loaded with options! Here is your easy access to planning. These are weekend dates pulled from some of A Little Beacon Blog's 10 Things To Do In Beacon Guides, so be sure to check them during the week.
Constellation's Last Family Night at Bannerman Island
from Melissa McGill Day: Friday, September 30, 2016 Time: 5:45 pm Location: Beacon Institute Floating Dock in Beacon, NY Information >
The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze 2016 Days: Friday, September 30, 2016 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S. Riverside Ave., Croton-on-Hudson, NY Information > *begins this weekend, continues through November
“Paper Tigers” Movie Screening Day: Friday, September 30, 2016 Time: 7 to 10 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church of Beacon, McKinley Hall, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY Information >
Harvest Fest 2016 Day: Saturday, October 1, 2016 Time: 10 am to 3 pm Location: Blue Hill at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills, NY Information >
Stony Kill Farm's Harvest Festival Day: Saturday, October 1, 2016 Time: 11 am to 3 pm Location: Stony Kill Farm, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY Information >
Beacon Fine Art Printing's One-Year Anniversary Party from Rob Penner Day: Saturday, October 1, 2016 Time: 4 to 7 pm Location: Beacon Fine Art Printing, 71 Maple St., Beacon, NY Information >
Snapology Lego One-Day Mini-Camp Day: Monday, October 3, 2016 Time: 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 4 pm Location: Fishkill Recreation, 792 Route 52, Fishkill, NY Information >
COMING UP...
Mid-Hudson Etsy Makers Pop-Up Market Day: Saturday, October 8, 2016 Time: 10 am to 4 pm Location: The Howland Cultural Center - 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Fall Foliage Half Marathon & 5K Day: Saturday, October 1, 2016 Time: 10 am to 1 pm Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds - 6550 Spring Brook Ave., Rhinebeck, NY Information >
Mutts on the Mountain 5K and Fun Run Day: Saturday, October 1, 2016 Time: 8 am to 5 pm Location: Blue Mountain Reservation in Peekskill, NY Information >
The Color Run 5K Hudson Valley Day: Sunday, October 2, 2016 Time: 10 am Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY Information >
RUN! Don't walk! And grab some assorted Cake Balls and Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins from Get Frosted Cupcakery. Rumor has it there may be some Black & White Cookies available, too!
SATURDAY NIGHT: Tony DePaolo in a Triofor a special performance starting at 8 pm. SAVE THE DATE: The Vault will open on Wednesday, November 22, the day before Thanksgiving (Thanksgiving Eve) to host a Dance Party with DJ Sincere and Guest Bartender Mike Vierra. Arrive at 9 pm; the DJ starts an hour later. Get details and let The Vault know you're coming!
Beginning October 1, Barb's Butchery moves into Winter Hours! The shop will be open Monday to Friday, noon to 7 pm, with the grill on for lunch and dinner. Saturday and Sunday hours remain the same, 10 am to 6 pm, with the grill on between 11:30 am and 3:30 pm. INSIDER TIP: If you've placed an order ahead of time and need to pick up something mid-morning, someone will be in the store at 11 am.
Check out BAJA 328's Sunday Specials and enjoy the NFL Games & RedZone with $20 Tecate Beer Buckets (six cans per bucket), $4 Modelo USA Especial, or Negra Cervezas & Food Specials! Check it out.
Our Restaurant Guide has all of your options - even eateries you didn't know about! Keep it open on your phone, because we list everyone's phone number and website, making it super easy for you to tap-to-call!
Parking on the east end of town is hard on the weekends.
Did you know there is a big public parking lot down by the Howland Cultural Center and the Hudson Valley Brewery? Pictures and location at A Little Beacon Blog's Public Parking Guide. This Guide is sponsored by Antalek and Moore for their car insurance.
Chirp chirp! Deuter's Kikki bird bag at Mountain Tops is perfect for your little climber.
Cuties! These pink LaFont kids glasses at Luxe Optique are waiting to help the littlest eyes see better. Free eye exam for kids with the purchase of glasses, or $50 off a purchase of glasses.
SAVE THE DATE: On Saturday, October 8, Style Storehouse is having a Miles of Hope fundraiser at the store. Sasha Dobson will be singing live, and an acupunturist will be there giving mini treatments and samples of apothecary. Also, there will be raffles and giveaways. Ten percent of sales will go to Miles of Hope.
Have you checked out The Pfotoshop's new look and expanded Stationery section yet?Take a walk down to the East End and stop by!
All shops in Beacon are listed in this Shopping Guide, from Home Decor to Kids Fashion to Vintage and more. Keep it open on your phone as you're walking around shopping!
River Therapeutic Massage: Watch for it... Karen from River Therapeutic Massage will be sharing her specials on Hot Stone Massage soon! Book now.
From the hairs on your head to the toes on your feet, there are many ways to pamper yourself and your pet in our Beauty Guide.
We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!"
Pictures shown here are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. If you run a business on Main Street, it's in a Guide, like Shopping, Restaurant, or Beauty. Upgrade it to the "Stand Out" promotional program, and we'll include your most exciting news here in the weekend newsletter.
Our Spotlight Sponsors have a lot to offer you! We partner with businesses whose products and services fit your life, and we've written about each of them.
BeaconArts
The monthly meeting for members of BeaconArts was a fantastic opportunity to learn about upcoming holiday events. Members enjoyed a presentation from Beacon 3D about the sculpture they are fundraising for, in hopes of acquiring it from local artist Lori Merhige. These meetings are a great way to learn about upcoming events and opportunities, and to network with other artists and business owners. Joining BeaconArts is a benefit to your business or project.
Antalek & Moore
Are you about to buy a home? Did you recently buy a home and not triple-check the homeowners insurance you inherited? Antalek & Moore can review your homeowners insurance policy and possible get you a lower rate, while making sure you are covered in all of the right places. Call them to get started, at (845) 245-6292.
Tin Shingle Tin Shingle trains you in how to get the word out about your business, and gives you the strength and motivation to go big with it.
All Sport
Just added to All Sport's Schedule page on A Little Beacon Blog are the new dates for School's Out Holiday Camp, starting in October and going through May 2017. These are special day camp dates offered when kids are off from school. Register now!
Poughkeepsie Nissan Poughkeepsie Nissan is getting in on the @DriveMyFamily campaign, celebrating #NissanYearOfTheTruck with drives throughout gorgeous eastern Georgia this week.
A Little Beacon Space
Read all about new events hosted at A Little Beacon Space on our new Schedule page to see what's coming up at A Little Beacon Space! Want to set up your Pop-Up Shop here? Or other event? See rental details here! Coming up:
10/20/16: "Overcoming Your Public Speaking Fear" with Kate Rabe
10/22/16: "Spooky Parent/Child Yoga" with FitKidz
10/23/16: "Kitchen Cuts: Kids Hair Cuts and Face Painting" with Your Presence Salon
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.
