[UPDATED: Open!] Construction for BAJA 328 Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill

The front of BAJA 328, on Main Street.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Baja 328 has opened and is now in A Little Beacon Blog's full Restaurant Guide. It is also a late-night consideration on Second Saturday nights out!

*  *  *

Prepare...Authentic Southwestern food coupled with over 150 tequilas is coming to 328 Main Street. BAJA 328 aimed to be open very soon, and surely with a few more finishing touches, we will be able to taste why there are over 150 tequilas in existence. This restaurant is in the building next to Quinn's that has the glass paneled garage door that you may have wondered about for some time.

The Orange County Chamber of Commerce notes that BAJA 328 is a new business venture of Leo’s Restaurant and Pizzeria located in Cornwall, Newburgh and Wappingers Falls.

Also located next to Rite Aid with a parking lot in the back, BAJA 328 is an easy location to plan for! Just don't drink tequila and drive of course...

The back of BAJA 328, where the construction activity moves.

Happy FriYAY! Happy Shopping This Weekend In Beacon From These Emoji Pillows

Emoji pillows at Dream in Plastic, which they also ship.

Had to chuckle softly when walking past this window display at Dream In Plastic, and pull this picture from our Instagram files. These emoji pillows need to be purchased and given to your mother who is going crazy with her new discovery of these little friends, or to your hubby or partner who may be making the funniest and most unexpected emoji combinations in your new tech-heavy communications.

Use A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide to help plan your outing, as it includes all shops organized by specialty! And then combine it with our location-based Restaurant Guide to know where to fill your belly or stop for pie in between. And if you want your nails done or lash extensions put on, head to the Beauty Guide for that!

Spirit Of Beacon Day 2015 Attracts Free Concert From Dar Williams, Slam Allan, and Others

Beacon's largest parade, the Spirit of Beacon Day, this year will have a major
free concert for music lovers which kicks off a new arts project and destination.

The Spirit of Beacon Day Parade, this year on Sunday, September 27, 2015, is traditionally one of the biggest parade celebrations in Beacon, with floats of kids, parents and teachers from the school district driving down Main Street, followed by marching bands, fire engines, flying candy, even local dentists like Beacon Dental who have marched down handing out tooth brushes. After the parade, which usually is on a sparkler of a day with bright sunshine, and crisp, early Fall air softly swooping through the town at the base of Mount Beacon, the people of Beacon get to enjoy visiting tables of businesses, indulging in a little facepaint as a fundraiser of a local church or Beacon girls softball team, getting hypnotized by drum circles, and even watching dancers from many different nationalities like this one from Arts Mid-Hudson after last year's parade.

Missing from the day will be a live performance from Pete Seeger, who usually performed with members of his band in the middle of Main Street for all to hear. This year, however, a special live free concert will be taking place at the Veterans Place near the Post Office at 3pm - featuring major folk musicians from the area including Tom Chapin, Dar Williams, Bruce Molsky, Susan Wright and Slam Allen. The concert is part of an announcement of a new arts project: The American Center for Folk Music (ACFM).

The center is targeted to be located in Beacon and its primary mission is said to be "the presentation, celebration and study of folk music, and the ongoing support of folk musicians and music educators," according to a press release sent out by the Towne Crier, a 40-year old live music venue that relocated to Beacon and is now a central part of the City's burgeoning music scene. The Towne Crier's founder, Phil Ciganer, is providing logistical assistance with the project.

The American Center for Folk Music's co-founder David Ross, a former director of the Whitney Museum of American Art as well as an art educator and musician, has this to say about Sunday's free concert and about the foundation of the new center: “Folk music’s extraordinary heritage is something we feel needs to be taken seriously, and celebrated," said Ross. "For those of us in Beacon and in this region, it is a way of preserving the memory and continuing the work of Pete Seeger, the great American musician who is a hero to all of us who believed that music has the power to change the world for the better.”

Says Ross, "The American Center for Folk Music wants to be an integral part of the local community as well as a national destination for musicians, tourists and scholars alike."  Seems like a good idea to plant the seed on Spirit of Beacon Day, as hopefully one more rich addition to the culture that is once again taking shape in Beacon's long history of giving back and educating.

Fall Fashion Weekend in Beacon: Favorite Time To Shop

As New York Fashion Week wraps up its final days in the City before it heads to London, city-folk are departing the train at the Beacon station, neighbors from Cold Spring and other areas are driving up to find parking, and residents of Beacon are packing their purses to head out for a weekend of Fall shopping! And boy is there a lot to select from. For your full map on where to shop, see A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide that names each shop in Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Kids, and so on.

