Ferry Godmother Spreads Holiday Christmas Cheer

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – “That’s so cool!” “So sweet for them to be doing this!” “Wow, such a nice thing to come home too!”

These are just a few of the phrases that could be heard from ferry passengers as they exited onto the Newburgh Ferry Landing locale Thursday night.

Their smiles, warm hearts, and genuine gratitude were the result of a little special something staged by Ferry Godmother Productions: “The Ferry Godmother Christmas Caroling Series.”

For the 11th year, Aquanetta Wright (The Ferry Godmother), along with a host of local guests, jovially entertained ferry riders with around 20 Christmas melodies, including such classics as: “Deck the Halls,” “We Wish  You A Merry Christmas,” and “Here Comes Santa Claus.” The popular event’s roots can be traced all the way back to 2005, when Wright  was intent on finding ways to unite the City of Newburgh “family.” With so many of its residents taking the Beacon train on a daily basis,  their return spot to the Landing, seemed to be the ideal setting. First, it was providing hot coffee and refreshments in the morning to commuters; in time that popularity evolved into the Caroling, something that has picked up momentum ever since.

“I started commuting using the ferry in 2005 when I met Aquanetta, and although I’m not taking the train any more, I still come out here to support  her with the caroling each year, as it’s such a sweet thing to see her out here with the carolers each year,” said Kristen Owens of the City of Newburgh.

“The nicest thing is it helps keep the holiday spirit alive, even though politically and economically it is challenging now, these songs and community  help make things so uplifting and keeps spirit in our hearts.”

It’s that very spirit of the Christmas season that incited Robert Benitez, playing Santa Claus for his fourth straight year at the Caroling event, to once again make the trip from Highland Mills to the Newburgh Waterfront. A Santa Claus veteran, with over 20 years under his belt dressed up as the holiday icon, Benitez loves this time of the year; however, he has been disappointed over the years at the dwindling enthusiasm of many who surround him toward the holidays.

Wright is a huge exception.

“What Aquanetta does down here with the caroling is absolutely phenomenal; she has such a huge heart, and it shows in everything she does for others,” said Benitez, this year accompanied for the first time by “Mrs Claus,” played by Nancy Hales. “Tonight is really all about bringing the feeling of the season back, as it somehow has gotten lost.”

Based on the enthusiasm of her band of carolers of all ages, bundled up on this frigid night, joyfully singing their hearts out while sipping on hot beverages and munching on cookies, that spirit was alive and well Thursday night at the Ferry Landing. Pleased ferry riders not only uttered phrases of approval amongst themselves, but waved and smiled to those lending the musical entertainment. It’s that community feeling and connection that Wright, “The Ferry Godmother,” aspires to create with each activity she puts her magical touch upon.

“It’s about the people coming together and the beauty of the season, as well as restoring community,” Wright addressed her carolers before the singing commenced.

“At the end of the day, and enjoying one another, are what it’s all about.”