Organizations in Brooklyn and Queens, gave back in great ways to celebrate the Christmas season, putting smiles on the faces of children, and sharing enjoyment to the elderly, during three separate functions, all, complete with music, dance performances, and gift giving.
Travel Span Vacations, Inc., commemorated its 25th anniversary by welcoming children to its office on Church Avenue, Brooklyn, on Dec. 13, for an afternoon of gift-giving that benefited many, who stopped for a picture with Santa Claus, during the season of goodwill and joy.
The travel agency, which plans cruises, package tours, and had provided its Travel Span B77 charter service from JFK to GEO for a short period, also engaged community kids at its Queens location, where Jolly Old Saint Nick granted many children their Christmas wish.
Saturday, Dec. 14, was also a special day for NOW Production and team, which collaborated with the Southern Queens Park Association, for a festive hang, that attracted more than 300 children at a second Annual Christmas Party, in Roy Wilkins Park on Baisley Blvd.
This year, NOW Production CEO, Natasha Wilson, dedicated the “Candy Land,” to her late sister Valerie Hector, who in the past, was instrumental in designing the table with hundreds of sweet treats, and cotton candy.
Sonia Dance Group, the Untouchable Dancers and the Glass House Dancers, put on a wonderful show. The little ones, filled the afternoon with exciting choreography, kicking up their heels much to the delight of the audience of tots, teens, and parents, who applauded loudly.
In addition to raffle prizes, gifts from Santa Claus, and food galore, the kids were entertained by deejay music.
“I would like to thank my staff, Councilmember Adrienne Adams, and Jacqueline Boyce, for their continued support,” said Wilson, adding, “I am very lucky to have the support of everyone. I am here to give back to my community.”
Celebrating its 17th Annual Senior Citizen Christmas Luncheon, the Inter Civic Community Association, (ICCA) Richmond Hill, Queens, on Dec. 15, feted over 400 elders at Villa Russo Restaurant on Lefferts Blvd., with a lavish cuisine.
The function, organized, by Founder and President, Dr. Taj, Co-founder, Ralph Tamesh, Vice President, Kay Ramdat, Secretary, Mala Dasrat, and members, Frank Singh, Ann Persaud, Tampa, and Sohan Seavcharran, Fort Lauderdale, brought festively to the well-dressed ladies and gentlemen.
Assemblyman Michael Miller who stopped by to extended greetings, reminded the organization of the millions of dollars spent by the city to ensure seniors receive the best services available to them, and pledged continued support for family services.
Former head of the Sikhi organization, Harpreet Toor, as well as District Leader Richard David, and Dimple Willabus, candidate for New York City Council, District 46, also extended Christmas wishes to the seniors, who danced and fellowship during the hours-long holiday soiree.
The organization, that began with a monthly food hamper distribution by Kay Ramdat in the 80s, to give back to the community, has progressed to include hundreds of residents who look forward to the Annual Christmas Luncheon.