But first, a look in pictures. Turns out that the yarnbombers were ahead of the curve fashion-wise, as leading some of the catwalks at New York Fashion Week wore crocheted dresses made to look handmade, from designers including Tommy Hilfiger, Custo Barcelona, and BCBG Max Azria. Trends from the 70's were in, like flare pants with tight tops. This is great news for ladies who love being comfortable. Fashion bloggers were spotted in unicorns and rainbows. Beacon based fashion blogger Nicole Alyse, vintage boutique owner of American Gypsy was there.  Overall, the trends seemed to be - do whatever you want. So here is what you will find in Beacon:

Fall fashion at its best in Echo, as per usual. Fall may be Echo's best season.
Find slouchy sweatshirt dresses, leggings, sweaters, shoes and accessories to go with all.
Echo
470 Main Street
(on the East End near the mountain)

If you're a dresses kind of a gal, Lauren & Riley has short and long,
flirty and office-ready. Plus, find more skirts and long shirts.
Lauren & Riley
462 Main Street
(on the East End near the mountain)

Reservoir & Wood has knitwear you will covet, handmade designer jewelry
and the burliest plaid shirts and jackets for men. Plus some of the most adorable baby outfits.
Reservoir & Wood
460 Main Street
(on the East End near the mountain)

Colorant was once the darling of our PopUp Shop Guide, and now they have
moved permanently into their space! Find fashion-forward designs from
the Colorant label as well as other designers.
COLORANT
145 Main Street
(on the West End near the train)

Told you Colorant was fashion-forward. Crop, knitted, hand -died tops.
COLORANT
145 Main Street
(on the West End near the train)

Easy fashions hang from the racks of Nella Bellas, like this flirty yet roomy dress.
Nella Bellas
155 Main Street
(on the West End near the train)

Oh what's that? You need something short and ostrich-inspired? Also at Nella Bellas.
Nella Bellas
155 Main Street
(on the West End near the train)

For the denim enthusiast. Deeply hued dresses and jeans at Nella Bellas.
Nella Bellas
155 Main Street
(on the West End near the train)

As you're shopping, definitely keep A Little Beacon Blog's Shopping Guide open on your smart phone. Our Shopping Guide has all addresses and phone numbers of every shop in Beacon at your fingertips. #obsessed

Draught Industries Adds Food To Craft Beer Menu!

The Jalapeño Cheddar Dog & Friends.

It's true, Draught Industries was your source for beer porn because their freshly tapped kegs were just...so...good. But you got hungry! And the people at Draught took notice as people were bringing in their own take-out Chinese. Once the beer kings finished opening one of the most tasty restaurants in Fishkill, The Dutchess Bierecafe, they brought some of the good food back over to Beacon. You'll find asiago cheese smothered chicken sausage, the chedder bratwurst, and onion confit on more than a few things.

Full menu that is very cheese and sausage friendly.

A Little Beacon Blog's Restaurant Guide has taken note! 

And if you want some good Instagram, catch Draught Industries' photos.

Hudson Valley Brewery Begins Construction at 7 East Main, Slated To Open Spring 2016

Hold the phones, residents on the East side of Beacon near the Fishkill Creek just got extremely excited that their craft beer selection now includes Hudson Valley Brewery at 7 East Main, one of Beacon's few remaining factory buildings that will undergo renovation to take a new form. Correction, everyone in Beacon just got extremely excited that different areas around Main Street are evolving with such definition, and that our choices of dining and drinking out are increasing with such style. The Brewery will feature a taproom, wholesale manufacturing facility and event space, occupying all 18,000 square feet of the former factory. The dreamy brainchild of John-Anthony Gargiulo is slated to open in Spring 2016.

The far end of Main Street close to the mountain is a playground for developers and those who are passionate about restoring Beacon's old factory buildings into something of beauty and function. Says Gargiulo, President of Hudson Valley Brewing: “It was really important to us to preserve this building and bring it back online. It also happens to offer the perfect space for each aspect of our business: a beautiful, welcoming entry near Main Street for the taproom, a second level with high ceilings and original beams for private events, and a large warehouse space in the back for a 30-barrel brewhouse.”

7 East Main sits on the bank of the Fishkill Creek, and to the right of 1 East Main,
which is known as the Electric Windows building that is being converted into lofts.

Gargiulo adds in a recent press release: "The building completes a row of other substantial Beacon development projects, adjacent to two new loft/condominium buildings and a brand new municipal parking lot." He has been working to secure the space since 2013, according to the statement.

Think you'd like to totally change careers open a brewery? Take Gargiulo's lead, and you can! A former dolly grip for movies including productions put out by Marvel, Gargiulo would set up  lighting designs and positions for cinematographers behind the camera. Now he is the visionary overseeing construction after leaving LA five years ago to return to his roots here in the Hudson Valley. He applied for and received an Empire State Development Grant in 2014, which helped push the project over the edge of dreaming to doing. “Our vision is for Hudson Valley Brewery to be a truly collaborative process: from the way we brew and blend our beers to the way we represent this incredible region and community we’re so proud to be part of.”

Looking forward to watching the construction, and to the opening. Meanwhile, see where you can dine and drink right now in A Little Beacon Blog's live Restaurant Guide.

A Healthy Smile is a Beautiful Smile (Sponsored by Beacon Dental)

The team at Beacon Dental wants to remind you that as you strive for pearly white teeth, the first step to oral beauty is healthy teeth. One of the easiest ways to help your teeth and gums stay healthy is to floss daily!

What you are looking at here in this picture is a periodontal chart. It measures the health of your gums by checking to see if they are receding or not on each tooth. The dentist pokes your teeth to see how far down the measurement goes, with 1s and 2s being great! 5s and 6s being... eh, not so great. TIP: Floss daily!

Beacon Dental is a sponsor of A Little Beacon Blog, and we thank you for supporting businesses that make this publication possible!

