This year’s table experience is going to be a little different. For the first time, Main Street businesses are allowed to have a table. Normally the vendor opportunity was reserved for nonprofits, since the genesis of Spirit of Beacon Day was rooted in community organizations and schools coming together to create dialogue and improve relations.
A Little Beacon Blog has a table near our office at 291 Main Street. Come by and say “Hi!” We will be handing out stickers, and selling our first-ever tote bag for $25. We will donate $5 of every bag sold to ARF and the Beacon Historical Society. These two organizations are participating orgs in this year’s Spirit of Beacon Day. Without the Beacon Historical Society, we would not know as much as we do about the many iterations of Beacon. ARF matches homeless dogs and cats with their furever human families. We have 100 totes. So that could be pretty good!
But first, I’ll be marching with South Avenue Elementary in the parade, as I helped out with making the float.
Our first listing in Newburgh! Realtor Sarah Beckham Hooff reached out to us to share some very creative listings. For the past few years, people and businesses have been relocating to Newburgh after finding commercial or residential properties to fix up. This multi-or-single family home is $159,900 and has lots of original detail to play with, like tin ceilings.
If you are an organizer of a float or presentation that is participating in the Spirit of Beacon Day Parade, we would like to hear from you about the meaning of your float in keeping with this year's theme. If you would like to provide a statement about how your organization is showing how it is "Celebrating Unity," please email your statement to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com.
Congratulations on making it through September! One of Beacon’s biggest events is Sunday, so get ready to fill yourself with Beacon spirit. The kids and parents of the Beacon City Schools, as well as many nonprofit organizations which you can see here have been working hard to present their interpretations of this year’s parade theme: “Celebrating Unity.”
SEEKING STATEMENTS FOR ARTICLE:
If you are an organizer of a float or presentation that is participating in the Spirit of Beacon Day Parade, we would like to hear from you about the meaning of your float in keeping with this year's theme. If you would like to provide a statement about how your organization is showing how it is "Celebrating Unity," please email your statement to editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com.
September is wrapping up with a bang, with popular yearly events like the Spirit of Beacon Day, the Garlic Festival in Saugerties, and the I Run Beacon 5K Run/Walk - there may still be time to sign up for the run, so get there early!
L. Nichols' “FLOCKS” Reading and Signing
Day: Friday, September 28, 2018 Time: 7 pm Location: Binnacle Books, 321 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Hudson Valley Garlic Festival
Days: Saturday & Sunday, September 29-30, 2018 Time: 10 am to 5 pm Location: Cantine Field, Washington Ave. Extension, Saugerties, NY Photo Credit: From the Kiwanis Club of Saugerties website Information >
Dances of Universal Peace
Day: Saturday, September 29, 2018 Time: 10 am to 11:30 am Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Story Slam at the Beacon Sukkah Day: Saturday, September 29, 2018 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: Polhill Park, at the intersection of Main Street and Route 9D, Beacon, NY Information >
Live Concert: The Fred Zepplin Band
Day: Saturday, September 29, 2018 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Spirit of Beacon Day Day: Sunday, September 30, 2018 (always the last Sunday in September) Overall Time: Noon, info tables open Parade Time: 1 pm, the Parade starts Location: Main Street, Beacon, NY
This highly anticipated parade celebrates Beacon and its community. The theme this year is "Celebrating Unity." Parade route is from River to Mountain: starting at City Hall (the end of Main Street on Route 9D), to Tioronda Avenue (Howland Cultural Center). The event runs until 4 pm, with music and food from different organizations. Walking the length of Main Street is a great way to learn about the variety of activities and groups Beacon has to offer. Look for A Little Beacon Blog's booth at this year's Spirit of Beacon Day and say "Hello!" Our location is in front of our office at 291 Main Street. We got stickers and totes! Information >
Howland Chamber Music Circle presents Telegraph Quartet with James Austin Smith Day: Sunday, September 30, 2018 Time: 4 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.
I RUN BEACON 5K Run/Walk
Day: Sunday, September 30, 2018 Time: Last-call registration, 8 am; race, 9 am Location: Memorial Park, Beacon, NY Information >
Meanwhile, during the week...
Be sure to check the Classes for Adults Guide for opportunities mid-week!
Make & Take Workshop
Day: Friday, September 28, 2018 Time: 6 to 8 pm Location: Knot Too Shabby, 155 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes and workshops of all kinds, visit our Adult Classes Guide.
Beginning this week at COMPASS ARTS - 395 Main St., Beacon, NY
Studio Art I: Foundational Skills with Kathy Moss
Grades:2nd-5th Days: Wednesdays, October 3-December 5, 2018 (no class 10/31 & 11/21) Time: 4 to 5:15 pm
Studio Art II: Drawing into Painting with Kathy Moss
Grades: 6th-12th Days: Wednesdays, October 3-December 5, 2018 (no class 10/31 and 11/21) Time: 5:30 to 7:30 pm
For a full list of upcoming classes, visit A Little Beacon Blog's Kids Classes Guide.
BOUTIQUES ON THE WEST END
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street www.luxeoptique.com (across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company)
It’s the last week of September and that means it’s the last chance for FREE comprehensive eye exams for kids in grades K-12! Luxe Optique has one of the best vision centers around, so you can feel assured that your children's eyes are getting well-tested for their prescription. Walk in, or visit Luxe Optique's website to book an appointment.
BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main Street, Retail #3 www.lambshillbridalboutique.com (near the dummy light)
Colors are going deep this fall, and Lambs Hill has the selection. This wine-colored dress pairs well with yellow Black-Eyed Susans, which bloom in September. Come in to the shop to see the open-back detailing on this Hayley Paige gown.
Our first listing in Newburgh! Realtor Sarah Beckham Hooff reached out with very creative listings she has. Over the past few years, there's been a trend of people and businesses relocating to Newburgh, with an eye on commercial or residential properties to fix up. This multi- or single-family home is $159,900 and has lots of original details to play with, like tin ceilings. Pictures and Our Favorite Parts >
BeaconArts
Found it! The tiniest piano in the outdoor public art experience, Keys to Beacon. This piano is from Miss Vickie's Music and is outside of the Towne Crier. Have you spotted any pianos? Take a pic and tag us in Instagram! @alittlebeacon and @keystobeacon
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
According to the independent insurance agents at Antalek & Moore, if you have a condo in Beacon, you'll need personal insurance for it. Even though it is your home, homeowners insurance is insufficient. Therefore, you may think that you need a renters insurance policy - but unfortunately that would leave coverage gaps as well, despite some similarities. Let Antalek & Moore break it down for you. Get the Scoop >
Rhinebeck Bank | Back to School Tips
In collaboration with Guardian Self Storage and Dutchess Outreach, Rhinebeck Bank will once again be participating in this year's Susan DeKeukelaere Memorial Coat Drive. During October, adult and children’s winter coats and jackets that are clean and in good condition can be dropped off at any Rhinebeck Bank location. The Beacon Branch is on Route 9D, across from the Dollar General and Vogel Pharmacy near Dutchess Stadium.
A Little Beacon Space can be booked for public or private events. It's perfect for a photo session, work retreat, a workshop you are hosting, or even a client presentation. See our Schedule of Upcoming Events, and consider having yours here! Details >
Tin Shingle, based in Beacon, NY, is a training center and community for business owners, artists and makers who are getting the word out about their business. Training TuneUp classes are available online to learn tricks of the trade. Get inspired anytime with these videos at your fingertips! Learn More >
Katie James, Inc.
Looking for ideas of what to take pictures of to brand your business on Instagram? The designers at Katie James, Inc. can help you see the beauty that is all around you - and the little details that will make a big impact on your future or current customers. Applies to both service providers and retailers with products to move. Learn More >
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Joining the Beacon Chamber of Commerce is a great way to show support for Beacon's business community. Click here to learn about membership.
Advertise With A Little Beacon Blog
We have updated our Media Kit with easier navigation! The support from every advertiser on A Little Beacon Blog helps make local news get produced. You can be part of making it happen, and get your business in front of the community in a meaningful way.
Vogel Pharmacy relocates to 1475 NY-9D, in between Leo’s and the Dollar General, after the building housing its longtime Beacon location was sold to new owners. Pictured above is owner Anthony Valicenti waving from behind his new counter, and a staff member Audra. Photo Credits: Katie Hellmuth Martin
The former location of longtime Beacon business Vogel Pharmacy, on Main Street in Beacon, NY. Vogel has since moved 10 minutes away to the plaza across from Dutchess Stadium, 1475 NY-9D, now serving old and new customers. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
In what is quickly becoming a new series on this blog - perhaps we’ll call it something like “Where did that shop go?” - we’ve been following which Beacon shops are moving where. They are often swapping ends of Main Street, or moving slightly off of Main Street.
We tracked down Vogel Pharmacy, owned by Anthony Valicent. For months, the pharmacy was in the process of moving from its longtime location at 234 Main Street (in the middle of Main Street near Homespun) after the building containing the storefront space they leased was purchased by new owners.
We are longtime customers of Vogel, preferring to get prescriptions filled with a local pharmacy that has deep roots in the community. Not to say we don’t high-five our friends who work at Rite Aid (love that nail polish bar and greeting card section … and remember that time Rite Aid got a total makeover and sliding front doors?), but having a local pharmacy keeps it real.
So Why Did Vogel Leave Downtown Beacon?
The building at 234 Main Street that housed Vogel Pharmacy was for sale earlier this year. Anthony told us that he considered buying it, but knew the building well, and knew it was in bad shape. When the building did sell to new owners, they had other plans for it that did not include it being occupied for the next bit.
Vogel Pharmacy had been in downtown Beacon for decades. Vogel was one of our “Where Is This?” contest locations when we featured their vintage wall with the original beaker wallpaper. Anthony had worked for Vogel when he was an up and coming pharmacist, and for last 16 years has owned Vogel Pharmacy himself.
The New Vogel - Is The Same! With Gobs More Parking!
VOGEL’S CONTACT INFO: 1475 NY-9D Wappingers Falls by 12590 Same Phone Number: 845-831-3784 If you call after hours and don’t hear a voice mail, don’t worry. Simply call during their Open hours.
Silver linings are everywhere in this relocation story. For starters, the parking. Vogel serves everyone including the elderly, veterans, kids, and irregular cold and flu patients. The downtown Beacon Main Street location did not have much parking, and walking there has become even more difficult, now that the building is dwarfed by scaffolding to the right of it, and directly across the street, as two multistory buildings are built from the ground up. Homespun has had to put up a sidewalk sign at the end of the block encouraging people to keep walking through the scaffolding to find them.
