COLONIE – Marine Crops League volunteers and Dunkin’ Donuts franchisees celebrated the holiday spirit with a huge shopping spree today at Toys “R” Us in Colonie on Wednesday, Nov. 14. 

This shopping spree was to prepare the Marine Corps Reserves’ Dunkin’ Donuts Toys for Tots Train for its annual trip across New York State.

The grand total donated was $110,000 in support of the Toys for Tots Train. 

COLONIE - Sammi Gelhaus searched for the perfect Webkinz for her little sister at a Hallmark store Tuesday, and she wasn't worried about the price.

Last Christmas, Sammi was unemployed, but now that she's working in her family's business, there's more money to spend.

"I guess I'm just more confident in buying stuff this year because I have a more stable job," she said.

That sentiment was reflected in a new state wide Siena poll, that surveyed New Yorkers about their holiday spending plans.

Seven percent said they expect to shell out more this year than they did last year, up from four percent.

34 percent planned to cut back on gifts this year, not as many as a year ago.

55 percent said they will spend about the same as last year.

The manager at the gift store Pearl Grant Richmonds in Stuyvesant Plaza  said they're already seeing an uptick in spending.

The second Cohoes Farmers' Market of the season is this afternoon.

Located in the large municipal lot across from Harmony House Marketplace and Beauknits on historic Remsen Street, the market will offer a variety of local produce and products; everything from fresh eggs and cheese to baked goods and greens.

This week, there will be music from local band "Running the River."

It’s from 4 to 7 p.m.

The market will run every Friday (rain or shine) until October 7.

There’s plenty of free parking available.