JOB LISTING: Social Media Curator + Editorial Coordinator (Contract-Based)

UPDATE: Thank you to the wonderful people who have applied so far! There are so many talented people in this area. We are very close to reaching a decision, and have closed the application process at this time.

A Little Beacon Blog has an opening for one or two people on our team! Ideal candidate(s) lives and/or works in Beacon and loves the neat developments going on here. You will be primarily working virtually at your location, so self-motivation and dedication is a must. We may have one editorial meeting a week to connect and coordinate, lasting 1-2hrs. Producing a blog takes many forms, and a few of the skills from each position may reflect your talents. Please email katie@alittlebeaconblog.com with your interest and qualifications. If you are multi-talented in both of these areas, please indicate that in your email!

Rate:
Rate for both positions is $25/hr.
This is contract, part time work.

SOCIAL MEDIA CURATOR
The Social Media Curator will design and write for the social streams of A Little Beacon Blog, highlighting articles and sponsor messages. Ideal candidate enjoys working in Illustrator and social media apps, and is excited by the rapidly evolving landscape available through social media. The Social Media Curator also loves a good editorial schedule to create the flow of storytelling coming from A Little Beacon Blog. Responsibilities include:

Photos & Design: 

• Grabbing photos already used in blog articles and using them in social media.
• Using WordSwag (iPhone) or another word placement app to embellish photos with words. 
• Editing photos in Illustrator to match current brand guidelines that we use for shared sponsor photos and for images from the Things To Do In Beacon Guides. Suggest some of your own new styles!
• Using fonts and brand elements for special messages from A Little Beacon Blog to readers that get socialized and/or placed in newsletter.
• Taking original photos while out and about in Beacon to share on Instagram and Twitter.

Things To Do In Beacon Guides:

• Tweet upcoming events, or highlight shops, restaurants, or trends.
  

Fluent In:

• Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest
• Hootsuite
• Bit.ly
• Google Docs/Drive
• Google Calendar
• Bonus: MailChimp (awesome, but not required)

Content Creation:

• Use designated bit.ly links for articles and sponsor pages in Tweets, Replies, Instagrams, and Comments. This means keeping a cheat sheet with you to help direct people wanting recommendations to the right place.
• Curate Pinterest boards for A Little Beacon Blog. Includes content at the blog as well as at other businesses around the web.

Scheduling:

• Daily checks of the Editorial Calendar and Guides to create social shares on designated days. You will be creating at least two Tweets and Instagrams a day.
• Feature articles in the archive using different article photos than were used the first time.

• Create scheduled tweets using Twitter (ads.twitter.com) or via Hootsuite.
• Schedule Facebook updates.

Code:

• Working knowledge of HTML for basic edits in body copy and image placement.

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EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
The Editorial Coordinator loves lists and calendars! There is some overlap with the responsibilities of the Social Media Curator.

Editorial Calendar:

• Work with Katie to plan and schedule stories and maintain the flow and vibe of newly published content.
• Check the editorial calendar daily to make sure stories are on time.

Things To Do In Beacon Guides:

• Manage changes in the Guides, from business moves, additions and advertiser features.
• Research the Second Saturday gallery openings and add them to that Guide.
  

Photos: 

• Coordinate with Social Media Curator to highlight new articles and archived articles. 

Fluent In:

• Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest
• Hootsuite
• Bit.ly
• Google Docs/Drive
• Google Calendar
• Bonus: MailChimp (awesome, but not required)

Content Creation:

• Use designated bit.ly links for articles and sponsor pages in Tweets, Replies, Instagrams, and Comments. This means keeping a cheat sheet with you to help direct people with questions to the right place.
• Edit articles by adding links and photos where necessary.

Scheduling:

• Keep editorial on schedule, including Guide references, sponsor shares, and scheduled stories that are to be published.
• Check that social media shares are scheduled or published.

Code

• Working knowledge of HTML for basic edits in body copy and image placement.

Classified Listings - Place Your Listing Here

Reach the community of readers who follow A Little Beacon Blog and turn to it as a resource in the Hudson Valley. Classified Listings get promoted to the readership via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and in our free e-newsletter. New and regular readers of A Little Beacon Blog who visit it daily as they search for information also see the listings. A great resource for listing jobs, housing, rentals, and other items. View Active Classified Listings Here

INCLUDED:

• Full Listing: List your full listing with pictures and links.
• Pictures: Highlight up to 5 pictures.
• Social Media: Each listing is shared via Facebook 1 time, and on Twitter and Instagram 2 times.
• Social Media Image: A Little Beacon Blog's design team will design the ad that gets circulated in social media.

PRICE: $150/listing/month

Target Up Route 9...The Happy Pill To Organizing Your Life!

"I wish I lived in Target," said my 5 year old on the eve of the First Day of Kindergarten. Little did she know that this guy did live in Ikea for a week back when people still used white pages and flip phones.

While she wouldn't find a lot of beds in Target on Rt. 9 in the Poughkeepsie Galleria, where you will also find a Best Buy, JC Penny, Macy's, and a full mall of stores like H&M, she could easily play in the "Kid Section" of Target all night, and forage for pizza and popcorn for dinner, and hopefully fruit from the back grocery area. I prefer the "Grown Up Section," which is everything else and includes these glorious organizational bins. Who knows how Target can transform your life! Need a laundry room makeover? Bring order to your office! Streamline your business!

