To the editor:

The 123rd Saranac Lake Winter Carnival celebration begins on Friday, Jan. 31 with the 2020 Winter Carnival Royal Coronation. The Women’s Civic Chamber of Saranac Lake honorably requests the presence of all socialites, including those “mythical” and “legendary,” at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Harrietstown Town Hall.

Steeped in tradition, the evening will begin with the reading of the official proclamation by Mayor Rabideau. Featuring music by the Saranac Lake High School Jazz Band, speeches by the outgoing 2019 royalty, dance routines by the Royal Court and Pages, and culminating with the crowning of this year’s incoming royalty, the occasion promises to be a majestic extravaganza, kicking off the 10-day whimsical week of winter festivities.

Over 60 years ago, the Women’s Civic Chamber was founded by a handful of community-spirited women. Today, the organization boasts 50 members who pride themselves on volunteering, fundraising and giving back. The Winter Carnival Coronation exemplifies each of these intentions, with members eagerly volunteering their time to organize and staff the event, while also fundraising and giving back through a 50/50 raffle. Tickets will be sold at the door and the winner will be announced that evening during the event. Each year, WCC donates 50% of the proceeds to a local nonprofit organization. This year’s recipient will be the Winter Carnival Committee. An “arm’s length” of tickets sells for $5, or one ticket for $1. Come prepared to take a chance on winning some cash and support the Winter Carnival at the same time.

The first official duty of the newly crowned “royals” is to mingle with the “common folk” at a Royal Reception. The Saranac Lake BPOE will host this year’s reception immediately following the coronation at the Elks Lodge, 30 Bloomingdale Ave., Saranac Lake. Both the Royal Coronation and the Royal Reception are free-entry, public events.

Susan Rdzanek

Women’s Civic Chamber

Saranac Lake