Many came out in the gusty winds to celebrate the holiday season by attending the 7th Annual Light Up Lindy event, a community-driven initiative hosted by The Village of Lindenhurst and organized by local coalition volunteers and staff of Lindy Cares. This beloved community tradition was started by Lindy Cares member Rita Mullins forming "the committee that likes to do nice things". Now in its seventh year, Light up Lindy committee is chaired by Lorraine Riginio and was held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, delivering an evening of festive fun while raising funds to support local families needing a helping hand this holiday season.
The day begins with sponsors decorating trees from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, followed by a public viewing party from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Guests enjoy live holiday music, are treated to complimentary hot cocoa, coffee, and cookies, and take photos with the freshly decorated trees. Refreshments are generously sponsored by Applebee's of Lindenhurst and served with the assistance of Century 21 AA agents and family members.
"For seven years, Light Up Lindy has brought joy and connection to our community," said Lori-Ann Novello, Executive Director of Lindy Cares. "This event is about spreading holiday cheer while ensuring local families feel supported during the season."
What stood out this year was some of the stories the families who participate get to tell about their tree traditions! I'll be sharing a few of them with you, starting with a story contributed by Patti Masel.
"I have grown up on Long Island, and at 62 years old, I still remember waiting on line to see Santa Claus at A&S in the Great South Bay Shopping Center. You could watch the animated displays that were behind a glass encasement, and you always got a coloring book and 5 little crayons after you sat on Sant's lap. As a child, you rehearsed and spewed out your wish list. Items of most importance always first, to be sure you got it into Santa's ear. I still smile at that memory. That store no longer exists, but children and Santa Claus most certainly still do. My family now has our tradition, and it is at Light Up Lindy.
This year, our theme was the "Polar Express". I try to make it fun, and etch a memory into their minds and hearts. I'd like to share with you, how this years plan unfolded.
Each child received their own "train ticket" in the mail. It was good for admission to the tree trim, as well as a pizza lunch to follow. I ask each person to bring an ornament, or something to help make the tree, "our" family tree.
I was the conductor, I had my hat on, and welcomed them "all aboard" the train tree experience. We had bells, trains, train tracks, hot chocolate and train garland to work with. My family even showed up with a conductor hat to be our tree topper. We brought our own snow, incase the weather wasn't providing it. I have learned that fake snow is always a hit.
We decorated the tree, and after we were satisfied, or partly frozen, or both, we headed to Villa Pizza to share a meal. They are always accommodating, and the kids actually have their favorite seats and know their favorite slices of pie. As I look around the room, I see happy faces, and that's all that matters. For this moment, all the world is right.
What I didn't realize, is how much they all smile at the days festivities. My family actually looks forward to it all, and in my heart, I see the same A&S memories. They are not only coming back, but they are actually being made. I am proud to be part of it.
If you are wondering, yes, some of the kiddies came in their pajamas to keep with the movie.
If you have a chance to make a memory, you just may also be making a difference. Young minds remember the fun, the laughter, and the fact that our family has a tree in the village square that has our name.
The funny thing is, I received a text last night saying that our tree was lovely and ringing. Imagine that? A ringing tree? Well, I forgot that with our theme came many bell ornaments. The wind gave the tree its signature sound. If you happen to see our tree or perhaps hear it in the wind, know that one family did it with love. And as the Polar Express will teach you, you have to "Believe. " By: Patti Masel
Look for Patti's tree and 59 others, which tell a story of love and life while contributing to local solutions to treat our residents' needs.
The trees will remain in place for village visitors to enjoy until January 6, so stop by and enjoy the fun nightlife the village restaurants, breweries, and studio theaters have to offer.