Target is pulling out all of the stops on organizational bins, and has brought Montessori thinking to the masses. Like the phrase "Put a bird on it!", all you need to do is: "Put it in a box!" You can completely have any of these boxes in your kitchen, living room, bedroom, and even inside of your closets where only you and your cat see the chaos, yet he/she probably prefers sleeping in blended piles of sheets and towels rather than in bins of folded pillow cases.

#NoShame...peek inside my closet for the clarity that comes from bins!

Slouchy fabric containers...but of course! Maybe you will transport your laundry with a happy skip to your step. Maybe a slouchy container will live in the trunk of your car to contain the stuff thrown back there. Maybe the pretty fabric bucket holds towels for house guests in your bathroom (if you're like many in Beacon who don't have a lot of closets upstairs).

Reader take note: not every Target is the same, and the one up Rt. 9 is especially amazing for those living in Beacon and beyond. Just try to walk in without buying one little thing! When these creamy buckets are in the $1 isle (confession...they are $3), I come out with at least four buckets. You just never know when you'll need to hold toothbrushes or plastic fish from a game! In July/August, the shelves were stocked as you see them here and parents milled around with school supply lists. In early September, the shelves were actually getting bare, waiting for a re-stock after the rush from college and grade level schools cleared out the great ideas.

Easily enhance any vintage find at Beacon Flea Market with mini $3 buckets from
Target that come in a variety of colors!

Target this time of year is actually better than Christmas. #BackToSchool is really just an excuse for adults to buy organizational supplies and for wardrobe refreshs. Because really, the school supply list and all that surrounds it is the most fun part about September - whether you have kids or not!

This is the happy pill to your admin work.

Poughkeepsie Nissan is located just up Route 9, before Target.

Poughkeepsie Nissan: New & Pre-Owned Cars With Great Service

Poughkeepsie Nissan

1445 Route 9 

Wappingers Falls, 12590

www.poughkeepsienissan.com

Today's options of buying a car are abundant. So many choices! Small and fast? Roomy yet sexy? Lease or buy? And who is going to service this car once you buy or lease it? Poughkeepsie Nissan is a full-service dealership who can put you in the car of your dreams or needs at the moment with plenty of financing options. Their friendly staff listens to your priorities about a car, and can match you with a great fit. Not only do they sell Nissans (which has the best-looking and best-packing mini-van out there, starting with the 2012 model - the Nissan Quest), but Poughkeepsie Nissan has an extensive selection of used cars in a range of prices. Chances are, whatever model of a used car you are looking for, Poughkeepsie Nissan has one in their huge lot. Give them a call today to see if they have the car or truck of your dreams, and if they don't, they might be able to find it. Poughkeepsie Nissan offers a guaranteed credit approval and is home of the Lifetime Powertrain Warranty on all new and pre-owned vehicles.

P.S.: Did you know that Executive Manager Fran Pomarico is from Beacon? He has a soft spot in his heart for Beacon, NY, and knows that nowhere else is quite like it. Meet their whole staff.

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM POUGHKEEPSIE NISSAN

Poughkeepsie Nissan knows you want a great selection in your next car purchase. That is why they have one of the largest inventory collections in the area, with one lot dedicated to pre-owned cars of any make or model, and another lot for new models of Nissan vehicles. If a pre-owned Subaru, VW or even a Ford is the car of your dreams, you will probably find it at Poughkeepsie Nissan. Or drive away with a current-model Nissan!

---

LIFETIME LIMITED POWERTRAIN WARRENTY

Poughkeepsie Nissan knows every car that comes into its lot. That's why they offer the Lifetime Limited Powertrain Warranty on used cars with under 100K miles. This covers the Engine, Transmission, Drive Axle and a Towing Allowance. Poughkeepsie Nissan's service station is top-notch and works on imported and domestic cars. Their appointment system will keep all of your records, and even remind you if your car is due for registration renewal. This makes buying a used car a bit more reassuring!

Search for your car now!

 

Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency: Business, Personal & Homeowners Insurance (Sponsor)

Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency
340 Main Street
Beacon, NY 12508

(845) 831-4300

www.antalek-moore.com

Take a look around your home this weekend. Have you made improvements? Have you updated your homeowners insurance policy lately? Antalek & Moore is happy to review your policy to see how you can save. Give them a call! (845) 831-4300

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM ANTALEK & MOORE

Antalek & Moore is a local insurance agency right on Main Street, and is happy to review your policy to see how you can save. A Little Beacon Blog thanks Antalek & Moore for being a sponsor, which helps make our coverage of the amazing people and things to do in and around Beacon possible!

Swimming Lessons Guide for Kids + Adults Beacon, Fishkill, Poughkeepsie, and Newburgh for Summer and Winter

MOST RECENT UPDATE: September, 2015

Beaconites and parents in the Hudson Valley have good options for swimming lessons for kids and adults in various pools and communities, both indoor and outdoor. Hopefully this swimming lesson guide will help you find the right program for your family, and help your kids be strong swimmers!

NEWBURGH YMCA - INDOOR

AT BEACON HIGH SCHOOL

There are swimming lessons for kids at Beacon High School hosted by the YMCA of Dutchess and Eastern Orange (aka Newburgh YMCA), but are mainly in the winter and spring.

