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“Ernie’s Tree” from an anonymous donor in the
Town of Newburgh, arrived on Broadway Nov. 15.
The tree arrived with the help of Michael Bigg, Jr. of Quality Towing & Autobody who once again donated his crane to bring this holiday tradition to Broadway. Left: Crane operator John Ammirati offered his services for the fifth year in a row. Right: DPW tree trimmer Jake Olsen making some finishing touches.
Janine Rhoades of the Traffic Violation Department and Councilwoman Regina Angelo prepare toys for distribution at the Broadway tree lighting.
The Riverteers gathered with Santa and Mrs. Claus to celebrate the lighting of “Ernie’s Tree — for the Riverteers and the City of Newburgh.”
Santa and Mrs. Claus (Councilwoman Regina Angelo) take a well-deserved break at the tree lighting party at the Karpeles Museum.
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Nearly 200 people turned out to welcome Santa on Dec. 2, 2006, and witness the official lighting of the Broadway tree.
The 35-foot blue spruce, from an anonymous donor in the Town of Newburgh, is known as "Ernie's Tree." Ernie's friends, the Riverteers, joined the celebration.
The Salvation Army Band and DMU Music provided Christmas music, and several elves helped Santa and Mrs. Claus (Councilwoman Regina Angelo) distribute toys to the youngsters.
Thanks to the generosity of the Ruf Family of Kendall Park, NJ, the George Keller family of Newburgh, Anthony Cracolici of New Windsor, Councilwoman Angelo, Firefighters Local #589, and some anonymous "helpers", Santa had lots of toys to distribute this year.
Following the tree lighting, a party with hot chocolate and cookies was held at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, and Santa gave out candy canes.
The Riverteers joined Santa & Mrs. Claus to celebrate the lighting of "Ernie's tree"
"We are so grateful to everyone who made the tree lighting a success," said Councilwoman Angelo. "When we got the call late last summer that "Ernie's Tree" was available, we were able to plan the tree lighting for early December, so people could enjoy it through the holiday season. I would especially like to thank Deputy Superintendent of Public Works George Garrison and his dedicated crew for getting this beautiful tree ready and Broadway decorated in record time this year."
Councilwoman Angelo also thanked the Police Department for their assistance with traffic control during the tree lighting, and Michael Bigg, Jr. of Quality Towing & Autobody for helping to bring the tree from the Town of Newburgh to Broadway.
The Salvation Army Band provided holiday music for the Broadway tree lighting.
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