Past Royalty 2018

Our 2018 King was born in Saranac Lake and is a fourth generation Saranac Laker. He went to St. Bernard's school and graduated from Saranac Lake high school, after which he attended Clarkson University. After college, he returned to Saranac Lake where he has been active in the community. He has been a member of the Saranac Lake Youth Center board, a founding member of the Saranac Lake Business Association, a volunteer for the Youth Soccer League, a member of the Friends of Mt. Pisgah, a Democratic Party committeeman and a member of the town of Harrietstown Board of Assessment Review. He has also participated over the years in a number of Winter Carnival roles. He has served as an adviser to the high school court and has been the treasurer for the Winter Carnival Committee. He is currently in charge of producing the Winter Carnival program book and is serving his tenth year on the Saranac Lake School Board. He continues to volunteer his time and resources to help friends and community organizations - including delivering Thanksgiving Day meals for the Women's Civic Chamber and Adult Center and helping to set up the Plein Air Fesival. He is the co-owner of a local business, Rice Furniture. He is the son of Mary and Clyde and the youngest sibling of Brian, Gary, Kathy, Paul, Carol and Colleen. He is the proud father to his son, Sam and husband to his lovely wife of 26 years, Sue.

Our 2018 Winter Carnival Queen was born in Niagara Falls, NY but raised in the North Country. She was the first born in her family.
She attended Beekmantown Central School and graduated in 1975. Her first visit to Saranac Lake was as a high school student attending All County Band as a first chair alto clarinet concert band student. She also attended Plattsburgh State and SUNY Empire graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Business Management. She moved to Saranac Lake on her 29th birthday in September 1986. She has been very active since then with numerous community activities, including the following: Brownie & Junior Girl Scout leader for six years, a member of the Women's College Scholarship Club for six years, including nominating committee & recording secretary, Saranac Lake Youth Softball & Baseball Recording Secretary for five years, Recording Secretary for the Saranac Lake Above the Rim Basketball Booster Club for five years, Saranac Lake High School After Prom Committee for two years, A presentative for the Saranac Lake High School Code of Conduct committee, A board member of First Night Saranac Lake from its inception in 2006 through the festivities of 2016, acting as treasurer and co-coordinator for event entertainment, A member of the Adirondack Lawn Chair Ladies since 2007, Current Chair of the Town of Santa Clara Variance Board and a board member since January 2006, Assisted in honoring Captain Paul McKay from Australia with a memorial bench and plaque on the Scarface Mountain trail in 2014,Event Planner for the 2018 St. Regis Fire Tower Centennial Celebration, as well as assisting with coordinating a supporters list and acknowledging donors, She is currently employed at St. Bernard's Parish since 1987 and the Adirondack North Country Association since 1993, She is the wife of Richard, and mother of Sarah & Michael, Our 2018 Winter Carnival Queen is Nancy LaBombard.

Drew hails from North Bangor, NY, and has many fond childhood memories of participating in the parades and revues of the Malone Winter Carnival, never having dreamed that he would be honored with royal participation in the esteemed Saranac Lake Carnival! He grew up loving all things musical with a particular passion for piano, voice, and trumpet and left the North Country to pursue musical studies at Ithaca College where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees, taught as assistant professor, and continues to serve on the faculty of the Summer Music Academy. Drew first came to Saranac Lake as a young camper at Camp Guggenheim and was instantly infatuated with the natural beauty of this community, and even more so by the kindness, creativity, and passion of its residents. He was blessed to have received his first teaching job here in 2003 as Director of Instrumental music. While a master's degree and other employment kept him away from the mountains for five years, his heart remained tied to Saranac Lake, and in 2011 he returned to the high school as Director of Choral Activities. Drew loves being able to make music is this creative and supportive community, not only at school, but as organist for St. Bernard's Church, accompanist for Northern Lights Choir, and artistic director of the Northern Adirondack Vocal Ensemble. He is the son of Daniel Benware and Barbara Winthrop-Benware of North Bangor, and brother of Nicholas Benware and his wife Elizabeth as well as proud uncle of Cameron and Zachary of Plattsburgh. He is thrilled beyond measure to have been selected by the Court to be the 2018 Winter Carnival Chamberlain - and over half have sung in his chorus! Having dedicated his life to teaching the students of Saranac Lake, he finds it intensely humbling that they should bestow on him this honor and looks forward to serving alongside them as positive ambassadors throughout what promises to be an amazing Adirondack Festival!

