At Fr. Tom’s request, The Knights of Columbus provided the initial impetus for making it happen, with some basic setup planning and manpower, and most importantly, the “Can Do” mentality.  The Knights teamed with the Team Ministry, Parish Office, and Religious Formation to make it a success. As with any project with a short planning window, we had wrinkles to work out.  Once the plan was in motion, a lot of the wrinkles were smoothed out.

Tom Zobele provided the initial volunteer to stand up the project.  Joining him were Tom Monroe, Frank Lieto, Larry Dawkins, Walter Urban, Tim Glackin (WGT), Ed Koch and Tim Connelly.

Frank provided sound brotherly advice with the initial setup prior to getting Walter on board. A Consiglieri is very important!

Walter’s experience with Breakfast With Santa events in the past provided the catalyst that allowed us to move forward, set a strategy and make basic planning decisions around resources and dates. 

Walter handled the procurement (frame materials, food, etc.) and most of the setup for the day. He also designed the Plexi Glass Screen for Santa, an engineering marvel!

Jackie Ferrari handled scheduling changes and arrangements to secure the room around the mass schedule.

At Judy Koch’s direction, Tim and Ed loaded the bagel bags on Saturday. After fixing the Bagel Bags, Tim Glackin stayed and helped Walter finish the screen.

Larry Dawkins provided the trains.

Kristin McPherson and Judy Koch with the help of the teens set up the decorations.  Kristin and Tim Glackin provided awnings and Christmas lights for décor.

Judy Koch and Miriam Nawab of Religious Formation handled reservations.  Judy Koch manned the table for sign in and writing letters to Santa.  The teen ministry manned the various tables and assisted with moving people through the line.

And of course, Anthony Siniscalco, with his vast network of contacts, was able to pull to pull some strings and arrange a visit from Santa and make sure Santa’s chairs and benches were delivered on time.