The Christmas tree lit up lower Broadway.
The Christmas season officially got underway in the city of Newburgh on Thursday night with the lighting of a huge Christmas tree on lower Broadway.
About 75 people, including a couple of dozen children who were eager to meet Santa and see if he had any goodies for them, gathered around the tree where members of a local Salvation Army band played Christmas carols. In the bitter cold, people sipped hot chocolate provided by the Salvation Army and a few people sang along. One of the women in the largely Hispanic crowd asked if the band knew any Spanish carols.
Councilwoman Regina Angelo came prepared for good cheer -- and bad.
Shortly after 4:30 pm councilwoman Regina Angelo and acting city manager Richard Herbek came out from city hall carrying bags of small toys for the children. Councilwoman Angela smiled and joked that she brought along a stocking cap with “Bah, Humbug” written on it, a reference to the heavy tax burden the council voted to pass on to city property owners this week.
Michael Gabor protested that the recent tax hike makes it hard to celebrate this holiday season.
Michael Gabor, the co-owner of Newburgh Art Supply, stood on the corner to tell passers-by that many people won’t be celebrating the holidays because of the council’s decision to raise taxes by more than 70%. With a sign reading “Newburgh Taxpayer Army” and a decorated wreath on his head, Gabor rang a hand bell and muttered “Bah, humbug,” questioning how the financial burden could be a matter for celebration.
Mayor Valentine escorts Santa to the celebration.
Shortly before 5 pm, Santa stepped out of city hall, escorted by Mayor Nicholas Valentine, and the pair came over to the tree. The children were excited to see Old Nick, who greeted them and led them in a countdown to the lighting of the tree. With the tree gleaming, Santa handed out toys, fulfilling the hopes of the youngest in this holiday season.
The magic of Christmas was reflected in the eyes of the children.
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