What's New In Adult Classes Guide - Beacon Pilates & Shambhala Wellness Update

New Year's resolutions are in full effect, and fitness centers across Beacon are heating up! A couple of local businesses have recently made changes, and we've updated A Little Beacon Blog's Adult Classes Guide to reflect the changes. Be sure to check in regularly to see the latest changes and additions to the classes lineup! There are a lot of great lifestyle, business, and fitness classes to choose from.

Beacon Pilates Moves to New Location

After 13 years on Main Street, Beacon Pilates has moved to their newly designed location at 18 West Main St., Suite 3 - the same building that houses 2 Way Brewing and BCAP, right by the train station. What's a bonus to that location, besides being so close to BCAP's pre-K and summer camp center? Parking. Tons of it. Park right in front of the building, or along the street.

You can check out Beacon Pilates' new digs at their Grand Re-Opening Party on Saturday, February 10, from 5 to 8 pm. All are welcome, even if you have no experience with Pilates.

P.S.: Thank you, Beacon Pilates, for coming on as an advertiser with us! Support from local businesses like theirs helps keep our publication crankin'!

Shambhala Wellness Center

This week, Karla McGuire, owner of Shambhala Wellness Center, announced that the center is changing owners and its name. Alison Jolicoeur, Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified Health Coach, and Certified Shamanic Reiki Master Teacher, will be taking over. The space's new name will be Beacon of Light Wellness Center, still located at 4 S. Chestnut Street, just off the middle of Main Street near Rite Aid. The official opening of Beacon of Light Wellness Center will be Thursday, February 1, and the Grand Opening celebration will be on Second Saturday, February 10, from 10 am to 8 pm.

Tin Shingle Offers New Website Design Class

If you're stuck on starting your website, Tin Shingle has the class for you: Make Your Website With Markers. That's right - you'll be setting up what will go onto your website, how you sell to your clients or customers, and what you want people to think and feel when they get to your website. It's an easy and fun workshop that will knock out that creative block.

