Page 16 - North Haven Magazine Issue 17 Winter 2021

by Jill DeChello
am fearless coordinating events. Even if I have never done it
I before, I can always see the event in my head and communicate
my enthusiastic vision to others. And, to be very honest, I love the
challenge. But, after the success of A Night at the Pumpkin Patch
at The Landing of North Haven, I had a nagging little voice telling
me to quit while I was ahead. I am so glad I didn’t listen.

A Winter Wonderland at The Landing of North Haven was magical.
And again, I had the support of The Landing of North Haven, the
businesses in town who sponsored trees, and created needed
props. There were so many talented individuals who gave of their
time to help make the Wonderland happen. The Moms again
stepped forward to help, volunteering their husbands to help me
with construction and their children to be elves, princesses and
anything else I needed. I loved that businesses, residents, students
– everyone was a part of the event. I even reconnected with an old
friend who had lived in North Haven to help. I think for me, that’s
what makes my events feel special. They may not be the biggest
or the most sophisticated but the whole town is involved. Not only
did we have gorgeous themed trees that lined the drive, we had a
Gingerbread Village, a Princess Castle and a Chocolate Lane. We
had elves, Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Elsa, Olaf and Anna, even
the Elf on the Shelf. Of course, we had Mr. and Mrs. Claus and the
Grinch who was quite popular with the kids. And, snow! When
you entered the Wonderland, you were greeted with falling snow.
I absolutely love my snow machine. The look on the faces of the
kids was priceless. And, I plan on having snow everywhere I go!

The event raised $9,500 and the funds went to the Italian Youth
Foundation who will use the money for needy families. It was a
great organization to work with run by a close friend, Nick Casella.

And now I am planning for 2021 events. I have so many in mind.
If there is something you would like to see in our little town, reach
out to me on Facebook and let me know. A final thank you to
everyone who made A Winter Wonderland at The Landing of North
Haven so successful and so much fun. Enjoy the images, courtesy
of David Frost or log on to the NHTV facebook page for a video of
the event, thanks to Victor and Walter.

North Haven Magazine - Winter Issue 2021
16