Now when you drive to Vogel in their new location, you have sooooo much parking. You need a disabled spot? You got it! Is Leo’s busy that night? Is there a sale on detergent at the Dollar General? No problem! There is parking in the back of Vogel or on the other side of the VIP front row parking spots. Already, new customers who live in the area are coming in, thankful for the new pharmacy.
Everything Is Just As It Was At The Old Vogel - Kids Toys, Vaporizers, Eye-Glasses Donation Box
Inside of Vogel, the aisles are just as they were, and the phone number is the same. Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth Martin
Don’t worry, all of your old favorites at Vogel are still there. Even Vogel’s phone number is the same. The Melissa & Doug toys (that are so often marked down) that you can buy your kids when they come with you to pick up a prescription. The eye-glasses donation box. The magazines. Vogel is where I get my monthly issues of Family Circle and Better Homes & Gardens, conveniently placed right next to the cash register, under the Blow Pops.
Anthony waves from his new perch while filling prescriptions.
Anthony himself is there as usual at the end of the aisles, either filling prescriptions or on the phone. The famous Rx sign hangs outside on Vogel’s new brick wall, just as it did at the other location.
I don’t mind driving down 9D. I look forward to it when I visit Stony Kill Farm, and I even drive my car payment to Rhinebeck Bank’s Beacon Branch - by choice.
Vogel isn’t the only Beacon business I’ve followed after they relocated. I followed my hair dresser Josh Boos to Newburgh from the Green Room (the salon near the mountain across from The Roundhouse). His new digs are in The Atlas Building in Newburgh so that he can manufacture his hair color organizer invention. So cool over there! I’ll be one of the voices encouraging the Newburgh/Beacon Ferry to ramp up its schedule, because it’s going to need to with all of this spread.
Look for Vogel at the Spirit of Beacon Day!
Vogel got a table this year at the Spirit of Beacon Day, so go say hi! This is the first year the Spirit of Beacon folks considered allowing businesses to have vendor tables (traditionally, only nonprofit organizations had tables). Regardless, Vogel’s move is so big, they probably would have been approved for a table anyway.
Congratulations to Anthony and his staff for making the move and making it through uncomfortable times in a business transition. The new location really does come with perks, and I’ll enjoy filling my family’s prescriptions there.
The fashion pop-up with friendly thrifty prices is open in A Little Beacon Space! Find fashion labels you know like Elie Tahari, Line & Dot, and ark & co. Some labels you may not know (yet) because they were purchased overseas in Japan and Germany. There is a range of dresses, skirts, shirts and jackets. Mainly small sizes are left. But you never know!
Prices start at $5 and go to $50 (with exceptions for Prada heels and a D&G bag at $100). It's a two-day only sale on Saturday and Sunday, so come in! 291 Main Street, Beacon, NY, in the Telephone Building.
Handbags and accessories are in the shop as well. Are you feeling the vintage momentum? Hit up the other vintage shops in town like American Gypsy Vintage, which is very nearly next door a block down. Closer to the mountain you'll find Blackbird Attic and Vintage:Beacon, all vintage shops you must duck into. Of course, you'll be checking out the Beacon Flea on Sunday for a few more chances at finding deals on racks. Visit A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide for addresses!
WHERE: 291 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508, First Floor, First Door WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, September 22-23 Saturday: 10 am to 6 pm Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm
Take pics if you play dress-up or buy something! Share them with our Instagram, @alittlebeacon
Dehumidifiers and HEPA air filters have been installed, and cleanup continues after mold surfaced at the beginning of the school year at J. V. Forrestal Elementary and Beacon High School. The elementary school passed inspection with a “Satisfactory” air quality grade, and now Beacon High School has received a “Satisfactory” air quality grade as well. Meanwhile, cleanup will continue in the high school’s theater. Beacon’s Superintendent, Matthew Landahl, issued an update to the Beacon City Schools Website, which was emailed to parents on Friday, September 21, 2018:
“Adaptive Environmental Consulting tested seven different locations, either hallways or classrooms, throughout Beacon High School on Monday, September 17 and then repeated the testing on Wednesday, September 19. All results came back with low amounts of mold and a Satisfactory air quality rating. ServPro will continue to clean the theater in the high school and we will update you when that work is complete. Again, thanks for your patience and support as we work through this.”
Who is ready to Pumpkin Spice up ALL THE THINGS because the first day of Fall is this Saturday (at 9:54 pm to exact). Brett's Hardware is on it early, with this clever carving of a pumpkin inside a pumpkin inside a pumpkin inside a pumpkin. And they have mums. Because what's a front porch or window box in the fall without mums?
What are you doing this weekend? Take a look at the lineup below!