Happening This Weekend - 1/19/2018

If you've had cabin fever this month, upcoming days hold the cure! You have a lot of great options right now in the Classes department, from fitness to iPhones. Several other goings-on are scheduled, so get your boots on, get some fresh air, and enjoy the weekend! Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance.   Thom Joyce’s Open Mic Night Day: Friday, January 19, 2018 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Live Concert: Shapiro/Kerr Duo Day: Saturday, January 20, 2018 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.     Beacon Pilates : We Moved! Thirteen years ago, Beacon Pilates set up equipment in Beacon, and at the end of last year, they moved to their new home, near the train station! Now located in the same building that houses 2 Way Brewing Co. and BCAP, at 18 West Main St., Suite 3, Beacon Pilates is on the side of the building that has beautifully renovated interiors with plenty of parking. SAVE THE DATE! Day: Saturday, February 10, 2018 Time: 5 to 8 pm Beacon Pilates is having a Grand Re-Opening Party at their new space, and you're invited! Owner Juliet Harvey says: "Come celebrate 13 years of Beacon Pilates in our newly designed, light-filled studio! Anyone is welcome, even if you've never been to the studio before." Information > AcroYoga Fundamentals Workshop Day: Friday, January 19, 2018 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: Shambhala Wellness Center, 4 S. Chestnut St., Beacon, NY Information > Stretch Your Soul Workshop Day: Friday, January 19, 2018 Time: 7 to 8:30 pm Location: Firefly Yoga, 992 Main St., Fishkill, NY Information > iPhoneography Workshop Day: Saturday, January 20, 2018 Time: 10 am to noon Location: River Winds Gallery, 172 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Quilting 101 w/ Katy Hope (four sessions) Level: Confident Beginner Day: Saturdays, January 20, 27, February 3 and 10, 2018 Time: 10 am to 1 pm Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Knitting 101 - Big Blanket Workshop Day: Sunday, January 21, 2018 Time: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm Location: Loopy Mango, 500 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Knitting Studio with Kit Burke-Smith (four sessions) Level: Beginner-Intermediate Days: Mondays, January 22 to February 12, 2018 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: Beetle & Fred, 171 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Thank you, Beacon Pilates, for sponsoring the Classes for Adults Guide! For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide. Hudson Hills Montessori Open House Day: Sunday, January 21, 2018 Time: 11 am to 1 pm Location: Hudson Hills Montessori, 12 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY Information > Art & Zine Club Meetup Day: Friday, January 19, 2018 Time: 3:30 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Learn Beat Boxing & Body Percussion Day: Saturday, January 20, 2018 Time: 11 am Location: Beacon Music Factory, 333 Fishkill Ave., Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.   Thank you to BAJA 328 for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!     BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END   Luxe Optique 183 Main Street SALE ALERT! Get your shades out, it's sunny! What's that? You have boring sunglasses, or you finally lost your old trusties? You're in luck then, because all Oliver Peoples sunglasses are $100 off at Luxe Optique right now! Get them with or without prescription lenses. Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company.     BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING PRO TIP: Park behind 1 East Main, by the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the back walkway to come up to Main Street! Style Storehouse 484 Main Street Just look at this sweet stack of threads. Your closet is in need of some fresh denim, and Style Storehouse is where you will find plenty of styles, sizes and stretchy fabric. There are lots of sales currently going on now at Style Storehouse, including this denim deal for 25% off!  Where is Style Storehouse? A few stores down from Utensil, as you round the bend. Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique 1 East Main, Retail #3 Featured in the most recent issue of Chronogram as part of their curated Wedding Venue Guide, Lambs Hill is the destination for a wedding in a beautiful mountaintop setting. The Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique enhances the bridal experience with a showroom of wedding gowns at the base of Mount Beacon, in the newly renovated 1 East Main building. New styles are in store now, with more to come! Find a wide range of sizes from brand names like Lillian West and Justin Alexander. Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the dummy light. Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide!  Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse. Where can you get your hair done in Beacon? Or find a beard trim? Or even fluttery eyelash extensions? Find out in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide! SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency CONGRATULATIONS! Were you driving down Main Street on Thursday afternoon and saw the exuberant gathering outside the normally-quiet row of storefronts across from the post office? In case you were wondering, that was the crowd that showed up to support one of Beacon's longest-running businesses, Antalek & Moore. A torch was being passed to the new Executive Partners, Susan Antalek Pagones and Vince Lemma. Read more about it! Rhinebeck Bank Rhinebeck Bank has enabled several Hudson Valley bussiness to grow, including Crunch Fitness. In this episode of "Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank," Michelle Barone-Lepore interviews Tom Van Pelt to learn about 2018's fitness trends, which include Small Group Training, HIT (High Intensity Training), and Wearables. Want to learn more? Watch it here! Beacon Chamber of Commerce The Beacon Chamber of Commerce's Annual Meeting will be Monday, January 29, at 5:30 pm at the Elks Club, 900 Wolcott Ave., Beacon, NY. On the agenda: voting for new Board Members. Mark your calendar, and Join the Chamber today! BeaconArts : Open Studios LAST CHANCE! Tickets are on sale for only a little bit longer for the Beacon Open Studios fundraiser. Day: Friday, January 26, 2018 Time: 8 pm to midnight Location: Denning's Point Distillery Enjoy live jazz, dancing, a VIP gaming room, and special raffle prizes! Celebrate and support Beacon's vibrant arts community in one fancy party. Tickets > Tin Shingle Workshop : Start Your Website With Markers! This workshop went well, so Tin Shingle is offering another round! Look for a new website from Evey Amaris, who is launching her long-awaited business in creating sacred space for homes and businesses. This workshop takes you through the process of thinking out how your website will be presented to, and received by, your customers. Sign up for the next one! Price: $185 Day: Tuesday, February 6, 2018 Time: 2 to 4 pm Tickets > A Little Beacon Space The time is right to host your workshop, now you just need a venue. A Little Beacon's Space is the perfect location, conveniently located in the heart of Beacon, to accomodate your audience. InHouse Design Media InHouse Design Media can produce pretty, compelling pictures for your social media stream that will make your brand extremely attractive to prospective clients and customers. Flyers, invitations, business cards, and more stationery can also be designed for you as needed. InHouse Design Media is the design arm of A Little Beacon Blog, and can be hired by you for marketing services. Reach out to see how they can help you. NEWSLETTER SIGNUP Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! Sponsors make the local media go 'round. Reach our readers and support our publication at the same time. Advertising with A Little Beacon Blog is effective because we design ways to make it work for you. See our Media Kit for ideas! Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog. Until next week!

Congratulations to Susan, Vince, and Everyone at Antalek & Moore

It was an emotional afternoon on Thursday, January 18, for a multigenerational business in Beacon. We send all of our congratulations to Antalek & Moore as the torch is passed to Executive Partners Susan Antalek Pagones and Vince Lemma. When you attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the normally quiet storefront of an insurance agency, and when well-wishers have poured out onto the sidewalk and into the intersection because so many are in attendance, it really is so heart-warming. 

Several dignitaries - including Beacon Mayor Randy Casale and State Senator Sue Serino - attended the Ribbon🎀 Cutting, a joint celebration of the Dutchess Chamber and the Beacon Chamber of Commerce. As the mayor pointed out, Antalek & Moore is one of Beacon's longest-running businesses, and employs several people.

The food at the party was local and amazing, with dishes from Mr. V’s, Leo’s wings, treats from Ella’s Bellas, Drink More Good, Alps Chocolate, BAJA 328 and others blessing the new office. Susan forced a to-go plate on my hungry eyes, and I’m so glad she did. Congratulations!!

High School Students Can Get Writing Help In Writing Lab Thursdays at Library

Beacon High School students looking for help with writing projects can stop by the High School Writing Lab on Thursdays, after school from 2:30 to 4 pm, at the Howland Public Library. Support, assistance, and encouragement will be available for students in grades 9 to 12 who are working on school or personal writing projects and college essays.

