On the first day of December, the Central Islip Fire Department hosted their annual holiday tree lighting ceremony at their substation located on Wheeler Rd. The community came together, despite the cold and rainy weather, to celebrate the tradition that they hope to continue for years to come. Parading around town, performances from the Central Islip High School’s show choir, treats, and holiday themed games kept children entertained throughout the night.
A few months prior to the celebration, planning and preparations were made in order for this community event to take place. The Central Islip Fire Department collaborated with various town organizations and leaders within the community to make this event a success. Volunteers from the Central Islip Fire Department spent countless hours decorating various fire trucks, including the fire trucks they use around Central Islip.
To kick off the event, fire trucks drove around Central Islip with their lights and sirens, making many stops around the community at locations such as Target, Walmart, and multiple elementary schools. Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, a Christmas tree, as well as Santa and Mrs. Claus rode around on the trucks until they reached their destination at the Fire Department, where all the community members waited.
Central Islip High School music students contributed to the special event. The CIHS Show Choir and Baritone Choir are audition groups of highly selected students with a passion for singing and dancing. These students have performed for several events. Central Islip Show Choir did an excellent job performing “The House is a rocking” and “Sleigh ride” for the community that joined the Central Islip Fire Department. The Baritone Choir performed songs like “Jingle bells” and “Living on Long Island.” These performances were led by John Anthony, director of the CIHS Show Choir. Kids were very delighted at the sight of the performances, and the Choir was very pleased with the event. In an interview with student, Ijdsrobo Dudoh from the show choir, she said “There was nothing like performing outside the Choir department” and also said “I would love to do it again next year!”
SisterHeart Studio, a Nonprofit Organization who continuously supports not only the Central Islip Community, but also Brentwood, Bay Shore, and other Suffolk County Communities, played a huge role in organizing the event. SisterHeart Studio strives to uplift the community with their unconditional kindness and generosity. In addition to the tree lighting, SisterHeart also organized a free raffle which included Christmas trees being given away to the community that took place at the event.
New York State District 4 Senator, Monica Martinez made an appearance at the tree lighting as well. District 9 Legislator Sam Gonzalez was also in attendance. Both elected officials represent our Long Island community. This was a great way for them to connect with members of our community.
Central Islip Connects for Change (CICFC) along with the CI Connects for Change Jr. Board kept children entertained with fun holiday themed games and activities. They gave out candy canes and coloring books to everyone who stopped by. CICFC makes it their mission to positively shape the community and empower individuals using their everlasting dedication, especially during this holiday season. Giving to the community is not new for CICFC; they recently hosted a Thanksgiving food drive where numerous Central Islip families were given complete meals.
As a way to “Advocate for one student at a time,” the Student Advocates of Long Island kicked off their first annual Christmas Toy Drive at the Friday night’s tree lighting. Student Advocates had a “spin the wheel” game with chances of winning prizes. The Student Advocates of Long Island is a Nonprofit organization who works to empower the youth within communities.
What is a holiday celebration without hot chocolate and treats?! Trisha’s Tasty Treats was there to satisfy the sweet tooth cravings of those that attended the event. Hot chocolate and cotton candy were amongst the delicious desserts available.
The tree standing at around 30 feet tall was the star of the show. Everyone gathered around, counting down the seconds until its lights would illuminate the night. The tree, the Christmas music, the caroling, Central Islip community members, and those who organized the event made it a very merry and joyful night.
