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December 10, 2024

Runners are happy to complete the Rotary Club of Huntley's Run With the Elves. The event was part of Very Merry Huntley Dec. 7. Front row from left: Evelyn Jones, Shaya Speten, Alyssa Armstrong, and Aria Armstrong. Back row: Tami Speten, Shane Speten, and Phillip Armstrong.
Steve Peterson
Runners are happy to complete the Rotary Club of Huntley’s Run With the Elves. The event was part of Very Merry Huntley Dec. 7. Front row from left: Evelyn Jones, Shaya Speten, Alyssa Armstrong, and Aria Armstrong. Back row: Tami Speten, Shane Speten, and Phillip Armstrong.

Features, News • December 10, 2024

Christmas trees to Santa arrival make a merry day

By

HUNTLEY — Huntley welcomed the Christmas season with many activities on a breezy day for Very Merry Huntley Dec. 7.

The Saturday fun began with contestants in the Christmas tree display putting the finishing touches on their entrants. It ended just past sundown when Santa Claus made his grand entrance, followed by Huntley Mayor Tim Hoeft flipping the switch for the Christas light display and then fireworks rounded out the day.

The group of downtown Huntley residents, Friends of Downtown Huntley, who reside on Second Street and Church Street, were hopfeul to get the most votes on their tree.

“This is the third year we have done this,” Tammy Nuccio said. “We won the first year but finished second last year. This year we did a Santa Claus theme.”

The Rotary Club of Huntley organized the Run of the Elves of 5K and 1K distance runs, which also included one for walkers. Miss Huntley Katie Mitchell, a sophomore softball player at Loyola University in Chicago, did the honors with the official start and presented awards. More than 70 runners joined in and many walkers.

“It’s a great opportunity to recognize all the things we do as Rotarians to contribute to the community,” Rotary Club past president Jim Uszler said.

Those Rotary Club of Huntley’s causes are many, from scholarships for Huntley High School students to education about polio and summer polinator efforts.

Runners from Marlowe Middle School’s cross country team and one from Martin Elementary School participated in one group.

The first male to cross the 5K  finish line was Nathan Pierzchalski of Algonquin, a sophomore at Jacobs High School, who ran it in 20:16.6. According to race results, runners ranged in age from 8 to 77.

The 1K winner was Vince Baker, 12, of Crystal Lake. The shorter race included Carole Homer, 81, of Huntley. She finished third overall and the first female.

“The first mile was especially tough with the wind, but you fought through it,” Pierzchalski said.

“I love it,” race participant Michelle Ryan said. Ryan had her dog Teddy along for the ride in a stroller.  “It’s a great way to kick off the season.”

“It was a great race, a great day to get out and run,” said participant Aaron Natonski, who ran with his son Owen.

Meanwhile, First Congregational Church hosted a cookie walk and Kris Kringle Market sales. Also, the church’s two handbell choirs, Whitechapel and Genesis, presented a concert of Christmas songs. Santa Claus’ arrival, Christmas tree lighting and caroling capped off the day.