Drop-ins are welcome; no registration is needed. Facilitator Jess Conway is an instructor at Teachers College, Columbia University.

To see more opportunities like this one for kids, see A Little Beacon Blog's Classes for Kids Guide.

Happening This Weekend - 1/12/2018

This weekend is Second Saturday! You have plenty of time to see many of the art exhibits going on now, including the exhibit from all four Beacon Elementary Schools at the Howland Public Library. The galleries are so diverse, offering you different experiences on your way up and down Main Street - or on other streets as well. We have the full Second Saturday Guide for you here. (It's still being updated as usual because it's a live guide!) Highlighted below are the events, classes, workshops and shopping that you need to factor into your weekend plans, as well as your week next week! Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance. “Art Is Elementary” Reception Day: Saturday, January 13, 2018 Time: 2 to 4 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at The Studio @ Beacon Day: Saturday, January 13, 2018 Time: 2 pm Location: The Studio @ Beacon, 301 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Anna Polonsky/Orion Weiss, Duo Piano Day: Sunday, January 14, 2018 Time: 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > 5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Day Celebration Day: Monday, January 15, 2018 Time: See below for schedule, starting at 8 am Location: Springfield Baptist Church, 8 Church St. aka 8 Mattie Cooper Square, Beacon, NY Theme: "If I Can Help Somebody, Then My Living Will Not Be In Vain" 8 am: Free continental breakfast, provided by The Southern Dutchess Coalition 9:30 am: 5th Annual Dr. King Community Parade Lineup. Participants are encouraged to bring American flags, posters and banners. 10:45 am: Annual SDC/MLK Essay Contest award presentation to young writers, mainly Beacon High School students, according to the Beacon Free Press, for a cash prize of $50. Rhinebeck Bank has sponsored this prize since the contest's inception. 11 am: Annual youth/adult talent presentation 11:50 am: Annual youth, choir members and seniors celebration lunch 12 pm: Annual adult celebration lunch 1 pm: Annual celebration service Details > Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.     Chaturanga, Up Dog, Down Dog! Day: Saturday, January 13, 2018 Time: 1 to 3 pm Location: Firefly Yoga, 992 Main St., Fishkill, NY Information > Coloring Books for Adults Day: Beginning Sunday, January 14, 2018 Time: Sunday, 4 to 7 pm; Tuesday, 1 to 4 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Tin Shingle's Workshop: Start Your Website With Markers! Day: Thursday January 18, 2018 Time: 2 to 4 pm Location: 291 Main St., First Floor, First Door, Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide. Lightning Bugs Kids Yoga Camp Day: Week of January 15, 2018 Time: 9:15 to 11:45 am Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.   Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!     BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END   Luxe Optique 183 Main Street Stylish yet classic Dalziel sunglasses are handmade by Barton Perreira using unsurpassed craftsmanship and ingenious design. A style like this is often sold out at the limited number of shops it's carried in, but you'll find it available now at Beacon's own Luxe Optique. Barton Perreira’s approach to fashion redefines style and elegance. Patty Perreira’s language of inspired design focuses on the evolution process and continues to challenge the industry by unveiling the next new thing. Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company.   BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main, by the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the back walkway to come up to Main Street! Style Storehouse 484 Main Street Meet the Queen of Leggings (and denim) on Main Street: Michele Williams, owner of Style Storehouse, keeps her collection of leggings fresh and in stock for many sizes and shapes of ladies. Pictured here are super soft rainbow leggings by Hard Tail, 100 percent lycra with a mesh detail. Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle. Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique 1 East Main, Retail #3 This Lillian West gown, featuring "power mesh" lining at the waist and hip, is hanging at Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique right now. It has a unique scalloped hem and soft Venice lace throughout. This style also comes with an optional slit. Clearly, mesh is a thing right now, fits the curviest of body types, and can drape quite well while ensuring comfort. Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the dummy light. Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide! Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse. Where can you get your hair done in Beacon? Or a beard trim? Find out in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide! SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency SAVE THE DATE! This Thursday, January 18, from 4 to 5 pm, meet Vince Lemma and welcome him to his new role as partner at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency. Read our article about him here, and drop by their offices on your way home from work or play on Thursday to toast him. Rhinebeck Bank Big things are happening at the Underwear Factory in Poughkeepsie! The Art Effect - the collaboration and merger with Mill Street Loft and Spark Media Project - is based in the serious spot with the funny name, and has all sorts of creativity going on for young kids! Michelle Barone-Lepore interviews Executive Director Nicole Fenichel-Hewitt and Gaye Mallet, Board President, to learn more about the program and show you behind-the-scenes tidbits of kids making films, graphic designing and more. One of the student-produced films has even traveled through several film festivals including the Tribeca Film Festival. Learn more about it here in this short episode! Beacon Chamber of Commerce Are you a new business in Beacon? Joining the Chamber of Commerce shows your support for the business community in Beacon, and connects you with others during monthly member meetings. Join today online! BeaconArts: Membership A big meeting is coming up for BeaconArts! It's the annual meeting and board elections. Current board members are listed below, as well as candidates. You must be a current member of BeaconArts to attend and vote. Join online here. Board members continuing through 2018: Theresa Goodman (current Vice President), 1st term, 2nd year Christina Jensen (former Board member, appointed by Board in January to fulfill remainder of Sommer Hixson's term), 1st term, 2nd year Terry Nelson, 1st term, 2nd year Rick Rogers, 1st term, 2nd year Aaron Verdile (current Treasurer), 1st term, 2nd year Candidates are: Matthew Agoglia Hanny Ahern (2 yrs, 1st term) Karlyn Benson (2 yrs, 1st term) Angelique Devlin (2 yrs, 1st term) Meghan Goria (2 yrs, 1st term) Linda Pratt Kimmel (2 yrs, 1st term) More details about the candidates, including their bios, are here. Tin Shingle Workshop: Start Your Website With Markers! This class is this Thursday! In this workshop, Katie Hellmuth Martin will lead you through the organization process of starting your website, in order to help you decide what you're going to put on your website. What kind of pages and pictures will be there? What is the point of it? You will use markers, the dry erase board, and plenty of paper to help you map this out visually with your hands, before diving into the digital version on the computer. Price: $185 Day: Thursday, January 18, 2018 Time: 2 to 4 pm Buy ticket here A Little Beacon Space The time is right to host your workshop, now you just need a site. A Little Beacon's Space is a perfect location, conveniently located in the heart of Beacon, to fit your audience. InHouse Design Media InHouse Design Media can produce pretty pictures for your social media stream in order to make your brand extremely attractive to prospective clients and customers. Flyers, invitations, business cards, and more stationery can also be designed for you as needed. InHouse Design Media is the design arm of A Little Beacon Blog and can be hired by you for marketing services. Reach out to see how they can help you. NEWSLETTER SIGNUP Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! Sponsors make the local media go 'round. Reach our readers and support our publication at the same time. Advertising with A Little Beacon Blog is effective because we design ways to make it work for you. See our Media Kit for ideas! Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog. Until next week!

