Sylvan Place hosts holiday block party

Sylvan Place was closed from end-to-end on Dec. 21 as families came out to enjoy elaborate holiday light displays, a visit from Santa Claus and some hot chocolate.

On an evening that felt more like spring than the first day of winter, there was still a feeling of Christmas in the air, thanks to the many residents who decorated their homes and lawns. At about 7:30 p.m., Santa arrived and took requests in front of Bob Coppola’s house. He and his helpers also handed out Beanie Babies to the children.

Alex and Sheryl Carr organized the event which, before taking a break last year, had become an annual tradition. They invited guests into their home — which was flanked by both Christmas and Hanukkah decorations — for some treats.

A truck from the Valley Stream Fire Department stopped by, and local Girl Scouts donated the toys they had been collecting throughout December to help needy children.

At one table, visitors could get some hot chocolate, candy canes and cookies, and down the street there were hot dogs cooking. Money was collected for two Sylvan Place residents who have died in the last year. Some of the funds will go to the new scholarship at South High School in honor of Chris Schroeder, and the rest will be donated to Life’s Connection Through Music on behalf of Michael Smith.