It was a difficult project to undertake, made only more challenging by “Sandy”. It was a bit nippy, but the weather cooperated for the Friendly Bay Village Holiday Homes Tour.
All seven homes on Bennett Place were beautifully decorated by their homeowners. The architecture and design of the homes was evident. Various details were pointed out to visitors. Everyone was amazed at the variety, design and décor of the houses.
Music was played in many homes by local musicians recruited by Margaret Brooks. It was delightful and added to the spirit of the holidays.
At the Bennett Place Firehouse, vendors offered their wares while baked goods were sold and mulled cider was offered. Linda Weber and Laura Kronenberg facilitated this part of the Tour. Diane O’Neill had a strong hand in keeping things going and Chris Doran sold Tour tickets.
Special thanks to St. Mary’s Church and Father Geminder for hosting the Tea Room and Gift Shoppe organized by Caroline D’Antonio. A bounty of homemade cookies were enjoyed by those who stopped by to warm up, with Pat Johnson at the helm recruiting the bakers who donated cookies. Vendors were on hand for Holiday shopping.
Over 70 overflowing gift baskets were raffled off thanks to the much appreciated efforts of Ellen Ricciuti and Chris Doran as co-chairs of the Raffle committee. Dale and Jill Yarmosh were Santa’s elves, assuring all winners were notified and received their prizes! The newly redecorated Lauder Museum was open. A tour of the historic area was conducted by Marilyn Brous.
All of this would not have been possible if not for the dedication of the Tour Co-chairs Diane Apgar and Ethel McGill, who marched on despite their own losses in the storm. Many thanks to all those who attended and assisted behind the scenes for making this year’s tour a resounding success.
(click to enlarge photos)