CONTACTS:

Jenn Bailey, Camp Director: jbailey@ymcadeo.org

Cheryl Birdsall: cbirdsall@ymcadeo.org

SEASON:

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

POOL:

Indoor (the indoor pool is not the warmest)

Details at YMCA's Website With Registration Form and Session Details >

Start or renew a pool membership at the Beacon High school here >

NEWBURGH YMCA - OUTDOOR

AT CAMP ROBBINS

The Newburgh YMCA offers summer swimming lessons for kids at Camp Robbins Pool, 131 North Drive Walden, NY 12586. In Y Swim Lessons participants, learn and practice new swimming skills and feel a sense of achievement from mastering something new that they can enjoy the rest of their lives. While participating in fun water sports and games, children also increase their physical activity levels. Participants in Y Swim Lesson are connected to others in the class, make new friends and recognize new role models. The participants are more comfortable and secure around water, as they learn water safety and improve their swim skills. Children have a stronger bond with their parents and family members from the take home activities of family huddles and sharing water safety tips.

CONTACTS:

Jenn Bailey, Camp Director: jbailey@ymcadeo.org

Cheryl Birdsall: cbirdsall@ymcadeo.org

SEASON:

Summer

POOL:

Outdoor

AGES:

4-14 years old

Details at YMCA's Website With Registration Form and Session Details >

HUDSON VALLEY SWIM  - INDOOR

AT GOLDS GYM

Hudson Valley Swim offers swimming classes year round for kids and adults in two locations: Cross Court Tennis Club for the outdoor pool (summer) and Gold's Gym for the indoor pool (year round summer & winter). Their lesson plan has been developed over many years of working with groups such as the US Swim School Association, U.S.A. Swimming, and the American Red Cross. Hudson Valley Swim offers swim lessons for all ages, starting at 6 months through adult beginners and seniors. They also have options for special needs. You can sign up for individual and group private lessons. Their classes are small so the learning experience can be personalized to maximize to each student's needs.

SEASON:

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

POOL:

Indoors at Gold's Gym in Newburgh (heated) (direct registration to Gold's Gym)

AGES:

6-month - Adults

Details at Hudson Valley Swim Inc. >

HUDSON VALLEY SWIM - OUTDOOR

AT CROSS COURT TENNIS CLUB

SEASON:

Summer

POOL:

Outdoors at Cross Court Tennis Club (direct registration to Cross Court Tennis Club)

Cross Court Tennis Club also offers a pool membership for the summer, so staying after a lesson could be enjoyable for the family. Or for a little extra, you can get a membership that includes the tennis courts.

AGES:

6-month - Adults

HUDSON VALLEY SWIM - OUTDOOR
AT TACONIC SPORT & RACQUET in Hopewell Junction
SEASON:
Summer

AGES:

6 months - Adults

POOL:

Outdoors

AGES:

6-month - Adults

Details at Hudson Valley Swim Inc. >

ALL SPORT HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB

Swimming lessons from All Sport are one of several activities you can take advantage of at All Sport, as a member or non-member. All Sport identifies their swimming lessons approach as an "immersion concept" so that kids are practicing daily.

SEASON:

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall for private or group sessions

POOL:

Outdoor or Indoor (heated) weather permitting. Not only is the indoor pool water heated, but the air is heated as well! The pool room is kept at 80 degrees during chilly winter days and evenings.

AGES:

6 months - Adults

Lifeguard and CPR Classes are also available.
Click here for lifeguard training and CPR classes.

Details and Registration at All Sport >

HVCC/JCC (Hudson Valley Community Center/Jewish Community Center)

Aquatics at the HVCC is focused on the quality of your experience. Whether you are a child or an adult, recreational or competitive swimmer, or someone intent on staying or getting into shape, the HVCC/JCC instructors, coaches and staff serve your needs. The HVCC offers year round swimming lessons on a rolling basis. Join any time and continue for as long as you want. Lessons are offered to babies, Pre K, children, and adults! Levels 1-5! The prices you see on the HVCC/JCC website are paid per month and are for one time per week. So that's 4 lessons per month (unless for a funny month like July and then there are 5 lessons that month).

SEASON:

Year round (Winter and Summer). No start dates, just "dive" in when you're ready.

PERK:

A family membership is included with swimming lessons! That means that you can also practice your swimming during open swim hours, work out in the fitness room while your child swims or play a quick game of basketball!

POOL:

Indoor (they say is "usually" heated).

AGES:

Babies to Adults

Details and Registration at HVCC/JCC >

3rd Annual 5K At Dennings Point To Raise Money & Awareness For Sickle Cell Disease

Parents of children who are suffering physically or emotionally often develop an extraordinary set of survival skills, and a long lasting desire to help others who are trying to get better. Jessica Salomon of Beacon and her husband Jesse are examples of parents who have become change-makers by bringing awareness to others.

On September 12, 2015, the 3rd Annual Sickle Cell Disease 5K Walk & Run will be held at Long Dock to support Hope and Heroes, an organization that funds the life-saving work on childhood cancer and blood disorders at Columbia University Medical Center. The Salomon's sons, Jayden and Justin, are part of that life-saving work.

