Two 2-Hour Delays and 2 Sick Kid Days Equals Blogging Logjam

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When the school district calls for a two-hour weather delay for snow one day and subsequent rain the next, I've learned to let it go. It used to rile me up, being that I'm from the snow belt of Cleveland. That got me used to actual snow or frozen boilers being the reason for delays or closures. But after experiencing a reverse tizzy last year, when the district did not call a snow day on the one day that it actually did snow toward the end of the season, when all of the other districts around us did call a snow day, which compelled me to make a complaint appointment with the superintendent, I've learned to let. it. go.

Which leads us to this post, letting you know that last week's two 2-hour delays, and my son's double sick days at the start of this week, has led to a delay of some pretty good articles coming out. Normally, I'd take the 2-hour delay as bonus time for getting writing and picture uploading done, but (surprise!) I'm also newly pregnant, so I took the time to sleep in because in these early weeks, I've actually felt quite unwell when hungry! You'll find me at any grocery store re-stocking up on food, like Stouffer's Mac 'n' Cheese and a really amazing frozen chocolate mousse pie at Key Food, or the ready-made healthy food bar at the Beacon Natural Market. (One must balance the diet, after all!)

But know this: There is a Holiday Decoration Special blog post coming up — got a picture of your house all lit up? Email it to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com for consideration! Also on deck are a couple more articles you'll like. 

Stay tuned! In the meantime, I'll be over here co-engineering Hot Wheels tracks.

Happening This Weekend: 12/16/16

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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.

Sponsored by Antalek and Moore for car & RV insurance. Sparkle! Day: Friday & Saturday, December 16 & 17, 2016 Time: 5 to 9 pm Location: Boscobel, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, NY Information > International Film Night Day: Friday, December 16, 2016 Time: 7 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Shopping by Lantern Light Day: Saturday, December 17, 2016 Time: 11 am to 8 pm Location: Main Street (East End), Beacon, NY Information > Wine Glass Painting & Cider Day: Saturday, December 17, 2016 Time: 3 to 6 pm Location: Fishkill Farms, 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY Information > Santa Visits the Farm Day: Saturday, December 17, 2016 Time: Noon to 4 pm Location:  Fishkill Farms, 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY Information > "Blue Christmas" & "Sanctuary of Angels" art installation Day: Saturday, December 17, 2016 Time: 5 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY Information > Christmas Pageant Day: Saturday, December 17, 2016 Time: 5 pm Location: First Presbyterian Church, 50 Liberty St., Beacon, NY Information > Breakfast With Santa Day: Sunday, December 18, 2016 Time: 10 am to 2 pm Location: County Fare, 2652 East Main St., Wappingers Falls, NY Information > Hudson Valley Holistic Holiday Market Day: Sunday, December 18, 2016 Time: 11 am to 6 pm Location: Ramada Conference Center, 542 Rte. 9, Fishkill, NY Information > Visit our Annual & Upcoming Events Guide to see more events for the weeks ahead. Zine Club - Special Guest: Ori Alon Day: Friday, December 16, 2016 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Saturday Makers: Build a Gingerbread House Day: Saturday, December 17, 2016 Time: Noon to 1:30 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Winter Children’s Book Event Day: Sunday, December 18, 2016 Time: 10 am Location: Binnacle Books, 321 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Visit our Kids Classes Guide for upcoming classes. An Evening of Books and Wine Day: Saturday, December 17, 2016 Time: 7 pm Location: Binnacle Books, 321 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Chalk Paint 101® - The Annie Sloan Method Day: Sunday, December 18, 2016 Time: 9 am to noon Location: Knot Too Shabby, 155 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Visit our Adult Classes Guide for upcoming classes.   Holiday Makers Market Dates: Friday to Monday, December 16 to 19, 2016 Times: 11:30 am to 6 pm (Friday, Saturday, Monday); noon to 5 pm (Sunday) Location: Tourmaline Home, 396 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > **Host your own pop-up shop at A Little Beacon Space! More details here. Locally sourced ham steaks are in, and they’re perfect for soups and family meals! While you’re hamming it up at Barb’s Butchery, get ahead of the game and order your special meats for the holidays. Orders must be in by December 18! Visit our Restaurant Guide for a complete list of eateries in Beacon. SHOPS ON THE WEST END (TRAIN) reMADE Even if you've given the man on your list shaving stuff before, chances are you've never scored with Roosevelt Grooming Company, a Hudson Valley-based outfit you'll find in reMADE. In the shop, you'll find two unique straight razors with fully restored vintage blades and handmade scales. Oh, and that strap you see: It's actually called a "strop," and it's for sharpening the blades. Available in leather or vegan material. All shaving products are made with natural ingredients, including beard oils, shaving kits, and fragrance oils.  Mountain Tops We introduced you to these slip-on-spikes from Mountain Tops last week, and now we're taking a look at how they work. Slip them over your hiking boots, worn with Darn Tough socks of course, and make your way up Mount Beacon, parts of which have already iced over. Bellus on Main Pronounced (bel-Use) with a long "u," Bellus is Latin for the most beautiful, charming, or engaging woman or girl among a number. These boots are one pair in a collection of other must-see designs, carefully curated by the owners. (Insider tip: They are also the parents of Ricardo of Fabhaus!) Come in and welcome them to town. Luxe Optique There is a reason you're seeing so many cool glasses on Beacon faces lately... They are coming from Luxe Optique. Play a game: Ask a person whose glasses you like where they got them. If the winning answer is Luxe Optique, give yourself a chocolate! SHOPS ON THE EAST END, 'ROUND THE TURN (MOUNTAIN) Raven Rose Delicate ornaments are just in at Raven Rose. Find these glass reindeer, frosted snowflakes or the basket or bulb ornaments near the couch. You will find plenty of gift ideas and home decorations here (next to Echo). Style Storehouse The glitter is on at Style Storehouse. You've seen their sparkling window (next to Waddle n Swaddle), now step inside for that New Year's Eve dress, or even slouchy, super soft cotton t-shirts, depending on what's taking the lead in your holiday wardrobe this season. The East End (formerly Pfotoshop) Pretty wrapping paper! From one of your favorite paper companies, Rifle Paper Co. No need to order online, it's right here at The East End shop, formerly known as Pfotoshop. Find phone numbers and addresses for all shops in our Shopping Guide, from Home Decor to Kids Fashion to Vintage and more. River Therapeutic Massage Will you be under these hot stones at River Therapeutic Massage? This package makes a great gift certificate, or treat for yourself. Go on, do it! It's good for your health! Book this now... Find phone numbers and addresses for all locations in our  Beauty Guide. SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Antalek & Moore The holiday season is one of the biggest times for pop-up shops all over the country. If you're considering hosting a pop-up shop, have you considered any possible insurance implications? Local insurance agency Antalek & Moore can give you a breakdown. BeaconArts BeaconArts reminds you to travel all the way down Main Street to the East End, near the mountain. "Discover some of Beacon's hidden gems on the East End of Main Street! Here, you'll find the best shopping and dining experiences in town."                                  Tin Shingle You hung your shingle out for business, now what? Sit back and wait for the customers to walk in and clients to call? Ho Ho No! Now begins the beauty of buzz-building. Learn how in Tin Shingle’s online community. Hook in with their free newsletter for tips. InHouse Design Media Need help with social media? No idea where to start? InHouse Design Media are the makers behind the design and social media of A Little Beacon Blog, and can help you make a plan. All Sport Health & Fitness Have you been to The Fuel Cafe at All Sport lately? You'll notice the over-the-top options soups, and in salads like this one. Chef Megan Lawrence (you know her from Nixie Sparrow) is cooking up healthful goodness! A Little Beacon Space Located in the heart of Main Street, A Little Beacon Space is the perfect location for your workshop, presentation, pop-up shop, photoshoot, or other gathering. And now you can book it for only $125 between 3 and 5 pm on weekdays! That’s right, two hours of prime sunlight time in a gorgeous space on Main Street. The space is clearly visible from the sidewalk and can comfortably accommodate 25 people. Visit us online for more information and to book your day and reach out with your event ideas! You’re invited: Don’t miss these events! 2/11/17-2/12/17: Valentine’s Day Pop-Up with jewelry from Kit Burke-Smith and Margeaux Lange, and baked sweets from 5Hens. It will be heaven.  We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our Guide advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! NEWSLETTER SIGNUP Was this email forwarded to you by a friend or family member? Sign up now to have these emails sent right to your inbox, and be one of the first to find out what is going on in Beacon and beyond this weekend! Until next week!

