All the news that's fit to fill airtime

| 29 Sep 2011 | 10:50

First “Eyewitness News” reporter, then Z100 DJ search for Santa in Warwick Warwick - In response to a story that appeared last month in The Warwick Advertiser, ABC Channel 7, “Eyewitness News,” brought a TV crew to Warwick on Monday, Dec. 18. According to the ABC 6 p.m. report that same evening, “In November a Jewish parent complained about a PTA event featuring Santa.” The event, which ABC did not mention, was the Sanfordville Elementary School’s annual “Breakfast with Santa.” Although “Eyewitness News” went on to state that the PTA added Frosty the Snowman to the event, the voice over on the video added, “But things have been frosty ever since.” The five-minute clip then showed Warwick Valley School Supervisor Dr. Frank Greenhall who stated that the episode had been very difficult for him. “I received nasty, bitter and insulting e-mails,” he said. “I’m very disappointed.” ABC reporter Marcus Solis interviewed several parents who were upset with the issue, including Lisa Rice, Darlene Barratto and Pam Eigo. Solis also interviewed the parent who originally filed the complaint. Although it’s common knowledge locally, she still requested that she remain anonymous. The ABC cameraman photographed her facing away from the camera. “You try to make a change for the better,” she said. “That’s all I was trying to do.” Parent Pam Eigo commented: “Warwick is growing awfully fast. A lot of people like it the way it was.” Back in the studio, anchor Steve Bartelstein smiled and ended the story this way: “I have a Christmas Tree right next to my menorah.” Warwick and Santa’s popularity was in the spotlight again the next day when New York radio station Z100’s celebrity “Greg T” came dressed as Santa to G’s Restaurant and broadcast from Main Street on Tuesday morning. He happily wished everyone a “merry Christmas and happy holidays” and bought breakfast for all that came out. He said he came to Warwick because the Santa issue was a big story. Warwick resident Carol Sapanaro, who happened to having breakfast at G’s, offered this end note: “Agree or disagree with the issue, it has touched the nerve of many and brought people together, strengthening whatever it is they believe.”