Holiday revelers pack mall for annual tree-lighting

When the music started, they instantly were in the spotlight.

But even before it was their turn to be up on the stage, the 2-to-4-year-old girls - dressed in pink and white - danced merrily in front of the stage at the annual Christmas Island Style tree-lighting ceremony Saturday at the Marco Town Center Mall.

Once on stage, the youngsters danced to The Love Song as part of Ms. Miriam Little Sundancers group.

The masters of ceremonies for the evening - holiday revelers packed the mall's parking lots, were island media celebs Don Farmer and Chris Curle. Before the tree was lit, Father Andrew Malarz from the San Marco Catholic Church provided a prayer of blessing.

As part of the Christmas ambiance, Santa Claus hats were seen in the crowd. Mr. and Mrs. Claus greeted children by the Christmas tree.

Bonnie Gibbs, owner of Cocomo's Grill with her husband, Scott, was at the tree-lighting. Her daughter, Shyan, was part of the Morning Musicians performing with Nancy Embree's fourth-graders from Tommie Barfield Elementary. Music teacher Lisa Braren lead the fourth- and fifth-graders with antlers on as they sang two songs.

Christmas Island Style chairman Steve "Stef" Stefanides said the tree was donated to the community by the Italian-American Society. Tommy Tramazzo did his annual countdown with the help of Lisa Popoff, who was honored for her 20 years of service as a school crossing guard.

Stefanides said last year, Sgt. Chris Quinton helped with the countdown and that this time around, he wanted to recognize another individual who had given great service to the community.

"I can't think of a bigger privilege for Tommy to give the annual countdown and for Lisa to help light the way to the next year," Stefanides said.

There were performances by students at the Marco Island Charter Middle School, the Island Dance Academy and individuals.

Bob and Karen Wenz have been attending the tree-lighting ceremony for about five years.

"It's just community-oriented," said Karen Wenz. "And it's just beautiful."