Tree Lighting Brightens Port Washington

Six year-old Nicholas, bundled up against the cold, was ready.  This was his chance to see Santa Claus, so he did not mind either the long line in front of him or the biting wind.  "He lives at the North Pole with his reindeer," Nicholas said excitedly, straining to catch a glimpse of the man in the red suit through the crowd.  His face broadened into a smile as he declared, "This is the best time of the year!"

Nicholas and his little brother Michael were among the couple of hundred residents who braved a cold night to usher the Christmas season into Port Washington at the on Main Street.  The celebration combined the solemn remembrance of Christ's birth, enacted with music, live animals and a costumed cast including angels, with the thrill of Christmas trees, wish lists, and Santa Claus.  The KJOY's "Lucky The Duck" added to the excitement, mingling with the crowd of happy kids and giving out soft, miniature soccer balls.

This year's tree lighting ceremony was dedicated to the memory of Evelyn Faulk, a long-time Port Washington resident who passed away in October of 2008.  Her family performed the tree lighting ceremony.

Lisa Penha was delighted with the experience for her two daughters, Anne and Caroline.  "It was wonderful," she said.  "We just moved here from the city, and this is a great family town."  Anne, although in a hurry to get out of the cold, didn't mind sharing her wish requests – she asked Santa for a Play All Day doll, and a Barbie Town.

As the parents rounded up their kids and headed back to their cars, there were plenty of smiles to go around.  The message of Christmas had been well-received.