FEATURE YOUR BUSINESS! Do you want to add your business as an official Sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog? This publication reaches the Beacon community, surrounding towns, and even into New York City as people research moving to Beacon or visiting for the day. Click the Advertising & Partners tab at the top of the website for details. We look forward to working with you to highlight your business and show your support! Share Tweet Forward Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest Copyright © 2016 A Little Beacon Blog, All rights reserved. Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list

Classified Listing: Writers' Group Looking for Professional Writer(s) for New Writers' Workshop Group

Submitted by:
Liesa Goins
Twitter @liesago
Instagram Liesa_go

Looking for a writer or two to join a small local writers' group. Current members are professional writers with bylines in many national publications, including Marie Claire, Slate and The New York Times Magazine.

We are looking for a place to discuss ambitious projects (of any length) and some healthy deadline pressure to keep us honest. We're hoping to find some other serious/professional writers to join the fray. Fiction or non-fiction projects welcome.

We'll be meeting once a month to offer feedback, brainstorm ways to work through challenges, provide accountability and act as readers for projects in the works. We'll be meeting once a month (ideally) at a member's home - we'll rotate the venue.

If you're interested, please send an email introducing yourself and your writing background to liesago@gmail.com.

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To place your own Classified Listing, click here for booking and pricing information >

'Tis The Season at All Sport Health & Fitness (Sponsor Spotlight)

It may be cold outside, but All Sport will keep you sweating all winter long! And we're not just talking about their sauna, although they have that too and it's one of our favorites. Today is the first day of Member Appreciation Week, from December 12 to 15, and All Sport is showing its members a little extra love with events for adults and kids, including a mini Wellness Workshop and photos with Santa! See dates below and more information here.

There are so many ways to enjoy All Sport, we maintain an All Sport Guide here at A Little Beacon Blog. At the beginning of every month, we throw the spotlight on the dates you don't want to miss.

Holiday Entertaining in Lobby - Live Music from Beacon High School choir

In honor of the holiday season, All Sport is hosting a variety of musicians in the lobby throughout the month to get you in the spirit. Don’t miss a serenade from members of our own Beacon High School Orchestra on Wednesday, December 14 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm! And the Costellos will also be playing during All Sport's Member Appreciation Party on December 15. If you're used to the band lineup around the pool during the summer at All Sport, then you won't be disappointed at this social schedule. Plus, Santa is coming during the Kids Craft Party on Tuesday, December 13!

School's Out Holiday Vacation Camp

You could occupy the kids for the entire week of Winter Break, or you could treat them to a day (or three) of All Sport Camp in the Winter. From 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays from December 23 to January 2, your children ages 5 to 12 can spend their days swimming, playing sports and games, doing arts and crafts, and more. Holiday Camp is available for members and non-members, but members get a daily discount. See more details here, and call the Front Desk at 845-896-5678 to register.

DING DING DING! Kids Class Registration Opens

Registration for Winter I kids activities, from fencing and gymnastics to swimming, opens on December 14 for members and two days later for non-members. The phone lines light up for Swimming Class registration, and others. See our breakdown of all kids classes, and find out how to make a workout for you happen at the same time as a sports class for your child.

Challenge Yourself

The next Small Group Training Transformation Challenge starts on January 9, just in time to get through the holiday leftovers and start working on your New Year’s resolutions! The program runs through April 4 and includes unlimited small group training sessions, progress tracking, nutrition seminars, and more. Even better: The Transformation Challenge is only $299 for members.

Plan For Holiday Closings

All Sport will close early on the following days this month, but don't worry, if you are one with your inbox, you'll see the reminders they send:

Dec. 24: Club closes at 3 pm
Dec. 25: Club is closed
Dec. 31: Club closes at 5 pm

There is a lot more going on at All Sport, so see our All Sport Guide for special classes, themed classes, and much more.

Editorial Note: All Sport is a Sponsor Spotlight of A Little Beacon Blog, and this post has been a part of our Branded Content Partner Program. Thank you for supporting businesses who support us!

The Story Behind Beacon's Bicycle Tree, Lit Every December Second Saturday (Sponsor Spotlight)

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This year will mark the fifth year for the Bicycle Tree, which has grown in size and complexity. During its first year, the tree was smaller and stationary. Last year, visitors of all ages were delighted when they found they could interact with the tree by spinning wheels, using pedals, and climbing around its larger structure. Originally an initiative conceived by the artist Ed Benavente and sponsored by BeaconArts, the City of Beacon now also supports the event. Activities including a children's craft begin at 3:30 pm, Santa arrives at dusk, and the tree is lit at 5 pm. Bring a mug for hot chocolate.

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Photo Credit: BeaconArts, by Ethan Harrison (@Wolfingtons)

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The Bicycle Reindeer that brings Santa to the tree lighting each year.
Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin

The Second Saturday Tree Lighting happens at Polhill Park next to the Beacon Welcome Center. Last year, in 2015, a record 750 people attended and 200 children sang, according to Kelly Ellenwood, Vice President of BeaconArts. During the day of the tree lighting, the program includes singers and dancers from various local schools, traditional Christmas carols, free hot chocolate and of course, Santa Claus himself, who is delivered by a Bicycle Reindeer to the tree. The menagerie of bicycle constructions has also grown to include a Bicycle Menorah for Hanukkah, and now a New Year’s Ball made of bicycle wheel rims. The latter will be dropped in the last seconds of 2016 for the second time at Dogwood (on the East End of town just over the Fishkill Creek).

Ed's sculptures are all around town. Most notable may be the tall fork and spoon that went up outside Café Amarcord during a Beacon 3D summer outdoor show. You also may have seen Ed peddling around town on his Santa Cab/Bike, aka the Bicycle Reindeer. Ed's work can also be seen in Marion Royael Gallery (speaking of which, have you been in to see the Doors exhibit, "Mr. Yard Presents Knock Knock Underground Emoji" yet? Today is a good day to go). To learn more about the tree, we asked the artist to tell us about it in his own words. Here's what he had to say:

Why the Bicycle Tree? How did this become an annual symbol in Beacon?

"First of all, this project was conceived in 2011 to help give a focal point for all of the various holiday activities being supported by the city, local businesses and volunteer groups. As is often the case, money was the biggest obstacle to having a large, central holiday display. When it comes to making something out of nothing, ask an artist. I am an artist, and a local resident and sculptor, and I volunteered to create a town Christmas Tree as an art project.

"As an art piece, the tree is not perfect. It is ever-evolving just like the community we live in. That’s one reason I chose the bicycle as a symbolic component. Bicycles are powered by people. I feel very fortunate to live in a place that knows how to keep things rolling.

"Taking a half-dozen or so junk bicycles, I fashioned a tree-shaped display and installed it on the empty lot at the corner of Main and Cross Streets (between River Winds Gallery and Hudson Beach Glass) under the sponsorship of the Beacon Arts Community Association (BACA). The location has since moved to Polhill Park."

How did it go? This bicycle tree? How was it received?

"It’s one of those things you just don’t know what people will do or how they will react. I was overwhelmed by the positive responses from people walking by as I was setting this thing up. It made them happy."