New City Council Ward Members and Dutchess County Legislators Sworn In for 2018

Photo Credit: Screenshot of swearing-in ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.
Graphic Art Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

On the first day of the new year of 2018, Beacon held a swearing-in ceremony for the brand new City Council ward members and two Dutchess County Legislators - all Democrats - who swept local elections after a tumultuous year in politics nationally. As reported by Jeff Simms for the Highlands Current, all citizens running were "first-time candidates, each [winning] by wide margins." The two at-large council members were old hands at this: Lee Kyriacou has served nine terms, and George Mansfield has served five terms so far.

Former City Council member Pam Wetherbee presided over the ceremony. Several notable people attended, including Kenya Gadsden, board member for the Beacon City School District Board of Education, and former Beacon Mayor Steve Gold, who is currently the Chief of Staff for New York State Assemblyman Frank Skartados.

Kicking off the ceremony were Cub Scout Pack 1, Boy Scout Troop 1, and Boy Scout Troop 141 of Beacon. Next, the Beacon High School Chorus, led by teacher Susan Wright, sang "This Land Is Your Land" by Woody Guthrie, which was a "song special to Pete Seeger, who was someone important to Beacon," Susan stated. (See this stellar New Yorker profile on Pete Seeger by Beacon local David Rees).

The Swearing In

Terry Nelson, representing Ward 1, was sworn in by his daughter and wife, promising: "I will do the best job I possibly can to represent everyone in the City of Beacon." Terry is also a founder of the Beacon Independent Film Festival, and a board member for BeaconArts.

John Rembert, representing Ward 2, was sworn in by his wife, showing gratitude: "I thank the citizens of Ward 2 and the citizens of Beacon, NY, and I will do my best for the citizens of Beacon, NY."

Jodi McCredo, representing Ward 3, was sworn in by her children. Jodi was also one of the founders of the Advocates for Beacon Schools, a group of parents and community members who pushed for change and awareness of the politics and policies in public schools. They were active during the time of a resignation of a Beacon superintendent in 2016 and in the election of three new board members to the Board of Education. That group built a website for publishing information, advocates12508.com, and a similar website has been created for disseminating information about building development projects in Beacon, development12508.com. Said Jodi: "I'm looking forward to what we can do together for Beacon and for Dutchess County."

Photo Credit: Screenshot of Swearing In Ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.

For her swearing-in, Amber Grant, representing Ward 4, placed the Constitution on her small niece, who was held by Amber's sister. Amber said: "I look forward to getting to work. Hopefully I'll see a lot of you here tomorrow as well (for the next City Council meeting)."

After George Mansfield was sworn in for his at-large position, he reflected: "I was first here eight years ago, when I first ran for office, and it never gets any less exciting. The burden of responsibility is great."

