Saratoga Christmas 2016

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

Festival of Trees • Tree Lighting • Victorian Streetwalk • Holiday Songbook A Saratoga TODAY Publication

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OWNER/PUBLISHER Chad Beatty GENERAL MANAGER Robin Mitchell MANAGING EDITOR Chris Vallone Bushee GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kacie Cotter-Sacala ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Morgan Rook Andrew Ranalli ADVERTISING Jim Daley Cindy Durfey CONTRIBUTORS Julia Ingersoll Tonya Pellegrini Lawrence PHOTOGRAPHERS MarkBolles.com Scott Bergmann Terri-Lynn Pellegri John Seymour PUBLISHED BY Saratoga TODAY Newspaper Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 fax: (518) 581-2487 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com A Saratoga Christmas is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, 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) 2016, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper

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Special Thanks to John Semour and G.Willikers’ 2016 Holiday Window for our lovely cover photo.

Catholic Charities’ Festival of Trees 8 Welcome 9 A Special Thank You 10 Catholic Charities 12 Committee Principals 13 2016 Schedule 18 Family Day Committee 20 Corporate Sponsors 22 Table Top Trees 24 Floor Trees 25 Raffle Donors 26 Decor Donors 28 Rick Dunn 32 2016 Volunteers 34

Shining Stars

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30th annual Victorian Street Walk & Annual Tree Lighting 36 Information 38 Map 39

Event Schedule

Reporter elves?!

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Thanks to our local elves... we have the scoop on Santa’s Naughty or Nice List

Holiday Songs 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61

Santa Claus is Coming to Town Frosty the Snowman Jingle Bells Away in a Manger Oh Christmas Tree Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer O Come All Ye Faithful Up on the Rooftop We Wish You A Merry Christmas Here Comes Santa Claus

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THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

Welcome to the 21st Annual

Saratoga Festival of Trees

T

he holiday season is often challenging for individuals and families living in the tri-county region. Many are finding it difficult to get and keep jobs that pay enough to meet their basic needs. They are having trouble putting nutritious food on their tables, locating affordable and stable housing and securing adequate health care for themselves and their families. The parallel challenge for each of us is to respond to the needs of the poor and vulnerable among us with compassion and generosity, and to advocate for systemic change that guarantees the basic necessities for all of our neighbors. In the midst of these trying times, we are aware of our own vulnerability as well as a heightened sensitivity to our deep interconnectedness.

It is then with a spirit of increased consciousness of 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. Returning again this year is the exquisite miniature Circus, Carnival and Train exhibit built over a 40-year period and presented by its owner, Don Erlenbusch. May the many magical moments of this year’s festival begin the Christmas season with much joy and anticipation of the many celebrations to come.

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 tree decorators and donors of the myriad of items of holiday décor. Our media sponsors, Saratoga TODAY, SaratogaMama and Saratoga.com have been wonderful supports as well. Special thanks to the staff of Allegory Studios for their many years of marketing efforts on our behalf.

We encourage you to savor this visual feast and to help 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, kindness, and gratitude for our families, our friends and our communities.

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The Steering Committee Sister Charla Commins Kate Deloria Sharon and Stan Drosky Earline Johnson Bruce O’Connell

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Our Sincerest Thanks to...

Steve Sullivan and Yvonne Sinnamon and the entire staff of Olde Bryan Inn and Longfellows for their continuous generosity to our Preview Reception. We’d also like to bestow many thanks to the following individuals, businesses and organizations for their support of the Festival of Trees event.

AJ Sign Co. Allegory Studios: Theresa Agresta and Julia Ingersoll Bonnie Greco Bill and Joanne Luciano Brittany and Megan Alexander Chad Beatty and Saratoga Publishing Colleen Pierre and SaratogaMama Don Erlenbusch Fine Affairs Jeff Brisbin

2016 Festival of Trees

Section is brought to you by:

A SPECIAL THANK YOU

Joan and Chuck Lighthart Kathleen Cosmus Mark Baker and the Saratoga Springs City Center Staff Maureen Lynch Party of Three: Vince Arpey, Kelly Hurley, Ron Peacock Rick Marchant and Saratoga.com Tim Wechgelaer Tom and Margaret Fueston Tom Roohan and the Roohan Realty Staff

2016

Media Sponsors:

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find

play

Photos by: Scott Bergmann Jeremy Chapline and Markbolles.com saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES

Catholic Charities of

Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties 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 tri- county communities, Catholic Charities has become a vital part of life for many individuals and families in the region. During 2015, nearly 6,000 individuals were served by the agency. These services were provided by 47 staff. In addition, 300 volunteers gave 27,500 hours of their time.

Programs and Services offered by Catholic Charities: Counseling – Individual, couple and family counseling and group support. This program provided mental health services to 1,564 individuals including 464 children 1,034 adults and 66 elderly.

Mentoring Program – Prevention / diversion program impacting youth’s academic, social, and emotional milieu. 81 youth and 107 of their family members took part in the program last year.

Domestic Violence Project – Shelter, counseling, crime victim services, advocacy, education, 24 hour hotline services for victims of domestic violence and their children in Warren and Washington counties. In 2015, 754 adults and 263 children were served in our programs. A total of 2,420 bed-nights were provided in the safe shelter. In addition, 1,554 individuals received education and prevention services.

NOEP (Nutrition Outreach and Education Program) provided outreach and education to low income households in Warren County about the benefits of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program. 155 households were assisted in applying for and receiving SNAP program benefits.

Donovan House – Ballston Spa community-based residential group home program for adolescent boys provided 13 boys a cumulative 1,508 days of care last year.

Emergency Services, primarily assistance with concrete basic needs, were provided to 1124 individuals in the tri-county region.

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 who no longer can remain safely in their homes. In 2015, we served 19 families and provided 464 bed-nights to the terminally ill.

Programs and Services are available to anyone in Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties, always accompanied by information, referral and advocacy as needed. Individuals are never refused services because of their inability to pay.

Services to the Elderly were provided to 249 older adults.

For a complete list of services offered by each county or for additional information please visit CCRCDA.ORG or call: Administrative Office 142 Regent Street Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-587-5000

North County Office 35 Broad Street Glens Falls, NY 12801 518-793-6212

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FESTIVAL OF TREES Theresa Agresta Teena Behr Wayne Bemis Mary Bonner Kelly Boucher Sherrie Bovee Diana Burke Kaitlyn Cameron Sister Charla Commins Anne Comstock Kathleen Cosmus Patricia Cross Terry Dagle Kate Deloria Fran Dingeman Sharon Drosky Stan Drosky Bob Dudley

Committee Principals Rick Dunn Margaret Fueston Colleen Guarino Kris Hatch Linda Holmes Rick Holmes Julia Ingersoll Earline Johnson Noreen Jones Annie Krasnicki Joanne Luciano Julianna Luciano Maureen Lynch Pat Mangona Cindy Manz Mary Ellen Maxwell Bernie McCue Jane Mehan

Diana Miller Jim Norton Bruce O’Connell Marcia Okosky Palma Pedrick Kathy Price Anne Reed Candyce Robenstein Jackie Saxton Nancy Schumacher Pam Stiansen Rose Verro Kelly Mansfield Waechter Megan Wegener Wayne Wheeler

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.