The Bevilacquas have made Saranac Lake their home since Carl and Elizabeth "Jim" Bevilacqua moved here in the 1940s to own and operate the Post Office Pharmacy on Main Street. "Granny B", also fondly known as the partying "Mrs. B", recently celebrated her 92nd birthday with a few Old Fashioneds! Six Bevilacqua children were born in Saranac Lake, and all live and work here today. James "Jimbo" Bevilacqua took over the pharmacy in the 1980s, is still sole proprietor and is married to Beth Sullivan. He is father to Carl, Natalina and Emmett. Mary Raymond, wife of 45 years to the late football coach legend John Raymond, currently works at the pharmacy with Jim. She is mother to Matt Raymond, owner of MJ Construction, and grandmother to Kat. Michael "Beef " Bevilacqua, owner of Beef's Electric, and serving as Harrietstown Judge, is married to JoAnne Ely, a Saranac Lake native. He is father to Angela Atwell and Jacquine Verdura. Cherrie Sayles is the owner of Say Real Estate, in business for 33 years. She is mother to CJ Hagmann, owner of Say Rentals and ADK Express, mother-in-law to Ruth, and grandmother to Hudson and Dax. Janie Rabideau has owned and operated Janie's for Hair for 35 years, and is married to Mayor Clyde Rabideau. She is mother to Gabi Bevilacqua and Maria Braun, grandmother to Harper, and is awaiting Keith and Maria Braun's next bundle of joy. Bob Bevilacqua is owner-operator of Carcuzzi Car Care, served on the Harrietstown Board as a Trustee and Supervisor, and is husband to Brenda for over 40 years. He is father to Sabrina Harrison and Lexi Bevilacqua, and grandfather to Gunner, Ryder and Milo. The Bevilacquas are excited to be part of Carnival and say they love their family, friends and community, and feel blessed to live in their home town of Saranac Lake.

Christine grew up in Bombay, NY, on the Canadian border and graduated from Salmon River Central HS. She is the daughter of the late William Hastings Perkins and Dorothy Perkins of Lake Placid and youngest sister to Cathy and Karen. After HS, Christine attended Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY and majored in Anthropology. Upon graduation she moved to Buffalo where she lived almost entirely for free with her sister Cathy and worked lots of different jobs like bartending and managing a Wendy's restaurant. After much consideration and encouragement from others she decided to apply to the School Counseling program at the University of Buffalo where she received her Master's Degree. She was first hired as a School Counselor in 1994 at Salmon River CSD and was hired as a High School Counselor at Saranac Lake CSD in November of 1998 and has been here ever since. Christine has also been the Key Club advisor for many years. She feels incredibly lucky to work in such a great school district with amazing students.She learns things from them every day. Christine is married to Thomas who she met at Hartwick. She is Mom to twin daughters, Olivia and Molly who are in 10th Grade at SLHS. She was so honored to be asked to be part of this year's WCC as Archbishop and looks forward to all the fun ahead. Happy Carnival to all!

Daniel is a native of Cornwall, New York, and will be graduating from Paul Smith's College in May, 2018 with a degree in Hotels, Resorts and Tourism Management. He is a volunteer firefighter with the Highlang Engine Company #1, as well as, Paul Smith Fire Department, while also being a Resident Assistant at the College. Daniel recently completed a 7 month internship at Walt Disney World. He plans to move to Florida when he graduates. Daniel enjoyed being a member of the Paul Smith's College Rugby team.

Victoria is a native of Massena, New York and is attending North Country Community College, where she will receive her Nursing Degree.
Victoria has volunteered with many organizations and programs including, a member of the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad, Salvation Army bell ringer, plays piano at Sunday morning services in the High Peaks Church, worked in Go Fish, a local thrift store, was able to attend mission trips to Uganda and India, part of Operation Christmas Child and has served the homeless in New York City with Operation Drumstick. Victoria has been honored to receive membership in Phi Theta Kappa. She received The Barbara Rexilius Award for Nursing and the North Country Community College Foundation Scholarship. Victoria is proud to say she was the 2016 Champ of the Taylor Ladies Fry Pan toss. Victoria is happy to say she is one of 8 children; her youngest sister was recently adopted through the Foster Care Program. Her family has been a Foster Care home. She is working on being a Saranac Lake 6er, having completed 5. Victoria is single and enjoying life.

Roslyn is the daughter of Robyn and Tod McClatchie. She is the older sister of Keeleigh and the owner of her puppy, Timber. Roslyn is proud to play soccer and basketball for the Red Storm. She hopes to study and receive her RN license in the upcoming years after her experience working as a CNA. She is grateful to call the Adirondacks home and is honored to be part of this year's
2018 Winter Carnival Court after being a member of the 2017 prom court. Roslyn wishes everyone a safe and wonderful time!

Dzihad is the son of Dzemal and Sejdefa,and older brother toEdina and Rijad. In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer and running track. He is a two year varsity soccer player and two year track runner. In the fall,he plans to attend college to study criminal justice. Dzihad is honored to be a member of this year's Winter Carnival Court and wishes everyone a happy and fun carnival.

