Holiday Express Spreads Cheer in RSPA Panther Hall

Holiday cheer warmed the air last evening in RSPA Panther Hall, as the spirit of giving was alive and well, thanks to the tremendously festive concert provided by the Upper School Jazz Band and Chorus and of course, Tim McLoone and the lively volunteer-musicians of Holiday Express.

Ranney’s second annual Evening with Holiday Express concert opened with heartwarming remarks from Head of School Dr. Lawrence Sykoff, who noted a generosity of spirit among the Ranney community and emphasized the importance of providing for those less fortunate, especially during the holiday season. Dr. Sykoff was joined on stage by RSPA President Sue Grosso, along with Holiday Express Chair Bob Parker and RSPA Snowflake Market Chairs Kim Chalnick and Michele Glazer, as he presented a check for $17,500 to founder Tim McLoone. Each year, Holiday Express relies on community members to help it achieve its mission of bringing holiday cheer to those who may not otherwise receive a healthy dose of it. A visibly moved Tim McLoone graciously shared stories of the organization’s community outreach initiatives, noting that each one of us should realize, especially during the holiday season, that “there, but for the grace of God” could go any among us. That feeling kicked off an amazing evening.

Ranney students, parents, faculty, staff and friends were entertained by the Upper School Jazz Band and Chorus, who opened the evening with the holiday favorite “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” arranged by Bruce Springsteen. The group continued with the swing tune “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” and finished with Dr. Sykoff joining them onstage for a fun version of “Run, Run Rudolph.” Lauren Resnikoff, president of Tri-M® Music Honor Society, spoke about the mission of community service through music.

Tim McLoone then took the stage with musicians from Holiday Express and engaged the audience in traditional holiday favorites such as “Deck the Halls” and “Feliz Navidad,” and rocked RSPA Panther Hall while encouraging sing-alongs to “That’s What Christmas Means to Me,” “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” and “Nobody Ought to Be Alone on Christmas.” Of course, when the Grinch arrived in person to rouse the audience, the musicians had to sing the favorite Dr. Seuss classic as well. Poignant moments of the evening included beautiful and soulful renditions of “Silent Night,” “O, Holy Night” and, in tribute to the 30th anniversary of the loss of John Lennon, “Love Is All You Need.”

The excitement in the air sparked members of the Upper School Jazz Band and Chorus to jump up and start dancing in the aisles, adding to the festivity of the evening. Tim McLoone then invited the students along with Dr. Sykoff up on stage to end the evening on a highly spirited note, with reprise versions of “Run, Run Rudolf” and “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” and the grand finale Holiday Express theme song, “Nobody Ought to Be Alone on Christmas.” The evening, indeed, was an early gift for all those in attendance.

Driven by the Parents’ Association, students across campus collected scarves, socks and toothbrushes to donate to Holiday Express’ goodie bags that they distribute to those in need throughout the holiday season. The Lower School has collected more than 500 scarves, toothbrushes and socks, while the Upper School has collected more than 200 items. The Middle School has had an overwhelming response, collecting more than 1,000 pairs of socks already and anticipate collecting another 250 pairs at Friday evening’s “NY Sock Exchange” dance. A greater than anticipated number of students and their families in Middle and Upper School also had the opportunity to visit the warehouse and help prepare the goodie bags. The Ranney brownie troop, consisting of students in grades 2-5, also visited the Holiday Express warehouse and the girls donated all of their Halloween candy to the group.

Holiday Express is one of many organizations that Ranney School students are supporting. Children will also send greeting cards and letters to hospitals and members of the armed services through the American Red Cross, and donate holiday gifts through Toys for Tots and the Trinity Episcopal Church in Asbury Park this season. “Dedicated staff members at Ranney encourage students to abide by the school’s motto of ‘Knowledge, Vision, Honor,’ and give back through service to the community,” said Head of School Dr. Lawrence Sykoff. “We are extremely proud of the dedication of our students, parents, and alumni as we embrace this season of giving.”