SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |3
4 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
Contents
December 2011
Cover Photo by ©stockstudiosphotography.com
Festival of Trees
Pgs.
8 10 12 13 14 16 18 20
8-37
Welcome Festival Committee Schedule of Events Festival Performers Special Thanks Family Day Committee Family Day Sponsors Corporate Sponsors
22 24 26 28 32 34 36
Victorian Streetwalk 40
Table Top Trees Floor Trees Holiday Decor Donors Sister Charla Festival Volunteers Programs & Services Shining Stars
Dickens Village Festival
The Architect of the “Open House” Martha Margolis
41 42 43 46 Pgs.
38 - 47
Christmas Tree Lighting
General Information Map Event Schedule Event Photos
Pg.
48 Holiday Songs 52 53 54 55 56 57
Pgs.
50-51
Pgs.
50 51
Event Photos Schedule of Events
View On-line SaratogaPublishing.com
52-60
58 59 60
Jingle Bells Frosty the Snowman O Come, All Ye Faithful Here Comes Santa Claus Rudolph Santa Claus is Coming to Town Up On the Housetop 12 Days of Christmas We Wish You a Merry Christmas
"flip through" the pages of this magazine at SaratogaPublishing.com Simply Saratoga |5
A
Saratoga
Christmas
Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty General Manager Robin Mitchell Art Director Tiffany Garland Editor Arthur Gonick Writers Allegory Studios Arthur Gonick Advertising Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Graphic Designer Katy Holland Copy Proofreader Christina James Contributing Photographers MarkBolles.com ŠStockStudiosPhotography.com Printing Fry Communications Published by Saratoga Publishing, LLC Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 fax: (518) 581-2487 SaratogaPublishing.com
A Saratoga Christmas is brought to you by Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright (c) 2011, Saratoga Publishing, LLC
6 | Simply Saratoga
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |7
THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS
elcome W
to the 16th Annual
Saratoga Festival of Trees
T
he holiday season is becoming quite challenging for individuals and families living in the tri-county region. Many are finding it increasingly difficult to get and keep jobs that pay enough to support their basic needs. They are having trouble feeding their children adequately, locating affordable and stable housing and securing health care for themselves and their families. The parallel challenge for each of us is to respond to the needs of the poor and the suffering among us with compassion and generosity, and to advocate for systemic change that guarantees the basic necessities for all in our community. They are not some nameless “other;” they are our neighbors, our friends and even our own family members. In the midst of these trying times, we share an acute awareness of our own vulnerability as well as a heightened sensitivity to our deep interconnectedness. It is with a spirit of gratitude for the blessings in our lives that we invite you to enjoy this creative holiday fantasy of delightfully decorated trees, wreaths, and centerpieces. Please stop at our raffle table, shop at the Holiday Store and join us for Breakfast with Santa on Saturday – a fun filled day of children’s activities in Santa’s workshop. And, new this year, we invite you to visit the exquisite miniature Circus, Carnival and Train built over a 40-year period and exhibited
8 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
by its owner, Don Erlenbusch. May the many magical moments of this year’s festival fill our spirits with hope and gladness. Behind the scenes, scores of dedicated volunteers spent countless hours planning and preparing for this event to be enjoyed by the entire community. For them we are most grateful. Thank you also to the many businesses and corporate sponsors who have generously supported our efforts and to the creative donors of the myriad of items of holiday décor. Our media sponsors, Saratoga Today, Star 101.3 FM and Mannix Marketing, Inc., have been wonderful supporters as well. We encourage you to savor this visual feast and to further the mission of Catholic Charities by purchasing the holiday items displayed. We wish you a happy, peace-filled holiday season – one that will rekindle hope and trust in the gift of life and our relationship with one another. The Steering Committee Sister Charla Commins Kate Deloria Earline Johnson Bruce O’Connell
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |9
FESTIVAL COMMITTEE Catholic Charities Mission Statement Catholic Charities, a ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Albany, is committed to active witness on behalf of the Scriptural values of mercy and justice. Catholic Charities, recognizing human need at all stages of life, responds to all persons regardless of race, creed or lifestyle, with special emphasis on the economically poor and the vulnerable. Catholic Charities serves and empowers persons in need, advocates for a just society, and calls forth and collaborates with women and men of goodwill in fulfillment of its mission.
10 | A Saratoga Christmas
Committee Principals Theresa Agresta Lynn Allen Josie Ambrosio Sal Ambrosio Gail Anderson Wayne Bemis Florence Campion Barbara Cassier Sister Charla Commins Anne Comstock Melissa Wilkinson Corrigan Kathleen Cosmus Peter Crowley Margaret D'Andrea
Lisa Dean Kate Deloria Fran Dingeman Sharon Drosky Stan Drosky Rick Dunn Leona Dupell Joan Ferris Margaret Fueston Colleen Guarino Kris Hatch Earline Johnson Noreen Jones Angela Laterra Cindy Manz Mary Ellen Maxwell Bernie McCue Jane Mehan Bruce O'Connell Marcia Okosky Mary Prattico Kathy Price Annie Quinn Anne Reed Candyce Robenstein Jackie Saxton Pam Stiansen Nancy Toole Sue Trentecoste Kelly Mansfield Waechter Wayne Wheeler Mandy Whelan
SaratogaPublishing.com
Preview Reception Honorary Committee Chairs Sonny & Julie Bonacio
Honorary Committee Rev. Neil Draves-Arpaia Michael & Stacie Arpey Frank Benedetto & Robert Streifer Nancy Burkly Vincent W. Colonno Rebecca Christner & Carter White Bill Donovan Rick & Anita Dunn Claudette M. Farchione Mariee Fox Kristine Hatch Jim and Sally Higgins Bishop Howard Hubbard Anthony R. Ianniello, Esq. Rev. Dominic Ingemie Michael & Nancy Ingersoll Kathleen James Earline & Matt Johnson Mayor & Mrs. Scott Johnson Jane Morrissey John & Rosemary Munter Bruce & Madge O'Connell David & Helen Porter Ann Seton Quinn David & Deborah Quinn Ron & Michelle Riggi Margaret S. Roohan Dee Sarno Sisters of St. Joseph Trip Shannon Helen K. Snyder David & Christine Stack Michael & Linda Toohey Mr. & Mrs. J.A. Torani Jane A. Wait Rory & Mandy Whelan
Preview Reception Donors DeCrescente Distributing Co., Inc. Eddy’s Beverage Center Old Saratoga Brewry Saratoga Eagle Sales & Service Saratoga Water Black Iris Country Florist Dehn’s Price Chopper SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |11
12 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
Festival
Performers
Performing at the Preview Reception • Brenda Vredenburg, Pianist • Jeff Brisbin, Guitarist • Magico*!
Performing at Family Day • MaryLeigh & The Fauves
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |13
THANK YOU!
