Third Annual Unity Tree Lighting

By Chuck Stewart, Jr.

(Newburgh) - The weather outside wasn’t frightful, last Friday night. It was actually quite delightful as people gathered at the Newburgh Activity Center for the Third Annual Unity Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Pastor Manuel Montalvo of the Newburgh Assembly of God, brought the youth choir to sing Christmas Carol’s, inspiring others to join in for an old-fashion sing-along.

Father William Scafidi of St Mary’s Church in providing the unity prayer, asked the Lord to “Bless all those gathered here tonight” and to “bless the City.” He reminded everyone to keep the true meaning of Christmas in their hearts and to be mindful of those less fortunate this holiday season.

Then the children, some of whom had gathered in front of the Activity Center at five o’clock, began counting down from ten to zero for the lighting of the tree. With the push of a button, the lights turned on and the children’s faces lit up.

When they turned around, Santa was arriving to distribute gifts to the children. They hurried inside to warm up with light refreshments, including hot chocolate. There was plenty for the children to do while waiting for their chance to visit with Santa. Some made holiday arts and crafts, including a stocking with their name in glitter on it. As Jamal Williams, 4-years-old explained, “I put my name on it so Santa will know it’s mine,” he continued, “I’ve been good all year long.”

Jamal, with his stocking complete, had to go talk to Santa about what he wanted this year. And of course, how good he has been. His mother did concur that he was a good kid and was deserving to be on Santa’s “nice list.”

This year Santa brought lots of toys and goodies on his sleight for all the boys and girls. He had a little help from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Consolidated Metal and the Marines Toys for Tots, according to City of Newburgh Youth Coordinator Joyce Pittman. “We are so thankful for all the support from everybody who helps to make this time of year a happy one for the kids,” Pittman said.

After Santa left there was a raffle for four bicycles that were donated by Michael Brooks of Brooks-Didonato Funeral Services and CDR Electronics.

Pictured Above: Justin Prado, Diamond Evans, Marcos Rodriguez and Bernedette Wright were the four winners of brand new bicycles donated by Michael Brooks of Brooks-Didonato Funeral Services and CDR Electronics.