By Rick Winterson and Tim Duggan

     The scene on East Broadway was brightened considerably when the Christmas tree in front of the Library was formally lit last Saturday. This time, Frosty the Snowman and Santa Claus arrived in a big, red fire engine rather than an enchanted trolley. Whatever the vehicle, they made a fantastic entrance.

      State Sen. Jack Hart did the honors. After a countdown, he well and truly lit the tree. Santa spent time with the kids, refreshments were served, and a good time was had by all.

     The Friends of the Library conducted their last book sale of 2005. Wait 'til you see the books available next spring. This year, the book sales provided funds for Library curtains, several book racks, and stipends for program speakers brought in monthly by the Friends of the Library.

     Meanwhile, up at St. Brigid School, their Christmas Emporium ran for two days last Saturday and Sunday. The greenery from Sprague was immensely popular. Twenty-five craft tables serviced the inside customers with many an unusual gift or Christmas decoration. All proceeds from the Emporium go back to the school.

     The Gavin School held its first LEGO League match. This is a program that uses those popular toys to create robots. Students from nine middle schools in Boston participated in a scrimmage last Saturday, pitting their robots against all comers. A Smith Family Foundation grant funds the LEGO League. This scrimmage was a practice session to prepare for the Northeast Regionals late in January.

     Saturday afternoon also heard the joyful sound of carols ringing forth at Marian Manor. Led by that keyboard man-about-town, Peter Golemme, twenty carolers entertained the residents of the Manor with a wide selection of carols and modern Christmas songs.

     On Sunday, Bayview Residences held their yearly Christmas Party. Tadd Clelland, Tracy Shea, and the Bayview staff outdid themselves in preparing an afternoon of song, festivities, and goodies of all kinds. Peter Golemme showed up again, shortly before Santa Claus. It has become a race between the two of them to see who can put in more appearances at Christmastime. Needless to say, a wonderful time was had by all who attended. It may sound a bit odd to describe a Bayview party this way, but it was really a non-stop blast.

     Later that afternoon, the "Dance for the Homeless" took place at the Andrew Square VFW Post #6536. Irish music and sea chanteys highlighted the event. The Larry Reynolds Band opened, followed by the Gloucester Hornpipe & Clog Society. It was quite a weekend all around.

     Friday's snowstorm managed to topple a minor South Boston icon. The Norway spruce in the corner of the Gate of Heaven schoolyard, between the old convent and the Church went down. Heavy, wet snow and brisk winds essentially uprooted the tree, which had been there for as long as anyone could remember.

     Oh yes, there are ten (that's 10) shopping days left until Christmas.