Lee Kyriacou, the City Council's other at-large member, selected The Constitution as his object to be sworn in on. He thanked his family, "my spouse, my two lovely daughters who indulge my passion to indulge in community service., and to the voters who turned out in amazing numbers. Please keep doing that." Lee continued, reflecting on what he called Beacon's journey of renewal. "Beacon has probably done the biggest turnaround of the Hudson Valley, if not, almost anywhere. It's been a pretty important set of roles for us to undertake. I've said from Day 1 - my first Day 1 was 1994 - that Zoning and Enforcement are the most important things that we do." He added, "We aren't going downhill - which is where we were heading in those days. We are headed uphill, but we have to chart a journey that works for our entire community. I look forward to my colleagues on the Council and the County Legislature in charting that journey together."

Frits Zernike for Dutchess County Legislator, District 16. Frits stated: "District 16 extends into Fishkill. It was Beacon's energy that won us this election. I hope to take the energy we have in southern Dutchess County and infuse the entire county legislature with it... Democracy is not a spectator sport. It's nice to be participating this way. I hope and I trust that you all will continue to participate, show up, pester us, and get done what we need done."

Nick Page for Dutchess County Legislator, District 18, was eager to get started, stating: "The election effort in Beacon was truly astonishing."

The event concluded with a benediction by Reverend Perry from the Springfield Baptist Church.

The local paparazzi (aka friends and families showing support).
Photo Credit: Screenshot of Swearing In Ceremony from video produced by Peter Skorewicz.

2018's Spirit of Beacon Day Will Be Under New Leadership - Gwenno James Steps In

Photo Credits: Dan Rigney

UPDATE April 2, 2018 - Spirit of Beacon Day now has a website - www.spiritofbeacon.org and you can now follow them on Facebook.

An almost-big local story of 2017 was that the volunteer organizers of the annual autumn Spirit of Beacon Day were stepping down, and would not be appointing a successor. Panic set in among those who heard the fringe rumors, but those who keep an ear to the ground didn't miss a beat. Longtime Beacon resident, building owner and textile designer Gwenno James heard the open call for replacement volunteers voiced by Mayor Randy Casale during a City Council meeting in July 2017, and decided to step in and step up to take on the enormous task of organizing a parade to celebrate the entire city.

Gwenno James, the new volunteer organizer for the Spirit of Beacon Day, in her Beacon textile studio.
Photo Credit: Gwenno James

Over the years, organizers have for the most part been invisible enigmas, except to their friends and community members who knew who they were. While the succession of the organizers is described clearly in "Celebrating Our Centennial," a book produced by the Beacon Historical Society, the newest members of the Beacon population tended to not know who produced the parade, only that it happened year after year and was the most celebrated time to show off public schools, nonprofit groups, and other initiatives that strengthen the Beacon community by helping neighbors get to know neighbors.
Trivia tip: Gwenno herself penned several pages in the Historical Society's book! 

We wrote about the Spirit of Beacon's backstory here, and have interviewed Gwenno below for the latest on what the future holds for the Spirit of Beacon Day.

ALBB: Some have said: “Beacon has changed. It doesn’t need a Spirit of Beacon Day anymore.” What’s your response to that?

Gwenno James: The Spirit of Beacon Day has been a wonderful celebration bringing everyone together across our community for forty years. When the original founders met in 1977 at the Howland Cultural Center, they agreed that “the community should get to know one another better. We should learn to know each other’s likes and dislikes regarding conversations, feelings, entertainment, education and food." I think that this intention/manifesto is as relevant today as ever, and helps us continue to grow together as a community.
 
ALBB: How did you come to take over the Spirit of Beacon Day Parade?

Gwenno James: First of all, I’d like to say that we are all so grateful to the committee who have been running the Spirit of Beacon Day parade for many years, for their dedication and hard work, including Rose Story, Roy Ciancanelli, Diane Sedore, Tony Lassiter and Bob Outer. They will continue to provide their support and advice going forward, which is great, and will enable us to transition smoothly and pass on the “torch.”

I look forward to leading the new committee with volunteers from all across our community. How the transition came about was: In July, an announcement was made at the City Council meeting that the committee would be stepping down. The Mayor and others encouraged folks from the community to step up and help. I had already been in touch with Rose Story, the committee Chair, earlier in the summer to offer help and to volunteer for the 2017 parade, so when I heard the news, I contacted Rose again and said I would be happy to help with any transition and, as needed, lead going forward.

We then further discussed with Mayor Casale, and he gave his support, alongside the City. An announcement followed at the next City Council meeting. Others also came forward to help and I spoke at the Beacon Chamber and Beacon Arts joint meeting, where members showed their support and volunteered.

During this year's [2017] parade, I “shadowed” Rose and Roy to learn more about how the parade is run on the ground. I also connected in person with the volunteer organizations and school groups.

ALBB: What will the upcoming year look like for you as you prepare?

Gwenno James: There will be a kickoff meeting around March with everyone who has expressed an interest to become involved. We will plan from there and assign volunteer tasks going forward. We will have continued meetings throughout the Spring and Summer and there will be plenty of opportunities for folks to provide input and help.