Special Thanks Our sincerest thanks to Steve Sullivan and Yvonne Sinnamon and the entire staff of the Olde Bryan Inn and Longfellows for their continuous generosity to our Preview Reception. Many thanks to the following individuals, businesses and organizations for their support of the Festival of Trees event. • AJ Signs • Allegory Studios; Theresa Agresta and Melissa Corrigan • Mark Baker and the Saratoga Springs City Center Staff • Michael Meslar • Jeff Brisbin • Ellen Card • Don Erlenbusch • Mary Leigh and the Fauves • Joan and Chuck Lighthart • Magico; Anne Agresta Dugan, Angela Ledke, Judith Russo
• Tom Roohan; Roohan Realty • Brenda Vrendenburg • Albany Aqua Ducks • Adirondack Theatre Festival • Adirondack Museum • The Children's Museum of Saratoga
• Home Made Theater • Glens Falls Community Theater • Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf • Prime at Saratoga National • Saratoga Hilton • Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Festival of Trees Section is Brought to you By PUBLISHING
SARATOGA NEWSPAPER • ONLINE
LLC
MAGAZINES • EVENTS
™
Saratoga Publishing, LLC SaratogaPublishing.com 5 Case St.Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 581-2480
Allegory Studios 184 Edie Road, Suite C Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 580-1987 | allegorystudios.com Photos for Festival of Trees Section by Scott Bergman, Randall Perry Photography 14 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |15
FAMILY DAY COMMITTEE
Family Day Committee Co-Chairpersons Kate Deloria Jane Mehan
Breakfast With Santa Margaret D'Andrea
Christmas Characters Fran Dingeman Madge O’Connell
Cookie Decorating Joan Fitzhenry Cindy Manz
Decorations Colleen Guarino
Face Painting Nancy Toole Kerri Barber Barbara Nieman Diane McGarry Maddie Albrycht Sarah Albrycht
Letters to Santa Kathleen Cosmus Maureen Lynch
Manicures Noreen Jones Mary Bonner Susan Clark
16 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
MR. & MRS. CLAUS
Ornaments Sue Trentecoste
Picture Frames Margaret Fueston Mary Angelini
Santa Photos Anne Comstock Deanna Wolfe
Our 2011 Santas
Mrs. Claus
Patrick Agostino Thomas Cosmus Jack Minehan Tom Roohan Rory Whalen
Jo Ann McGraw
Tickets/Reservations Catholic Charities Staff
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |17
FAMILY DAY SPONSORS
Family Day Sponsors
Family Day Sponsor Mandy & Rory Whelan & Family
Principal Sponsor
Santa’s
Workshop Activity & Santa's Workshop
Rich and Mary Flaherty
Holiday Shoppe Sponsor Sonny and Julie Bonacio
Breakfast Sponsors McPadden Builders, LLC The Dennis Family SEFCU Mortgage ServicesJack Minehan & Elaine Dickinson Stewart’s Shops "Sundaes with Santa"
Sponsors for the Children's
18 | A Saratoga Christmas
Storytellers Corner Saratoga Central Catholic
Christmas Characters STAR 101.3 Radio
Breakfast With Santa Donors 518 Athlete Cookie Decorating Boston Market Jim & Natalie Amsler The Bread Basket Bruegger's Bagel Bakery Decorations Chianti's II G. Willikers Mr. & Mrs. James Collins Larry and Linda Ambrosino Comptons Restaurant Country Corner Cafe Face Painting Courtyard Marriott Warren Anesthesiologist D'Andrea's Pizza Denny's Restaurant Letters to Santa Dunkin Donuts Anthony & Susan DePaula Esperanto's Finish Line Restaurant & Bar Manicures Golden Corral Pennells Restaurant Hannaford Food & Drug Superstore The Appraisal Company Holiday Inn-Saratoga Springs Log Jam Restaurant Ornaments McDonalds Restaurant Exit 15 Pipits of Saratoga Mimi & Friends Hair Studio Violets/Stellas of Saratoga Mexican Connection Post Time Deli Photo With Santa Price Chopper Corporate Gift D’Andrea’s Liquor Committee Putnam Market Picture Frames Residence Inn by Marriott Adirondack Sign Perfect Roma Importing Co. Freeman & Shea Co. Inc. Plumbing Carol & David Schweizer Scallions Santa's Workshop Stadium West Dr. James Byrne/Dr. Brian Byrne Sysco Food Services Orthodontist The Hungry Spot Sharon Byrne Realty USA The Villa Family Triangle Diner Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagel SaratogaPublishing.com
Santa’s Workshop Volunteers Mary Pratico Kate Franchi Joan Lighhart Carole Tarantino Michele West JoAnne McGraw (Ms. Claus)
Media Sponsors
SARATOGA
TODAY
SaratogaPublishing.com
™
Simply Saratoga |19
SPONSORS
Corporate
Sponsors
Preview Reception Sponsor
20 | A Saratoga Christmas
• Acosta Sales (White Wave / Campbell / Nestle) • Anheuser-Busch, Inc. • Antonucci's • Arizona Tea • Bachman Company • Bast Hatfield • Cabot • Campbell • Commonwealth Brands, Inc. • Crown Imports
SaratogaPublishing.com
SPONSORS • DeCrescente Distributing Company • Diageo • Diana's Bakery • Florida's Natural • Fortitech Inc. • Freihofer / Bimbo Bakeries USA • Frito-Lay, Inc. • Frontier Food Brokers • Grant Sales & Marketing • Great Lakes (Fennix Brokerage) • Heineken USA Inc. • Hood • Labatt's USA (Genesse / North American Brewery) • LBM Sales • Leroy Holding Company • Liggett Vector Brands • Lomac Associates (Skinner Bakery) • M & M Foods Sales • Maplehurst • Maplewood Ice Co., Inc.
• Mike's Lemonade • MLB Construction Service LLC • Molson (Miller-Coors Brewing / Miller-Coors) • Nestle • Nestle Waters of North America / Poland Springs • Northeast Retailer Brands • Oak Beverage • Old Neighborhood Foods • Olde Saratoga Brewery • Paul DeLima • Pepsi Cola of the Hudson Valley • Pepsi-Cola Company - Newburgh • Perfetti Van Melle • Philip Morris U.S.A. • Protective Industrial Products
• RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company • Roohan Realty • Ryder Transportation Services • Saratoga Eagle • Saratoga National Bank & Trust Co. • Schlotterbeck & Foss Company • SOFCO, Inc., a Division of Bunzyl USA • S & S Food Brokers • Stewart's Shops • The Adirondack Trust Company • The Gazette • UniFirst Corporation • US Foods • W.J. Morris Excavating, Inc. • White Wave
Board of Directors President - Bruce O’Connell Vice President - Jane Morrissey Treasurer - Rebecca Christner Secretary - Kelly Waechter Board Members Rev. Neil Draves- Arpaia Kristine Hatch Rev. Dominic Ingemie Earline Johnson Trip Shannon Steven Stockdale Michael Toohey, Esq. Nancy Wade, M.D. Rory Whelan SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |21
UNWRAP THE MAGIC
Table Top Trees
Tree Name Tree Sponsor Decorators
Christmas in the Forest Dr. William & Robyn Byrt Robyn Byrt, Elizabeth Todd
Christmas Glamour Cudney’s Launderers & Dry Cleaners Nancy Salmon
Girl Scout’s 100 Year Anniversary Mr. & Mrs. James Grande Kirsten Demento, Kim Billok, Tabor Holmes, Grace Billok, Bella Reed, Christina Kaloudis, Riley Monson, Aisling Bryne, Alison Bouyea, Jocelyn Tuller, Anastasia Casazza, Anna Lehmann, Marie Lehmann, Alexandria White, Shannon Thomas
Red and Gold Christmas Jack Byrne Ford & Mercury Tom and Irene Burns
Purchase, Pick-up & Delivery Information
Country Christmas
Purchasing
Angels We Have Heard On High
Visitors wishing to purchase a display piece should: • Lift the tag from the display. • Take the tag to the Sales Table.
