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Few places in the Rochester area generate so many fond memories than Sibley’s Department Store.

Couple that with Rochester television legend Don Alhart, and you have a match made in nostalgia heaven.

The iconic department store was a landmark in downtown Rochester until it closed in 1990. To commemorate and remember the magic of Sibley’s, WHAM-TV, Channel 13 anchor Don Alhart, has created a book called “Sibley’s Christmas Adventure.” In the story, Sibley the mouse goes on a magical Christmas adventure set in Sibley’s Toyland in downtown Rochester. The children’s book is illustrated by Rochester native Doug Hoyt, and all proceeds from the book sales benefit the Arc Foundation of Monroe.

Alhart launched the book at The Arc of Monroe’s annual celebration, A Toast to the Arc, held in early October 2020.

“Downtown Rochester was a special place during the holidays, and the fourth floor toy department at Sibley’s was the center of the universe for me,” said Alhart.

The Arc of Monroe is an agency that holds special memories for Don. One of his first emceeing appearances was at The Arc of Monroe’s bowling banquet over 50 years ago, just as he was beginning his career as a television journalist. When he arrived at the banquet hall at the Moose Club on East Avenue, he was welcomed with warm cheers and hugs and handshakes that moved him to tears. He’s never missed a banquet since.

All proceeds benefit the Arc Foundation of Monroe, helping The Arc of Monroe continue its mission of providing programs and services for over 1,400 people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families in the Rochester community.