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The Bicycle Menorah
Photo Credit: Ed Benavente

This tree lighting is an annual tradition, and Ed's work and BeaconArts' organization and promotion of the event are integral to the holiday season in Beacon. See you this afternoon/tonight at 3:30 pm! Santa arrives at dusk (about 4:30 pm) and the tree is lit at 5 pm. Bring a mug for hot chocolate. Then return to this spot on December 24, 2016 for the lighting of the Bicycle Menorah to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah, and let's gather at Dogwood on New Year's Eve for the dropping of the Bicycle Ball.

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The Bicycle Ball for New Year's Eve at Dogwood.
Photo Credit: Ed Benavente

This article is a Sponsor Spotlight post with our partnership with BeaconArts, but what makes the partnership so great is that we would have written about it anyway! Thank you for supporting businesses and organizations who support us.

Draught Industries Isn't Leaving - It's Re-Ownering - But Drink it All on December 10th!

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Draught Industries is the most narrow bar, located slightly east of the middle of Main Street, and chances are, you pass right by it every time you're trying to find it. Inside, you'll find a tightly curated and very creative list of beers, and you're allowed to bring your own food!

So when the news came that Draught was selling, bier lovers shivered, hoping they wouldn't lose their barstool in this eclectic nook. And we've just confirmed that they won't. December 10, 2016, marks the final night with Draught Industries' original owners. Their words: "Thanks for a great 2 years! Final weekend! All glasses $5, flights $10 and growler fills $15 until it's gone!! Come see us in Fishkill at The Dutchess Biercafe where we'll be adding a beautiful Biergarten next year!" Draught will re-open the following Thursday, with the same hourly schedule that it has now.

Draught's motto will give you an indication of what's it's like inside this little bar, and why it should top your list for beer: "Some people collect art. We drink it. 20 rotating Draughts & 2 rotating Beer Engines." You can't miss the apparatus inside that makes the beer pour so perfectly from each keg. It is mounted on the wall and looks like an antique telephone switchboard, but it's really a beer switchboard of some kind...

To prove that Draught is passionate about beer, we'll leave you with a typical rundown from Draught's Instagram feed:

Happening This Weekend - 12/9/2016

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.

Sponsored by Antalek and Moore for car & RV insurance. STOCKING STUFFER EDITION This weekend our shopping guide features small gifts you can find in your favorite shops all along Main Street! Happy Second Saturday! Day: Saturday, December 10, 2016 Time:  Art Gallery Showings All Day. Times differ by event. Location: Beacon Get This Art Gallery Guide > Second Saturday is a celebratory day in Beacon, started in part by visionaries at BeaconArts and other folks in the early 2000s as a way to promote art galleries. Events and openings happen throughout the day, the breadth of which has expanded now that shops and restaurants participate in the day as well. Each month, A Little Beacon Blog complies a Second Saturday Art Gallery Guide of the art showings at galleries, churches, outdoor events, and anywhere else that an art show is happening. Sparkle! Day: Friday & Saturday, December 9 and 10, 16 and 17 Time: 5 to 9 pm Location: Boscobel, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, NY Information > BeaconArts and The City Of Beacon Annual Tree Lighting Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: Kids Crafts at 3:30 pm, Santa arrives at 4:30 pm Location: Polhill Park / Beacon Visitors' Center (Main Street & Rte. 9D) Information > Style Storehouse’s 1-Year Anniversary Cocktail Party Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: 11 am to 8 pm Beacon of Love Bake Sale and Fundraiser Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: 11 am to 7 pm Location: Open Space Gallery, 510 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Wreath Decorating & Holiday Food Fair Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: Noon to 4 pm Location: Fishkill Farms, 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction, NY Information > Catahoula Cajun Band: One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Cajun Band Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: 7 to 10 pm Location: Dennings Point Distillery, 10 Chestnut St., Beacon, NY Information > “Seeing Music: Photography and the Art of Sound” Opening Reception  Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: 5 to 7 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Beacon Blood Drive: Holiday Edition Day: Sunday, December 11 Time: 1 to 7 pm Location: Beacon Hebrew Alliance, 55 Fishkill Ave., Beacon, NY Information > No-Strings Marionettes Return Day: Sunday, December 11 Time: see below Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > View the full Annual & Upcoming Events Guide. Breastfeeding Essentials Day: Friday, December 9 Time: 6 to 8 pm Location: Waddle n Swaddle, 484 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Birth Story Support Circle (Healing from birth or postpartum trauma) Day: Saturday, December 10  Time: 11 am to 2:30 pm Location: Waddle n Swaddle, 484 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Second Saturday: Open House - Free Yoga Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: 6 to 7 pm Location: Two Trees Yoga at Sacred Space, 436 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Chalk Paint 101® - The Annie Sloan Method Day: Sunday, December 11 Time: 9 am to noon Price:: $120 Location: Knot Too Shabby, 155 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Menorah Workshop at The Home Depot Day: Sunday, December 11 Time: 11 am to noon Location: The Home Depot, 450 Rte. 9, Fishkill, NY Information > View the full Adult Classes Guide.   Makers-on-Hudson Holiday Craft Fair Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: 10 am to 5 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Holiday Makers Market Days: Saturday, December 10 & Sunday, December 11 Time: 5 to 8 pm Location: Reservoir, 460 Main St., Beacon, NY  Information > Work:Shop Winter Market Days: Saturday, December 10 & Sunday, December 11 Time: Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm Location: Wickham Solid Wood Studio, 578 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Psychedelic Sunset Vintage 1-Day Pop-Up Shop Day: Saturday, December 10 Time: Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm Location: Shambhala Yoga and Healing Center, 4 S. Chestnut St., Beacon, NY Information > **Host your own pop-up shop at A Little Beacon Space! More details here. What’s better than a platter of succulent, braised short ribs? Locally-sourced short ribs from Barb’s Butchery! And you still have time to get your holiday orders of local, pasture-raised goose, duck, turkey, ham, and prime rib in before the December 18 deadline. HOT TIP: Draught Industries announced that their final weekend is here. "Thanks for a great 2 years! Final weekend! All glasses $5 starting tonight until it's gone!! Come see us in Fishkill at The Dutchess Biercafe where we'll be adding a beautiful Biergarten next year!" More recent updates have been made in the Restaurant Guide, including news from Homespun Foods and Kitchen Sink. Welcome to one of the newest boutiques in Beacon, Bellus at 181 Main Street! Very close to Luxe Optique and across the street from Beacon Barkery. Bellus has a fantastic, curated selection of clothes and accessories for both men and women. Tuck one of these Pineda Covalín ties into any gentleman’s stocking to make his holiday brighter - and more fashionable. This beaded and wire-wrapped tree necklace is just the tip of the iceberg of creative, locally-crafted gifts that reMADE and its artists have to offer. You’ll find intricate designs, quality craftsmanship, and one-of-a-kind pieces - many with a good story behind them - to truly delight friends, family, and yourself. Ever heard of "hot chocolate on a stick"? It’s a solid block of fine chocolate and seasonal flavors that you stir right into hot milk for a perfect cup of cocoa! A gift set of three flavors, available at Raven Rose, makes for a great stocking stuffer, Secret Santa and white elephant gift, or anytime treat. Raven Rose is in the former La Bella Rosa location on the east end of town. Who says stocking stuffers can’t be spiky? These MICROspikes from Mountain Tops are a perfect gift for the winter adventurer - or snow shoveler - in your life. They fit over most shoes to increase traction in ice and snow, whether you’re hiking Mount Beacon or just walking the dog. Even better, Backpacker Magazine gave this model an Editors' Choice Award!  Give the gift of eye protection AND style this year with sunglass frames by Thom Browne and Oliver Peoples, complete with mirrored lenses, available at Luxe Optique! Remember, you can use your health savings and flexible spending account dollars on new frames. Plus, get a free eye exam with glasses purchase through December 31! These furry puff ball keychains may fit in just the toe of a stocking, but they make a big statement! Style Storehouse has a whole assortment of colors, textures, and charms to choose from. Come by the shop on Saturday from noon to 8 pm to celebrate their one-year anniversary with a day of cocktails and sales! By far the snuggliest option on our stocking stuffer list, these stuffed animals from East End, formerly the Pfotoshop, will warm hearts young and old! You’ll have to feel these to appreciate just how soft and cuddly they are. 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! December can be a stressful month, physically and financially, but it doesn’t have to be! River Therapeutic Massage is offering serious discounts on massage packages this month: Buy 5, save $50. Buy 10, save $200. Go on, treat yourself or someone special! Book this now... Visit our Beauty Guide for a complete list of beauty sources, from makeup to massages to hair and nails. SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS ART Join BeaconArts and the City of Beacon for the Fifth annual Bicycle Tree Lighting this Saturday. Kids crafts start at 3 pm and Santa arrives at 4:30!  BUSINESS TO BUSINESS Antalek & Moore Policies differ in how much they will insure jewelry for, and many wedding and engagement rings exceed the coverage limitations on their own.                                   Tin Shingle You hung your shingle out for business, now what? Sit back and wait for the customers to walk in and clients to call? Ho Ho No! Now begins the beauty of buzz-building. Learn how in Tin Shingle’s online community. Hook in with their free newsletter for tips. InHouse Design Media Need help with social media? No idea where to start? InHouse Design Media are the makers behind the design and social media of A Little Beacon Blog, and can help you make a plan. FUN & FITNESS All Sport Health & Fitness 'Tis the season… to carol while you exercise! Throughout the month, All Sport is hosting a variety of musicians, including the Beacon High School choir, in the lobby to serenade members and get everyone in the spirit of fitness. See the schedule here and enjoy light refreshments in the lobby after your workout. EVENT SPACE A Little Beacon Space - Book for Your Business's Holiday Party Located in the heart of Beacon's Main Street, A Little Beacon Space is the perfect location for your workshop, presentation, pop-up shop, photoshoot, or other gathering. You’re Invited! 2/11/17 to 2/12/17: Valentine’s Day Pop-Up with jewelry from Kit Burke-Smith and Margeaux Lange, and baked sweets from 5Hens. It will be heaven.  We know what you're thinking: "I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our Guide advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! NEWSLETTER SIGNUP Until next week!