Red blood cells affected by Sickle Cell Disease.
Photo from National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

When young Jayden Salomon was born in the Bronx, he lived with complications from Sickle Cell Disease, a red blood cell disorder that has a lot of complications, including pain, organ failure, and strokes. The only cure for the disease is a bone marrow transplant, where bone marrow is taken during a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The best match is a sibling who does not have the disease. Tough odds, but is part of what has cured many people and brought the life expectancy up from 14 years to 40-60 years in high-income countries.

Jayden during one of his many hospital stays.

Jayden beat the odds thanks to his baby brother, who was a perfect match for a bone marrow transplant. Jayden who is 12 today, is cured, thanks to his brother Justin, age 6, who was the donor when he was just a baby. Jessica recalls the decision: “When Justin was born, Jayden had already has multiple hospital admissions, lung complications, and so many other complications due to his disease. So we knew we had to test his little brother. By the graces of God, Justin was a perfect match! And on March 23, 2011 Justin donated his marrow and Jayden got his transplant at Columbia University Medical center. Jayden had a second shot at life. He is 100% cured. He is now 12 and living a full life. Justin is our hero! He is doing good as well!”

Jayden and his hero brother, Justin, at Long Dock in Beacon, NY.

The Salomons moved to Beacon, and Jessica wanted to give back to the healing world by bringing awareness to others about Sickle Cell Disease. She wanted to participate in a walk for the disease, but could not find any in this area. So she started one, using the fundraising platform at Hope and Heroes, and now people in this area can increase their awareness about the disease, contribute to one of the best medical centers in the country that happens to be local to many in the Hudson Valley, and enjoy a beautiful 5K run along Dennings Point! A win win for all.

Jessica and Jesse Salomon during last year's walk.

The Salomon Family during a 5K Prep Walk through Dennings Point.

 

A table of volunteers from Delete Blood Cancer for bone marrow registration.

Visit Jessica's Hope and Heroes page to create a team, register to walk or run, simply donate, or to just attend as a cheerleader. Put in your to-do list to donate blood, and consider registering as a bone marrow donor.

Thanks in part to this sponsor on A Little Beacon Blog for supporting this article!

 

 

Beacon's Beauty Guide: Your Source For Hair, Nails, Massage, Beautification, and Gyms

Beacon has a growing number of beauty salons and professional pampering to take advantage of - you can even book a transforming appointment at a lash bar! Be it a totally new hair style, or a facial, you have options in Beacon. Plus, one of the most enjoyable gifts you can give to someone is a gift certificate. So we have included links to where you can buy a gift certificate from any of these fine services that offers one.

Special Message For Businesses: If you are a business wanting more information about being included in this Guide, please email editorial@alittlebeaconblog.com. If your business has been featured in this Guide and you want to advertise to add a picture, logo and promotions, please click here.

MOST RECENT UPDATE: November 2015

 

Giannetta Salon & Spa
1158 North Ave (RT 9D)
(845) 831-2421

Pretty much, this salon is one of Beacon's first brightly lit establishments that commuters see when departing the train, either by foot or driving up the hill after the light on 9D from the train station. Giannetta's is open late, so you'll often see people getting styled. From blow-outs to highlights, Giannetta offers a full service salon and spa experience that cuts men, women and children's hair.  Along with regular cuts, style and blow-outs, they offer Keratin and Hair Chalk treatment. As for products sold in the salon, they are definitely gift-certificate-worthy. Giannetta Salon sells the Kerastase line of shampoos, conditioners and style products. Kerastase shampoo is the richest lather you'll ever experience, and your hair will look amazing.
INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to buy a gift certificate online.

HOURS
Tues–Thurs: 9am-8pm
Fri: 9am–9pm
Sat:8am-4pm
Sun:11am-4pm
Closed Mondays

Magpie Studio
2 Tioranda Avenue
(845) 202-7072

Because you're a bad-ass, or are about to let your inner-bad-ass out, Magpie Studio is the salon for you. Founded by Kendra, a local barista/mountain bike riding champion, Magpie is a cute little salon around the corner from the Howland Cultural Center. Get the inside scoop about this laid-back, creative hair studio, and how it's "rooted" in brightly colored hair (think pink, yellow, blue) and edgy cuts and styles. You can book an appointment or call to inquire about gift certificates.

Hair Haven
612 Route 52
(914) 503-6600

Gail Formichelli offers colors and cuts, flat ironing, blow-outs, updos, and more.

HOURS: Call First.

Salon Arje
532 Main St
(845) 831-4426

Salon Arje is a dependable salon for getting just the right kind of artistic cut, classic blow-out or evening hair style. Offering specialty treatments like Restructuring Treatment, Japanese straightening, and many more services, women and men will find what they need here.

HOURS: Call First

The Greenroom Beauty Lounge

544 Main St
(845) 440-6653

Passionate about hair, style and making you feel gorgeous, sexy and bold, this team of independent stylists work together to bring out the best in everyone's hair. From lashes extensions to hair extensions, The Greenroom Beauty Lounge can enhance what you need. Book with the infamous Josh for a signature experience, but you will be happy under anyone's scissors. As for the line of products found in The Greenroom, they were the first to carry the Moroccan oils long before anyone else was, and before other shampoo brands were including it in their ingredients. A must-have is the Moroccan oil and the Intense Hydrating Mask, as recommended in our recipe for dry hair for new moms.

