Tree-mendous

The temperature may have been dropping, but Christmas spirit had the audience warm during the annual Howard Beach Christmas tree lighting outside St. Helen’s School.
Howard Beach residents, elected officials and special guest Santa Claus looked on as the 30-foot tree lit up the night during the St. Helen’s Christmas fair on Saturday, December 4.
“We have a tight knit community,” said Mario Faulisi, president of the Howard Beach Columbus Day Foundation, who has sponsored the tree lighting at St. Helen’s for the last four years. “That’s why we are out in the cold celebrating. It’s the holidays and – especially in these times – they are more important than ever.”
Also attending the lighting was Betty Braton, chairperson for Community Board 10, State Senator Joseph Addabbo and City Councilmember Eric Ulrich, who reminded those in attendance about the sacrifices of our armed forces during the holiday season.
“I want to call to mind the men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan who won’t be around the family table this year,” said Ulrich. “They are there protecting our freedoms, our liberties and the right to practice the religion of our choosing. They are fighting to make sure that this country remains the greatest country on earth.”
According to Monsignor Alfred LoPinto from St. Helen’s Church, the tree – decorated with hundreds of colorful lights – represents “a symbol of light in the midst of the darkness.”
Inside the Christmas fair, children waited to have their picture taken with Santa while others shopped for gifts like fresh preserves, jewelry and a variety of holiday trimmings. After her daughter sat on Santa’s lap, Valsta Jansky – originally from Croatia – was happy to be in Howard Beach for the festivities.
“It reminds me of home,” said Jansky. “Everyone is so happy . . . we celebrate the same way.”
The tree – located at 83-09 157th Avenue – will be on display throughout the holiday season into the New Year.