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2016 Schedule of Events November 30th – December 4th Saratoga Springs City Center

Preview Reception Gala November 30, 2016 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. $75 tickets, $60 for guests under 35 | Reservations: 518-587-5000 A beloved Saratoga tradition! Kick of the holiday season in style and be one of the first to walk amid hundreds of beautiful and twinkling trees, wreaths, centerpieces and other holiday items available for viewing and sale. Drinks will be provided. Hor d’oeuvres compliments of Longfellows and The Olde Bryan Inn.

Festival Family Day December 3, 2016 | 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Breakfast with Santa: Seatings at 8:00, 9:30, & 11:00 a.m.

Sundaes with Santa: Seating at 12:30 p.m. $8 tickets (all guests) | Reservations: 518-587-5000 Join Frosty, Rudolph, and other costumed characters as they dance and celebrate a fun and festive morning. And don’t forget to take your photo with Santa, included with your ticket price!

Santa’s Workshop: 8:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Free admission, $1 for each craft Make holiday frames, decorate cookies, send letters to Santa, have fun with face painting, and more!

Come see the trees!

Join us for a winter wonderland tour December 1st – 4th!

Tickets available for purchase at the door. $8 adults, $5 seniors, $3 children over 10 free for children under 10 Dec. 1, 2016 – Victorian Street Walk 4:00 - 10:00 p.m. *Special pricing: $3 visitors, free for children under 10 Dec. 2, 2016 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Dec. 3, 2016 Dec. 4, 2016 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

www.SaratogaFestivalofTrees.com or find us on Facebook!

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PREVIEW RECEPTION

Preview Reception Donors Beverages:

Florists:

DeCrescente Distributing Inc. Eddy’s Beverage Inc. (EBI) Empire North-Regents Spirits & Wine Division Kane’s Fine Wine and Spirits Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor Saratoga Eagle Sales & Service Saratoga Springs Water Company Simplee Wine & Spirits

Balet Flowers & Design Black Iris Briarwood Flower & Gift Shoppe The Country Florist Dehn’s Flowers Inc. Frank Gallo & Son Florist Jan’s Florist Sunnyside Gardens

Paper Products: Cascades Tissue Group – Waterford Plant

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PREVIEW RECEPTION

Honorary Committee

Agatha R. Benton Diana M. Burke Nancy Burkly Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany Rev. Thomas H. Chevalier Rebecca Christner & Carter White Linda & Vince Colonno Bill Donovan Anita & Rick Dunn Claudette M. Farchione Jim & Joanne Grande Bishop Emeritus Howard J. Hubbard Mike & Nancy Ingersoll Kathleen James Matt & Earline Johnson Mara King Drs. Jack Leary & Nancy Wade Kate & Mike Naughton Jim & Anne Noonan Jim & Alison Norton

Madge & Bruce O’Connell Keith & Kimberly Pacheco Yolanda Paolicelli Chrissy & Cliff Passen Kathy Phelps Helen Porter Ann Seton Quinn David & Deborah Quinn Mrs. John T. Roohan Tom & Kristie Roohan Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet Helen Snyder Dave & Chris Stack Rod & Amy Sutton Carole Tarantino & Tom Frost Michael & Linda Toohey Kelly Waechter Jane A. Wait

Board of

Directors President

Bruce O’Connell

Vice President Nancy Wade, MD

Treasurer

Rebecca Christner

Secretary

Kelly Waechter

Board Members Fran Dingeman Kristine Hatch Earline Johnson Jim Norton Kim Pacheco Trip Shannon Steven Stockdale Michael Toohey, Esq.

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Santas

Jack Minehan Tom Roohan Stephen Towne Rory Whelan Stanley Drosky

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2016

Mrs. Claus Joanne McGraw

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FAMILY DAY

Family Day Committee Co-Chairpersons Kate Deloria Jane Mehan

Breakfast with Santa Linda & Rick Holmes Children’s Activities Donors D’Andrea’s Pizza Christmas Characters Fran Dingeman Madge O’Connell Cookie Decorating Cindy Manz

Decorations Colleen Guarino Face Painting Megan Wegener

Letters to Santa Kathleen Cosmus Maureen Lynch Manicures Noreen Jones Mary Bonner Ornaments Joanne Luciano Julianna Luciano

Santa Photos Anne Comstock Barbara Cassier Picture Frames Margaret Fueston Mary Angelini Jane Kromm Tickets/Reservations Catholic Charities Office Staff Entertainment Music: Tim Wechgelaer

AL L A B OARD!

The Circus is Returning to The Festival!

We’re thrilled to welcome Don Erlenbusch back to the 2016 Festival of Trees! His miniature Circus, Carnival and Train were a huge hit last year with the young and the young-at-heart. The elaborate display includes over 400 pieces collected over 40 years, including colorful trains, circus wagons, people, animals, tents and carnival rides. Come operate the train yourself…you know you want to!

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Family Day Sponsor Elizabeth & Emily Whelan

Sponsors & Donors

FAMILY DAY

Cookie Decorating B & B Plumbing

Ornaments MTG Electric

Holiday Shoppe Realty USA

Decorations Fine Affairs: Gerri Ann Eddy & Michael Panza

Breakfast Sponsors Adirondack Women’s Bar Association Harry & Olga Holowach McGregor Links Country Club Stewarts Shops “Sundaes with Santa”

Entertainment Christmas Elf Northeast Appraisals, LLC

Photos with Santa Stella’s Salon, Schuylerville Dan Gaba, Coldwell Banker Prime Properties Jane Mehan

SPONSORS FOR THE CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY & SANTA’S WORKSHOP Christmas Characters Airosmith Development, Margaret & Mark Cassier Saratoga National Bank & Trust Company

Face Painting Warren Anesthesiologist Letters to Santa Anthony & Susan DePaula

Picture Frames Granite & Marble Works Santa’s Workshop Dr. James Byrne/ Dr. Brian Byrne Orthodontist Sharon Byrne Realty USA

Manicures Country House Bed & Breakfast Anderson Byrne, LLC

Breakfast with Santa Donors Boston Market The Bread Basket Chianti’s II Jim Collins – Roohan Realty Comptons Restaurant Country Corner Cafe Courtyard Marriott D’Andrea’s Pizza Denny’s Restaurant Dunkin Donuts Electronic Office Products Esperanto’s

