North Valley Stream aglow for holidays

District 13 students entertained a crowd of a few dozen people who braved the cold for the annual North Valley Stream tree lighting on Dec. 8. The event was hosted by Friends of North Valley Stream at the Matthew Giglio Plaza at Dutch Broadway and North Corona Avenue.

The James A. Dever School sixth-grade wind ensemble, under the direction of Glenn Guidone, began by playing a selection of holiday music. The students, many wearing Santa hats, could be seen blowing on their hands between songs on the cold evening, which seems to be a tradition in itself for the annual tree lighting, event goers noted. Fortunately for them, they were able to get a steaming cup of hot chocolate after their performance, provided by Nick Liossatos of Dover Caterers of Plainview.

After a welcome by Nassau County Legislator John Ciotti and Town Councilman James Darcy, Santa Claus paid a visit and handed out candy canes to the children.

Next up on the stage, provided by the Town of Hempstead, was the Howell Chorale of nearby Howell Road School. The group, led by choral director Michael Rodgers, sang holiday tunes as the tree was lit up for the first time this season.

There was also a large menorah on the plaza, fully lit up as Hanukkah was drawing to a close.