Homespun Now Open Daily for Breakfast from 8am-5pm

Photo Credit: Homespun Foods' Instagram (@homespunfoods)

Weekend foodies, your week just got a lot better. Homespun has taken a reverse approach to shortened winter hours. (Many restaurants tend to shorten their hours to match the missing daylight.) Homespun has decided to brighten all of our days by opening earlier, daily, for breakfast starting at 8 am! Their full hours will now be daily from 8 am to 5 pm. The menu is still being decided, but we put in a vote for the deep-dish vanilla french toast to be available daily. Sometimes you need the extra warmth in your body, rather than a breakfast sandwich. But their oatmeal bowls and yogurt plates are a pretty spot-on way to start your day right.

For a full listing of restaurants in Beacon, see A Little Beacon Blog's Restaurant Guide.

Beacon of Love Bake Sale Fundraiser for 80 Refugees Settling in the Hudson Valley

Sixty bakers have gotten out their mixing bowls to raise funds for 80 refugees settling into the Hudson Valley from various countries in war distress. You'll recognize names from local businesses like Ella's Bellas and Five Hens Baked Goods, as well as rising independent bakers from Beacon bake sale fundraisers like Tessa Dean, Jill Corson, Kate Donahue Daley and Stacie Merrill, Additionally, 30 raffle prizes have been donated from Beacon businesses including Hudson Beach Glass, Artisan Wine Shop, Quinn's, and local artisans. Even Random House and Penguin Classics books have sent in donations for the raffle, all of which happens on Saturday, December 10, 2016, which is Beacon's Second Saturday, from 11 am to 7 pm at 510 Main St. (Open Space Gallery) Beacon, NY 12508.

Says the event's organizer, Julie Shiroishi: "As the longtime home of folk legend Pete Seeger, the people of the city of Beacon cherish the late musician’s message of love, tolerance, and inclusion. In that spirit, citizens of Beacon are banding together to celebrate his enduring legacy by raising funds for the 80 refugees soon to be resettled in the region."

Julie says that the money raised at the Beacon of Love fundraiser will be donated to the Mid-Hudson Refugee Welcome Fund to help with the costs of the goods and services that the new settlers will need to ease their transition to life in America.

Donations can be made directly by clicking here, and and local, state and national leaders can be contacted here.

Comment Period for 43 Proposed Barge Anchorage Berths in Hudson River Ends December 6, 2016

The Coast Guard is considering a proposal to establish up to 2,000 acres of new anchorage berths for commercial barges along 70 miles of the Hudson River, which faced major public opposition from citizens and public officials this summer when it was introduced. The Public Comment period was originally slated to end in September, but was extended to December 6, 2016, due to efforts put forth by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Reps. Eliot Engel, Chris Gibson, Nita Lowey, and Sean Patrick Maloney. Officials opposed to the proposal include Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (whose 18th district includes Beacon), N.Y. Sen. Terrence Murphy (representing northern Westchester and Putnam), N.Y. Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, N.Y. Assemblyman Frank Skartados, Beacon Mayor Randy Casale, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, Hastings-on-Hudson Mayor Peter Swiderski, Dobbs Ferry Mayor Hartley Connett, Kingston Mayor Steve Noble, and more. 

Between Kingston and Yonkers, up to 43 vessels as long as 600 feet each would be able to drop anchor in the following ports, followed by the available acreage and number of barges allowed to anchor there at one time:

• Kingston Flats South Anchorage Grounds: 279 acres; 3 vessels
• Port Ewen Anchorage Ground: 37 acres; 1 vessel
• Big Rock Point Anchorage Ground: 208 acres; 4 vessels
• Roseton Anchorage ground: 305 acres; 3 vessels
• Milton Anchorage Ground: 74 acres; 2 vessels
• Marlboro Anchorage Ground: 154 acres; 3 vessels
• Newburgh Anchorage Ground: 445 acres; 5 vessels
• Tompkins Cove Anchorage Ground: 98 acres; 3 vessels
• Montrose Point Anchorage Ground: 127 acres; 3 vessels
• Yonkers Extension Anchorage Ground: 715 acres; 16 vessels

Quoted in the Highlands Current in July 2016, Beacon City Council member George Mansfield said the Newburgh anchorage grounds “would certainly be an eyesore for us [in Beacon], as it would affect our viewshed. It also would affect our access to the river, kayaks, fish habitats, and the levels of noise and light pollution.”

Members of the public are encouraged to share their views with the U.S. Coast Guard by submitting a comment here:

https://www.regulations.gov/comment?D=USCG-2016-0132-0001

Who Put Forth This Proposal?

The proposal for new anchorage zones, or barge "parking lots," as Scenic Hudson refers to them, in 10 municipalities, comes at the urging of the American Waterways Operators (AWO), the national trade association for the tugboat, towboat, and barge industry; the Hudson River Port Pilots Association, and the Maritime Association of the Port of New York and New Jersey.
 
One of the proposed sites would allow five commercial barges to occupy 445 acres (over 400 football fields) of the river in Newburgh, clearly visible from across the river in Beacon. Since there are currently no legal anchorage sites in the area, this would be a significant change for local residents and tourists alike.

Vessel operators say more anchorage grounds will make navigating the river safer because they will allow crews to rest or wait for weather conditions to improve before continuing their journey. Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Allyson Conroy said, “Just like truck drivers have rest stops, there needs to be a safe place for crews experiencing fatigue to drop their anchors and rest… When a commercial vessel needs to stop and anchor, they are required to anchor at federally designated anchorages.”