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Golden Corral Price Chopper Corporate Gift Committee Marty Hellwig: Transborder Global Putnam Market Freight Systems Residence Inn by Marriott Log Jam Restaurant Roma Importing Co. Hannaford Food & Drug Superstore Sysco Food Services Holiday Inn-Saratoga Springs The Brook Tavern Homestead Funding The Hungry Spot Paul Kisselbrack – Roohan Realty The Lizzi Family Jeff Many The Merry Monk Mimi & Friends Hair Studio The Villa Family Mexican Connection Triangle Diner Post Time Deli Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagel

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CORPORATE SPONSORS

Festival of Trees Corporate Sponsors

The Adirondack Trust Company Anheuser Busch Altria Group Distribution Company Bast Hatfield Bunzl USA Burns Management Campbell Soup Company Coca Cola Coldwell Banker/Prime Properties ConAgra Crown Imports D.A. Collins, Pallette Stone Corporation, Kubricky Construction DeCrescente Distributing Company Diageo Diana’s Bakery Fidelis Care Freihofer/Bimbo Bakeries USA Frito-Lay, Inc. Grant Sales & Marketing Great Lakes (Feenix Brokerage)

Heineken USA, Inc. Heinz Hostess ITG Kelloggs Kind Leroy Holding Company Liggett Vector Brands Lil Drug Store Products Maplehurst Maplewood Ice Cream Co.,Inc. Michaud Mike’s Hard Lemonade MLB Construction Service LLC Molson (Miller-Coors Brewing) Nestle Waters of North America/Poland Springs North American Breweries Northeast Retailor Brands Old Neighborhood Foods/Demakes Enterprises Pabst Brewing Company Parfetti

Paul DeLima Coffee Pepsi Cola of the Hudson Valley Pepsi Cola Bottling Company PIP Post Holdings Premier Manufacturing Roohan Realty Ryder Transportation Services Saratoga Eagle SEFCU Simply Orange Juice Stewart’s Shops Sunglasses Tootsie Unifirst Corporation Utz Quality Foods, Inc. W.J.Morris Excavating White Wave Yuengling

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TABLE TOP TREES

Table Top Trees Sponsors and Decorators Tree Name

S: Sponsors D: Decorators Merry Kaleidoscope Holidays S: Steven & Pam Stiansen D: Mary McCue, Lucia Valentine

Tree of Hope S: St. Clements Church D: Shelters of Saratoga

Country Christmas S: Cudney’s Launderers & Dry Cleaners D: Vicki Brundige

Miracle on 34th Street!

S: Michael & Linda Toohey D: Anny O’Neill, Penny Berg, Stephanie Syracuse

The Nutcracker’s Dream S: A Friend D: The Wesley CommunityRenee Keeler, Katelynn Donovan Christmas Tea with Santa S: Jack Byrne Ford D: Karen Verrigni, Charlotte Colton What Does the Fox Say? MERRY CHRISTMAS! S: Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau D: Marianne Barker, Maddy Zanetti Santa’s Workshop S: Saratoga Smiles D: Saratoga Smiles Team Snowmen and Snowflakes S: A Christmas Angel D: Girl Scout Troop 3309; Cheryl Wise, Bobbi Eldrid

The Mitten D: Brookside Nursery - Aissa Terry, Olivia Spain, Jess Holmes Into the Woods at Christmas S: Chocolate Dog Design D: Chocolate Dog Design Nature’s Fancy S: New York Long Term Care Brokers D: Tom & Irene Burns Clara’s Dream S: Behan Communications, Inc. D: Regina Vanasdale, Linda Crawford, Eileen Farley Christmas Sparkle S: Smiles for Life D: Kaylie Fish, Angie & Marc Johnson

O’ Christmas Tree S: Ellen & Hal Card D: Saratoga Tree NurserySusannah Hand, Paula Phillips

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2016 Festival pick up and delivery info:

Purchasing:

Visitors wishing to purchase a tree, centerpiece, or wreath should lift the tag from the item and take the tag to the sales table.

Pick Up:

Pick up time for small trees, wreaths, and centerpieces is 3:30–4:30 p.m. on Sunday December 4. The Saratoga Festival of Trees cannot be responsible for items not picked up on time.

Tree Delivery:

Trees will be delivered free of charge within a 10-mile radius of Saratoga Springs beginning Sunday, December 4. Upon purchase, please inform the sales table of the best time for delivery.

2016 Tree Judges Todd Garofano President, Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau

Chelsea Silver

Silverwood Gallery

Karen McGowan

Capital Interior Spaces

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FLOOR TREES

Floor Trees Sponsors and Decorators Tree Name

S: Sponsors D: Decorators

Go Tell It On The Mountain S: Precision Concrete Pumping, Inc. D: Jackie Saxton, Marcia Okosky, Nancy Schumacher, Candyce Robenstein Champagne Christmas S: Saratoga Springs Family Dentistry D: Bonnie Molitor, Christin Banovic, Gregory Dodd D.D.S. & Kelly Herbs D.M.D. A Black Tie Christmas S: Julie & Co. D: Tim Healy – The Posie Peddler For the Love of Dog! S: Roohan Realty D: Karan Murray, Jason Thomas and Saranya Thomas, Darlene Chorman White Christmas S: Kathleen & Thomas Cosmus D: Friends of Catholic Charities Merry Christmas Charlie Brown S: Walter S. Borisenok Family Foundation D: Jonathan Markowicz, Elizabeth Carlisle, Rachel Farchione, Claudette Farchione, Theresa Markowicz Candyland S: SEFCU D: SEFCU Adirondack Elegance S: Lambert & Spratt Financial Partners D: Diana Bradley, Sharon Drosky, Patsy Pemrick

Christmas Past S: Saratoga Hospital D: Floor D-1 Nurses – Saratoga Hospital: Kathy Crandall, Sue Rutowski, Louise McAndrew, Linda Schmaelcke Angels & Stars S: Madge & Bruce O’Connell D: Elizabeth Todd, Robin Byrt, Lida Varone Adrienne Vavricka Catholic Angels S: Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court McLaughlin #422 D: Joanne Wildy Victorian Saratoga S: Home of the Good Shepherd D: Activities Staff at the Home of the Good Shepherd Equestrian Elegance S: The Summit at Saratoga D: Rebecca Detora, Christy Durant The Night Before Christmas S: Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes of North Broadway D: Barbara Farchione, John Farchione Christmas Magic S: Crawford Doors & Windows – Pella Windows & Doors D: Santa’s Elves

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Festival of Trees Raffle Donors

RAFFLE DONORS

Raffle Donors

Airway Meadows Adirondack Museum Catholic Charities Board of Directors Home Made Theater Jet Blue National Museum of Dance National Museum of Racing Northshire Bookstore Pirates Cove SPAC The Fun Spot Vicki Adesso Dodd

