Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Four-year-old Gabriella Gentner of Eltingville wants a real motorcycle and a giant stuffed Teddy bear for Christmas, so she wore her best pink Grinch pajamas and lined up at the Staten Island Mall on Thursday night to put in the request. When Santa officially arrived at the New Springville shopping center in grand fashion courtesy of the FDNY, she was one of the first to greet him. “He’s here, he’s really here!!” she squealed, overcome by the magic, stealing an opportunity to grasp a tiny feel of the big guy’s coat before he dashed away to center court. And Gentner wasn’t alone: Dozens of other Staten Island kids lined the Mall’s corridor to greet old St. Nick, who will take up residency there until Christmas Eve. Mall management pulled out all the stops for the event, which included a festive performance by the students at DEA Music & Art School, face painting and a cast of Christmas characters, some of whom dazzled the crowd on stilts. Starting Friday, Nov. 7, Santa will be located on the ground floor level in front of JCPenney for 47 days — excluding Thanksgiving, when the Mall is closed. Parents are encouraged to make an appointment before their visit, but it is not mandatory to schedule a session. Guests who do book at whereissanta.com will receive a free, personalized phone call from Santa before their visit, compliments of Portable North Pole. Check the Mall’s website for details on the annual “Santa Cares” event on Dec. 7, hosted exclusively for children and families with special needs. During this time, children can visit Santa in a sensory-friendly environment and celebrate “Santa Magic” in an inclusive atmosphere. Reservations are required for this private photo experience, and donations will be accepted on behalf of Autism Speaks. Several Santa “Pet Nights” are also on the schedule. On those nights, furry friends can visit the display from 4 to 7 p.m.
