Kendall lights tree with holiday celebration

By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 3 December 2015 at 12:00 am

Photos by Kristina Gabalski

KENDALL – Members of the Kendall community gathered Wednesday evening to kick off the holiday season with the annual tree-lighting ceremony at the Community Park Gazebo.

The top photo shows Kendall fourth-graders performing “Jingle Bells” immediately following the lighting of the tree and gazebo.

Kendall students performed seasonal instrumental and choral music followed by a community sing-along. The tree lighting was preceded by “Supper with Santa” at the Elementary School cafeteria which included pizza and cookies. Those attending were asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the Kendall Community Food Cupboard.

Kendall residents enjoy a choral performance by Kendall Elementary 4th, 5th and 6th graders during the annual Community Tree Lighting Wednesday evening. The

students sang “O Christmas Tree” and “Silent Night,” including one verse in German. The rain had stopped by the time of the festivities at 7 pm.

Enthusiastic youngsters get some pre-Christmas hugs from Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and their Elf during the Kendall Community Tree Lighting. Kendall Town Supervisor Tony Cammarata looks on.

Cammarata said the annual event brings together all facets of the community for a celebration including the school, Fire Department, Town Board, Lions Club (members decorated the Gazebo, the tree was provided by Tom Cole), Community Band and Garden Club.

“This is the true spirit of Christmas,” Cammarata said.

Following the tree lighting, a gathering was held at the Kendall Fire Hall with a holiday performance by the Kendall Lawn Chair Ladies and music by the Kendall Community Band.

Cookies and hot chocolate were provided. Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and a Christmas Elf attended with gifts for all the “little ones” in attendance.