About 6,000 people crammed into Fountain Square on Friday night to see city leaders flip a switch and light Cincinnati's official Christmas tree.

        Many interviewed in the crowd said they are focusing more this year on what they believe Christmas is all about — family, friends and new beginnings — especially in light of the terrorist attacks and the city's racial strife.

Fountain Square is filled with lights and onlookers at the annual tree lighting ceremony Friday night. (Ernest Coleman photo) | ZOOM |

        “I think, due to everything that has happened here locally and in our country this year, we are experiencing a lot more togetherness,” said Gregory Hoodin, 34, of Cherry Grove.

        “People realize what they have and how lucky they are to just be alive. That definitely gives this year a little added meaning for me.”

        Lowell and Valerie Bernardino, of College Hill, agreed that the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and the April riots have changed the way they look at the holidays.

        “For us the holidays are not so much about material goods, but about how to reach out to one another and develop relationships,” said Mrs. Bernardino, 58.

        “We spent a lot of time together with our family being thankful over Thanksgiving and that will continue.”

        Organizers lighted a 40-foot sculptured tree on a pavilion stage and a 26-foot Fraser fir donated by the Tim Beuke family of Batavia. It is a tradition that a Cincinnati-area resident donate the tree each year. The tree is removed at no cost and after Christmas replanted in a Cincinnati park.

        The show choir at White Oak Middle School serenaded the crowd with Christmas carols, and vendors peddled glow sticks and reindeer antler hats to children.

        Machines cranked out fake snow and Santa made a cameo in the 60-degree weather.

        For many, Christmas will be a time for regaining a sense of normalcy.

        Joseph Panyko, 34, of Liberty Township: “You appreciate life more. I wake up every morning and I kiss my wife and my kids, because now you realize you can't take anything for granted.”
       

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