St. Clement’s Church Christina Bean, Marilyn Helenek, Mimsey Kelly
Pick-up
All Dolled Up
Pick-up time for small trees, wreaths and centerpieces: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 4th. The Saratoga Festival of Trees cannot be responsible for displays not picked up at this time.
Finch Paper, LLC Kathleen James, Carol Begley
Mrs. Jane Wait Anne Wagner, Catherine MacNeil
Tree Delivery Large trees will be delivered free of charge within a 10-mile radius of Saratoga Springs beginning Sunday, December 4th. Please provide the Sales Table with the best time for your delivery. 22 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
UNWRAP THE MAGIC
Table Top Trees Winter Snowland Beverly Valentine (In memory of Ed Valentine) Evelyn Bedard, Denny Finneran
A Baker’s Dream Mr. & Mrs. Michael Toohey Jenness Cunningham, Charleen Bivona
Jingle Bell Rock NY Racing Association Carole Schiraldi, Ronnie Yacur
Here We Come A-Caroling The Wesley Community The Wesley Community
Walking in a Winter Wonderland Saratoga Smiles Saratoga Smiles
Child Shall Lead Them Ann Seton Quinn The Giver of Life Gift Shoppe, Jan Nudo, Christine Edwards
A Splendiferous Christmas Dr. & Mrs. Roland Phillips III Mary Jo Janis, Heather McElhiney
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |23
UNWRAP THE MAGIC Tree Name
Floor Trees
Tree Sponsor Decorators
Christmas Carnival NY Long Term Care Brokers Elizabeth Markowicz, Claudette Farchione, Rachel Farchione, Linda Crawford, Theresa Markowicz
Joyful Christmas Court McLaughlin #422 Catholic Daughters of the Americas Alicia Murphy
Starry Night Saratoga Hospital窶認loor D Saratoga Hospital窶認loor D staff
Sowing Seeds for the Future Burke/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes Horticulture Dept. of BOCES F.D. Myers Center, Mrs. Naushahi, Rebecca Strevy
Yankees vs Red Sox! The Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau Saratoga Central Catholic School, Emily Shea, Deb McHale
Adirondack Christmas Wings Over Saratoga Carole Nielsen, Pat Stickney
Golden Splendor
Tree Judges
Marcia White
Knights of Columbus Beth DeMatteo
President & Executive Director Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Traditional Christmas
Todd Garofano President Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau
24 | A Saratoga Christmas
Gretchen Squires Owner The Posie Peddler
Roohan Realty Robin Dalton, Tamara Valentine, Palma Pedrick & Darlene Chorman SaratogaPublishing.com
UNWRAP THE MAGIC
Floor Trees
Wilton Wonderland
Adirondack Snow
Saratoga Gaming & Raceway Impressions of Saratoga, Ann Carcaterra, Marianne Barker
Pam and Steven Stiansen Pam Stiansen, Stacey Arpey
Colonial Christmas
Brookfield Power Joan Fitzhenry, Tracy & Samantha Blossalini
Home of the Good Shepherd Sparkle and Snow Kathleen & Tom Cosmus Jean Adsit
Home of the Good Shepherd Home of the Good Shepherd
Santa’s Helpers Jim Lavigne and Mary Gavin Timothy Healy, Hidden Gardens, Inc.
Toys for Tots Builder’s Holiday Saratoga Builders Association Natalie Amsler, Karan Hankinson, Pamela Stott
Coldwell Banker Prime Properties Michelle Poccia
An Old Fashioned Saratoga Christmas
A New York Christmas
Sonny and Julie Bonacio Bonacio Construction Team
Holiday Inn Allen Caruso
All Aboard!
The Circus is Coming to The Festival! Even Santa will be delighted with the new display at this year’s festival. Don Erlenbusch’s elaborate miniature Circus, Carnival & Train is sure to attract attention from young and old alike. Colorful trains, circus wagons, people, animals, tents and carnival rides make up the model and were acquired or built by Erlenbusch and his father over a 40-year period. SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |25
UNWRAP THE MAGIC
Holiday DĂŠcor Donors Almost One of a Kind Quilt Shop Barbara Haynes & Vicky Feldman Anonymous Donna Bates Kathy & Evelyn Bedard Susanna Bezold Theresa Bezold Eleanor Boyle Carol Bradley Irene Burns Kaitlyn Cameron Florence Campion Elaine Caruso-Roberts Sally Charbonneau Catherine Charbonneau Aliza Charbonneau Susan Christopher Debbie Clabeaux & Donna Clothier in Memory of Marian Bryden Kristen Corcoran Crafters Gallery - Roger Goldsmith Samantha Dean Megan Drosky Drosky Friends Sharon Drosky Ellen Engels Sally Farrell Faith in God Girls - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Fendmenal Felt & Linda Van Alstyne in Memory of Kelly Mulholland Joanne Figliomeni Flowers for You - Maria Lange Veronica Frazier Julie Gailor Sandi Graham Dorothy Harran Katie Hart Nancy Holsberger Patricia Iacobelli Orenda Garden Club Judy Froelich, Louise Jordan Connie Kirkpatrick 26 | A Saratoga Christmas
Noelle Kolakowski Susan Landers Christine Levy Cosette Lotz Lyn Madden John & Rosie Manley Mary's Haven Pat Meaney Diana Miller Milton Veterinary Hospital Dr. Lori Langdon Ann Neville Sheila O'Connell Marcia Okosky Heather O'Leary Nancy O'Leary Barbara Parrish Linda Pellett Maria Peters Prayer Shawl Ministry of St. Peter's & St. Clement's Caroline Putman Geoffrey Putman Margaret Putman Candyce Robenstein Diane Russel Sue Rutkowski Jackie Saxton Pam Stiansen Skidmore Apartments Stacia Currier Skidmore Apartments Nicole Blanchette Skidmore Apartments Christina O'Connell St. Clement's Church Altar Servers St. Clement's Church Confirmation Class St. Clement's Church Outreach St. Clement's Church Parishioner
St. Clement's Church Pastoral Care St. Clement's Church Ushers St. Peter's Church High School Youth Ministry Barbara Sutherland Sweetheart's Dolls - Carolyn Isenberg Ruth Talmon Susan Trentecoste Uncommon Threads - Barbara Hefter Kate Van Buren Megan Vaughn Gail Veitch Ralph Vincent Jane Wait Shirley Waterfield Mary Ann Weatherwax Yaddo Garden Association
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |27
THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS
SisterCharla
Meeting the Needs of Our Community for Over 35 Years By: Theresa Agresta
It was the early 1970’s when a young Catholic nun from Western New York, whose enthusiasm outstripped her street smarts, spent summers working among the poor in Albany’s Arbor Hill neighborhood. Fearlessly, she would take the elevators within tenements as she interacted with the 28 | A Saratoga Christmas
families of the teenagers in the GAP (Growth and Progress) program held at the College of St. Rose. More than once she raised the eyebrows of Fr. Hubbard, the street priest who oversaw the program and would go on to become bishop of the diocese.