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HOLIDAY DECOR

Festival of Trees

Decor Donors

Evelyn and Ray Bedard Lisa Benton Carol Bradley Deb Brown Vicki Brundige Christina Burns Irene Burns Dan Burrell Florence Campion Kaitlyn Cameron Church of Saint Peter Youth Ministry Susan Christopher Kristen Corcoran Catherine Clarke Crafters Gallery Cudney’s Launderers & Dry Cleaners Mary Curtis Val DiSiena Ellen Donahue Drosky Friends Joanne Figliomeni Veronica Frazier Judy Froelich Maryanne Gibbs Mariann Gold Michele & Rory Graham Sandi Graham Sandy Granger Dorothy Harran Katie Hart Linda Hoyt Karen Hutto Connie Kirkpatrick

Sarah LeRoux Christine Levy Cosette Lotz Lyn Madden John & Rosie Manley Sally Manz Mary’s Haven Diane Miller Rachel McDermott Milton Veterinary Hospital Statia Montgomery Jaclyn Moreland Ann Neville Daniel & Gayle Noel Mary Noel Marcia Okosky Heather & Nancy O’Leary Faith Palma Yolanda Paolicelli Barbara Parrish Maria Peters Candace Robenstein Suzzanne Rutkowski Jackie Saxton Skidmore Apartments Barbara Sutherland Saranya Thomas Gail Veitch Jane Wait Johanna Wasalinko Shirley Waterfield Megan Wegener Yaddo Garden Association

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Rick Dunn

and the Saratoga Festival of Trees

BY JULIA INGERSOLL, PHOTOS BY MARKBOLLES.COM

“

PURPOSE PROPELLING PROMISE

“

You walk in and you just marvel at all of the beauty and talent. It’s truly spectacular, said Rick Dunn, committee principal for the Saratoga Festival of Trees.

“You have to remember that first and foremost, this is a fundraiser. It’s about making sure our friends at Catholic Charities can continue making the impact our community so seriously needs,” said Rick.

Thousands of twinkling lights, hundreds of beautiful ornaments, an evening that sparkles as you kick off the holiday season with your closest friends. Or, hundreds of giddy children in their holiday plaids, waiting in anticipation to see Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph and more.

Whether you’re at the Preview Reception, Family Day Breakfast with Santa, or viewing the trees in between, Rick’s comment captures the thoughts of many, the Saratoga Festival of Trees is “truly spectacular.”

Proceeds of the Saratoga Festival of Trees benefit Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties.

And for the past 20 years, Rick has been the man behind many of the corporate sponsorships that help ensure this fundraiser sees a profit.

But, you won’t hear Rick idle for long on the event itself.

Because, as magical as it is, it has a weightier purpose than just fun and festive trimming.

Rick’s story starts in Delmar, New York, continues through Cornell University, then to Germany as an army officer, and eventually working for Pricewaterhouse in Colorado.

By 1978, he and his wife, Anita, were back in the Capital Region as Rick became the chief accountant for Skidmore College. Three years later, Rick made a move that defined the rest of his career.

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“Rick joined our team in 1982. I’m pretty sure his wife thought he was crazy to come to Stewart’s Shops. But boy am I glad he did. Until this very day, I insist that Rick is one of the most enjoyable people I’ve ever had a chance to work with,” said Bill Dake, chairman of the board at Stewart’s Shops Corp.

“While Stewart’s Shops was a change, it certainly came with its perks. The kids had a lot of fun making up ice cream names. And my daughter Colleen never turned away an opportunity to participate in our sophisticated market research – asking the kids at school what they thought about new candy options,” said Rick.

Back then, the Stewart’s Shops we know and love had just opened its 100th store. Self-serve coffee was still a novelty and gas had only been introduced a few years prior. Rick was working in accounting, a position that evolved into vice president of distribution services, and later the role he’d retire from in 2006, vice president of plant operations.

“Rick has this amazing talent that simply doesn’t exist in other people. He can be both analytical and emotional, see the dollars and the people…walk both sides of that line… push progress forward,” said Bill. “That skill was invaluable for both his business work and his nonprofit volunteering.”

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Of the 25 years Rick was at Stewart’s Shops, many were spent building long-term relationships with vendors. From soft drinks to candies and tobacco, Rick worked on behalf of Stewart’s Shops to bring the best quality products into their shops. Along the way, he also managed to “sell” the idea of supporting the Saratoga community, and part of that included local nonprofits.

“Look, no business is going around saying, ‘Wow, I wish someone would ask us for money today,’” said Rick.

“But the staff and vendors with whom I worked with understood that there was a bigger picture. It was about the community. It was about the people and Catholic Charities was an easy cause to get behind.”

“And these aren’t just ‘write a check and never show up’ kind of people. Not at all, they come every year because they care,” continued Rick. “Some have been supporters of the Festival of Trees for over 20 years.”

Rick first learned about the Festival of Trees when his wife, Anita, volunteered as a decorator in its very first year. By the second year, Rick was already deep into gathering supporters and sponsors, one of whom was Philly Dake herself.

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Rick and his wife, Anita, enjoy the downtown they’ve seen blossom over the years.

“

I was just a tiny cog in the wheel trying to keep good moving forward...”

“One day Philly marched into the room, walked up to me and dropped a check in my hand. She said, ‘Rick. I’m counting on you to make sure this gets to the good people at Catholic Charities,” said Rick. “I was just a tiny cog in the wheel trying to keep good moving forward…but it sure was nice to have her support.”

“Philly tried to invest in people. Someone who was going to make something happen,” said Bill Dake. “Rick wasn’t one of those passive board sitters looking to build a resume. He was active and you could always count on him to make something happen.”

The funds donated by the corporate sponsors of the Festival of Trees, including Adirondack Beverages, Bunzl Distribution, DeCrescente Distributing, Freihofer’s Bakery, PepsiCo, W.J. Morris Excavating and more, make

up 50% or more of the proceeds from the event. Without those funds, the organization would struggle to continue supporting our community.

“I am so grateful to Stewart’s Shops and their vendors for the generosity and support given throughout the years,” said Charla Commins, Executive Director of Catholic Charities adds. “Rick Dunn, quietly and without fanfare, has engaged these corporate sponsors to not only give, but to understand the needs in our communities. Though the Festival of Trees is the agency’s largest fundraiser, it has also become an allimportant “friend raiser” owing in large part to people like Rick. These friends and funds impact the people we serve long after the holidays end. Thank you.”

But, Rick’s real dream is that the world won’t need organizations like Catholic Charities. And nonprofits wouldn’t rely on corporate sponsors. “Because hopefully everyone has what he or she needs to live a fulfilling life,” he said. “Unfortunately, we know that will never be true.”

And thus, he believes it’s our responsibility to do what we can to make sure these events and organizations remain and are “given the resources they need to do the endless good that they do.”

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Did You Know?