[Editor's note: As for a website and social media presence for the Spirit of Beacon Day - that is coming, and we will return to this article to update it with the new link.]

ALBB: How can others submit to volunteer?

Gwenno James: We welcome anyone who would like to volunteer and become involved. Folks can get in touch via email: spiritofbeacon@gmail.com

The good news is that many members of the original committee would like to continue helping and advising going forward, so we can build upon the great efforts they have done and have continuity. 

ALBB: Will anything different be done for businesses on the day? Traditionally it has been for nonprofits only.

Gwenno James: This is certainly a matter that we will discuss at our next committee meeting. It’s great to get input and we will be connecting with the Main Street businesses to hear their feedback over the coming months.

ALBB: Thank you Gwenno, and good luck! We look forward to experiencing next year's parade!

New Year, New Beginnings, New YOU with Beacon's New Boutique Fitness Studios!

Photo Credits: Instagram feeds of these businesses.
Graphic Art Credit: A Little Beacon Blog

It’s a new year, and a new year brings new beginnings and starting new habits for the better! It's a great time to hit the reset button on your health and try new activities. If you are looking to add some fitness into your routine, but may not want to commit to long-term, big-gym memberships, perhaps a smaller boutique gym that specializes in particular workouts may be more your speed. We recently shared what’s new in our Shopping Guide and included The Studio @ Beacon and Zoned Fitness, both on Beacon's Main Street.  

It’s hard to miss The Studio @ Beacon’s “Coming Soon” sign at 301 Main Street, and it has triggered curiosity from residents peeking through the windows. The Studio owners, Laura and Samantha, shared with me: “We’ve had so much positive feedback and we feel like Beacon is ready for this. We love hearing from people who are excited for what we’re bringing to town.” The Studio @ Beacon specializes in Spin and Boxing classes, which Laura and Sam are very passionate about. They will have their ribbon cutting this month on Second Saturday, January 13.

Zoned Fitness is the first personal training studio in Beacon to offer Heart Rate-Based training, creating a workout regimen specifically for your needs.  Located at 490 Main Street, it was formerly Hudson Valley Fitness, but the business underwent rebranding and reopened in November 2017. They felt the original name did not reflect the type of fitness program they provide - the Zoned Training Method. Zoned training is a style of training that allows the trainee to scale their program, routines and exercise through four zones based on ability or fitness level. In addition to getting in shape, Zoned Fitness also teaches about nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle. You can sign up for an all-fitness-level class like Boot Camp or HIT (High Intensity Training) or Personal Training for more personalized attention, or if you're working through an injury or other physical limitations.

If you are looking for more than just a physical challenge but also mind and body, there's a Beacon spot to cover that. Last year, Shambhala Wellness Center at 4 South Chestnut Street underwent an makeover to provide more than just yoga. You can also receive massages, reiki (traditional and shamanic), nutritional counseling, health coaching, cognitive therapy, herbal medicine and psychic readings. You do not need to be a flexible yogi with a Lululemon wardrobe to check out one of their upcoming workshops, like AcroYoga Fundamentals!

[Update 1/12/2018]: And this just in! Beacon Pilates has moved locations after a decade on Main Street in Beacon. Find them now on West Main Street, near the train station. Their upcoming grand re-opening party is in February.

Don't worry about making too much of a change all at once - a big reason why some resolutions don't work out. You don't have to give up (all) of the good stuff. One of the things Laura and Sam love about Beacon is the number of tasty options available. “If you haven’t already, you’re likely to see us around town eating and drinking… We’re not ashamed of our imperfect bodies, so [you might] hear us talking about the Big Bird we just ate at Stock Up, the fish tacos we love from Max’s, or a coffee run to Ella’s Bellas that inevitably includes a few of their insanely delicious salted chocolate chip cookies.” Take baby steps! 

Inclusiveness is the continuing theme for smaller boutiques and studios. They bring a different kind of vibe when it comes to fitness, which can be welcoming for exercise newbies. Being part of a smaller fitness community may be just what you need to stay committed.

Antalek & Moore Announces New Partnership with Vincent A. Lemma, as Longtime Beacon Advocate Pat Moore Retires (Sponsored)

Antalek & Moore's Upcoming Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

When: Thursday, January 18, 2018
Time: 4 to 5 pm
Where: Their offices at 340 Main Street, Beacon, NY
Stop By! Or RSVP: 845-245-6292

Late in December of 2017, a hand-signed letter arrived in the mail from Pat Moore, partner at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency. The letter announced his retirement from the independently owned firm Antalek & Moore in order to pursue personal interests, which included traveling with his expanding grand-family. Maintaining independence in the insurance world has been deeply important to Pat, as he reiterated in his retirement letter: “We live in a time of high-level merger and acquisition activities of firms like ours. Maintaining our longstanding independence is proving to be the exception in today’s business environment.”
 
