50,000 Lights Illuminate Columbus Park

Close to a thousand people attended the 10th Friends of Christopher Columbus Park holiday tradition lighting of the park’s trellises at a cost of $25,000.

Michael Galvin, The City’s Chief of Public Property, on behalf of Mayor Thomas Menino threw the switch to transform the popular and well used park into a holiday wonderland.

Galvin was joined by Parks Commissioner Antonia Pollak, local dignitaries, elected officials and FOCCP President Joanne Hayes-Rines to address the large gathering.

A rousing musical performance by the North End Music and Performing Arts Center Children’s Choir was enjoyed by residents, neighbors and visitors of the park rounded out the evening.

Refreshments, holiday treats and giveaways were provided by the Marriot Long Wharf Hotel, Starbucks and 105.7 WROR.

The entire 260 foot trellis, the architectural centerpiece of the park was set aglow by more than 50,000 white and blue lights. Fourteen trees throughout the park were also illuminated.

The Friends of Christopher Columbus Park (FOCCP) is an all-volunteer non-profit organization comprised of North End/Waterfront neighbors whose purpose is to further the restoration, protection, preservation, care, enhancement, improvement and maintenance of the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park. The FOCCP work closely with the City of Boston Parks and Recreation Department to keep the park clean and well maintained and with other city and state organizations to improve the park to enrich the lives of both residents and visitors to Boston.

The current officers of FOCCP are: Joanne Hayes-Rines President, Trish Baumer Vice President, Virginia Kimball Treasurer and Audrey Tortolani Clerk. Board members are: Joe Bono, Meghan Denenberg, Mary Ann Esparo, Beverly Knight, Robyn Reed and Christina Sperry.