Over the past 20 years, Rick and his team were responsible for bringing over $1 million in sponsorship dollars into our community Since 2000, Stewart’s Shops has donated over 1,000 half gallons of juice, 1,000 half pints of milk, and the fixings for over 3,750 ice cream sundaes for the Festival of Trees’ Family Day Some of the programs that the Festival of Trees helps support are: Mary’s Haven, Counseling Services, The Domestic Violence Project, The Donovan House, The Saratoga Mentoring Program, The Nutrition Outreach and Education Program, and much, much more.

Rick spent much of his career in leadership at Stewart’s Shops.

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2016

Festival of Trees

Volunteers

Annie Anzaroot Vince Arpey Ashley Baird Judith Banks Evelyn Bedard Carol Begley Teena Behr Alberta Bennett Mary Beth Boehm Carol Boltzer Eleanor Boyle Carol Bradley Diana Bradley Lanyel Brandon Nancy Brockley Don Brooks Ellen Brown Nancy Buhr Darlene Burke Robin Byrt Florence Campion Joan Carola Barbara Carovano Carol Catone Beth Chabot Becky Christner Kerry Conley Ann Cooley Jane Costello Barbara Crandell Linda Crawford Kathy DeVivo Tori DiMenna Cathy DiPaolo Betty Donnelly Judy Dooley Carissa Dopman Pat Dorsey Jean Dugan

Leona Dupell Christine Edwards Ann Ellis Eileen Farley Joanne Figliomeni Judy Fitzpatrick Carol Frail Deborah Fuller Molly Gagne Raoul Gagne Martha Garczynski Kelly Garvey Maureen Gemerek Maryanne Gibbs Mary Gilhooly Mariann Gold Ellen Gorman Kathy Gormen Pat Gould Jing Guo Gianna Haley Stella Haley Susan Hansen Kathy Harkins Dorothy Harren Steve Harren Katie Hart Bridgette Hartman Judy Hefter Jennifer Henreux Emily Hilko Bernice Hollowood Lauren Holmes Carol Howard Maureen Humiston Kathleen James Diana Jenner Emily Johnson Matt Johnson

32 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Mary Kelly Ellen Fontaine Kennedy Eli King Sandi Kirshe Maryann Klemn Kathy Klim Cathy LaBoda Sue Las Carol Leone Sharon MacDougal Cebe McConkey Trisha McDonald George Madarasz Lyn Madden Kinda Maitlin Quinby Mahoney Joanne Malatesta Joyce M. Sustar-Martucci Marion Minehan Carm Moffett Guy Moffett Amanda Montello Patrick Moran Judy Mullen Kate Naughton Asish Nelluvey Bonnie Nicolosi Jim Noonan Eleanor Notar Madge O’Connell Morgan Osborn Mary Lou Paley Faith Palma Yolanda Paolicelli Barbara Parrish Joan Pehl Lisa Perilli Robert Perilli Kathy Phelps Cindy Phillips Jamie Pietrosanto Kyle Podesva Nancy Pompa Betsy Porter

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Tom Porter Carol Powers Pat Reed Pat Reo Amy Ritchik Barbara Rivenburg Christopher Robenstein Richard Robenstein III Richard Robenstein II Richard E. Robenstein Sylvia Rogers Jane Root Suzzanne Rutkowski Saratoga Catholic Central Students Saratoga City Ballet Ballerinas Corinne Scirocco Emma Shea Skylar Shea Jo-Ann Simone Cameron Simons Kim Spano Scott Staigar Karen Stethar Robin Stoup Barbara Sutterland Kathleen Sweet Jim Sykes Ruth Talmon Tom Tanner Jo Ann Todd Carol Tomlinson Mary Towers Casey Vaughn Francine Vero Rose Verro Ralph Vincent Ginny Vogel Anne Wagner Jeanne Whitney Carter White Nancy Wilder Patrick Winderlin Mariann Witkowski John Zanetti

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SHINING STARS

Shining Stars Atop The Trees

SHINING STAR DONOR

IN MEMORIUM

GOLD SPONSOR Rose & Bill Armstrong...........................................................................................Ann & Arthur Armstrong Rose & Bill Armstrong.......................................................................................Angelina & John Barella, Sr. The Clement’s Firm.........................................................................................................................Kathy Lepo Stanley & Sharon Drosky........................................................................................Dorothy and Ernie Lloyd Dr. Thomas & Mrs. Eva Francomano...........................................................................................Our Parents The Mansfield and Waechter Families....................................................................................Judy Mansfield Patricia & Ned Reo...................................................................................Phyllis Chace & Lorraine Stickney Community Care Pediatrics Tony & Margaret Mangano Munter Enterprises, Inc. Sam’s Tires and Automotive Saratoga Hair Transplant Center Saratoga Wilton Elks BPOE #161

SILVER SPONSOR Allan & Phyllis Crocker.........................................................................................Marra & Crocker Families Richard & Candace Rubenstein...........................................................................Silas, Shirley, & Jack Haley Richard and Candace Rubenstein....................................Richard, Marguerite, Randy & Rita Robenstein Rick & Becky Stauffer................................................................................................Hank & MaryLee Schab Charles and Edith Ward.............................................................................................................James Conroy Hugh & Mary Ann Foley Yolanda Paolicelli Marilyn & J. Wm. Schweiker

BRONZE SPONSOR Jane Costello................................................................................................................................Mark Costello John & Lynn Sisk.......................................................................................................Sisk & Dignum Families

34 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Victorian Streetwalk 30th Annual

Brought to you by the Saratoga Srpings Downtown Business Association in downtown Saratoga, on 12/1.

Saratoga’s Christmas Tree Lighting

will be held on Thursday, December 1st at 6:00 pm, to kick off the Victorian Streetwalk!

Saratoga Central Catholic School Choir will serenade the crowd with Christmas Carols beginning at 5:45pm as the children await….

Photos by Terri-Lynn Pellegri

Santa and Mrs. Claus!

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive on horse and carriage (provided by Saratoga Horse & Carriage) escorted in by the Christian Brothers Academy Marching Band, and Santa’s elves!

The Honorable Mayor Joanne Yepsen will light the tree at 6:00 p.m., then Santa, Clara, their elves and even Rumple Dumple will visit with children throughout the evening in the beautiful Santa Cottage located in front of Putnam Market & Putnam Wine, just across from Caroline Street that was recently renovated by the students at the F. Donald Myers Education Center Construction Trades Program.

While waiting to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus… enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies, donated by the Hungry Spot, Putnam Market and Gaffney’s.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there till 9pm to give everybody time to stop by and visit!

Special Victorian Streetwalk postal cancellations

Stop by the Post Office with your stamped Christmas card envelopes, get them canceled with the specially designed 30th Anniversary Victorian Streetwalk cancellation (free) and you have a month to mail them.

The festivities continue until 9:00pm throughout downtown Saratoga Springs.

Don’t miss out on the wonderful holiday event for the whole family!

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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.