“Drop the biggest kids off last,” he instructed Sr. Charla and her co-workers, trying to keep his staff safe from the violence prevalent at the time. As the founder of Hope House, Hubbard served those struggling with addictions and was all too aware of the hazards of Albany’s South SaratogaPublishing.com
Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime. Chinese proverb
Did You Know? • Sr. Charla Commins helped to establish over seven non-profits/programs in our region, including Catholic Charities of Saratoga County, Franklin Community Center, Domestic Violence/Rape Crisis of Saratoga County, Hospice of Saratoga, the HIV/AIDS Coalition of Saratoga County, Shelters of Saratoga, and Mary’s Haven, a community home for the dying. • Nationally, Catholic Charities’ model works to reduce poverty, not just alleviate it. Employing a Case Management approach, agencies focus on an individual’s and families’ strengths and assets and provide access to services through a coordinated approach to a tailored plan. • Catholic Charities of Saratoga swelled from a staff of 4 in 1975 to over 80 during the 1980’s when it was the delegate agency for the county’s Head Start program. Currently, staff in the 3-county region number about 56. • A Siena Research Institute survey identified that the majority of people in the region hold a very high opinion of Catholic Charities. However, most of those respondents could not define what services the agency provided. • Catholic Charities serves people of every race, religious belief, or lifestyle, regardless of their ability to pay for services. • The Festival of Trees is the largest annual fundraiser for any Catholic Charities agency in the Diocese and is amongst the largest fundraisers in Saratoga Springs. “I’ve come to appreciate that Catholic Charities is always responding to disasters – the ones caused by hurricanes, flood and tornadoes, as well as the ones caused by human agency, apathy and folly, the ones that mete out destruction across the landscape, and the ones that wreak havoc in individual lives. For the lives of over 40 million Americans, poverty does just that. It is our ongoing national disaster.” Ruth Liljenquist, managing editor, Charities, USA.
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |29
THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS End. But where others saw danger, Sr. Charla Commins felt hope. Summer became her favorite season. The Sister of St. Joseph was happy for the break from her job teaching secondary English. It allowed her to engage in the program that exposed inner city kids to the arts, music and drama. Staff brought teens to state parks to swim and to attend events at SPAC. Though many of the youth involved continued to face serious life challenges, she was intent on reaching those she could. In 1975, when Charla was tapped to help staff the newly established Saratoga County Catholic Charities, she did not need to be asked twice. She remembers those days as exciting, demanding and fun. “I came from a very stable background,” she shares, “I was constantly amazed at the challenges faced by the poor and the vulnerable, and impressed by their resiliency.” The fledgling agency was one of a handful of non-profits serving the county and Charla recalls a very different climate. “At that time there was more money, and there was much less external regulation,” she says. “Our task was simply stated: ‘Identify the urgent needs of the poor and vulnerable and find ways to meet them.’” And so they did. With a hands-on approach Sr. Charla worked alongside her colleagues to establish counseling services, services for the elderly and emergency intervention services. In 1980 they developed Donovan House, a group home for adolescent boys and in 1992 established the Saratoga Mentoring Program that serves youth and their families to this day. Youth Employment Services and School Social Work contracts soon followed. Following the model of Catholic Charities nationwide, they acted at a
30 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS grass-roots level to identify needs and initiate programs. Often, responding to need resulted in agency programs. Sometimes however, Catholic Charities collaborated with other providers to address a social problem facing the community. So in this model, Charla became a founding board member for Domestic Violence/Rape Crisis Services of Saratoga County, Hospice of Saratoga County, and HIV/AIDS Coalition of Saratoga County, and was on the original task force to develop a Homeless Shelter for the County as well. In 1979 Catholic Charities became a Head Start delegate agency, a partnership lasting nearly 20 years. Staff swelled to 80. During that time Catholic Charities also worked with the City of Saratoga to explore the potential use of a plot of land on the west side. What first looked to become a basketball court became the Franklin Community Center. Catholic Charities developed the Center and after three years turned it over to the west side community for governance and administration. Mary’s Haven, the area’s first community home for the dying, opened its doors in 2004. The dream of offering compassionate care to the dying was realized through the expertise of the agency and the generosity of a local developer and his community relationships. It was collaboration at its best. Charla, who earned her second masters degree in Social Work at UAlbany, is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-R). But for nearly twenty-five years she has been an administrator. By 1988, she was appointed Executive Director of the Saratoga agency, and in 1996, when the agency merged with Catholic Charities of Warren and Washington Counties, she
SaratogaPublishing.com
continued as Executive Director for the three-county region. Last year, Charla was asked to serve as CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, a position she accepted in an interim role until a permanent CEO could be hired. Those who know her dry humor delivered with impeccable timing, appreciate the easy and practical way she deals with most matters, keeping the operations of the large agency humming even amidst an increasingly challenging environment where needs are growing exponentially while funding sources shrink or disappear. As in any organization, funding cuts result in staff cuts and Catholic Charities has not been
immune to that harsh reality. “I love what I do,” Charla says, her enthusiasm still clear. “I am happy at the end of every day.” But she also shares concerns. “There is a new class of working poor. You know them. They are your friends, your neighbors, even your family. I worry about what the future will bring.” And she continues to learn much from the people she serves, reflecting on what the residents of Mary’s Haven and participants in the HIV support group she led for 12 years taught her about how to live, and how to die. “Serving these people has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.”
