‘Little North Pole’ charity event for diabetes

Four thousand people caroled along, counted down to the lighting, and opened their hearts to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and Diabetes Treatment Centers in New York City.
On Saturday, December 4, the Mure family continued their annual tradition of lighting “The Little North Pole,” located at 144-03 Neponsit Avenue in Neponsit Beach, with 4,000 people bundled up, excitedly awaiting Santa.
“We light ‘The Little North Pole’ for two reasons,” said Joe Mure. “First, we hope to put a smile on every child’s face and give them a memory of Christmas that we hope will last all their lives; and secondly, we hope to help this special group of children.”
With live entertainment – including emcee Goomba Johnny from WKTU, Judy Torres, Joe Causi of WCBS-FM 101.1, The USO Girls, Kevin Covais of “American Idol” and others, the evening featured toys, drinks and food for all.
Vendors, including Ragtime and more, stretched all the way down to 145th Street and offered up favorites such as zeppole and sausage and peppers.
“We had some great, great people come out to perform,” said Mure.
Tony Sirico and John Ventimiglia from “The Sopranos” helped Mure count down and flip the switch to light the house, which is decorated each year thanks to many dedicated volunteers.
“I’m hooked,” said Frank Gaeta, who has been volunteering for the past few years. “It’s so rewarding, and proves that people have heart. That’s what Christmas is all about.”
“Without those guys I couldn’t do it,” said Mure.
From the Louise Benes Dance Company to 17-year-old singer Danielle Dante, the night was alive with good cheer, the spirit of the holidays and thoughts of giving back.
One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Little North Pole will go toward the charities.
“The greatest gift anyone can receive is life,” said City Councilmember Eric Ulrich.
His-and-her Rolex watches were raffled off as well, with all proceeds going to the cause.
And, as an NYPD chopper hovered overhead, the evening’s special guest, Santa Claus, showed up – with a toy for each and every child.
Mure continued the spirit of the season with a Special Olympic Christmas party on Monday, December 6 and by hosting hundreds of children with autism on Tuesday, December 7.
Additionally, there is a “Santa mailbox” so that Mure can help fulfill the wishes of children in need.
Mure will have his house lit – and the donation box out front – through New Year’s Day, so there is still plenty of time to give to a good cause.
“Our goal has always been $100,000, and last year’s total of $196,000 blew me away,” said Mure. “It tells you how great people are.”