Enjoy over 35 sites with free entertainment, including the Flying Fingers Fiddlers, Spa City Duo, Shenendehowa MS Select Choir, Pokingbrook Morris Dancers, a cappella and brass groups from Skidmore College, Saratoga Soundtrack Chorus, Sax-O-Claus, The National Museum of Dance School of the Arts ballet dancers and Mother Ginger, the Saratoga County 4-H clubs gingerbread house display at various locations, The Ice Man, live reindeer, special DBA local Coupon Books, face painting, Newfoundland Dog Club. The Saratoga City Ballet and Octavo Singers will also be delighting audiences of all ages as they combine talents at the Universal Preservation Hall. The list goes on and on…

Getting There / Parking:

Broadway will close once again from 5:00 to 9:00 from the Route 50 arterial to the Spring Street intersection for the festivities.

CDTA, a festival Gold Sponsor, is running FREE shuttle buses every 20 minutes from the Empire State College parking lot at 111 West Avenue on Saratoga Springs’ west side. You can also get the shuttle at the Silver Sponsor, NYRA Oklahoma track (just off Exit 14 of I-87) and the Weible Avenue Skating Rink parking lots on the east side of Saratoga Springs.

The shuttles run from 4:30 to 10:30 .

Most businesses will be open until 9 p.m. and will hold open houses and serve delicious, free refreshments to their guests, friends and customers.

WE LOVE YOUR DOGS AS MUCH AS YOU, BUT PLEASE LEAVE THEM HOME; A SARATOGA SPRINGS CITY ORDINANCE FOR ALL LARGE EVENTS.

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 37

38 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Entertainment Schedule 1. Olde Bryan Inn 123 Maple Ave. 6-9:00 p.m. Rich Bolton 2. City Center 522 Broadway 6-9:00 p.m.

Saratoga Abundant Life Church (2 sets, weather permitting) Catholic Charities Festival of Trees Gingerbread House Display 3. Temple Sinai 509 Broadway 6-9:00 p.m.

Gift Shop open inside, free cider.

4. Roohan Realty 519 Broadway 6-8:30 p.m.

Mother Ginger National Museum of Dance School of the Arts 5. Collamer Parking Lot 494 Broadway 6-9:00 p.m. The Ice Man -LIVE Ice Sculptures 6. Mountainman Outdoor Supply 490 Broadway (outside) 6-9:00 p.m.

Cotton Candy 7. Stinky Dog 488 Broadway Eggnog & Stinky Cookies 6-8:30 p.m.

Live Music with Jason McCullough, Brent Weaver & Dave Lawler.

8. Encounter 482 Broadway 6-8:30 p.m.

National Museum of Dance School of the Arts Dancers 9. City Hall Steps 474 Broadway 7-9:00 p.m.

Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church Singing & Hot Chocolate 10. Post Office 475 Broadway 5-9:00 p.m.

Special Postal Cancellations 6:30-7, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Saratoga High School Fiddle Club 6-9:00 p.m.

Adirondack Mountain Club 11. Spoken 27 Church St. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Spa City Duo

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12. Adirondack Trust Co. 473 Broadway INSIDE: 6-6:40 p.m. Skidmore Dynamics 6:45 p.m. Racing City Chorus 7:30 p.m. Racing City Chorus 8:30 p.m. Racing City Chorus DRIVE THRU: 7:00 p.m. Schwa Cappella Singers 7:35 p.m. Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Select High School Choir 8:00 p.m. The Skidmore Treblemakers 8:30-9 p.m. The Skidmore Sonneteers STEPS: Salvation Army Band 13. Fallon Wellness Pharmacy 472 Broadway 6:30-8:30 p.m. Betsy & the ByeGons 14. G. Willikers 461 Broadway 6-9:00 p.m. PJ Duell Face Painting 7-9:00 p.m. Mr. Twisty 6-9:00 p.m. DBA Downtown Coupon Book table 15. Celtic Treasures 456 Broadway 6:30-9 p.m. Tommy Wadsworth with Drank the Gold 16. Saratoga Springs Public Library 49 Henry St. 6-9:00 p.m. Gingerbread House Display 17. Saratoga Marketplace 454 Broadway 6-6:30 p.m. Waldorf School Chorus 7-8:00 p.m. Capitaland Chorus 8-8:30 p.m. Sonneteers 18. Soave Faire 449 Broadway 6:30 p.m. Sax-O-Claus (Strolling) 7:30 p.m. Bandersnatchers 8:30 p.m. Bandersnatchers 19. Wheatfields 440 Broadway (outside) 20. Crafters Gallery 427 Broadway 6-9:00 p.m. Live Reindeer 21. Gaffney’s 16 Caroline St. 8-12:00 p.m. Megan Houde 22. Lifestyles 436 Broadway 7-7:30 & 8-9:00 p.m.

John & Orion Kribs, Doug Moody

All performers & times are subject to change.

Broadway is closed from 5PM to 9PM

23. Putnam Market 435 Broadway (outside) 5:45-9:00 p.m. CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY! 5:45-6:00 p.m. Caroling by the Saratoga Central Catholic Chorus 6 p.m. Mayor Joanne Yepsen lights the trees Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive with all the elves, free hot chocolate and cookies. Children can visit Santa throughout the evening until 9:00 p.m.

Cookies & Hot Chocolate donated by Hungry Spot, Putnam Market and Gaffney’s.

6-6:30 p.m.

Skidmore College Brass Quartet 6-9:00 p.m. Santa Cottage with Santa & Mrs. Claus 24. The Washington Building Northshire Bookstore 424 Broadway 6-8:00 p.m. Northshire Book Store, Multi Author Book signing for children & Adults 6-8:00 p.m.

Mother Goose visit with face painting 6-9:00 p.m. Hammer Dulcimer Music by Bill Flanagan 25. Outside Washington Bldg 420-422 Broadway 6-9:00 p.m.

Nemer Motor Group Photo Booth with decked out holiday Jeep 6:25-6:40 p.m. Flying Fingers 6:50-7:20 p.m. Skidmore’s Rejoice!

Inspirational Choir 7:30-7:55 p.m. Skidmore Treblemakers 26. Circus Café 392 Broadway 7-9:00 p.m.

Tim Wechgelaer, Victorian Fiddle

32. Universal Preservation Hall 25 Washington St. 7-9:00 p.m. Octavo Singers and Saratoga City Ballet will each perform a special holiday performance. Octavo Singers will perform a unique set of holiday carols. The dancers of Saratoga City Ballet will grace the stage with selected dances from the seasonal favorite, the Nutcracker.

33. Granite Palace 358 Broadway (outside) 7-9:00 p.m.

Pokingbrook Morris Dancers 34. Salt & Char 353 Broadway & Block to Division 6-9:00 p.m. Pet Partners LLC (located outside Frivolous Boutiqe) 6-6:45 & 7:40-8:40 p.m.

