Matlacha illuminates first 18-foot Christmas tree
Residents and visitors of Matlacha gathered on the corner of Pine Island Road and Island Avenue Friday night to light their first ever 18-foot Christmas tree. The community came together with contributions of every kind. George Williamson donated his land, Jake Sadlak built the tree and Barnhill Seafood Market & More provided electricity for the event, which drew spectators from all over.
“We wanted to see the tree lighting tonight and we just love Matlacha,” said Jim Koskey and Fara Erspamer, who have made winter visits to Matlacha Island an annual event for the past several years.
“We love Matlacha, it’s old Florida. It’s fishermen, artists and musicians,” said snowbirds Phil and Joyce Jannotti, who reside in Matlacha for six months each year.
“We ate at The Blue Dog and then came over because we couldn’t wait to see the tree lit up tonight,” said Sue and Dan Galyon of Cape Coral.
Even Santa made it out to Matlacha, donning traditional island garb. Michael Rose of Saint James City, who was kind enough to play Santa for the event, credits the role to his various friendships with island neighbors. He also volunteers at Pine Island Community Church.
“The people here are so great. There’s a come-as-you-are attitude, which I just love,” said Rose, who shares that he went caroling last year with the Matlacha Hookers, raising over $3,000 for the community. The group is planning the same event this year.
In the midst of the Christmas celebration, Billie Young, credited by many for being the key coordinator of the event, called out a special thanks to Jake and Char Sadlak, and Johnnie Glisson, who she called up on stage to honor.
“This is really a community endeavor,” said Young, who was expecting approximately 30 people, but found herself pleasantly surprised when well over 100 showed up after the tree lighting. She especially wanted to thank the Sheriffs Department for its protection, the Luminary Committee, and DJ Papi Roisterous, who played Christmas favorites throughout the night.
“Also, we have to thank Billie,” said Glisson, praising her with the initial idea of putting the event together. “There was a lot of input that went into all of this.”