Book Release: Peter Kuper and Summer Pierre with Chris Duffy
Day: Friday, September 21, 2018 Time: 7 to 9 pm Location: Split Rock Books, 97 Main St., Cold Spring, NY Information >
Farmland Cycling Tour
Day: Saturday, September 22, 2018 Time: 8 am to 2 pm Location: Scenic Hudson’s Poets’ Walk Park on River Road, Red Hook, NY Information >
Stony Kill Foundation's Country Fair Day: Saturday, September 22, 2018 Time: 11 am to 3 pm Location: Stony Kill Farm, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY Information >
National Alpaca Days at Lilymoore Farm
Day: Saturday & Sunday September 22-23, 2018 Time: Noon to 4 pm Location: Lilymoore Farm, 21 Moore Road, Pleasant Valley, NY Information >
Upstate Bear Jamboree
Day: Saturday, September 22 & 23, 2018 Time: 11 am to 3 pm Location: Sprout Creek Farm, 34 Lauer Road, Poughkeepsie, NY Information >
Live Concert: Elysium Furnace Works presents Kris Davis
Day: Saturday, September 22, 2018 Time: 8 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Puppyup - Companions Against Cancer
Day: Sunday, September 23, 2018 Time: 10 am (registration) to 3 pm (event), 1 pm (walk) Location: Adair Vineyards, 52 Allhusen Road, New Paltz, NY Information >
Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
THIS WEEKEND! 2 DAYS ONLY!
Amy Ma Pop-Up Shop
Days: Saturday & Sunday, September 22-23, 2018 Times:Saturday: 10 am to 7 pm Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
Shop this fashionista's closet! Amy is bringing her collection of high fashion and some couture clothing for you to shop in this two-day shopping event. Information >
Meanwhile, during the week...
Be sure to check the Classes for Adults Guide for mid-week opportunities!
Restorative Sound Bath
Day: Saturday, September 22, 2018 Time: 2 to 4 pm Location: Firefly Yoga, 992 Main St., Fishkill, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes and workshops of all kinds, visit our Adult Classes Guide.
Halloween Costume Design House: A Four-Part Workshop
Taught by Sophia Jackson and Romina Robinson
Ages: 7+ Days: Wednesdays, September 26-October 17, 2018 Time: 4:30 to 5:30 pm Location: Compass Arts, 395 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Bhakti Bugs Age: 4 to 9 years, drop off Day: Wednesdays, September 26–October 24, 2018 Time: 4 to 5 pm Location: beBhakti Yoga, 89 DeWindt St., Beacon, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes, visit A Little Beacon Blog's Kids Classes Guide.
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street www.luxeoptique.com (across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company)
Aren't these frames from Luxe Optique perfect on Rebeca? She is wearing Dita Eyewear, specifically the Mann Crystal frame. They effortlessly go with any color, and here's an insider tip: These frames also make for great "transitions" if you wanted to add the tint to the glasses for when you step outside. Inquire with Luxe Optique to see for yourself. (Oh yes, pun intended.)
BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main St., Retail #3 www.lambshillbridalboutique.com (near the historic dummy light)
A tiara tops the bride. She could even wear one for the ceremony, and another for the celebration. Hair up? Or cascading down? Calling all brides: Step into Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique and try on these new tiaras and others, just in from Bel Aire Bridal!
Rhinebeck Bank | Back to School Tips
Rhinebeck started their video series “Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank” to connect with the community. Their first episode of the new season kicked off with some great Back To School Tips in this video. The tips were so encouraging, that we wanted to be sure you saw them too. Watch the video, or read them in our article!
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
Wedding planning is in full swing for fall! Antalek & Moore can make getting Event Insurance an easy experience for you. Call them at (845) 831-4300, and let them take care of it for you. Antalek & Moore's office is located right on Beacon's Main Street, near the post office.
Learn More >
BeaconArts
Spotted! This white Keys to Beacon piano in the window of Loopy Mango, the shop with large, chunky yarn on the east end of Beacon near the mountain. Intentions for this piano are to wrap it in yarn. Rumor has it there is a tiny piano somewhere in town. Have you seen it? Take a picture and tag us in Instagram! @alittlebeacon and @keystobeacon
A Little Beacon Space SAVE THE DATE!
The Spooktacular Pop-Up Halloween Shop from the Halloween Queen herself is coming to A Little Beacon Space from Friday to Sunday, October 12-14. Book your broomstick, and fly over. Details >
Katie James, Inc.
Great photography can make all the difference in your social media streams. Katie James, Inc. can come to your space to take a round of photos that you can add to your collection for use as needed on Instagram, in advertisements, in marketing brochures, and more. View Our Portfolio >
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
Joining the Beacon Chamber of Commerce is a great way to show support for the Beacon business community. Learn About Membership
Tin Shingle | Meeting This Monday, noon
Calling all Tin Shingle members! This is your chance to mingle with each other, and share marketing and business growth ideas. Tin Shingle's owner and A Little Beacon Blog publisher Katie will be there, and is looking forward to talking shop with you. Join Tin Shingle now at the Community Level ($45/mo) if you haven't, and see you Monday! Time: Monday, September 24, noon Location: A Little Beacon Space, in the Telephone Building, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY Learn More >
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
A Little Beacon Blog gets over 21,500 views per month, with more than 3,100 followers at Facebook and 2,700 at Instagram, along with 1,250 newsletter subscribers. The support from every advertiser of A Little Beacon Blog helps make local news get produced. You can be part of making it happen, and get your business in front of the community. We have designed the most integrated advertising packages in the Hudson Valley to work for your business.
The official end of summer will be here before we know it, and September is proving to be an extremely hot back-to-school month. Forget fall wardrobe outfits and new boots on the first day of school, or even for school pictures which happen a few weeks later. We’re talking 100% humidity, people. And not all of the schools or classrooms in the Beacon City School District have air conditioning.
