Newburgh Holds Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – Unity. Peace. Camaraderie. Joy. Light. Hope.

These are just some of the symbols Pastor Jesse Howard used to describe the newly lit up Christmas tree across from Newburgh’s City Hall.

Friday night a large crowd gathered around that impressive image as a beautiful light snow blanketed the streets. Participants could be seen sipping hot chocolate or munching on holiday cookies as Newburgh’s Deputy Mayor, Regina Angelo, opened the Ceremony.

“Every year we dedicate this tree to a person who has passed away,” pointed out Angelo.

“It’s a very nice tradition that means a great deal.”

This year that dedication was in memory of Deborah Kaplan Sergi, daughter of William and Elaine Kaplan, lifelong City of Newburgh residents, who have done a great deal toward uniting their home community over the years. Many members of the Kaplan family, including Deborah’s sister, Sheila Kaplan, were on hand for the touching dedication.

“Debbie was the kindest person I know,” said Sheila. “We will always be 4EVER4 (four sisters, four daughters, forever); that was what we always said, and they were some of Debbie’s last words.”

Following the dedication, Pastor Howard, who like Angelo, has attended many of the Annual Newburgh Tree Lightings at the Broadway locale, spoke about the assortment of meanings inherent in the tree’s presence. Complete with a potent, colorful, and luminous set of lights, the tree, situated in the middle of two traffic lanes across from City Hall, has evolved into an important trademark in the City it represents.

“Tonight we are celebrating Christmas and unity in the City of Newburgh,” said Pastor Howard of the Cross International Ministries New Testament Church in the City of Newburgh. “It’s so nice now to see even more participants each and every year, and especially so with it being the first time when presents are given out by Santa to the children.”

Following the outdoor lighting, attendees congregated inside the nearby warm Karpeles Museum, where an excited group of children was presented with gifts, bringing joy and laughter. For the third year, Brian Beadle, who leads the City’s Sanitation Department, was clad in a red robe and white beard, and for the first time had the fun and rewarding opportunity to deliver those presents.

“It’s so great to do this each year and see all the kids so happy and to be able to be a part of lighting up Broadway,” said Beadle. “It’s also extra special to have snow falling this year.”

This year’s tree came from a Town of Newburgh family, the Berbens. The gorgeous fixture was quickly detected by a Department of Public Works’ employee, as he drove by Kerilee and Larry Berben’s home.

“We are so happy to be able to provide this tree to the City,” said Kerilee, who attended the ceremony with her husband and two children. “It brings joy to so many, something so important this time of the year.”