Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

There is no better feeling than “community” and nowhere is it more alive and real than at the Oak Bluffs tree lighting. This small event comes together because so many people make it happen. For just about one hour, hundreds of children of all ages come together to enjoy the holiday spirit, music, a wonderland of lights, the chance to give (food for the Island Food Pantry), being with family and friends, hot chocolate, cookies and oh yes, a much-anticipated visit from Santa!

A very special thanks to the Vineyard Haven Band, the Oak Bluffs PTO, the Firemen’s Civic Association, the Oak Bluffs Association, Brian Weiland and his wonderful band, JB Blau, Mike Santoro, Paul Mahoney, the Oak Bluffs highway department and Mark Crossland. Hope to see you all again next year!

Renee Balter, Oak Bluffs