Two days after the first day of school, Superintendent Matthew Landahl emailed parents in the district about mold creeping into the high school, and the quality of the air. He wrote twice on Friday, September 7, and again on Friday, September 14. Then the Poughkeepsie Journal reported on it, as mold occurrences are happening in other school districts, including Millbrook’s Elm Drive Elementary School (classes are shifting to the middle school; remediation is estimated to take six weeks, according to the article). Wingdale Elementary School in Dover closed for a day, and Hyde Park apparently has a longstanding mold issue at Park Elementary School, according to Nina Schutzman’s Poughkeepsie Journal article.
Communication and action in the Beacon City School District looked like this, with emails from Dr. Landahl on September 7, 2018 (these are partial clips of the correspondences):
“I am writing to let you know about an air quality issue that developed in 6 classrooms in Beacon High School the past three weeks and steps we have taken to remediate it.
“On August 20, the Head Custodian at Beacon High School noticed some mold that developed overnight on desktops and other surfaces in four science rooms in the high school (rooms C127, C133, C135, C141). He immediately notified our Director of Facilities Anthony D’Amato who started working with the BOCES Safety and Risk Coordinator Brian Colandrea. We believe that the mold developed in those four rooms due to the classrooms having many potted plants and aquariums. That combined with the extremely high humidity outside helped to develop conditions for mold growth.
“We hired an outside company, ServPro, to clean the four rooms over Labor Day weekend and we have ordered HEPA air filters and dehumidifiers for those rooms which will be in place at the beginning of next week. We have already received the air quality tests from those four classrooms and the results came back Satisfactory with the recommendation that we install dehumidifiers and HEPA air filters in those rooms. [Editor’s Note: In the original email, “humidifier” was used in that last sentence, but “dehumidifier” was intended, as confirmed to A Little Beacon Blog by Dr. Landahl.]
On Tuesday, September 4, staff at the high school noticed some mold growing on instrument cases in the closet of the band room (room D163) and underneath the risers of the Chorus room (D157). Our own staff cleaned the instrument cases and furniture immediately. We will have the same company come in to clean those two rooms, and the Band/Chorus practice rooms which are in the same wing on Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9.”
As of now, the dehumidifiers and HEPA filters have been put into place. Later that same day on September 7, 2018, parents received another update:
“It came to my attention today that two downstairs classrooms at J.V. Forrestal Elementary had mold develop in window sills and some of the edges of desks one morning a few weeks ago. It was wiped down immediately the day it was found and did not return. Since it was reported today, we inspected all of the downstairs classrooms in Forrestal with people from ServPro this afternoon. We did find small amounts of mold in rooms 6-12 (fourth-grade classrooms, third-grade classrooms, and art). We will have ServPro clean all of the those rooms on Monday, September 10. We will also install HEPA air filters and dehumidifiers in those rooms next week. We will test the air quality after the cleaning and share those results with you when we have them.”
A week later, on September 14, with the 100% humidity unrelenting, Dr. Landahl shared another update with new developments. All of these updates have been posted on the Beacon City School District’s website. These are snippets of his updates:
“I am writing to provide another update on air quality at Beacon High School. Yesterday, we noticed some mold growth on some of the cloth seats in the Beacon High School theater. We had the theater visually inspected today by the industrial hygienist we have been working with from Adaptive Environmental Consulting and he concurred with our assessment.
“We want to take care of this as quickly as we can so we are going to close off this space for the next two [to] three weeks so we can run powerful dehumidifiers for an extended period of time and have cleaners from ServPro clean every seat and treat other surfaces in the theater. The reason we are closing the theater is so that the folks from ServPro can work uninterrupted during this timeframe. The Beacon Players will be able to rehearse in our gyms during this period of time. I apologize for the inconvenience this will cause people.
“We will continue to test for air quality throughout the high school and share those results with you. We will also continue to work with our air chiller in the high school to see what adjustments or fixes need to be done to help mitigate this in the future.”
Capital Plan Improvements In Beacon City Schools
Projects that are part of the Capital Improvement Plan, funded by a public budget vote in November 2017, may aid in the overall fight against mold that threatens any structure (you can read about them here in our article). For example, replacing carpet with tile at Glenham Elementary could help, as mold and dust fester in old carpets. I’m a mold-phobe, and have been known to rip out old carpet from my home in the middle of the night - only to make myself very sick in the process from dust and not wearing a protective air mask. I’m currently chiseling adhesive carpet tile from my sunroom. Block by block.
Rooftop ventilation systems are also slated for replacement at J.V. Forrestal and Sargent Elementary. Roof repairs are slated for Beacon High School and Rombout Middle School.
All eyes are on improvements, as it seems like things are on track to getting better. Until the next mold update!
UPDATE 9/21/2018
The Beacon High School received a “Satisfactory” air quality grade this week, resulting in an update issued from Dr. Landahl on the Beacon City Schools’ website and emailed to parents:
“Adaptive Environmental Consulting tested seven different locations, either hallways or classrooms, throughout Beacon High School on Monday, September 17 and then repeated the testing on Wednesday, September 19. All results came back with low amounts of mold and a Satisfactory air quality rating. ServPro will continue to clean the theater in the high school and we will update you when that work is complete. Again, thanks for your patience and support as we work through this.”
Matthew Landahl, Superintendent of Beacon City Schools, started off the new school year by getting in touch with parents and guardians of children in the district. His email to the Beacon school community spoke to his plans for the future, and enhancements to the programming that are happening this year.
They are as follows:
Fourth-grade instrumental music will begin for the first time ever later this fall, as a result of the grant we won last June.