Simply Saratoga |31
Festival Volunteers Nellie Agosta Lynn Allen Jo and Sal Ambrosia Vince Arpey Judy Banks Gail Barclay Donna Bates Dottie Bemis Carol Boltzer Babbie Boyle Eleanor Boyle Carol Bradley Peg Bradley Elena Porter Brannstrom Don Brooks Ellen Brown Mary Buhr Darlene Burke Diana Burke Merrillyn Capone Joan Carola Barbara Carovano Barb Cassier Pat Chance
32 | A Saratoga Christmas
Marilynn Civic Florence Champion Becky Christner Susan Christopher Ann Cooley Jane Costello Barbara Crandall Patricia Cross Kathy DeSanto Kathy DeVivo Cathy DiPaolo Betty Donnelly Sharon Drosky Stan Droskey Mary and Bob Dudley Jean Dugan Leona Dupell Sally Duval Joan Ferris Joanne Figliomenti Denny Finnegan Pat Flanagan Carol Frail
Veronica Frazier Judy Froehlich Regina and Jim Gapczynski Martha Garczynski Mary Ann Gibbs Kathy Gorham Pat Gould Cathy Hall Dorothy and Steve Harren Maria Harrison Katie Hart Bridgette Hartman Kris Hatch Judy Hefter Emily Hilko Bernice Hollowood Linda and Richard Holmes Patricia IacoBelli Kathleen James Matt Johnson Ellen Fontaine Kennedy Sandy Kuhn Carol Leone Sharon MacDougal Jackie & George Madarasz Lyn Madden Linda Maitan Quinby Mahoney Jo-Ann Malatesta Mary Mathers Cebe McConkey Pat Meaney
SaratogaPublishing.com
THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS Marion Minehan Meg and Jack Minehan Jane Morrissey Judy Mullen Rosemary Munter Elaine Murphy Carm Moffett Ann Neville Jim Noonan Kathy Nygard Gloria Ottavio Mary Lou Paley Faith Palma Yolanda Paolicelli Barbara Parrish Joan Pehl Grace Perilli Lisa and Robert Perilli Cindy Phillips Nancy Pompa Betsy and Tom Porter Marty Precheur Pat Reo Candyce Robenstein Christopher Robenstein Richard Robenstein II Sylvia Rogers Barbara Ruggiero Corinne Scirocco Cameron Simons Kim Spano Karen Stethar Barbara Sutterland Mary Sutton Kathy Sweet Ruth Talmon Tom Tanner
SaratogaPublishing.com
Maryrose Thompson Dolores and Jim Tierney Carol Tomlinson Sue Trentecoste Kathy Totten Linda VanAlstyne Casey Vaughn Rose Verro Ginny Vogel Kelly Mansfield Waechter Anne Wagner Jane Wait Kay and Terry Waldren LauraWatters Jane Whitney Carter White Nancy Wilder Katherin and Patrick Winderlin
Simply Saratoga |33
PROGRAMS
Programs & Services Programs and Services The Saratoga Festival of Trees is the largest fundraiser supporting the programs and services offered by Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties. Engaging the energies of the community, Catholic Charities has become a vital part of life for many individuals and families in the region. During 2010 8,517 individuals were served by the agency. These services were provided by 56 staff. In addition, 320 volunteers gave 18,670 hours of their time.
Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties
Programs and Services offered by Catholic Charities: • Counseling – Individual, couple and family counseling and group support. This program provided 5,627 hours of mental health services to 2,078 individuals including 639 children, 1,345 adults, and 94 elderly. • Domestic Violence Project – Shelter, counseling, advocacy, education, 24-hour hotline services for victims of domestic violence and their children in Warren and Washington counties. In 2010, 743 adults and 281 children came through our programs. A total of 2,365 bednights were provided in the
safe shelter. In addition, 2,700 individuals received education and prevention services. • Donovan House – Ballston Spa community-based residential group home program for adolescent boys that provided 16 boys a cumulative 2,410 days of care last year. • HIV / AIDS Related Services – Counseling and advocacy for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. • Mary’s Haven – A community home for the dying serving persons with irreversible illness, who are in the last three months of their lives and whom no longer can remain safely in their homes. In 2010, we served 13 families and provided 508 bednights to the terminally ill. • Mentoring Program – Prevention / diversion program impacting youth’s academic, social and emotional milieu. Eightyeight youth and 130 of their family members took part in the program last year. Programs and Services are available to anyone in Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties, accompanied by information, referral and advocacy as needed. Individuals are never refused because of inability to pay. For a compete list of all services offered by each county or for additional information please visit http://www.ccrcda.org/ or call: Main Office 142 Regent Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-587-5000 North Country 35 Broad Street Glens Falls, NY 12801 518-793-6212
34 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |35
SHINING STARS
Shining Stars atop the
Trees PLATINUM STARS PLATINUM SPONSOR (gifts of $100+) • Nellie S. Agosta In Memory of Louis S. Agosta • Mr. & Mrs. William Armstrong In Memory of Mrs. Angelina Barella • Mr. & Mrs. William Armstrong In Memory of Ann & Arthur Armstrong • The Clements Firm • Sharon & Stan Drosky • Keith Ferrara In Memory of Lawrence & Josephine Ferrara • Jackie & George Madarasz • Anthony & Margaret Mangano • Lucille A. & David Mastrianni, MD • Yolanda Paolicelli • Ned & Patricia Reo • Candyce H. Robenstein In Memory of Shirley A. & Silas A. Haley • Kelly, John & Paige Waechter In Memory of Judith Griffin Mansfield • John & Anne Wagner 36 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
GOLD STARS GOLD SPONSOR (gifts of $50 +) • Annonymous In Memory of Bill & Teresa Hartnett • Jane Costello In Memory of Mark Costello • Munter Enterprises, Inc. • Saratoga-Wilton Elks
SILVER STARS SILVER SPONSOR ( gifts of $25 +) • Jane C. Johnson • Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Reed • Marilyn & Bill Schweiker SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |37
25th Annual
Victorian Streetwalk Photos by Terri-Lynn Pellegri and Susan Farnsworth
38 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |39
The Architect of the “Open House” Martha Margolis returns to Celebrate the Silver Anniversary of the Event She Helped Develop By Arthur Gonick Photo Provided SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Victorian Streetwalk has grown to become an iconic institution that represents the best of downtown Saratoga Springs. Its silver anniversary will be commemorated in many ways, but perhaps there is no way more important than to remind people about who put together the idea and made it happen. Simply put, without Martha Margolis, her vision and her drive, there probably would be no mainstay on the first Thursday following Thanksgiving. “We were too crazy to know how hard this was going to be,” Martha recalls, “so we just did it!” As the owner of Casual Environments, which was located at 519 Broadway (now the site of Roohan Realty,) Martha and fellow Downtown Business Association (DBA) member Jamie Cashier proposed the idea of an “open house” non-selling event to its members. The goal was simple: to showcase the diversity and strength of the group of largely independent merchants which comprised downtown. This event, which has grown to gather positive worldwide news coverage and has generated good will locally “began on a shoestring,” Martha recalls. “We had a lot of support from the beginning, and I am grateful for the people who contributed to making this event special. From the Adirondack Trust Company and Stewart’s Shops