DEALMAKERS

Show us your mantel

Do you have a fireplace mantel that gets the glam treatment during the holidays? Reporter Leigh Hornbeck is putting together a story about mantels decorated for the season. Mantels serve a practical purpose in a home with a fireplace, but they also vary widely in style and make the ideal focal point for showing off cards, photographs and stockings hung with care.

Last year as the holidays approached, Spaces showcased front doors, and how people show off their holiday spirt with lights and decoration on the entrances to their homes. This year, our focus moves inside to the mantel, and how you dress it up for the holidays. Send pictures and contact information to lhornbeck@timesunion.com by Dec. 9.

Funds raised for charities

The Saratoga County Showcase of Homes raised $51,000 for two nonprofits: Rebuilding Together Saratoga County and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties. The Saratoga Builders Association hosts the showcase, which has raised more than $1.2 million dollars for the charities. Vistors had the opportunity to vote for their favorites of the 10 houses.The winners of the people's choice awards are: McPadden Builders in the classic home category; Kodiak Construction for its executive home and Bella Home Builders won for best luxury home.

Brokerage sponsors holiday lights contest

Monticello Real Estate is sponsoring a holiday lights contest. Prizes include a one-night stay at the Hilton Garden Inn, Clifton Park.

To enter, you must be a resident of Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga or Schenectady county. Take a photo of your holiday lights and send it to lights@MonticelloNYS.com by Sunday, Dec. 8. The Monticello...