Lafayette comes out for holiday celebration

LAFAYETTE — Despite the icy rain, the annual Lafayette Holiday Social and Christmas Tree/Menorah Lighting went off without a hitch.

The annual event, in its fourth year, was still a hit with children of all ages who came out to attend.

The event started with the chorus singing some holiday hits to start off the celebration. With volunteer DJ Anthony Sciabica, who donated his time for the event since its start, continued with the holiday music as parents, teachers, and the community mingled about.

The lighting of the tree, as well as the menorah, was held at 7 p.m., with a countdown by committee member Richard Hughes. Soon later, Santa and Mrs. Claus made their way down the street on the Lafayette Fire Department fire truck.

In an effort to give back to needy families during the holidays, a “wishing tree” made another appearance this year. The tree held ornaments with Christmas gift ideas for local families. Members of the community donated item on the ornament and the gift would be given to the family through the Lafayette Federated Church.

This annual tree is all thanks to the tireless work of Lafayette teacher Alice Sensale.

“It feels so good to give back during the holiday season,” she said.

As student council adviser, Sensale came prepared with her own set of “crowd control,” as she calls it. The students came prepared to assist Santa with the flow of young children and made sure Pin the Nose on the Reindeer was a fun time for all the younger children.

Snowflake-beaded necklaces were a hit for younger girls, as the PTO took care of the refreshments for the hungry parents. Coffee, cookies, and cupcakes were a few of the options provided by the parents of students. The Lafayette Federated Church provided the hot chocolate. “Tiger” tee shirts were available for sale along with other items, and the Lafayette Education Association held a book raffle.

Superintendent Dave Astor, often found dancing to the holiday music, was happy with how the event unfolded.

“It’s always a great event that brings the local businesses, community, students, parents, and local residents together,” Astor said.