Madison is the daughter of Chris Grimone and Susan Hooker. Madison has participated in sports throughout her high school career,including, soccer,cross country, ice hockey,and track and field. She is Vice President of her class,a member of National Honor Society and Key Club. This year she is taking part in the New Vision program for school. She plans to attend college in the fall and run collegiate cross country. She intends to major in pre-med and become an anesthesiologist. She hopes you all have a festive Winter Carnival.

Brett is the son of Kim and Guy Dawson and the youngest brother of Andrew,Travis and Dylan and uncle to Jacob. He follows in the footsteps of two of his brothers who were also on the court. During his high school career,Brett has played lacrosse,football,cross country,soccer and his favorite;hockey. Brett plans to attend college in the fall, majoring in computer science. Brett is honored
to have been nominated for the 2018 Winter Carnival Court and hopes everyonehas a blast this carnival!

Savanna is the daughter of Rick and Stephanie Donaldson, and the younger sister of Sydney. In her free time,she enjoys playing soccer, ice hockey, and playing the card game pinochle with some older residents of the community. Savanna is a member of Student Council,French Club and National Honor Society. In the fall,she plans to attend college studying business and psychology. Savanna is excited to be a part of this year's carnival court, and wishes everyone a happy Winter Carnival.

Emery is the son of Randall and Laura-Jean Swanson,and younger brother of Silas and Witter Swanson. He is a four-year football, basketball and lacrosse player for the Saranac Lake Red Storm. He is also the treasurer of the Class of 2018 and president of Saranac Lake High School's Habitat for Humanity Chapter. He plans to attend college in the fall. Emery is honored to be a part of the Winter Carnival Court and wishes everyone a happy Carnival!

Maggie is the daughter of Dan and Darlene Peer a younger sister to Eamonn and Maeve, and an older sister to Emma. Maggie is the captain of the cross country team;she snowboards,and runs on the spring track team. She is a member of Key Club, Adirondack Young life and alumni of St. Bernard's School.Maggie plans to attend college in the fall;she is very honored to be chosen as a member of this year's court, and wishes everyone a great Winter Carnival.

Jarrett is the son of Amy Ashton and the grandson of Rick and Patti Ashton. He is a four-year,three season athlete who enjoys playing football, basketball,and lacrosse. Jarrett is looking to go to college to study business and criminal justice and hopefully continue his football career. He was also a member of the 2017 prom court and is very excited and honored to be a part of the 2018Winter Carnival Court. He would like to wish everyone a very happy Carnival.

Alex is the daughter of Michelle Hill and Michael Hill. Her siblings are Alyssa Arnell, Lea Hill and her brother Evan Hill, who was on the 2016 Winter Carnival Court as well. Alex was on homecoming court her sophomore and junior years and was homecoming queen of 2017. She was also the prom queen of
2017. She is proud to play hockey and run track for Saranac Lake High School.She hopes that everyone has a great Winter Carnival.

DJ is the son of Dermott Morgan Senior,and Jodi Duffy-Morgan,his siblings are Haleigh,McKayla,Dondi,and Jillian. He loves playing football,basketball and lacrosse, along with singing in the high school choir and lifting weights. He plans to attend Plattsburgh State College in the fall and one day hopes to become a Jedi Knight.

Natalie is the daughter of James and Lisa Dewey and the older sister of David Dewey. Natalie is a member of National Honor Society,the women's vocal ensembles,was a member of 2017 prom court and plays first base on the varsity softball team. She aspires to attend college for a double major in speech language pathology and special education. She hopes everyone has a safe and wonderful carnival.

Ethan is the son of Donald and Kristen Ecret and the younger brother to Austin. He is the Vice President of Key Club,Treasurer of the French Club, Secretary of Habitat for Humanity,service coordinated of the National Honor Society,and secretary of his New Vision class. In his free time,Ethan enjoys traveling, skiing and hanging out with friends. Next year, he plans to attend college to pursue a career as a doctor. Ethan is honored to be part of the 2018 Winter Carnival Court and wishes everyone a festive Carnival!

Kayleigh is the daughter of Christine and Marvin Merrill,older sister to Brooke and younger sister to Jacob. Kayleigh has been a part of the Select Vocal Ensembles for three years,and also is a four-year,three season athlete, who plays soccer,basketball,and softball. When she graduates, she plans on going to college. Kayleigh is so happy and excited to be on the Winter Carnival Court with a great group of people, and hopes everyone has an amazing carnival.

Julian is the son of Barb Gowan and Vince Gambacurta,and brother of Corinne. He is a member of the track and field team, co-treasure of Model United Nations, participant in Adirondack Young Life, and spends time on the local trails or on the water working as a lifeguard at Lake Colby Beach. He greatly enjoys his time within the SLHS Music Department and is in Concert Choir, Men's Vocal Ensemble, and the annual spring musical. He hopes to pursue a degree in aeronautical engineering in college next fall. Julian is highly honored to be part of this year's court and would like to wish everyone a fun and festive carnival!