By Jennifer O’Connor
The Village of Warwick and the Warwick Historical Society’s Annual Christmas Eve Carol Sing, which was held virtually this year at the Old School Baptist Meeting House due to the COVID-19 pandemic, brought joy to many and touched the hearts of those who watched the video of the event.
The video was created by Dan Cecconie and his Media Arts Class from Warwick Valley Central High School, and can be viewed on the Warwick Valley Television YouTube channel – https://youtube/eeAmHMe33Kg.
In the beginning of the video, Village of Warwick Mayor Michael Newhard welcomed everyone to the annual event. During his opening remarks, he spoke about “the angels that surround us” – they are the nurses and doctors and the men and women who have sacrificed and are dedicated to the health of the community.
“On angels’ wings we are lifted and find the true meaning of life. We must remind ourselves that the extraordinary presence of hope is within each one of us. It is hope that connects us, hope that holds promise and comforts our fear,” said Mayor Newhard.
“This past year the pandemic has cast its shadow on our lives and our ability to find the human connection and the solace we seek,” continued Newhard. “So, we turn to creativity and with the help of many, we will hopefully capture the magic and continue this time-honored tradition.”
After Newhard spoke, Deborah Sweeton read a verse from the Bible followed by the program that featured the angelic voices of lead singer Jody Weatherstone; and the Warwick Valley Central High School Meistersingers, under the Direction of Noreen Hanson, with singers – Julie Brown, Nathan Durgin, DJ Gardiner, Geoffrey Hall, Ellie Hanson, Mallory Kauffman, Brendan Manzi, Gabriella Mastrantoni, Henri McKenna, Caitlyn Moran, Julia Mosier, Madeline Nokland, Devlin Olin, Cara Peddle, Anthony Roca, Emma Samberg, and Annabelle Wadeson.
Viewers were delighted to hear holiday favorites such as O Holy Night, Deck the Hall, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Do you Hear What I Hear?, Joy to the World, O Come All Ye Faithful, Angels We Have Heard On High, Jingle Bells, The First Noel, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and Silent Night with sign language interpreters, Julie Brown and Ellie Hanson.
In addition, community members Alan Schaffer and Kevin Kenny sang Silver Bells. All of the singers were accompanied by Stacey Rosen on piano and James Weatherstone on guitar. And everyone was thrilled at the conclusion of the program with a special appearance made by Santa Claus who wished everyone a “Merry Christmas.”
Mayor Newhard thanked the participants and the Warwick Historical Society for allowing the Village to hold the event at the Old School Baptist Meeting House.
“The Warwick Historical Society are the stewards of our historic fabric, and this year more than ever need our support. Under normal circumstances, we pass the basket to gift the Warwick Historical Society for their good work throughout the year.”
This year Newhard asks that everyone who would like to support the Warwick Historical Society to send a donation to the Warwick Historical Society, A.W. Buckbee Center, 2 Colonial Ave., Warwick, NY 10990. For more information call 986-3236.
Village of Warwick Mayor Michael welcomes everyone to the Annual Christmas Eve Carol Sing which was held virtually this year at the Old School Baptist Meeting House.
Jody Weatherstone sang O Holy Night at the Annual Christmas Eve Carol Sing, held virtually at the Old School Baptist Meeting House.
Warwick Valley Central High School Meistersinger Julia Mosier (left) is accompanied by James Weatherstone on guitar during the Annual Christmas Eve Carol Sing.
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