Saratoga Soundtrack Women’s Choir 7-7:30 p.m. Shenendehowa Select Middle School Chorus .

35. Saratoga Arts Center 320 Broadway 6-9:00 p.m.

Annual Members’ Show Art Exhibit 6-9:00 p.m. Gingerbread House Display 7-9:00 p.m. Ed Stander, glass player 36.Visitor Center Congress & Broadway 6-8:30 p.m. Northland Newfoundland Club (Live dogs) 6-9:00 p.m. Gingerbread House Display 7-9:00 p.m. Sonny & Perley Duo 37. NBT Bank 295 Broadway 7:30-8:30 p.m. Choir of St. Peter

27. Fingerpaint 395 Broadway (outside) 7-9:00 p.m. Er Go Blu (Dan Garcia & Katie Dwyer)

38. Complexions Spa 268 Broadway, next to Congress Park Open House, register to win free massage, enjoy free face painting, paraffin treatments, chair massages, special gifts and more!

28. Impressions 368 Broadway (outside) 6-9:00 p.m. Victorian Photo Booth with instant printed photos 7:00-7:40 p.m. Skidmore Accents

39. In front of Spa Central Catholic School 6:30-8 Live Nativity Scene with live animals, Saratoga Central Catholic Choir

29. Top of Phila Street 6-9:00 p.m. David Moore Irish Band

40. Strolling on Broadway: Strolling & Various locations Saxophonist: Regina Erwin and Sean Pettis Candy Co. Toy Soldier Sax-O-Claus Victorian Characters: Colleen Mahar, Victorian Stilt Walking Juggler

30. Ben & Jerry’s Corner Putnam & Phila St. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Magic Dan, Magician 31. Candy Company 5 Washington St. 6-9:00 p.m. Old Fashioned, Hot Roasted Chestnuts

Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 39

Santa's Hours VSW Dec 1st ..........6-9p.m.

Dec 2nd ...................4-7p.m.

Sat Dec 3rd .............1-4p.m.

Sun Dec 4th ............1-4p.m.

Fri Dec 9th ..............4-7p.m.

Sat Dec 10th ...........1-4p.m.

Sun Dec 11th ..........1-4p.m.

Fri Dec 16th ............4-7p.m.

Sat Dec 17th............1-4p.m.

Sun Dec 18th...........1-4p.m.

Wed Dec 21st .........4-7p.m.

Thurs Dec 22nd .....4-7p.m.

Fri Dec 23rd ...........4-7p.m.

Sat Dec 24th .....Back to the North Pole!

40 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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

GENEROUS SUPPORT

for the Victorian Streetwalk was received from the Saratoga Springs Special Assessment District and the following sponsors:

Our Gold Sponsor:

Druthers Brewing Company

Gold Media Sponsor: Saratoga TODAY

Our Gold Transportation Sponsor: CDTA

Silver Sponsors:

Ayco Company Cudney’s Cleaners New York Racing Association Saratoga Hospital

Supporters:

Adirondack Trust Salt & Char Saratoga Community Federal Credit Union Saratoga Hair Transplant and CBA Members The 30th Annual Victorian Streetwalk brought to you by the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association in downtown Saratoga Springs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Broadway will close from 5:00 to 9:00 from the Route 50 arterial to the Spring Street intersection.

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 41

LO C A L

•

E N T I N D E P E N D

•

F R E E

: S W E N G N BREAKI NOWS

mber 24, 2016 • November 14 - Dece 41 ue Iss • 9 e lum Vo

K ta n a S w o h w o n k e W ! t! s li E IC N r o Y T H G U A N who’s on the ee

by Chris Vallone Bush Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA — That’s right, f the Elf on the Shel back has been reporting ds to Santa on little ki d we living in this area an use have proof… beca nt us our readers have se their photos!

Here are a few for self, you to see for your n’t just in case you do believe us!

1-2480

paper.com • (518) 58

saratogaTODAYnews

Featured Stories

SANTA IS COMING!

HOLIDAY NEWS PAGES 16-17

See pages 16-17

Inside TODAY

Business 14-15 Education 18-19 Pulse 29-31 Sports

36-39

Weekend Forecast

42 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 43

quite the caused , x a J , s Our Elf t the kid ning tha r o m e h RE! st ir t ANYWHE im h d in tf could no the throu gh g in n n u Af ter r - my - twice e s u o h whole loor and to the f ll e f r e t that dau gh thinking g in y r c star ted . Luckily forever e n o g Jax was her to her told t o r b ig her b look UP... y es and e r e h n ope nging Jax, ha s a w e r and the g f rom very thin e g in h c out wat g fan! the ceilin .

-Lisa M

I love watching my daughter run around the house every morning looking for Jingles, our elf. I

couldn’t imagine Christmas in our house, without Jingles!

-Shelley D.

That’s our elf, Billy, ziplining across the living room, but that is NOT

the craziest thing he’s

done. Oh no… he’s snuck

into my daughter’s room and written his name across her forehead

(good thing she is such a deep sleeper!) and

he’s GIFT WRAPPED the toilet and HID in

the medicine cabinet…

he’s quite the character!

When Billy first showed up, he never lef t the

top of the tree, I think he was teaching Shelby how this works… “I

watch you, and you do NOT touch me!”

She loves her little elf!

Tracy F.

44 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

to sit isbee, likes r F , lf E t Our Scou e he sees ight wher s in la p in out re doing. the kids a t a th G N I EVERY T H I send him razy, but c m e th s It drive as Day! ch Christm a e te o n ou a Thank Y H. -Morgan

Our elf went sightseeing in Saratoga when he realized my daughter was spending the night at a friend’s!!

-Cathy G.

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 45

the xiously awai ts an n so r ou Every y ear Shelf. It r Elf on the ou h, ep os J return of nksgiving. ht af ter Tha ig r rs cu oc usually g ppened durin remember ha ly id iv v I y lf eE !

One stor nd touched th ie fr ’s n so ur a play date. O -Y IKES! touching that a human ow kn ’t dn di Obviously he as magic. Our Elf’s Christm e th n ui r n could tell an Elf ca d up and we le el w ly te ia med son’s ey es im up set. he was very Elf make it ? Would the as tm is hr C n Could this rui r t to Santa?

Pole to repo th or N e th up to ly to essage direct m a t n se d sban Luckily, my hu tuat ion. plained the si Santa and ex d.

Crisis aver te -Kim K.

awake they enjoy finding his various hiding places and positions. The girls are getting older, but our youngest who is just turning 10 speaks of Elf frequently and is hoping he will come back again “Elf” visits every year.

He star ts his journey on December 1st and shows up at our house in a mysterious way and stays until Christmas Eve. He once showed up in a candy cane striped box hanging from a tree in the yard because it seemed he parachuted in and got stuck. “Elf” switches spots every evening and when our girls

this year and visit. It is bittersweet on Christmas Day as Elf has lef t us but he always writes a note of good cheer for his safe return the following year.