Elementary students will experience Physical Education class every other day instead of two out of every six days.
Elementary class sizes are further reduced with the addition of three additional teachers.
Rombout Middle School will have a fully 1:1 learning environment with every student receiving a Chromebook this fall.
Interactive teaching screens will be added to Rombout Middle School and Beacon High School.
Create and facilitate a student advisory council for the district.
Create and facilitate a strategic planning process including forming a strategic planning advisory committee.
Increase and improve the quality of district communication in a variety of formats.
Help to create building and department leadership teams including the participation of parents and community members.
Facilitate equity leadership work in the district.
Maintain a high level of community and staff engagement through open forums, individual conversations, and online tools.
Already, parents of elementary students have been invited into the Parent Portal, which is an app that lets the parent and child log in to see homework and comments from the teacher. Older students used to be the only ones with access to this.
In terms of communication with parents at least, Dr. Landahl has been busy emailing updates about pesky mold that has been springing up in the Beacon High School and at J.V. Forrestal Elementary during these 100% humidity days, and steps the district is taking to remove it and prevent future problems.
Rhinebeck Bank works hard to connect with the community. That’s why they started the video series “Wake Up With Rhinebeck Bank” with Michelle Barone-Lepore. Their first episode of the new season kicked off with some great Back To School Tips in this video. The tips were so great, that we wanted to be sure you saw them too. Here they are:
Buy Bulk Snacks for Kids
After summer - when kids are free to snack anytime they want - the start of the school year is a good time to think about giving your children healthy snacks, and stocking up on good-tasting food. Kids love to snack and having their favorite snacks will help them feel comfortable in their new environment, and will give them fuel for the end of their day.
Set Weekday and Weekend Evening Routines
Now’s a great time to set up a routine that works for you and your children. Bath time, reading, supper time and bed. It’s great to try out audio books for soothing music that will lull your little ones to sleep, especially for those who are entering school for the first time.
Set your alarm for bedtime. Figure out the right balance for screen time, play time and reading, preparing for each child to transition into the Habits of Homework. By keeping your children in a routine, it may allow them be more focused in the classroom.
Establish a Set Family Time
Sitting around the table enjoying a meal inspires conversations and builds family relationships. It’s important to set aside time to talk about your day. Talking about highlights of your day brings you closer.
Have Your Kids Set Realistic Goals for the New Year
Pick which books to read for pleasure as well as study.
Getting in the habit of nightly homework.
Getting ahead on projects that may be due in a couple of months.
Figure out chores for your kids and set up allowance for the year. One goal could be reading 30 books. If that’s not your child’s goal, create something of interest to be their goal so they can feel accomplished at the end of the year.
As you know, childhood goes by in a flash. Start saving for your child’s college costs. Open an account or 529. You won’t just have smart children, you’ll be a smart parent as well.
Rhinebeck Bank is a proud 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.
The Hudson Valley’s Queen of Halloween is flying in on her broomstick to take over A Little Beacon Space with the first of what may become an annual Halloween Pop-Up Shopping Experience - HallowStyle. You may have read about Donna Davies - she was featured last year in the Poughkeepsie Journal.
Donna is a designer, crafter, and children’s book author. She will be bringing in Halloween-inspired jewelry, pottery, and even her own children’s books. Sign up for a craft class and grab a brew. There will even be spooky stories for the kids!
Make ‘n Take crafts will be available while supplies last, but make sure you pre-register! These are made really fast, and there is no set schedule for making.
Craft beer and sausages?? No, Oktoberfest has not come to Beacon early, but the city will buzzing with IPA enthusiasts. And what better way to recover than a belly full of delicious samples from Barb's Butchery?
There are lots of options for you to see and do this weekend. You'll bump into a lot of them just by walking around. Take a look at the lineup below!
Fall Crafts at Lyndhurst
Days: September 14, 15, 16, 2018 Time: Friday, 10 am to 5 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm Location: Lyndhurst Mansion, 635 South Broadway, Tarrytown, NY Information >
September Bird Walk
Day: Saturday, September 15, 2018 Time: 8:30 to 10 am Location: Long Dock Park, Beacon, NY Information >
Tiny Concerts at Beacon's Bus Shelters
Day: Saturday, September 15, 2018 Time: 1:30 to 2:15 pm Location: Main Street & Route 9D, Beacon, NY Information >
Hudson River Craft Beer Festival Day: Saturday, September 15, 2018 Time: 1:30 to 5:30pm (12:30 VIP) Location: 1 Red Flynn Drive, Beacon, NY 12508 Information >
DiaTalks presents Kellie Jones on “Women and the Dreamwork”
Day: Saturday, September 15, 2018 Time: 2 pm Location: Dia:Beacon, 3 Beekman St., Beacon, NY Information > Free admission on Saturdays and Sundays for City of Beacon residents (including the adjacent Hudson Valley communities of Chelsea, Fishkill, and Glenham)
2018 New York Air Show
Day: Saturday & Sunday, September 15-16, 2018 Time: 9 am Location: Stewart International Airport, New Windsor, NY Information >
4th Annual Sausage Fest
Day: Sunday, September 16, 2018 Time: 10 am to 7 pm Location: Barb’s Butchery, 69 Spring St., Beacon, NY Photo Credit: Barb's Butchery Information >
Howland Chamber Music Circle Presents Juilliard String Quartet
Day: Sunday, September 16, 2018 Time: 4 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Special Presentation: Grannies Respond to Keep Families Together Day: Sunday, September 16, 2018 Time: 7 pm Location: BEAHIVE, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY Photo Credit: Claire Nelson Information >
Plan ahead and check out what's coming up this month in our Events Guide.
