In keeping with tradition, Westchester Square became a Winter Wonderland last week to welcome the upcoming holiday season. The Westchester Square Business Improvement District and Councilman James Vacca hosted their 3rd Annual Westchester Square Holiday Celebration on Friday, December 4 at Owen Dolen Park which featured a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and a surprise visit by Santa Claus and his two reindeers, Spanky and Skeeter. Jolly Old Saint Nick was on site to distribute toys to all of the good boys and girls. Adding to the merriment were the Yuletide Carolers who gave a rousing performance of classic Christmas carols as eager guests sang together well into the night.

(l-r) Sandi Lusk, Westchester Square Zerega Improvement Organization director; Michael Rivadeneyra, Councilman Vacca’s chief of staff; Tom Messina, representing Congressman Crowley; John Bonizio, Westchester Square Business Improvement District chairman; Santa Claus; Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj; Captain Raia; Cathy Mitchell, Owen Dolan Recreation Center director; Owen Dolan Recreation Center members and Santa’s helpers stand in front of the lit Christmas tree.
Photo by Laura Stone

Helpers Sasha Ortiz and Christopher Santiago prepare the gifts and chocolates for Old Saint Nick to distribute last Friday evening.
Photo by Laura Stone

Dominick Delpriore was excited to meet Santa and his elves, Sasha Ortiz and Krystal Ortiz last Friday at Westchester Square.
Photo by Laura Stone

Spanky, one of Santa’s reindeers, is ready for his close-up.
Photo by Laura Stone

Ikenna Taylor enjoys a chocolate penguin lollipop he received from Santa.
Photo by Laura Stone