This year we were for tunate enough to get a “selfie” of Elf. It is hung on our daughters bulletin board for good luck.

-Julie U.

46 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Our Elf, Snowball, caused

a lot of “discussion” in our house the morning she was found in the front

window... was she trying to get away from the cats?

Was she learning how to

zip-line? What do we do if she fell down?!

-Mack K.

Starting the morning of December 1st through Christmas Day our elves (yes we have two) always find creative and mischievous ways to surprise my three children each morning. I’m really not sure who loves it more, the kids or me?!

They are not to be moved or touched (if anyone has a 3 year old, you know how hard this can be) or they will lose their magical powers. The elves “report” back to Santa every night with their daily report of the kiddos, so they always try extra hard to be good and if they’re slipping, I just remind them of who’s watching their every move. We are all looking forward to this upcoming Holiday season and for the return of Chuckles and Ginger -Christina

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 47

My name is Nadine and this is my version of The Elf on the Shelf… and I’m sticking to it!

“The Elf” came to me when I was just 5 year’s old.

To be honest, I was very upset when she showed up; in fact, I cried. I had heard from friends that she watches everything you do and reports back to Santa every night. Come on, I’m in kindergarten…I’m into everything…I find everything interesting and I like to investigate. Mom is always yelling, “Get out of that” or “Don’t touch that” and the last thing I need is some spy elf telling Santa all my business.

Mom assured me everything would be ok, because as the Elf gets to know you, a relationship grows and she understands that you’re young and just curious. I felt a little better about that and Mom said my next task was to name her…and I named her Suzie. Then the unthinkable happened…Mom said, “YOU MAY NEVER TOUCH SUZIE!” I thought WHAT…? I already had a new outfit I picked out in my head for her including a beret from Paris!

Oh well…Mom set her on the mantel of the fireplace and I found myself eyeballing her each time I walked by; wondering how this was really going to play out.

The next morning when I got up Suzie was not on the mantel. Mom said each night when Suzie returns from the North Pole she lands in a different spot in the house. How cool is that…now I’m in search of Suzie. Yelling “SUZIE…SUZIE WHERE ARE YOU?” You would never believe where I found her…hanging from the Christmas Tree Star! I laughed and laughed and thought her landing was kinda like Moms driving. Maybe she needs a little more practice. The next day I found her in the dog food bin; I think she was shooting to land on the kitchen table AND MISSED. LOL! I’ve found her on the washing machine, a picture frame, the dining room table, hanging off the light switch, in the wreath looking in the front door and in my stocking.

It is so much fun to see where she will land each morning. I now can’t wait for Thanksgiving because I know, Suzie will show up the next morning. I have a blast searching for her every day until Christmas Eve when Suzie leaves for the North Pole with her last report to Santa.

All I can say is, I have an awesome Christmas every year so…

I guess I’m not so bad af ter all.

....as told to Grandma

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 49

50 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Holiday SONG BOOK Santa Claus is Coming to Town Frosty the Snowman Jingle Bells Away in a Manger Oh Christmas Tree Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer O Come All Ye Faithful Up on the Rooftop We Wish You A Merry Christmas Here Comes Santa Claus saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 51

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 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!

He’s making a list And checking it twice; Gonna find out Who’s naughty and nice

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 Santa Claus is coming to town

52 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Frosty the Snowman Frosty the snowman Aas a jolly happy soul With a corncob pipe And a button nose.

And two eyes made out of coal

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

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

Thumpetty thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Look at Frosty go Thumpetty thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Over the hills of snow

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.

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Down to the village With a broomstick in his hand, Running here and there, All around the square saying Catch me if you can.

Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 53

Jingle Bells Dashing through the snow In a one horse open sleigh O’er the fields we go Laughing all the way Bells on bob tails ring Making spirits bright What fun it is to laugh and sing A sleighing song tonight Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one horse open sleigh Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one horse 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 We got into a drifted bank And then we got upset Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one horse open sleigh Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one horse open sleigh

54 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Away In A Manger Away in a manger No crib for His bed The little Lord Jesus Lay down His sweet head

I love Thee, Lord Jesus Look down from the sky And stay by my side ‘Til morning is nigh

The stars in the sky Look down where He lay The little Lord Jesus Asleep on the hay

Be near me, Lord Jesus I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever And love me, I pray

The cattle are lowing The poor Baby wakes But little Lord Jesus No crying He makes

Bless all the dear children In Thy tender care And take us to Heaven To live with Thee there

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 55

Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas tree Oh Christmas tree Of all the trees, most lovely Oh Christmas tree Oh Christmas tree Of all the trees, most lovely Each year you bring to me delight Gleaming in The Christmas light Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree Of all the trees, most lovely Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree With faithful leaves unchanging

Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree With faithful leaves unchanging Your boughs are green In summer’s glow And do not fade in winter’s snow Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree With faithful leaves unchanging Each year you bring to me delight Gleaming in The Christmas Light Oh Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree Of all the trees, most lovely

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Rudolf 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 Had a very shiny nose, And if you ever saw it, You would even say it glows.

Then one foggy Christmas Eve, Santa came to say, Rudolph with Your nose so bright, Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?

Then how the reindeer loved him As they shouted out with glee, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, You’ll go down in history!

All of the other reindeer Used to laugh and call him names; They never let poor Rudolph Join in any reindeer games.

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 57

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; O come, let us adore Him O come, let us adore Him O come, let us adore Him Christ the Lord.

O Sing, Choirs of angels, Sing in exultation Sing all that hear in heaven God’s holy word Give to our Father Glory in the Highest O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.

58 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Up on the Rooftop 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

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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

Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 59

We Wish You a Merry Christmas We wish you a Merry Christmas; We wish you a Merry Christmas; We wish you a Merry 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 some out here

Good tidings we bring To you and your kin; Good 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.

Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; Oh, bring us a figgy pudding And a cup of good cheer

60 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

Here Comes Santa Claus Here comes Santa Claus Here comes Santa Claus Right down Santa Claus Lane

Here comes Santa Claus Here comes Santa Claus Right down Santa Claus Lane

Vixen and Blitzen And all his reindeer Pullin’ on the reins

He’s got a bag that’s filled with toys For boys and girls again.

Bells are ringin’ Children singin’ All is merry and bright So hang your stockings And say your prayers, ‘Cause Santa Claus comes tonight!

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Hear those sleigh bells jingle jangle, Oh what a beautiful sight So jump in bed And cover your head ‘Cause Santa Claus comes tonight!

Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 61

Editors Choice...

I just love this iconic photo of the classic Christmas village.

Decades later I still get the same magic feeling when I unpack the decorations...don’t you?!

It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air...

-W. T. ELLIS 62 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com

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Saratoga Christmas | 2016 | 63

64 | Saratoga Christmas | 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com