“3…2…1…Happy holidays!”
The Merchants of Third Avenue Civic Improvement Association, Inc. hosted its second annual holiday tree lighting ceremony outside Foodtown of Bay Ridge on Monday, Dec. 2. The event featured caroling led by Caitlyn Schmidt, plus hot cocoa, snacks and activities.
Volunteers helped to decorate the colorful tree, which organizers said is designed to provide holiday cheer to shoppers “on the avenue” all month long.
“It’s such a great-looking tree and we’re so happy to be able to set this up for the community,” Merchants President Dan Texeira said. “Thank you to all of the volunteers who assisted in creating this special event on Third Avenue.”
Merchants Events Coordinator Chrisie Canny was thankful to all who came out to volunteer and support the event.
“It was great to see how happy this little event made the neighborhood,” she said. “Our tree was purchased thanks to the community raising money in February for the Hearts on Third campaign, then planted in the spring. Every year it will grow larger and larger and symbolize how when you come together you can do anything!”
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The community came together for a cause on Thursday, Dec. 5 as Maimonides Health hosted its annual Community for Kids Benefit Gala “on the avenue” at El Caribe Caterers, 5945 Strickland Ave.
A record-setting crowd of more than 400 people came out to support the annual fundraising event, which benefits the Maimonides Pediatric Trauma Center — the only such facility in Brooklyn.
“Every day we’re saving lives,” Event Chair Frank Naccarato told the capacity crowd.
The event recognized several individuals for their tireless dedication to improving the lives of children, especially those suffering from illness or traumatic injury.
Nick Iocaviello of MVS Heating & Air Conditioning Corp. received the Community Builder Award. Camille Fortunato and Stefano Filippazzo received the Champions of Care Award for their work with the Anthony G. Filippazzo Fund for Williams Syndrome Research & Advancement. Maimonides Health Director of Special Events and Corporate Sponsorships Michael Brincat received the Beacon of Hope Award for his dedication to fundraising events benefiting ailing children.
The evening included appearances by past award recipients, including legendary radio personality Joe Causi and “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Dolores Catania.
In addition, several individuals received Pediatric Community Service Awards sponsored by Maimonides supporters. This year’s honorees were Rachael Tisu, Rita Imburgio, Gregory Woods and Jean Trivino.
As a past recipient of this prestigious community service award myself, I congratulate all of this year’s honorees who have dedicated so much of their time to serving children — especially those in need. Obviously, it does not go unnoticed.
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If you’re doing something noteworthy “on the avenue,” reach out to me directly at [email protected]!
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