Latte models her bandana
It takes a while to become a tradition. The annual Shop Hop is on its way.
That was evident last November when the event was held for a second time. More people visited the participating businesses. They stayed longer than they did the year before, so they could look around and ask questions.
Of course, they didn’t forget about their score cards. If they got them stamped by every business in the Shop Hop, they would be entered in a drawing for the grand prize.
The format is the same this year. But the organizer (Lu Ann Richards of Creative Gifts and More) has added a lot to the event that will be held on Nov. 29, which is also “Small Business Saturday.”
The number of places to visit has increased from 23 to 30. But that’s not the only change. An organized Dog Walk will take place before most of the shops open. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. at Puppy Paws at 297 Main Street.
Each dog will get a bandana that says “Shop Small.” The canines and their masters will walk to Tamara Lane at 9 a.m., and then turn around and head to Bridge Street, where each pup will get a goodie bag and have a chance to be photographed with Santa.
Owners will be asked for donations when they register their dogs and when they have their pictures taken. The money raised by the Dog Walk will benefit the Cornwall Bark Park and the Safe Haven Animal Shelter in Hopewell Junction.
The dogs won’t be the only ones to get treats. Once the Shop Hop begins, people can pick up a souvenir tote bag at the first place they visit. Then, as they make their rounds, they can fill the bag with gifts, samples and anything they purchase.
The bags, which were donated by American Express, were made in America. Last year they were made in China, which seemed unusual for a promotion that encourages people to shop locally.
Each store has set its own hours for the Shop Hop, which is a rain or shine event. The weather cooperated for the first two years, and Mrs. Richards is hoping that good weather is going to be a part of the tradition. A list of participants will appear in next week’s issue.