However, as Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino points out: “In the language of the proposal, ‘long-term’ is defined as 30 or more days. That’s not stopping by, that’s moving in. It’s classic federal-government vagueness: Today’s ’30 or more’ could be tomorrow’s 'in perpetuity.' ” Federal regulations already make an exception for “cases of great emergency,” during which a vessel can anchor outside a federally designated anchorage as long as the crew notifies the Coast Guard.

Vessel operators can face fines for anchoring outside designated areas in situations that are not considered emergencies. Captain Ian Corcoran, president of the Hudson River Pilots Association, told NBC New York, “These anchorages have been used for years – the problem is, they were never designated.” Commercial vessels have indeed been anchoring illegally in some of the proposed sites, and the Coast Guard actually used many of them during Superstorm Sandy. What many residents are concerned about, however, is the prolonged and regular use of the areas, especially by barges carrying crude oil.

The increased traffic and vessel size on the Hudson River may be due in part to the lifting of the federal ban on exporting American oil overseas. In a letter to the Coast Guard, the Maritime Association referred to the Port of Albany as a “leading export port” for Bakken crude oil and ethanol from North Dakota, and Newburgh as a “major petroleum distribution center and prime deep-water port on the Hudson River.” Although Conroy did not provide any specifics on what types of cargo the anchored vessels might be carrying, it appears likely that at least some of them will be transporting crude oil.

Proponents of the new anchorage sites claim that the barges will be dark and silent at night, but residents near some common, though not legal, anchorage grounds claim otherwise. According to Riverkeeper, barges had been anchoring illegally between Rhinecliff and Port Ewen from 2012-2015, until nearby homeowners complained to the Coast Guard about the generator noise and stadium-bright lights emanating from the vessels.

View of the Hudson River from Bannerman Island.

The Hudson River's Ongoing Cleanup Improves Way of Life

Picturing the kayakers and recreational boaters enjoying sunny afternoons on the river just a few months ago, it can be hard to imagine the days when the river was a chemical dumping ground along a heavily industrial corridor. Newburgh, Beacon, and many communities along the Hudson River have spent the past 60 years pouring time and money into rejuvenating their waterfront areas and building a significant tourism industry. An ongoing reminder of this effort is the Beacon River Pool, a floating pool with a netted bottom and benches placed into the Hudson River. People are only allowed into it when daily tests reveal that the water is clean enough.

The Recent History of the Hudson River's Massive Cleanup

The late musician and activist Pete Seeger, whom many consider the savior of the Hudson River, founded Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Inc. in 1969 to raise awareness of the dire conditions of the river and revolutionize environmental education. When Seeger started the organization, the river was so full of raw sewage, toxic chemicals, and oil pollution that some areas had no fish left at all. Today, what was once an industrial highway is now home to recovering ecosystems, science and education centers, recreational tourism, and historic landmarks. The sloop Clearwater was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004, and the Hudson River itself was designated an American Heritage River by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1997.
 
Several organizations including Clearwater, Scenic Hudson, and Riverkeeper have been instrumental in the push to made General Electric remove some of the 1.3 million pounds of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) its plants dumped in the river until 1977. The EPA concluded that the concentration of PCBs was hazardous to human and environmental health, and GE started dredging the contaminated sediment from some areas. Two hundred miles of the river are still on the National Priority List of hazardous waste sites because of this contamination.

Fear of Billions of Dollars Spent in Environmental Setbacks

Along with cleaning chemicals and and sewage, communities along the river have spent billions of dollars turning their scarred industrial ruins into waterfront hotspots. “Beacon alone is considered one of the best examples of a revitalized and repurposed waterfront,” said Althea Mullarkey, Public Policy and Special Projects Analyst at Scenic Hudson. “Some of the scars are still there, but they’re healing.”
 
Beacon’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) was originally approved in 1992 and was updated in 2012. The LWRP serves as a framework that has attracted public and private investment to several waterfront projects, including the Dia:Beacon art museum, Long Dock Park, and the Beacon Shoreline Trail pedestrian walkway. One of the earliest initiatives under the LWRP was the rezoning of industrial areas, like the abandoned brick factory at Dennings Point, as waterfront parks and developments. Millions of dollars have gone into building the amenities at Long Dock Park alone and turning Dennings Point into an educational and research facility.
 
The proposed anchorage sites would by no means destroy the new parks and waterfront businesses, but as Mullarkey put it, “New York state has a vision for the future. It’s looking forward, and this is going backwards.” The presence of thousands of acres of metal barges, while a potential boon to the commercial shipping business, would undoubtedly detract from the views and recreational opportunities that bring billions of tourism dollars each year to the Hudson Valley.
 
Aside from the potential for spills and explosions that comes with transporting petroleum products in any way, environmentalists are concerned about the destruction that anchors and large, heavy barges will wreak on fragile river habitats. Two federally endangered species of sturgeon live in the Hudson River estuary, and several of the proposed anchorage sites are in areas designated as Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitats by the New York Department of State. “The proposed anchorage grounds could disrupt already delicate ecosystems,” according to Scenic Hudson, “impeding their recovery from other industrial uses of the River, and disturbing the natural rhythms of the River.”

Public Comment

Any members of the public are encouraged to share their views with the Coast Guard by submitting a comment here, with the deadline of December 6, 2016:

https://www.regulations.gov/comment?D=USCG-2016-0132-0001

 
Additional Sources Used For This Article:
http://www.cityofbeacon.org/Pdf/Local_Waterfront_Revitalization_Plan.pdf
 
https://www.dos.ny.gov/opd/programs/WFRevitalization/LWRP_Monitoring/Beacon%20Monitoring%20Report.pdf
 
http://www.scenichudson.org/ourwork/environmentaladvocacy/anchorages
 
http://www.riverkeeper.org/campaigns/river-ecology/anchorages/
 
https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=USCG-2016-0132-0001
 
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/16/nyregion/plan-to-let-barges-park-on-the-hudson-meets-resistance-in-river-towns.html?_r=0
 
http://www.clearwater.org/ea/pcb-contamination/
 
http://www.riverkeeper.org/patrol/fact-check-industrys-false-claims-hudson-river-anchorages/
 
http://www.riverkeeper.org/patrol/6-things-know-proposed-hudson-river-anchorages/

http://wigwameconomy.com/long-term-barge-anchorage-off-beacons-dennings-point/

This article was written and reported by Kayleigh Metviner, with additional edits and contributions from Katie Hellmuth Martin.

Photo Credits: Katie Hellmuth Martin

Happening This Weekend - 12/2/2016

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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.