getting on board, to the police, volunteers and entertainers.” “Our downtown was like the best fraternity or sorority; we had an ‘esprit de corps’ that was unique, and the goal was to showcase that certain cache that we had here.” From its first year, the Victorian Streetwalk “drew far more people than expected,” Martha noted, “at Casual Environments, we went through six cases of wine in an hour!” “We apparently touched the heartstrings of people at the right time, and it was really notable that we had many visitors that came from outside the city - from the region and beyond.” “Susan (Farnsworth – the Downtown Business Association’s Victorian Streetwalk coordinator) and I spent endless hours on the phone – yes, this was before email. We placed performers on each block, in store windows, lobbies and parking lots - many times they would perform for DBA certificates.” Susan Farnsworth continues to coordinate the event. “The spirit has certainly been maintained. Susan continues to grow the event, it’s in great hands,” Martha said. For Susan Farnsworth’s part, she notes that “Martha and I had a wonderful 12 years working on this… she’s a cherished friend whose camaraderie will always be special to me,” she said. Martha watched the Victorian Streetwalk grow through its first dozen 40 | A Saratoga Christmas
years. As we spoke, a flood of memories – important, sweet and cherished, sprung forth. “Of course, we can’t forget the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus, when (SPOILER ALERT: children turn away!) Michelle and Bobby got into the mix it was even more fun… one year it was freezing cold and Marylou Whitney’s granddaughters came into our store and volunteered to wrap packages. I remember laughing a lot with them… there was a time, our fifth or sixth year perhaps, where the owner of one of the horse-drawn carriages couldn’t drive, so we had him camp out at Casual Environments, so he could greet the people he had met through the years, while his daughter continued to drive the carriage.” Before leaving in 2000 for Florida - and hardly to retire - rather embracing a new creative aspect of her life as the Home and Garden Editor at Tampa Bay Magazine, Martha Margolis most likely accumulated hundreds of similar memories. More importantly, she set in motion the circumstances by which countless thousands of people have had the opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime. Mark Baker, past president and board member of the DBA and currently the president of the Saratoga Springs City Center, characterized her contribution as seminal, “Martha was the creator, author and producer (of the Victorian Streetwalk.) She embraced this idea of the open house for our downtown community, encouraging people to ‘shop with their eyes, not their pocketbooks’ and this was very progressive at the time. She did the negotiating, got the community on board, and this event grows today from the seeds she has planted.” On the steps of Saratoga Springs City Hall, there will be a special kickoff to this year’s event (at 6:30 p.m. on December 1,) in which our mayor will read a silver anniversary proclamation along with other DBA and civic leaders who are probably familiar to you. For those who have come to cherish this event, it is certainly an opportunity to thank the person you may not recognize on those steps- one who helped start it all, and will be experiencing her first Victorian Streetwalk since 1999. If you see Martha Margolis at this year’s Victorian Streetwalk, take a moment to thank her for her efforts. So how will Martha Margolis enjoy her evening on December 1? “You know, in all the years that I ran this event, I never spent more than 15 minutes outside my store, so in many ways I am looking forward to my first Victorian Streetwalk!” SaratogaPublishing.com
25th Annual
Victorian Streetwalk
in Downtown Saratoga Springs – General Information
SARATOGA SPRINGS – It’s the silver anniversary! Thursday, December 1, marks the 25th Annual Victorian Streetwalk in downtown Saratoga Springs from 6- 10 p.m. This event is brought to you by the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association and many generous sponsors. Broadway will close once again from 5-10 p.m. from the Route 50 arterial to the Washington Street intersection. The Victorian Streetwalk is the Downtown Business Association's way of saying "thank you" to all our customers for supporting our beautiful downtown throughout the year. Everyone is invited to join the fun with caroling and Victorian costumes and enjoy an old-fashioned "Christmas as it used to be" street party and celebration of the holiday season. Most businesses will be open until 10 p.m. and will hold open houses and serve delicious, free refreshments to their guests, friends and customers. The special theme of this year’s Victorian Streetwalk is “silver.” Handmade, silver decorations designed by Michele Erceg of Best Dressed Windows in Town and Susan Farnsworth, Victorian Streetwalk coordinator, will adorn the Christmas trees by Santa’s Cottage. Attendees are also encouraged to wear something silver to join in the celebration! Parking won’t be a problem for anyone. CDTA, a festival Gold Sponsor, is running free shuttle buses every 20 minutes from the Saratoga Springs Railroad Station on the west side and the Oklahoma track (just off exit 14 of I-87) and the Weibel Avenue skating rink parking lots on the east side of Saratoga Springs to downtown, bringing carloads of people to and from the Victorian Streetwalk from 4:30-10:30 p.m. Free festivities during this event are extensive, and include something for everyone. There are 50 sites with entertainment,
SaratogaPublishing.com
including strolling and non-strolling musicians (see map and schedule on pages 42-45.) An opening ceremony on the steps of city hall will take place at 6:30 p.m. Jeff Clark, president of the Downtown Business Association, will introduce Mayor Scott Johnson, who will read an official proclamation. Jeff will also introduce Martha Margolis, who came up with the idea for the Victorian Streetwalk with one other association member, Jamie Cashier, 25 years ago (see story on page 40.) With the generous support of the Victorian Streetwalk Platinum Sponsors Adirondack Trust Company Bank and the Saratoga Springs Special Assessment District, the event continues to grow. This year, The Christina Brothers Academy Marching Band, a 40-member group in full military uniform, will play starting at city hall and march south on Broadway after the opening ceremony. They will also be playing throughout the evening. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at 6 p.m. to visit with children in the beautiful, handmade and detailed Santa cottage that is set up in front of Putnam Market, just across from Caroline Street. They hand out candy canes while making each visit a very special time for each child. Children can also visit Santa's live reindeer located next to the cottage. Special Victorian Streetwalk postal cancellations are available at the Broadway Post Office from 5-9 p.m. Limited edition commemorative posters may be purchased (for $5 each.) Attendees may bring their stamped Christmas card envelopes and get them canceled with the special Victorian Streetwalk cancellation for free. You then have a month to mail them. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.saratogadowntown.com, or call (518) 587-8635.