SAVE THE DATE!
Amy Ma Pop-Up Shop
Day: Saturday & Sunday, September 22-23, 2018 Location: A Little Beacon Space, 291 Main St., Beacon, NY
Shop this fashionista's closet! Amy is bringing her collection of high fashion and some couture clothing for you to shop from. Next week!
Meanwhile, during the week...
Be sure to check the Classes for Adults Guide for mid-week opportunities!
Adult Coloring Books Day: Tuesday, September 18, 2018 Time: 6 to 7:30pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Talk Back To Mind Chatter - Tips to Reduce Critical Thoughts Day: Thursday, September 20, 2018 Time: 6:30 to 7:30 pm Location: Howland Public Library, 313 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes and workshops of all kinds, visit our Adult Classes Guide.
Classics for Kids: Instrument Petting Zoo and Concert
Day: Saturday, September 15, 2018 Time: 3 pm Location: Howland Cultural Center, 477 Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Dance Classes - Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Theater Dance, Modern
Day/Time: Days and times vary, depending on class Location: Ballet Arts Studio, 107 Teller Ave., Beacon, NY (between the Yankee Clipper Diner and Stock Up) Information >
Broadway Kids
Grades: K-5 Days: Saturdays, September 15-November 10, 2018 Time: 12:15 to 1 pm Location: Beacon Performing Arts Center, 327B Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Musical Theatre Dance
Grades: 6-12 Days: Sundays, September 16-December 16, 2018 Time: 2:45 to 3:30 pm Location: Beacon Performing Arts Center, 327B Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
Performance Master Class - acting, singing, some dance, film Grades: 9-12 Days: Sundays, September 16-December 16, 2018 Time: 1:45 to 2:45 pm Location: Beacon Performing Arts Center, 327B Main St., Beacon, NY Information >
The Pigskin Princess Project
Winter 2018 Girls Football Program Days: Sundays, starting September 16, 2018 Ages/Time: Ages 3-10 (see website for age/time) Location: Geering Park, Fishkill, NY Information >
The Pigskin Prince Project
Winter 2018 Boys Football Program Days: Sundays, September 16-October 21, 2018 Ages: 3-5 Time: 11:15 am to noon Location: Geering Park, Fishkill, NY Information >
For a full list of upcoming classes, visit A Little Beacon Blog's Kids Classes Guide.
Luxe Optique 183 Main Street www.luxeoptique.com (across Cliff Street from Beacon Bread Company)
Just when we thought we were satisfied with our existing glasses collection from Luxe Optique - we spy this punky cat-eye frame, and need them - as "transitions"! Wear as regular glasses, or sunglasses. OR, you can get them with tinted glass that goes dark or totally clear depending on if you're outside or inside. Yes, check them out. It's the Firi Matte Nude from Christian Roth Eyewear at Luxe.
BOUTIQUES ON THE EAST END
Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique
1 East Main Street, Retail #3 www.lambshillbridalboutique.com (near the dummy light)
Is this a vision of the Snow Queen from the TV show "Once Upon a Time"? It is a gorgeous image of the winter bridal looks that are coming out of Lambs Hill Bridal Boutique, located at the base of Mount Beacon. This photo was taken at Lambs Hill wedding venue. Dress? Check! Venue? Check! Yes, they have your bases covered.
There are only a few apartments left for rent at 7 Creek Drive, which is down by Fishkill Creek, near The Roundhouse and Hudson Valley Brewery. These well-lit apartments even come with access to a place to give your dog a bath. Pictures and Our Favorite Parts >
Rhinebeck Bank | Buying a Home in the Fall
Just as purchasing a home is an extensive process, selling one can be as well. Most sellers do not want to enter the holiday season with interruptions and the selling process on their mind. It is not uncommon for homeowners that have not sold by the fall to wait until the following spring. With this being said, sellers are worn out and may be more willing to negotiate and expedite the closing and move-in process. Talk to Rhinebeck Bank If You're Buying a Home!
Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
Are you hosting a special event? Antalek & Moore can take care of the Event Insurance for you, making this aspect of your event planning ta-done. Learn More >
BeaconArts
"That wasn't there before..." muttered someone while walking past this flaming red piano on their way to get a grocery cart at Key Food. That's right. It's a temporary performance installation known as Keys to Beacon, a project of BeaconArts, where YOU get to make the magic at the keyboard. Anyone can sit down - or stand up - and play. A new Beacon blogger, Timothy Delaney, wrote about it here. Read the Article >
Photo Credit: Timothy Delaney
A Little Beacon Space
Book your next work retreat at A Little Beacon Space, and enjoy easy access to coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner! We made an easy Recommendation List of where to get what, as you plan out your day. Get Photos & Details >
Katie James, Inc.
