NIA Brings Holiday Spirit Once Again
The holiday season in Brooklyn wouldn't be complete without outstanding live performances from area children, merriment and food with family and friends, topped off by a visit from Santa. That's exactly what happened at the NIA's Annual Holiday celebration on December 4, 2008 at Regina Hall in Dyker Heights.
More than 500 children and their families, many of whom attend NIA after school programs, enjoyed the festivities or took part in the performances during the course of the evening. The guests were entertained by the holiday harmonies of the students from PS 247's Choir who sang traditional Christmas songs, while enjoying food and refreshments. "The turnout tonight is unbelievable," said NIA President Michael Bové. "Our close knit community, our elected officials, all our friends are clearly in evidence as we begin to celebrate the holidays."
Seventeen children representing the NIA Advantage Program from P.S. 247, ranging from first to fifth graders, performed for the audience. Once a week, activity specialist, Melissa Pellegrino, met with each grade for an hour of dance learning their steps for the big night. Ms. Pellegrino joined the NIA as a group leader in January 2006, and soon advanced to become an activity specialist. She had been practicing with the children about two weeks prior to the NIA Holiday event, teaching the children the dance routines they performed to a medley of holiday music the night of the show. “The children did a great job and are proud of what they learned during the NIA’s after school program,” said Ms. Pellegrino, “They are also very excited about showcasing their talents in future performances during upcoming NIA events.”
On hand to extend warm greetings to all in attendance were local elected officials including Congressman-elect Michael McMahon, State Senator Diane Savino, State Assembly Members Peter Abbate and Alec Brook-Krasny, Councilman Vincent Gentile, as well as NIA Board Members and staff, area business and political representatives and other community leaders. Also on hand at this year’s holiday event was the new commanding officer of Fort Hamilton Army Base Garrison Commander Colonel Stephen V. Smith and Command Sergeant Major Silvia Laughlin.
While ringing in the season in his magical way, Santa and his friends captivated the young children in the audience bringing a smile to their faces and gifts to all of them. "For many of the youngest in attendance, this was their first time meeting Santa," declared NIA Executive Director Rosa Casella. "It was absolutely precious to see the joy on their faces while sitting on his lap."
NIA continues its longstanding commitment to the communities it serves by providing cost-free programs and services to families in need. NIA is a not-for-profit community service organization dedicated to addressing the broad spectrum of issues that impact youth, families, older adults, and those who need assistance throughout the multicultural, diverse, and underserved neighborhoods of Brooklyn and the metropolitan area.
Joining the NIA at this year’s annual Holiday Event (l. to r.) Congressman-Elect Michael McMahon, Fort Hamilton Army Base Command Sergeant Major Silvia Laughlin and Garrison Commander Colonel Stephen V. Smith, Inspector of NYC Department of Sanitation Police Robert D’Angelo, Assemblyman Peter Abbate, NIA President Michael Bové and Assemblyman Alec-Brook Krasny.
The students from P.S. 247 send greetings to the crowd and show their appreciation to the NIA.