Simply Saratoga |41
42 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
25th Annual Victorian Streetwalk Entertainment Schedule (All performers & times are subject to change. Broadway is closed from 5PM to 10 PM)
1. Olde Bryan Inn (123 Maple Ave.) 6:30-8:30 Rich Ortiz 2. City Center (522 B’way) 6:30-9 Saratoga Abundant Life Church (Weather permitting) 6-10 Festival of Trees 3. Nikita Indoor Outdoor (508 B’Way) 7-9 Karlinda Caldicott-Harp 4. In the Street (B’way) 6-10 Ice Sculptures 5. Temple Sinai (509 B’way) 6-9 PM Soup for sale, Bake Sale Slice of Heaven Baked goods, Hanukkah gift shop open & crafts for sale. Tours of building. 6. Saratoga Arms (497 B’way) 7:00 Sonneteers 7:30 Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Select High School Choir 8:10 Bandersnatchers 7. Just Plain Good (490 B’way) 6:30-9:00 Daryl Baldwin Balloon Extravaganza 8. Encounter (482 B’way) 6-9 Myers Dance Studio/Northeast Ballet Co./ Proctor’s Theatre Dancers in the window 9. City Hall Steps (474 B’way) 6:30-Opening Ceremony & Proclamation 6:30 Christian Brothers Academy Marching Band 7-9 Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church Singing & Hot Chocolate 10. Scallions (44 Lake Avenue) 7-9 Matt McCabe 11. Post Office (475 B’way) Special Postal Cancellations. 5-9 Adirondack Mountain Club 6-7 Father Christmas 6:30-9:30: Whippersnappers SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |43
Outside: Saratoga Hot Dog Co. 12. Adirondack Trust Co. (473 B’way) Inside: 6-6:35 Racing City Chorus 7-7:30 Skidmore Dynamics 7:45-8:15 Racing City Chorus 8:30-9 Racing City Chorus Outside: 7:00 Schwa Cappella Singers 7:30-9:00 Octavo Singers 13. Spoken Boutique (27 Church St) 6:30-8:30 Bill Flanagan, Hammered Dulcimer 14. G. Willikers (461 B’way) 6:30-8:30 Mr. & Mrs. Bill 6:30-8:30 PJ Duel Face Painting 6-10 New Country Toyota “Toys for Tots” Drive 15. Fallon Wellness Pharmacy of Saratoga (472 B’way) 6:30-8:30 Betsy & the ByeGons 16. Eugenio’s Café Gelato (458 B’way) 7-9 Andrew Hauprich 17. Celtic Treasures (456 B’way) 6:30-9:30 John Cromie & Tommy Wadsworth, Irish Whistles & Songs 18. Saratoga Marketplace (454 B’way) 6-6:45 Drastic Measures 7-8 River Valley Chorus 8:05 Skidmore Dynamics 9:00 Skidmore Accents 19. Paper Dolls (438 B’way) 6-9 Myers Dance Studio/Northeast Ballet Co./ Proctor’s Theatre Dancers in the windows 20. Soave Faire (449 B’way) 7:30 Bandersnatchers 8:15-9 Norma Colasessano, Accordian 9:00 Sax-O-Claus 21. Dawgdom (441A B’way) 6:30-9 Jim Lestrange & Lise Winne 44 | A Saratoga Christmas
22. Putnam Market (435 B’way, Outside:) 6-10 Santa Cottage with Santa & Mrs. Claus 23. Crafters Gallery (427 B’way) 6-10 Pigster H. Wigglesworth 6-10 Live Reindeer 5-9 Star 101.3 Live Remote with Twinkle the Bear 24. Plum Dandy Yogurt (419 B’way) 7-9 MaryLeigh Roohan 25. The Wine Bar (417 B’way) 7-9 Kat Spina 26. Gaffney’s (16 Caroline St) 6-10 Adirondack School selling holiday wreaths 27. Lifestyles (436 B’way) 7-7:45 & 9 John & Orion Kribs, Doug Moody 28. Children’s Museum (69 Caroline St.) 6:30-6:40, 7:00-7:10, 7:30-7:40 Saratoga City Ballet Nutcracker Characters 10 Minute performances from Nutcracker 29. Upper Caroline Street 6:15-7 Norma Colasessano, Accordian 30. Lillian’s/Cantina Lot (408 B’way) 6-10 Saratoga Chrysler Jeep Dodge, Frosty the Snowman 6-8 United Methodist Church Sing-along 8-9 Green Mountain Mennonite Fellowship Choral Group 7:00 Sax-O-Claus (on B’way) 6-10 EOC Food Drive 6-9 River of Hope Fellowship – Free Hot Chocolate and Cookies 31. Saratoga Salsa & Spice (398 B’way) 6:30-8:30 Michelle Lewis 32. Circus Café (392 B’way) 7-10 Tim Wechgelaer, Victorian Fiddle SaratogaPublishing.com
33. MINE (388 B’way) 6-10 Gingerbread House display by 4-H 7-9:30 Dave Berger Quartet & free finger foods, cocoa & cider 34. Borders (395 B’way) Outside: 6-9 Saratoga Springs Firefighters, Free hot chocolate 35. Saratoga Children’s Shoe Depot (385 B’way) 6-8 Mother Goose Face Painting 36. Impressions (368 B’way) 7-9 Lyl Harper Reggae Music 6-9 Victorian Photo Booth (Outside) 8:00 Skidmore Accents 37. Top of Phila Street 7-8 Father Christmas 8-8:45 John & Orion Kribs, Doug Moody
45. Visitor Center (Congress & B’way) 6-9 Northland Newfoundland Club (Live Newfoundland dogs) 7-9 Sonny & Perley Duo 46. NBT Bank(295 B’way) 7:30-8:30 Choir of St. Peter 47. In the Street (Broadway): Strolling: Candy Company Toy Soldier; Christian Brothers Academy Marching Band 48. Spring Street/Putnam Street/ Carousel 6-9:30 Free Trolley Rides from Putnam St.tour No. Broadway & back 7-9 Greenwich Trash Can Drummers, 49. Saratoga Springs Train Station (West Ave) 6-7 “One Voice” 50. Batcheller Mansion (20 Circular St.) 5-7 Hot apple cider & cookies
38. Ben & Jerry’s (corner Putnam & Phila) 7-9 Dan Garcia & Katie Dwyer 39. Esthetiques (361 B’way) 7-9 Elizabeth Huntly, harp 40. Candy Company (5 Washington St.) 6-10 Old Fashioned Hot Roasted Chestnuts 41. The Gap (341 B’way) 6:30-8:30 Tequila Mockingbirds 42. Eddie Bauer (340 B’way) 8-9 Father Christmas 7-9 Pokingbrook Morris Dancers 8:30 Sonneteers 43. Saratoga Arts Center (320 B’way) Annual Members’ Show Art Exhibit 7-9 Ed Stander, glass player Outside 6:30-7:30 Fabulous Friends with Flying Fingers 44. Saratoga Springs History Museum in the Canfield Casino (Congress Park) 6-9 Open SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |45
46 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |47
Travel Back In Time At The Dickens Village Festival! SARATOGA SPRINGS - A Victorian Christmas will come to life, right in Saratoga Springs, on Sunday, November 27 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Longfellow’s Inn & Restaurant, 500 Union Avenue. Admission is $5, children 5 and younger are admitted free.20 percent of the proceeds go to the Saratoga Hospital Foundation. The Dickens Village Festival will enable you to experience and the joy and wonder of an old-fashioned Christmas: Enjoy shopping for holiday gifts in the English Market Savor food samples from area restaurants Visit and get your free picture with Santa See strolling carolers and Dickens characters While at the Dickens Village Festival, be sure to stop by the New Country Toyota “Toy Tundra,” where unwrapped toys are being accepted for the U.S. Marines “Toys for Tots” Program. Canned goods for local food pantries will also be collected. The Dickens Village Festival is presented by Star 101.3 FM Radio, Longfellows Inn & Restaurant, Saratoga Sweets and Image Photo and Events.