Sponsored by Antalek and Moore for car & RV insurance. Message From Our Event Guide Sponsor: Save The Date! King Family Chiropractic's Ribbon-Cutting Party is on December 8. Sparkle! Day: Fridays and Saturdays, December 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16 & 17 Time: 5 to 9 pm Location: Boscobel, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, NY Information > Out Of The Fire Opening Reception Day: December 3 Time: 2 to 5 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Chris Ruhe's Farewell Holiday Hoot Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Catalyst Small Works Show Opening! Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: 1 to 9 pm Location: Catalyst Gallery, 137 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Breakfast With Santa Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: 11 am Location: The Towne Crier, 379 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Sinterklaas Festival Day! Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: All day! Location: Village of Rhinebeck, Rhinebeck, NY Information > Free Sewing For Charity Event Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: 10 am to 6 pm Location: Beacon Art Studios, 211 Fishkill Ave., Beacon, NY Information > Common Ground Farm Annual Benefit Auction Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: 7 to 10 pm Location: The Red Barn at Long Dock, Beacon, NY Information > “The Polar Express” presented by the Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: 5:30pm (Doors), 6:15pm (Start time) Location: 1 Arquilla Drive, Beacon, NY Information > Little Boxes Art Contest 2016 Day: Sunday, December 4 Time: 5 pm Location: Scenic Hudson's River Center (Red Barn) at Long Dock Park, Beacon, NY Visit our Annual & Upcoming Events Guide to see more events for the weeks ahead. Saturday Morning Makers: Printmaking Day: Saturday, December 3  Time: 11 am to 12:30 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Card and Board Game Club Day: Friday, December 2 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Visit our Kids Classes Guide for upcoming classes. Chalk Paint 101® - The Annie Sloan Method Day: Sunday, December 4 Time: 9 am to noon Location: Knot Too Shabby, 155 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Integrated Energy Therapy - Basic Level IET with Faith Supple Day: Saturday, December 3 Time: 10 am Location: Sacred Space, 436 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Opening Day - Free Yoga Day: Sunday, December 4 Time: 10 am Location: Two Trees Yoga @ Sacred Space, 436 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Visit our Adult Classes Guide for upcoming classes.   37th Knights of Columbus Holiday Run Day: Saturday, December 3 Registration: 9 am Time: 10:30 am (5-mile), 10 am (Kids 1-mile) Location: Knights of Columbus Hall, Route 9D, Wappingers Falls, NY Information > Visit our 5K Race Guide for upcoming races in the area. Holiday Makers Market Days: December 10 & 11 Time: 5 to 8 pm (Second Saturday Reception) Location: Reservoir, 460 Main St., Beacon, NY  Information > **Host your own pop-up shop at A Little Beacon Space! More details here. Locally sourced ham steaks are in, and they’re perfect for soups and family meals! While you’re hamming it up at Barb’s Butchery, get ahead of the game and order your special meats for the holidays. Orders must be in by December 18!   Now here is a ribeye done right: served over seasoned vegetable risotto and chanterelle mushrooms, and topped with herb butter. This special is only at BAJA 328 for one more week, so head in and treat yourself! Visit our Restaurant Guide for a complete list of eateries in Beacon. What better way to decorate your tree, mantel, or bookshelf than with a collection of hipster sheep ornaments? These guys are adorable and not fragile - perfect for homes with curious children and pets. Raven Rose just got them in this week, so head in for fresh home decor and gifts! Raven Rose is the new florist and gift boutique that replaced La Bella Rosa on the east end of town. Your friend who loves everything succulents probably doesn’t have this Succulent Clock - a mason jar with a succulent ecosystem inside and a clock on top. That’s three big wins with this gift: people who love mason jars, people who love clocks, AND people who love succulents. There’s only one in stock, so head over to reMADE fast!  Let your little ones splash in all the puddles they want in a pair of baby Bogs boots! Mountain Tops has several fun designs in stock, and they are all 100% waterproof, made with 3mm Neo-Tech insulation, and lined with cozy plush material. The best part: They’re machine washable! The most practical people can be the hardest to shop for, but East End, formerly the Pfotoshop, has a selection of gifts that are stylish AND practical. Look no further than this stainless steel thermos with a hidden folding spoon and a cap that doubles as a cup! Check out Beacon Mayor Randy Casale in his new Dita frames from Luxe Optique! If you want to look as stylish as he does, you’re in luck: Luxe Optique is having a special Dita event on Friday from 3pm - 6pm. Then on Saturday from 3pm - 7pm, head in for the ic! Berlin trunk show (yes, that's not a typo, it sounds like "I See!"). Remember, you can use your health savings and flexible spending account dollars on new frames. Plus, get a free eye exam with glasses purchase through December 15th! Feeling a little monochromatic? That won’t limit your options with new collections from MINKPINK, J.O.A., BB Dakota, Free People, and more at Style Storehouse! Whether you’re feeling stripes or solids, classic black, shades of grey, or even sequins, you’ll find it in the shop, along with the accessories you need to complete your look. 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 December can be a stressful month, physically and financially, but it doesn’t have to be! River Therapeutic Massage is offering serious discounts on massage packages this month: Buy 5, save $50 Buy 10, save $200 Go on, treat yourself or someone special! Book this now... Visit our Beauty Guide for a complete list of beauty sources, from makeup to massages to hair and nails. SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS ART It’s almost here! Join BeaconArts on Tuesday, December 6th, for their 7th Annual Holiday Member event! All current, new, and renewing members will be welcome at Oak Vino Wine Bar on Main Street from 6pm - 9pm. The holiday event is always a great opportunity to get to know other members, from artists to local business-owners. RSVP here. Not a member yet? Click here to join the organization behind Second Saturday and much of the public art around Beacon! BUSINESS TO BUSINESS Antalek & Moore Your homeowners insurance covers all of your jewelry, right? Maybe not. Policies differ in how much they will insure jewelry for, and many wedding and engagement rings exceed the coverage limitations on their own. Find out how much your policy covers, and call Antalek & Moore to consult with an independent agent to learn about your options and things to think about. (845) 831- 4300.                                  Tin Shingle If you’re ready to take your small business to the next level with effective press and social media strategies, Tin Shingle is the resource you need. From expert articles to live online training sessions, SEO basics to advanced Instagram tactics, and a community of supportive fellow entrepreneurs at your fingertips, you will have everything you need to get the word out about your business. If you want a taste of what Tin Shingle has to offer, tune in to our free TuneUp webinars on Wednesdays at noon!  Join today! InHouse Design Media No matter what business you’re in, you need a top-notch website. At InHouse Design Media, we help you create the website and social media presence you need to engage your audience and turn them into clients and customers. Reach out to us today to discover how we can make your dream website a reality! FUN & FITNESS All Sport Health & Fitness 'Tis the season… to carol while you exercise! All Sport is hosting a variety of musicians, including the Beacon High School choir, in the lobby to serenade members throughout the month and get everyone in the spirit of fitness. See the schedule here and enjoy light refreshments in the lobby after your workout. EVENT SPACE A Little Beacon Space Located in the heart of Main Street, A Little Beacon Space is the perfect location for your workshop, presentation, pop-up shop, photoshoot, or other gathering. And now you can book it for only $125 between 3pm - 5pm on weekdays! That’s right, two hours of prime sunlight time in a gorgeous space on Main Street. The space is clearly visible from the sidewalk and can comfortably accommodate 25 people. Visit us online for more information and to book your day, and reach out with your event ideas! You’re Invited, Don’t Miss These Events! 2/11-12/17: Valentine’s Day Pop-Up with jewelry from Kit Burke-Smith and Margeaux Lange, and baked sweets from 5Hens. It will be heaven.  We Know What You're Thinking..."I want my business featured here!" Pictures shown above are from our Guide advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! NEWSLETTER SIGNUP Until next week!

Beacon Sloop Club's "Little Boxes" Painting Fundraiser for Sloop Woody Guthrie Restoration This Weekend

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A painting of the Woody Guthrie on a square canvas, similar to art produced for the "Little Boxes" fundraiser.

The 38-year-old Woody Guthrie, a sailboat (aka daysail sloop) built by Pete and Toshi Seeger and the Beacon Sloop Club in 1978 to create public access to sailing on the Hudson River, will not be sailing this year. The Sloop Woody Guthrie instead will undergo a complete restoration, and is currently fundraising to complete those efforts. The most recent fundraiser is the "Little Boxes Art Contest" happening this Sunday, December 4, from 5 to 8 pm at Scenic Hudson's River Center (Red Barn) at Long Dock Park, Beacon NY.

The Woody Guthrie is a long-standing symbol of river improvement: It was built to foster people's appreciation for the Hudson River during the early years of massive cleanup projects after General Electric (GE) had discharged 1.3 million pounds of PCBs into the Hudson River from two GE capacitor manufacturing plants located in the towns of Fort Edward and Hudson Falls, New York, between 1947 and 1977. The Seegers were instrumental in spearheading the cleanup and protection of the Hudson River. Building the Sloop Woody Guthrie was one way they demonstrated their commitment, and the sloop brought the public into direct contact with the Hudson to experience its vastness and river life for themselves.