Of the utmost importance to Pat was hand-picking his successor, Vincent A. Lemma, to join his business partner, Susan Antalek-Pagones, in carrying the business forward into its next generation. Antalek & Moore originated in Beacon in 1853 and continues here today with the new leadership and partnership of Susan and Vincent at the helm. They are hosting a ribbon cutting to celebrate the transition on Thursday, January 18, at 4 pm. And you’re invited!

About Vincent A. Lemma, Antalek & Moore's New Partner

Vincent (please, call him Vince, he insists) started working with Pat eight years ago during a time when Vince was employed by an insurance agency owned by a bank. “Crazy things were happening with the banks,” says Vince, “and things were happening that didn’t jive with me for our customers.” He reached out to Pat to begin working in the independent world, and their business relationship blossomed.
 
As a new leader of the firm, Vince is pulling from his experience as an assistant lacrosse coach at several different colleges. As an assistant coach at Randolph Macon College, his team knocked nationally ranked Washington and Lee out of the playoffs in 1997, fueling his competitive drive to work with a team of young people balancing sports, school and teamwork. Coaching also allowed him to leave his home state of New York to experience different parts of the country, and return later to settle down into the insurance profession.
 
“As an athlete, you need to overcome hurdles to win. In this industry, we face those hurdles on a daily basis. As a coach, you need to understand how to help your employees overcome those hurdles.”
 
Vince believes that 90 percent of problems in the insurance world are caused by simple misunderstandings, and he aims to educate current and future customers of Antalek & Moore to help them know their coverage. He believes that working with an independent agent gives customers an advantage. “When you’re not working with your agent and your broker, things get difficult, and you think the insurance companies are out to get you. We fight for the insurance company to cover everything they agreed to cover in the agreement with the customer.”
 
You can meet Vince any time by scheduling an appointment with him, but the most fun way will be to attend their upcoming ribbon cutting, right on Main Street, conveniently located in the middle of town, near Rite Aid. In fact, park in the free parking lot behind Rite Aid and BAJA, and you're on Antalek & Moore's back doorstep! Stop in, welcome Vince to the position, and look for more from this new development at Antalek & Moore.

---

Antalek & Moore is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, and this article was created with them as part of our Sponsor Spotlight program. It is with the support of businesses like theirs that A Little Beacon Blog can bring you coverage of news, local happenings and events. Thank you for supporting businesses who support us! If you would like to become a Sponsor or Community Partner, please click here for more information.

Happening This Weekend - 1/5/2018

The temp won't go above 18 degrees this weekend. Stay warm!  Despite this - it's time to get out of the house, and because you took our advice last year and got the most amazing Dig Out Winter Boots at Mountain Tops, you are ready for anything! The sidewalks are shoveled, the sun is shining (for now). If you're battling the cold or flu that gripped everyone during the Winter Break, we have brewed up a tea for sick folks. Pick up the simple ingredients from a shops in a three-store radius. And now, onto the things going on this weekend or starting mid-week...

