Saturday is a night for giving back

SCHENECTADY -- Saturday was a great night to watch a parade. It was the annual Gazette Holiday Parade in downtown Schenectady. People of all ages lined up along State Street to watch as the this year's version marked the Electric City's 200th Anniversary...and to get some candy.

This was their annual holiday dinner but Willingham says she plans to put on events like this at least once a week throughout the winter months and she is looking for donations.

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- A local, family-run charity celebrated a major milestone Saturday night at the Canfield Casino.

The Donna Crandall Memorial Foundation has now raised $1 million for families and patients affected by cystic fibrosis.

They celebrated at the Emerald Eve Gala. Cystic fibrosis is a chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive systems in children and adults.

Organizers say that while they are proud of the fundraising, it's knowing where the money goes that brings them the most joy.

"It's a extraordinary milestone that we've reached a million dollars because what it means is a million dollars in the hands of people that really need it," said David Crandall, president of the foundation. "One of the great things about our foundation is nobody gets paid any money. So all of the money goes to those people that really need it."