We just got this wonderful news item from Hammertown Rhinebeck’s manager, Rhonda Cayea. Paul Rudd is one of her good customers, she told me. “In fact his wife Julie says Hammertown is one of her favorite stores. And, Jeffrey Morgan’s son, Gus, just loves our kids’ section.”

After the sudden and tragic passing last year of Ira Gutner, owner/proprietor of the wonderful Samuel’s of Rhinebeck, many in the village wondered what would happen to the beloved coffee and sweets shop. Two of those people who loved and knew Ira, also happen to be well-known actors (and friends) Jeffrey Morgan and Paul Rudd. Apparently, one night over dinner, the two men and their wives decided they didn’t want Samuel’s to change from what Ira had created. They didn’t want some fast-food chain taking it over and changing the “village” character of the little shop, so they decided then and there to purchase it themselves and keep it a “local business” that Ira would be proud of. (the video above tells the rest of the story)

Be sure to check out Samuel’s Facebook Page. Lots of wonderful new things are happening!

Jeff Morgan and Paul Rudd — Two committed members of our local community who are making an effort to keep our part of the Hudson Valley authentic to what we all love about it. Be sure to support what they’ve done by dropping by Samuel’s the next time you’re in Rhinebeck!

Here’s to you Jeff and Paul! We loved Ira too, and we’re so glad you and yours are making sure his legacy lives on.