Polar Express Theme Helps Kick Off Holiday Season

Kathleen Maedinger, Resident Council President at Kane Scott, gets a visit from "Mrs. Santa" Mary Conley.

The John J. Kane Regional Center in Scott Township rode the “Polar Express” while celebrating its version of a light-up night on December 8.

“We had a beautiful light up night event, with the community of residents, staff, family and volunteers coming together for an enjoyable evening,” said Marci Donovan, Recreation Therapy Supervisor at Kane Scott. “The theme of the night was ‘The Polar Express.’ The room was decorated with murals of railroad stations, a train, conductors, snowmen, and penguins created by the Recreation Department.”

Entertainment was provided by “The Old Standards,” a two-man saxophone and keyboard group. Kane Scott Administrator Carolyn Pilewski welcomed residents and visitors, and she led the lighting of the Christmas tree.

Santa Claus arrived at 7:15 p.m. as children sang “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” Mrs. Claus – also known as Mary Conley of Kane Scott’s Food Service Department -- assisted Santa as he distributed gifts to the children and asked the kids what they wanted for Christmas. Photos were taken with Santa and the group was treated to hot cocoa, punch, cheese and crackers. Two special locomotive-themed cakes were created by Pam Emmons of Aladdin and Marlene Stein of Kane Scott’s Food Service Department. 

“The facility was very lively, and the residents enjoyed this kick off to the holiday season,” Donovan said.

For more information, contact Marci Donovan, Kane Scott Recreation Therapy Supervisor, at 412.429.3163.