Sponsored by Antalek & Moore for car insurance “Cloth & Memory” Opening Reception Day: Sunday, January 7, 2018 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Open Mic Invitationals Day: Sunday, January 7, 2017 Time: 7 to 10 pm Location: Towne Crier, 379 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.     Natural Dye Workshop Day: Saturday, January 6, 2018 Time: Noon to 3 pm Location: Textile Lab, 146 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Workshop: Strong Core & Open Hips with Charles Matkin Day: Sunday, January 7, 2018 Time: 2 to 4 pm Location: Shambhala Wellness Center, 4 South Chestnut St., Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Adult Classes Guide. Card & Board Games Club Day: Friday, January 5, 2018 Time: 3 to 5 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > High School Writing Lab Day: Thursdays, starting January 11, 2018 Time: 2:30 to 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > Sew Cool Tuesdays Ages: 5-11 Days: Tuesdays, starting January 9, 2018 Time: 4 to 5:30 pm Location: Beacon Art Adventures @ Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information > For a full list of upcoming classes, visit our Kids Classes Guide.   Thank you to The Vault and to BAJA for sponsoring the Restaurant Guide!     BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END   Luxe Optique 183 Main Street SALE ALERT! Can you stand it? So much plaid around your eyes, and in a square/circle combo? These frames are incredible, and are part of the Winter Sale going on now at Luxe Optique. $100 off JF Rey (pictured), Boz, Volte Face and Nao Ned frames! Where is Luxe Optique? Across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company.   BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END PARKING HINT: Park behind 1 East Main, by the Hudson Valley Brewery, and use the back walkway to come up to Main Street! Style Storehouse 484 Main Street SALE ALERT! Awesome sales going on now! We especially have our eye on the 50% off (!!) vegan leather legging by Free People. Do go in, and see what Michelle has put on sale - and how low she has gone on these discounts. As you can see - they're clearly marked! Where is Style Storehouse? Near Waddle n Swaddle. Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique 1 East Main, Retail #3 Visit Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique down on Beacon's east end of town, for three floors of gowns, veils, accessories and a private dressing area with room for your best shopping gals. Brides and their entourages get VIP treatment in the beautifully adorned shop with a rustic touch. Where Is Lambs Hill? In the renovated factory building near the historic dummy light. Thank you to the following shops for sponsoring our Shopping Guide!  Luxe Optique, Lambs Hill, and Style Storehouse. Where can you get your hair done in Beacon? Or tidy up with a beard trim? Find out in A Little Beacon Blog's Beauty Guide! SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR HIGHLIGHTS Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency Big things are happening at Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency in the new year. Keep your eyes on A Little Beacon Blog for an upcoming announcement and celebration. Meanwhile, look into your home and business insurance needs. Take a look here to learn about your options, then call Antalek & Moore today for more information, at (845)245-6292. Rhinebeck Bank Season 3 of Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank has started! Host Michelle Barone interviews local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and public figures of the Hudson Valley. See firsthand how Rhinebeck Bank helps businesses grow and impacts the community! See the latest from Rhinebeck Bank. Beacon Chamber of Commerce Are you an expert in your field, looking for ways to get in front of Beacon's business community? Suggest yourself as a speaker for an upcoming Beacon Chamber of Commerce Member meeting. Details here on their website. BeaconArts The 2018 Annual Meeting and Board Elections will be Wednesday, January 3. It starts at 6:30 pm with networking; at 7, the meeting starts, running until 8. The election is the only item on the agenda, though attendees will be given updates on the status of BeaconArts projects and a brief Annual Report. You must be a current member of BeaconArts to vote. The meeting will be held at the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries on Main Street, where the BeaconArts Retrospective:15 exhibit is currently on view. This is a great opportunity to take in the exhibit, and renew your support of BeaconArts. Tin Shingle In this class, hosted at 291 Main Street in the Telephone Building, you will go through the process to get started on your website. Begin with a blank slate, finish the day knowing what pages will be on your website. We will use blank pieces of paper, colorful markers, dry erase boards, and other easy ways to break you free of your fear of creating a website. Get the details here! Class size is limited, so reserve your spot. A Little Beacon Space The time is right to host your workshop, now you just need a location. A Little Beacon's Space is the perfect spot, conveniently located in the heart of Beacon, to fit your audience. InHouse Design Media Need someone to take over your social media, or to guide you in what you are already doing? InHouse Design Media can feed you ideas that will make customers take action. Pick one of our Digital Marketing Retainers.   NEWSLETTER SIGNUP Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog Pictures shown above are from our advertising partners in the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. We can include your most exciting news here too! Sponsors make the local media go round. Reach our readers and support our publication at the same time. Advertising with A Little Beacon Blog is effective because we design ways to make it work for you. See our Media Kit for ideas! Click here to learn about ways to advertise on A Little Beacon Blog. Until next week!

The Sickness Miracle Tea: Where To Source It For Home Brewing

It’s as if there is a Winter Break *just* for getting sick. Right when you have the week off to celebrate the holidays and go wassailing to visit friends, someone or everyone in each family has a stomach bug or bronchitis. So before that pesky tickle cough turns into pneumonia - call your doctor of course in case you need an inhaler - but brew this tea and drink up daily. You can find everything you need to make it right on Main Street in Beacon:

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

a few shavings of fresh ginger

a clove of freshly chopped garlic (optional, if you have extra inflammation)

a slice of freshly squeezed lemon  

a teaspoon of honey

your favorite sick-day mug

You might have an old bottle of apple cider vinegar in your cupboard, but do yourself a favor and pitch it. If it’s old, it most likely looks unappealing to you and you’ll skip this recipe. Take yourself to the olive oil store, Scarborough Fare Olive Oil and Vinegar Tap Room, on Main Street, next to the building construction and across the street from Homespun Foods. There you will find a deliciously refined bottle of apple cider vinegar that you’ll actually want to drink.

Next, cross the street to Homespun and select local honey, or the “Super Special” honey from France. Those who go deep with nutrition may prefer the local honey to get more local flower pollen into your body, but if you’re partial to pretty cans and French flowers, try the Super Special honey! That’s what they call it at Homespun, so just ask for it by name. I just bought it for the first time, and I’m an allergy barometer, so I’ll let you know if the foreign flowers make me sneeze. Probably not.

Then, shred a bit of that ginger into the mug with a knife or a cheese grater. Slice up the lemon and squeeze into the concoction.

My favorite sick-day mug is one that I picked up at Wickham Studio’s pop-up Holiday Sale three years ago, as it always fits just the right amount of this tea.

Finally, smell the tea for a while. The aromas will start working immediately on blasting out the unpleasant feelings.

Bonus round! For achy bodies, get thee to a bath right away, and soak in Epsom salts. If you go the route of unscented and un-anythinged, you’ll have only the magnesium sulfate to draw out the toxins from your body and relax muscles. Epsom salt baths are a frequent Mom-recommended thing, and an Internet-recommended thing. Vogel Pharmacy, right next to Homespun, is the place to buy straight up Epsom salts. Your total cure and sickness miracle tea, all in a three-shop radius. Well, save for the ginger and lemon, which are just down the block at Key Food. 

Feel better!