Christmas Joy at the Marina

Richard Rodiguez of Port Chester brought his stepdaughter to see Santa at the waterfront for the first time Thursday night.

“We waited on line for an hour,” he said, “but it was worth it.”

His 5-year-old stepdaughter—just like the rest of the children on line—got to speak to Santa and pick one toy from a truckload-worth of items.

To him, “this event means happiness for my daughter, who was so excited.”

Heather Krakowski of Port Chester's Department of Recreation said she was thrilled last night to have thousands of families attend the Photos with Santa at the annual Christmas Tree lighting.

“The event has been around long before I got here 11 years ago,” Krakowski said, which offers free toys for young children. “There are all kinds of toys including easel sets, Crayola sets, dolls, cars and more.”

The event was open to the public, where thousands of people waited on line for a chance for a Christmas toy and time with Santa.

The Recreation Department received assistance from the Department of Public Works, Auxiliary Police and the Fire Department. Students from the Anthony Foust mentoring group volunteered their time in organizing and distributing the toys, while TD Bank distributed 500 Santa’s helpers hats. Neri’s Bakery donated 15 lbs of cookies for those waiting on line, which wrapped around the marina parking lot down the block.

“The kids’ faces light up when they see Santa and the toys,” said Krakowski. “If it wasn’t for the kids, it would be hard to stand here out in the cold.”

Christopher Mott, Port Chester High School senior and president of the volunteer organization Anthony Foust mentoring group spoke of the importance of this annual tradition.

“It brings us all together as a community,” he said. “It starts the holiday spirit.”

He and 20 of his fellow classmates helped to set up and run the event. The best part, for Mott, is seeing the children’s faces when they receive the presents.

“It’s that warm feeling when you see Santa and the kids,” he said.