In 1969, Pete and Toshi Seeger and the Hudson River Sloop Restoration instituted the second great "Age of Sail" on the Hudson River with the launching of Clearwater, a wooden, gaff-rigged, topsail sloop, based on traditional designs developed over a 100-year period during the heyday of commercial sailing on the Hudson River. In order to make the boat more manageable by a modest budget and team of volunteers, the Woody Guthrie was designed as a smaller replica of the Clearwater.

About the 'Little Boxes' Art Contest 2016

People are encouraged to participate in the contest as artists or as patrons bidding on the art, to be auctioned off on Sunday, December 4. For an entry fee of $25, (fee can be paid here) each artist will receive a 3 x 3-inch, numbered canvas on which to create an original work of art, in their media of choice, on the theme of "The Hudson River." This fee includes a ticket to the reception, which is otherwise $15 (ticket can be purchased here). Artists wishing to submit multiple entries may purchase an additional canvas for $5. All completed artwork must be returned by December 2. Registration as an artist, or to simply attend the event, which will include refreshments, can be purchased here online.

To receive a canvas: Purchase your ticket online and bring proof of purchase to River Winds Gallery, 172 Main St., Beacon NY, Wednesday through Monday between noon and 6 pm.

All artwork will be offered for sale at a starting bid set by the artist, with all proceeds to be split 50/50 between the artist and the Woody Guthrie Restoration Project. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for People's Choice awards. A prize of $50 each will be awarded for the following categories:

• Most Beautiful
• Most Spectacular
• Funniest

Ticket Details

The Artists' Reception and Awards will be held:
Sunday, December 4, 2016
5 to 8 pm
Scenic Hudson's River Center (Red Barn)
Long Dock Park, Beacon NY

Tickets for the reception only are available for $15, and can be purchased here.

For more information, please contact Susan Berliner at 845-527-8671 or Rosemary Thomas at 845-463-4660.

Giving Tuesday in Beacon - Ideas For Local Groups To Support in 2016 and Beyond

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Every day could be a giving day, so it's nice that #GivingTuesday is here as an official day to focus on all of the giving you might do. It is a natural cleanse in the murky sea of increased promotion that is done during the holiday season. On the other hand, when you shop local, and go down the commercialism route over the Black Friday weekend before #GivingTuesday, you are directly helping your neighbors, your friends, and their families when you purchase from their stores and eateries, and buy their services (like massages).

This Giving Guide will expand to include opportunities to help others in need. We'll feature coat donations, food donations, and other collection activities that are happening this season. If you are running such an effort, please submit details about it to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com to be considered for publication.

For this season, we have done a roundup that barely scrapes the surface of where you can donate, but hopefully gets your wheels turning and heart-strings pulling - if they weren't already.

Beauty of This Region

Stony Kill
When you're driving up 9D, peeking over at those cows and sheep grazing in the incredible fields at sunset, remember that there's no guarantee they'll be there forever. Stony Kill Foundation keeps the farm running through different events, rentals to others using the property including Common Ground Farm, and fundraising and memberships.
Donate Now >

Wee Play Project
Wee Play is the reason why Beacon has colorful playgrounds in our parks for toddlers. The group also helps organize and promote some of the baby and toddler classes at the Howland Public Library. We have reported on them several times, especially when they reach a major milestone in their fundraising. There are many ways to donate, from gifting a tree or piece of equipment to sharing cash and even your time.
Get Involved, Shop the Clothing/Toy Sale, and/or Donate Now >

Scenic Hudson
Dedicated to protecting the land in this region, Scenic Hudson's work can be spotted up and down the Hudson Valley. In Beacon, it is most noticeable at Long Dock Park on the Hudson River, Mount Beacon Park, the Fishkill Ridge, Madam Brett Park, and other recreational spaces. They are currently trying to develop the Beacon waterfront a bit more, with more park development and eating and food truck opportunities.
Donate Now >

Public Services

Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps
Founded in 1959, Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing advanced and basic life support ambulance services to Beacon, NY, and its neighboring communities. When you get hurt or need saving, they come when 911 is called. The Ambulance Corps currently runs a fleet of three modern, fully equipped, New York State Certified ambulances, a Basic Life Support First Response vehicle, and a mass casualty incident trailer. Additionally, BVAC maintains a utility terrain vehicle for rescues within the vast mountainous terrain of our district. They currently run approximately 2,500 calls per year, making BVAC one of the busiest volunteer services in the county. Take a look at their past history.
Sending a check via mail is the best way to donate >

Fire Departments in the City of Beacon
The city's organized Fire Department dates back to 1886, and has been protecting the City of Beacon since the city's establishment in 1913. The combined volunteer and paid Fire Departments provide fire and rescue services with a staff of 13 full-time paid firefighters, approximately 40 volunteer firefighters and three support personnel. The Fire Department operates out of three firehouses that accommodate six fire apparatuses. Two of the city's firehouses are in beautiful historic buildings. The Department responds to more than 1,700 calls per year, while being designated as having the fastest response time in Dutchess County. The City of Beacon Fire Department is part of Battalion 7 of the Dutchess County Emergency Response Unit.
Sending a check via mail is the best way to donate >

Women and Family Services

Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens in Beacon
Whether you are looking for a warm meal, canned goods, or friendly community, or you’re in a position to help by donating food or time, the following organizations in and near Beacon would love to see you. Contact organizers for information about the most up-to-date ways to participate.
Here is a list of Beacon soup kitchens and food pantries >

Grace Smith House
The mission of Grace Smith House, Inc., is to enable individuals and families to live free from domestic violence through:

• Providing shelter and apartments, advocacy, counseling and education
• Raising the consciousness of the community regarding the extent, type and seriousness of domestic violence
• Initiating and taking positions on public policies in order to provide options that empower victims of domestic violence

Grace Smith House, based in Poughkeepsie, is a private, not-for-profit domestic violence agency, which provides both residential and nonresidential services to victims of domestic violence and their children.
Donate Now >

Local Planned Parenthood Office - Newburgh
Planned Parenthood is a health care provider, an informed educator, a passionate advocate, and a global partner helping similar organizations around the world. Planned Parenthood delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education, and information to millions of women, men, and young people worldwide. One in five American women has chosen Planned Parenthood for health care at least once in her life. The heart of Planned Parenthood is in the local community. The closest office to Beacon is in Newburgh.
Donate Now >

Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh was founded in October of 1999 by a group of dedicated volunteers who shared a vision to revitalize Newburgh’s neighborhoods and help local hard-working, low-income families help themselves create strong, stable, and self-reliant families. Habitat Newburgh is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.
Donate Now >

Veterans Services

Disabled American Veterans
DAV is a nonprofit charity that provides a lifetime of support for veterans of all generations and their families, helping more than 1 million veterans in positive, life-changing ways each year. The organization provides more than 700,000 rides for veterans to get to medical appointments, while assisting veterans with more than 300,000 benefit claims annually. In 2015, DAV helped attain more than $4 billion in new and retroactive benefits to care for veterans, their families and survivors.

DAV is also a leader in connecting veterans with meaningful employment, hosting job fairs and providing other resources to make sure that veterans have the opportunity to participate in the same American Dream their sacrifices made possible. Read some highlights of Beacon-based veteran and volunteer, Sgt. Thomas Wohlrab, during the Veterans Day ceremony of 2016 at the Memorial Building.
Donate Now >

Pets

ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation) Beacon
ARF is a federal 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, 100% volunteer, "no kill" animal shelter and organization founded in 1986. They house and care for cats and dogs in need of a second chance or more time to find just the right home. ARF is a participant in the Pilots n Paws program, founded by two pilots who were passionate about rescuing shelter animals in need. Pilots and plane owners volunteer their time, planes, and gas to transport animals from point A to point B. ARF is a recipient of some of those animals transported by Pilots n Paws.
Donate Now >

News

Highlands Current
The free newspaper you pick up from numerous locations in Beacon used to be known as The Philipstown Paper. In 2014, it rebranded and reclassified itself as a nonprofit. In 2016, they renamed as Beacon was officially adopted into their coverage. A Little Beacon Blog will run an article on what being a nonprofit means for a newspaper, but all you need to know at this point is that you can make a donation to the newspaper.
Donate Now >

Public Radio and TV
Now is definitely the time to renew your memberships to public radio and television stations, no matter where you listen to or watch them.. Streaming different NPR stations is easy, and you may like one in another state. The reporting is crucial. The programming from PBS is enriching, for adults and children. Fund the stations by participating in the membership drives, or by going to the websites on your own to increase or re-activate your membership.
 