Hours:
Tues: 10am-5pm
Wed: 10am-8pm
Thurs: 10am-5pm
Fri: 10am-8pm
Sat: 9am-4pm
Closed Mondays

NOT IN BEACON, BUT A HUDSON VALLEY FAVORITE
Stephen Amendola Salon and Spa
1855 Route 52
Hopewell Junction NY
(845) 896-8900
One of the editors here at A Little Beacon Blog dedicates her hair to this salon, so it must be in the lineup. A full service salon and spa for men and women, and ask for Emily for a haircut!
HOURS
Tues-Thurs: 9am-6pm
Fri: 9am-7pm
Sat: 8:30am-4pm

 

Shekinah Styles Barbershop
265 Main Street
(845) 831-1947

Providing quality haircuts for men at affordable prices since 1991. 22+ years on Main St. In Beacon! A wonderful environment for the entire family.

HOURS: Call First

Abscission Barber Lounge
498 Main Street
(845) 765-1949

For all the dudes out there who need their mountain-man beards trimmed or are looking to get a little hair design.

Giannetta Salon & Spa
1158 North Ave (RT 9D)
(845) 831-2421

This is the salon treatment of a manicure or pedicure and the pampering that surrounds it. Giannetta's is a nice idea for parties who would like to go in groups while some people are in a massage, getting and updo, or sitting in the pedicure chair.
INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to buy a gift certificate online.

HOURS
Tues–Thurs: 9am-8pm
Fri: 9am–9pm
Sat:8am-4pm
Sun:11am-4pm
Closed Mondays

Sexy Nails
325 Main Street
(845) 838-9004

Sexy Nails is where you're going to go for sexy #nailart you can add your Instagram stream. Serving up all of the usual professional nail services like manis, pedis, acrylic and gel sculpted nails, Sexy Nails also offers permanent makeup. Think eyeliner and brows every day with minimal effort and maximum beauty.

 
NOT IN BEACON, BUT A HUDSON VALLEY FAVORITE
Love Nails
982 Main Street
Fishkill, NY
(845) 896-4384
A fixture in the CVS Plaza, this is an easy place to escape to on a Saturday for a long pedicure followed by a 10 or 15 minute chair massage. A Little Beacon Blog has blogged about them before. Can accommodate large parties.

Giannetta Salon & Spa
1158 North Ave (RT 9D)
(845) 831-2421

Massage services include hot stone, deep tissue, aromatherapy, facial massages and more. You can also find packages combined with other salon services. They even have a special Men's Facial on the menu.
INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to buy a gift certificate online.

HOURS
Tues–Thurs: 9am-8pm
Fri: 9am–9pm
Sat:8am-4pm
Sun:11am-4pm
Closed Mondays

Beacon Healing Massage 
145 Main Street
(914) 760-2725

Christine Seymour uses a combination of Swedish and deep tissue techniques and uses gentle heat and therapeutic grade essential oils in every massage. Gift certificates can be personalized and sent via email directly to recipient.

HOURS: Call or email mettamassage@gmail.com to make an appointment, go online to learn about her practice and rates, or inquire about gift certificates.

Sacred Space Healing Arts
436 Main Street
(845) 742-8494

Not just a place to relax, Donna Brickwood’s massage practice has focused in working with people dealing with a multitude of different health conditions including pain management.

INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to purchase a Gift Certificate online.

River Therapeutic Massage

River Therapeutic Massage

612 Rte 52

Email, Text, Call or Book Online To Book A Massage:
RTMBeacon@gmail.com
(845) 379-1956
Click to book online  

Karen Meyer, LTM, owner of River Therapeutic Massage, is known for freeing her clients from pain due to postural issues, and for using her gift of touch as a healing therapy. Enjoy several options of massage, including hot stone, and even a facial massage in the warmly lit studio where you will be surrounded by aromatherapy candles and lighting. River Therapeutic Massage does book in-office visits if your business is looking to add happiness options for employees.
PS: It's a coincidence that River Therapeutic Massage is located in the same building as the hair salon, Karen's Place on Route 52 - two different Karens! You will enter River Therapeutic Massage through the tranquil courtyard entrance in the back.
INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to purchase a Gift Certificate online. 
*** NOVEMBER SPECIALS FROM RIVER THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE! ***
Fight Holiday Stress With Weekly Stress-Buster Sessions:

• Four 30-minute sessions for $180 ($20 savings)
• Eight 30-minute sessions for $360 and get one FREE ($90 savings)

Experience the benefits of cumulative massage therapy with one of these packages: 

• Six 60-minute sessions for $420 ($60 savings) 
• Six 90-minute sessions for $570 ($90 savings) 

River Therapeutic Massage, on Rte. 52

River Therapeutic Massage on Twitter
River Therapeutic Massage on Facebook
River Therapeutic Massage on Instagram

Terra Firma Massage
(914) 227-5027
Angelique Devlin, LMT approaches massage therapy by blending techniques from a variety of modalities including: Swedish, Hydrotherapy, Craniosacral, Shiatsu, Sports, Medical, Deep Tissue, Connective Tissue Therapy, Neuromuscular Therapy & Reflexology. Plus she does house calls!
HOURS: By appointment- book online here.

Giannetta Salon & Spa
1158 North Ave (RT 9D)
(845) 831-2421

There are so many beautification goodies on this menu, we can't possibly list them all. But they range from waxing to spray tanning to lash extensions to ear candling.
INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to buy a gift certificate online.