Great photography can make all the difference in your social media streams. Katie James, Inc. can come to your space to take a round of photos you can add to your collection, for use as needed for Instagram, advertisements, marketing brochures, and more. View Our Portfolio >
Beacon Chamber of Commerce
The Car Show is coming to Beacon. All sponsorship inquiries can be emailed to Carl Oken: carloken3258@gmail.com
Tin Shingle | Private Training
Customized help - designed just for you - can make all the difference in how you do your own social media marketing. Tin Shingle's programming is rooted in empowerment with a you-can-do-it attitude. We know you have the creative sparks, but you may lack the confidence to use them. Private Training through Tin Shingle can help. We can get you publishing and increasing exposure and possibly sales. Learn More >
Advertise in A Little Beacon Blog
A Little Beacon Blog gets more than 21,500 views per month, with over 3,100 followers at Facebook and 2,700 at Instagram, as well as 1,100 newsletter subscribers. The support from every advertiser of A Little Beacon Blog helps make local news get produced. You can be part of making it happen, and get your business in front of the community. We have designed the most integrated advertising packages in the Hudson Valley to work for your business.
Writing about others is very easy and delightful. Writing about oneself is very hard! It is what I teach business owners, artists and makers to do in my Tin Shingle life. Yet in my A Little Beacon Blog life, this is a much harder exercise!
But here it is - The Highlands Current offered me a monthly column in their newspaper, and that is such an honor. Anything printed is a much tougher choice with layout/design, actual word length cut-offs, limited picture runs, distribution of the paper (aka driving it around and dropping it into locations), etc. But people love paper, they pick it up, it always works and doesn’t need to be plugged in and recharged. Admit it. You pick up newspapers, and you read paper flyers on walls.
They wanted someone to speak about Kid Life here in the Hudson Valley, with a focus on Beacon and Cold Spring. So, we have my column, called “Kid Friendly,” that will do just that! Plus I’ll touch on life as a (self-employed) working parent.
September’s column is on newsstands now - but only until Friday! Then it switches out to their next issue. I focused on my favorite time of year - September - because it is the time to begin again. It is the Back to Business season. Yet is also Back to School season. Which makes getting into a work groove very tricky. The article works to dispel the myth that parents can work with kids at home (or very little kids at least). The picture used in the article tries to debunk the myth created by photos of very calm-looking mothers sitting at the dining room table working on their laptop with a baby on their lap. Doesn’t happen!
Additionally, the article explores how business owners with storefronts do it. Showing up to a physical location at a set time can be extremely challenging. I have encountered more than one storefront that was closed during an OPEN day with a sign in the window: “Sorry, the babysitter canceled, we had to stay home” or “Sorry, we had to make an emergency doctor’s appointment.” For this article, I interviewed Carley Hughes of Ella’s Bellas in Beacon, and Dawn Scanga of Cold Spring Fitness. Carley started her business when her daughter was in a stroller, and Dawn started hers when her four children were still in high school. If you ever do encounter these signs at a local business, go easy on ‘em. It’s challenging to run a business with kids!
A Little Beacon's Space is ready for you! Come in this weekend to touch and feel samples of flooring and countertops from Corrado's Design Center, where they specialize in porcelain tile, marble, stone, mosaics and glass products. This will be the easiest, most convenient home renovation shopping you will do in Beacon! But there are only two days left for you to visit - Saturday and Sunday.
Bring the kids, because you'll get to make a free tile magnet and take home a little Super Hero Tile Guy! These red Super Hero Tile Guys are actually spacers used when installing tile. Corrado's Design Center can help you pick out a pattern, then supply everything you need to make it happen. Do some Adult Coloring of your own on a blank magnet tile.
WHERE: 291 Main St., Beacon, NY 12508, First Floor, First Door WHEN: Friday to Sunday, September 7 to 9 Saturday: 10 am to 8 pm (wine and cheese starting at 6pm) Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm KIDS CRAFT ALERT! Design your own free magnet! Available all day long, while supplies last. DESIGN TIP: Take a picture of the room(s) you dream of renovating and bring it to the shop. This will help you imagine which styles would work. Could be the bathroom floor, shower, kitchen - anything. More Details Here >
PS: This weekend, The Telephone Building is in extremely creative form! There will be ambient art from ambidextrous artist Donna Mikkelsen, visiting the Beahive next door for a "Day of Spontaneous Symmetry." More hands-on art creating is available for little kids from 3 to 4 pm. The littlest mark-makers (ages 1 to 3 years) are welcome to draw. From 4 to 5 pm, everyone, all ages, is invited to playfully explore symmetry, movement, and rhythm. Both of those sessions are free, so don't miss out! Come back in the evening for an opening of Donna Mikkelsen's own work, Spontaneous Symmetry, with art on Beahive's walls and happening live, before your eyes.
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A podcast from A Little Beacon Blog. Your hosts: Katie Hellmuth martin & Brandon Lillard.
The City of Beacon entered into a contract with Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to provide increased access to Beacon tenants facing eviction. They may also be able to help with sources of rent arrears assistance. Call the paralegal, Steven Mihalik at 845-253-6953 to inquire.
Dutchess County Helpline. Open 24/7 to take your calls, listen, and give you resources.
Hudson Valley Garlic Festival
Who is ready to Pumpkin Spice up ALL THE THINGS because the first day of Fall is this Saturday (at 9:54 pm to exact). Brett's Hardware is on it early, with this clever carving of a pumpkin inside a pumpkin inside a pumpkin inside a pumpkin. And they have mums. Because what's a front porch or window box in the fall without mums?
Tiny Concerts at Beacon's Bus Shelters
4th Annual Sausage Fest
Special Presentation: Grannies Respond to Keep Families Together 
