Joy and reflection at Roslyn tree lighting ceremony

The Island Now

The Roslyn tree lighting ceremony at the Roslyn clock tower last Wednesday night brought both holiday cheer and somber reflection, as it coincided with the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. 

“It was a poignant night with [the] Pearl Harbor [anniversary],” said Janet Galante, the former mayor of the Village of Roslyn. “It’s a time to stop and remember as we move forward into the new year.” 

The Roslyn Village mayor, John Durkin, held a moment of silence in recognition of the anniversary. 

The tree lighting, organized by the Roslyn Chamber of Commerce, began with an invocation from Trinity Episcopal Church Rector Margaret Peckham Clark, which was followed by a performance by the church’s choir. 

“I love to support the Chamber of Commerce and the village,” Clark said. “It’s great to see young children running and laughing in Roslyn.” 

 Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth and Town Councilman Peter Zuckerman addressed the scores assembled.

Three representatives from the United States Marine Corps were also in attendance. 

Richard Galante, Janet’s husband and a retired therapist, said the event offered the community a chance to reflect amid the hustle and bustle of daily lives. 

“It reminds us that any time there’s light, there’s goodness, and any time there’s goodness, you share it with the community,” he said. 

“The light on the tree brings us together,” he added. 

BY MAX ZAHN

Share this Article