48 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |49
50 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
Tree Lighting Schedule: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 Santa’s Cottage Broadway, Saratoga Springs 6:30 p.m. – Girl Scouts will lead singing of songs (song lyrics are on pages 5260). All are welcome to participate. 6:30 p.m. – Star 101.3 Radio will begin live broadcast with holiday music throughout the evening. Just before 7 p.m. – TREE LIGHTING 7 p.m. – Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive! They will greet every child until each has an opportunity to visit Santa. Throughout the evening, elves will provide hot chocolate and cookies for all visitors
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |51
Jingle Bells
Dashing through the snow On a one-horse open sleigh, Over the fields we go, Laughing all the way; Bells on bob-tail ring, making spirits bright, What fun it is to ride and sing A sleighing song tonight Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way! O what fun it is to rideIn a onehorse open sleigh A day or two ago, I thought I'd take a ride, And soon Miss Fanny Bright Was seated by my side; The horse was lean and lank; Misfortune seemed his lot; He got into a drifted bank, And we, we got upsot. Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way! What fun it is to ride In a onehorse open sleigh.
52 | A Saratoga Christmas
A day or two ago, the story I must tell I went out on the snow And on my back I fell; A gent was riding by In a one-horse open sleigh, He laughed as there I sprawling lie, But quickly drove away. Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way! What fun it is to ride In a onehorse open sleigh. Now the ground is white Go it while you're young, Take the girls tonight And sing this sleighing song; Just get a bob-tailed bay two-forty as his speed Hitch him to an open sleigh And crack! you'll take the lead. Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way! What fun it is to ride In a onehorse open sleigh.
SaratogaPublishing.com
Frosty the Snowman Frosty the snowman was a jolly happy soul, With a corncob pipe and a button nose and two eyes made out of coal. Frosty the snowman is a fairy tale, they say, He was made of snow but the children know how he came to life one day. There must have been some magic in that old silk hat they found. For when they placed it on his head he began to dance around. O, Frosty the snowman was alive as he could be, And the children say he could laugh and play just the same as you and me. Thumpetty thump thump,thumpety thump thump,Look at Frosty go. Thumpetty thump thump, thumpety thump thump, Over the hills of snow.
Down to the village, with a broomstick in his hand, Running here and there all around the square saying, Catch me if you can. He led them down the streets of town right to the traffic cop. And he only paused a moment when he heard him holler "Stop!" For Frosty the snow man had to hurry on his way, But he waved goodbye saying, "Don't you cry, I'll be back again some day." Thumpetty thump thump, thumpety thump thump, Look at Frosty go. Thumpetty thump thump, thumpety thump thump, Over the hills of snow.
Frosty the snowman knew the sun was hot that day, So he said, "Let's run and we'll have some fun now before I melt away."
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |53
O Come, All Ye Faithful O come, all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye, to Bethlehem. Come and behold Him, Born the King of angels; Refrain O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. Sing, choirs of angels, Sing in exultation; O sing, all ye citizens of heaven above! Glory to God, Glory in the highest; Refrain See how the shepherds, Summoned to His cradle, Leaving their flocks, draw nigh to gaze; We too will
54 | A Saratoga Christmas
thither Bend our joyful footsteps; Refrain Lo! star led chieftains, Magi, Christ adoring, Offer Him incense, gold, and myrrh; We to the Christ Child Bring our hearts’ oblations. Refrain Child, for us sinners Poor and in the manger, We would embrace Thee, with love and awe; Who would not love Thee, Loving us so dearly? Refrain Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be glory given; Word of the Father, Now in flesh appearing. Refrain
SaratogaPublishing.com
Here Comes Santa Claus
Here comes Santa Claus! Here comes Santa Claus! Right down Santa Claus Lane! Vixen and Blitzen and all his reindeer are pulling on the reins. Bells are ringing, children singing; All is merry and bright. Hang your stockings and say your prayers, 'Cause Santa Claus comes tonight. Here comes Santa Claus! Here comes Santa Claus! Right down Santa Claus Lane! He's got a bag that is filled with toys for the boys and girls again. Hear those sleigh bells jingle jangle, What a beautiful sight. Jump in bed, cover up your head, 'Cause Santa Claus comes tonight
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |55
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer You know Dasher and Dancer And Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid And Donner and Blitzen. But do you recall The most famous reindeer of all? Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer (reindeer) Had a very shiny nose (like a light bulb) And if you ever saw it (saw it) You would even say it glows (like a flash light) All of the other reindeer (reindeer)Used to laugh and call him names (like Pinochio)They never let poor Rudolph (Rudolph) Play in any reindeer games (like Monopoly) Then one foggy Christmas Eve Santa came to say Rudolph with your nose so bright Won't you guide my sleigh tonight? Then all the reindeer loved him And they shouted out with glee "Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer (reindeer) You'll go down in history!"
56 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town You better watch out You better not cry Better not pout I'm telling you why Santa Claus is coming to town He's making a list, And checking it twice; Gonna find out Who's naughty and nice. Santa Claus is coming to town He sees you when you're sleeping He knows when you're awake He knows if you've been bad or good So be good for goodness sake! O! You better watch out! You better not cry. Better not pout, I'm telling you why. Santa Claus is coming to town. Santa Claus is coming to town.
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |57
Up On The Housetop Up on the housetop, reindeer pause Out jumps good ol' Santa Claus Down through the chimney with lots of toys All for the little ones, Christmas joys Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn't go? Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn't go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click, Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick First comes the stocking of little Nell Oh, dear Santa, fill it well Give her a dolly that laughs and cries One that will open and shut her eyes Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn't go? Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn't go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click, Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick Next comes the stocking of little Will Oh, just see what a glorious fill Here is a hammer and lots of tacks Also a ball and a whip that cracks Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn't go? Ho, Ho, Ho! Who wouldn't go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click, Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
58 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
1 2 3 4 5 6
SaratogaPublishing.com
Twelve Days of Christmas
On the first day of Christmas, My true love sent to me A partridge in a pear tree. On the second day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the third day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the fourth day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the fifth day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the sixth day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens,
Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.
On the seventh day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the eighth day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the ninth day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the tenth day of Christmas, My true love sent to me
Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the eleventh day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Eleven pipers piping, Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree. On the twelfth day of Christmas, My true love sent to me Twelve drummers drumming, Eleven pipers piping, Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree!
7 8 9 10 11 1
Simply Saratoga |59
We Wish You A Merry Christmas
60 | A Saratoga Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas And a happy New Year. Glad tidings we bring To you and your kin; Glad tidings for Christmas And a happy New Year!
We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some So bring it out here! Glad tidings we bring To you and your kin; Glad tidings for Christmas And a happy New Year!
We want some figgy pudding We want some figgy pudding We want some figgy pudding Please bring it right here! Glad tidings we bring To you and your kin; Glad tidings for Christmas And a happy New Year!
We wish you a Merry Christmas We wish you a Merry Christmas We wish you a Merry Christmas And a happy New Year. Glad tidings we bring To you and your kin; Glad tidings for Christmas And a happy New Year!
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |61
62 | A Saratoga Christmas
SaratogaPublishing.com
SaratogaPublishing.com
Simply Saratoga |63