Hours:
Tues–Thurs: 9am-8pm
Fri: 9am–9pm
Sat:8am-4pm
Sun:11am-4pm
Closed Mondays

Honorable Ink Tattoos & Body Piercings
215 Main Street
(845) 831-0451

If you were looking to decorate your body with colorful art or piercings, this tattoo parlor is the place to do it.

HOURS 
Tuesday-Saturday: 12pm-9pm
Sunday 12pm-6pm

Society of Lash
144 Fishkill Ave
(845) 765-2899
This newly-opened Certified Lash Extension Studio will ramp up your eyelash game with their lash extensions and make sure your brows are on point with their eyebrow waxing. Call for an appointment or to inquire about gift certificates.
HOURS:
By Appointment Only on Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturdays

Magpie Studio
2 Tioranda Avenue
(845) 202-7072

Does your brow color bother you and you want an authentic looking dye job? Magpie Studio is the place to go, along with other Beautification items on their menu. You can book an appointment or call to inquire about gift certificates.

The Blushery 
528 Main St
(845) 765-2223
The Blushery is a boutique and beauty bar offering spa and skincare services, makeup application for weddings and special events, and a brow bar. Walk-ins welcome, or call to inquire about appointments and gift certificates.
HOURS 
Wednesday-Saturday: 11pm-7pm
Sunday 11pm-3pm

 

Shambhala Yoga Center

4 South Chestnut Street
(917) 922 4517

Located in the heart of Beacon, Shambhala Yoga Center is comprised of great teachers, several of whom are rooted in dance, all of whom are passionate about yoga and its many forms and benefits it gives to the body. You'll find yoga classes for beginners, strengthening, elegant movement, and more. Check Shambala's schedule for times and types of yoga classes.

Beacon Yoga Studio

464 Main Street

A donation-based yoga center dedicated to the development of personal yoga and meditation that has partnered up with Center 4 Creative Education. Includes drum meditation and dance classes, as well as salsa and line dancing! Check the Beacon schedule to see what fits your fancy.

 

Beacon Pilates 

181 Main Street, 2nd Floor 

(845) 831 0360

Beacon Pilates is focused on your core, and the first step in that is to evaluate your body. They offer sessions to do just that before placing you into classes. You can also find a Beacon Pilates outpost at All Sport, in addition to their Beacon location conveniently located on Main Street.

INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to buy a gift certificate.

Locomotive Crossfit

387 Main Street

(845) 202-7575

Locomotive Crossfit is an intense gym for people who like to move - a lot. Their programming is based on classes that work with equipment that was designed to function as an extension of the body to use the body's own strength. Classes include mobility training, gymnastics, Olympic weight lifting, nutrition coaching, and more.

HOURS: Vary by class schedule.

INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to buy a gift certificate.

Hudson Valley Fitness

490 Main Street

(845) 440-6200 

Hudson Valley Fitness is your source for their famous Boot Camp, but also for your personal trainer experience. You can go to their studio or have an in-home experience. For those working on their golf games, Hudson Valley Fitness has a specialty class for golf conditioning. A gift certificate here could be a very good gift to the hard-to-buy-for father or grandfather on your list.

HOURS: Vary by class schedule.

Wellness professionals chosen based on their coaching in
the areas of food and ways of living.

Marika Blossfeldt

You may have seen or read her book, Essential Nourishment, or you may have taken one of her many classes that teach the ways of finding nourishment in forbidden foods like cupcake frosting. From workshops that get you eating right without dieting to wellness retreats to her farm in Estonia, a gift certificate here could be a game-changer.

Jennifer Clair

Jennifer Clair created Home Cooking New York (HCNY) in May 2002 after years of writing cookbooks, recipes, and a Food Editorial position at Martha Stewart Living. The opportunity to come together with eager culinary students in a kitchen classroom seemed like the next logical step. HCNY’s classes are taught out of Homespun @ Home on 259 Main Street in Beacon. Classes range from basic cooking techniques (Six Basic Cooking Techniques, 20 Minute Meals) to cuisine-focused favorites (Understanding Thai Food, French Bistro). Each 2 ½ hour class is centered around the preparation of a complete meal and culminates in a full sit-down dinner to enjoy in the intimacy of your home or surrounded by your fellow students.

INSTANT GIFT CERTIFICATE: Click here to buy a gift certificate.

Gina Gratz

A wellness coach with a triple-threat to your happiness and weight loss management, Gina specializes in food and nutrition coaching, lifestyle guidance, and personal fitness training. Gina came into nutrition and yoga to deal with an auto-immune disease that happened to her, and found it more satisfactory than medication. She also specializes in helping moms figure out how to get back on track with fitness, lose the "mummy-tummy", and stay healthy and happy.

Fitness Services and Eating Well Services

Ashley Lederer, Thoughtful Food Nutrition

Ashley Lederer is a dietitian and food policy consultant with expertise in chronic disease management, healthy food program and policy development, research and evaluation. Ashley was formerly a Senior Adviser within the New York City Health Department’s Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Tobacco Control, where she worked on innovative policies and programs to improve access to healthy foods. She played a key role in the development of groundbreaking nutrition standards implemented in 12 New York City public agencies, impacting over 260 million meals and snacks served each year.

Services for Eating Well