"Homeland" Films At Key Food In Beacon for Episode 8 of Season 6

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UPDATE [3/14/2017]: This episode has aired! Get the details here >

On a rainy, otherwise uneventful day in the Hudson Valley, the production crew of "Homeland," the show produced by Fox TV for Showtime, suited up in rain gear and wheeled carts of lighting and camera equipment into Key Food to film a scene that is slated to be in Season 6, Episode 8. The four-time Emmy-nominated show airs on Showtime and streams on Hulu, starring five-time Emmy nominee Claire Danes. A surprise actor is on the scene, who we cannot reveal (#spoileralert).

Anthony Ruggiero, city administrator for the City of Beacon, exclaimed: “This is a major film production and we are very excited. The film production crew has been excellent to work with and very accommodating.” Key Food had been approached by the production company weeks prior to today's filming, and the city was able to turn around the permits in one week. In addition to filming on Main Street, the production rented space from the Elks Lodge to set up and store trucks and equipment, confirmed Carl Oken, and from the Memorial Building on Main Street.
 

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Trucks lined South Brett Street from Main Street to Verplanck, holding camera equipment, scenes, costumes, whatever a production company might need to work their magic in the shot. Key Food is scheduled to be closed all day, unless the filming finishes early, says Key Food manager, Junior Zayed. Junior's brother and fellow manager, JB Said, and two regularly employed cashiers at Key Food may also be in the scene - if their part doesn't get cut! Junior and JB are part of the family who owns Key Food.

Says Mayor Randy Casale about the production: “We are very excited that Showtime Productions' "Homeland" chose the City of Beacon for filming episodes of Season 6. This is an opportunity to showcase the city and add to the local economy. Filming production is a growing industry in New York, and Beacon’s historic Main Street and natural beauty are perfect for a variety of movies and shows. We would like to attract other quality productions. On the set today, talking to a few of the 100 employees of the production, there was a buzz about Beacon, and several commented on visiting and moving here.”

Why Beacon?

The creative team for "Homeland" was looking to film on country roads, and selected the Hudson Valley as the best place to find what they needed. As for filming in Key Food, they needed a nondescript town - and apparently a large grocery store -  to hunker down in for the day and film, according to a source familiar with the production company. The show is also filming in Putnam County today, possibly at the Country Side Motel.

Signs of More Filming in Beacon?

While the new tax break that Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed into legislation recently (offering production companies a 10% tax break for filming in Dutchess and Ulster Counties) would be an incentive to film in Beacon, "Homeland" was not able to take advantage of it this time, since they were already filming in the area when it became law, according to a source familiar with the production. That source speculates, however, that the tax incentive will have a positive impact on the communities upstate. The City of Beacon was paid a $50 application fee plus a $2,500 filming fee, and was reimbursed for the use of three police officers, according to Ruggiero. Stores impacted by the filming, such as Key Food, are customarily compensated as well.

As actress Mary Stuart Masterson said in an article in the Poughkeepsie Journal about the tax incentive: “I can't wait to work where I live." Stuart Masterson is a Dutchess County resident, and hopes to open a film production facility in Ulster Country. Located right here in Beacon is the CineHub, a production resource center and studio for filmmakers and video professionals in the Hudson Valley.

Filming outside of New York City costs production companies more in terms of hotels, gas and other accommodations, but they also must pay their crew and actors extra to "go beyond the grid," which is a distance boundary negotiated by labor unions like the DGA and SAG to prevent their union members from traveling too far without compensation. The last movie that filmed in Beacon, one based on a Katie Fforde novel, was not a union job.

Terry Nelson, founder and executive director of the Beacon Independent Film Festival, had this to say about this filming event: "Having 'Homeland' filmed here is a great thing. It’s going to be good for Dutchess Country to do more shooting here, as opposed to having all films being shot across the river, which happens with shows shooting in Newburgh to make it look like Brooklyn. Films are starting to come on this side of the river, and I hope it continues."

Nelson feels that if there were a functioning film commission in this area, "that would be really helpful to look out for local crew to be hired if possible. This is a great start. I’m feeling optimistic about filming in Beacon." According to the production company, local crew were not hired for this job, which can be difficult when a production company for a TV show already has a team and rhythm in place.

Tune into Showtime to see the episode! As in all film and publishing projects, one never knows what will make it to the screen and what will be left on the cutting room floor, so tune in when Episode 8 of Season 6 premieres!

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Please note: This article may be updated with more information as we get it.

Photo Credits: All photos taken by Katie Hellmuth Martin, with the exception of the screenshot of Claire Danes, which was taken from Homeland's homepage.

Mystery Photo Revealed: Marion Royael Gallery Doors Exhibit, The Knock Knock Underground Emoji

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Beacon residents might know the faces of the artists, Barbara A.G. Riddle and Steven Paul Riddle, who created and curate Marion Royael Gallery. Over the years, the gallery has been located on both ends of Main Street, and is currently based at 159 Main St., next door to Kitchen Sink. Onlookers who have walked past the directed migrating installations that appear each month in the gallery, may not yet have walked in, or walked all the way in, and stepped into the back patio known as Mr. Yard, which was the location of our Mystery Photo.

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The installation that occupies Mr. Yard this year, Marion Royael's garden plot beside Kitchen Sink's back patio, was the location of our last Mystery Photo Contest that stumped everyone for days. That contest required four hints before somebody finally won! So now is the time for the big reveal and the virtual walk-through of this exhibit that is kid- and dog-friendly, and beckons for you to explore.

Reminder of the Mystery Photo

This was the mystery photo. Where was this taken?

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About Marion Royael Gallery

Marion Royael Gallery highlights the work of emerging and mid-career artists through a scheduled series of exhibitions. The gallery acts as a forum for exploring fundamental ideas and concepts in contemporary art as they relate to prevailing topical events. Steven and Barbara seek to create a vibrant cross-generational dialogue about art and culture among the general public, collectors, curators, artists and critics. Marion Royael Gallery creates what they call "Directed Migrating Installations," which are rooted in themes that the gallery sends out to regular artists, who send art in response to be displayed. The gallery represents artists and sells contemporary fine art originals, editions and objects.

So Where Is This Dinosaur?

This purple dinosaur lives inside of the outdoor installation, "Mr. Yard Presents Knock Knock Underground Emoji," and behind at least two sets of doors. There is a total of 76 doors in the installation, 45 of which open and close, and some of which are painted. Appearing across all of the doors are 300 emojis representing different emotions. Why emojis and doors?

The installation is an exploration of what people do with their emotions, says Steven Paul Riddle. "It's about emotions. Whatever you do with your emotions. Some people show them very clearly, and you can see right through them. Other people hide them." The doors represent what the emotions are hidden behind. Closed doors, open doors, crooked doors, sideways doors.

Walking through is a lot like walking through a chapter in Alice in Wonderland. Explore at night or during the day, and the experience will still be steeped in curiosity as different corners reveal themselves to you in different lights, or through your own mood at the moment.

Continue to virtually walk through this installation via the pictures in this article, and then head down to Marion Royael Gallery to experience it yourself in person. Bring the kids! The doors are for sale as a piece of art, should something move you, but Barbara and Steven giggle at the thought of pricing it out, as they are so deeply rooted in the creation process.

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The artists, Steven Paul Riddle and Barbara A.G. Riddle.

Photo Credits: All photos were taken by Katie Hellmuth Martin