Walsh in Medina doing toy giveaway on Sunday while Santa visits

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 December 2025 at 10:35 am

Provided photo: This wine barrel Christmas tree is part of the holiday decorations at The Walsh on West Avenue, where the business will give free toys to children from 10 a.m. until noon on Sunday, as long as supplies last.

MEDINA – The Walsh Hotel is showing its holiday spirit this Christmas season by giving back to the community which has supported them.

From 10 a.m. until noon on Sunday, The Walsh will give out at least 200 toys for children, said owner Rollin Hellner.

“We thought this would be something positive for the community,” Hellner said.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be at The Walsh and available for pictures.

In addition to free toys for the kids, the event will have food and drinks available, including the classic Tom & Jerry. The cocktail dates back to the 1820s, when it was created by British writer Pierce Egan to promote his novel “Tom and Jerry,” Hellner explained.

It became a huge holiday tradition in the United States, especially in the Midwest and Northeast. Unlike eggnog, it is served hot and made with a fluffy batter of eggs, sugar, spices, rum and brandy. Although less common today, the drink remains a beloved December favorite in Upstate New York, Hellner said.

Hellner purchased The Walsh in the spring of 2022 and has been working on more renovations, including eight apartments and 10 hotel rooms.

“We are roughly half way through our multi-million dollar investment,” Hellner said.

The Walsh has also added a country courtyard, which is currently decorated with a wine barrel Christmas tree.

Hellner said he also has plans to rebuild the original porch. A lot of work has already been completed, including a new roof, replacement of rotted wood siding/trim and fresh exterior paint.