The hamlet of Brentwood just got a little more festive, as Legislator Sam Gonzalez (D-Brentwood) hosted his third annual Christmas tree lighting in the heart of town on Sunday afternoon.
“What I want for Christmas is for the community to be at peace,” Gonzalez (pictured left) told The Messenger. “I want to see some growth in their businesses. My community is losing anywhere between 25% to 35% of their business. Restaurants are hurting, the supermarkets are hurting, everyone is afraid to come out. We all struggle, but it’s been nothing like this.”
Over the last few years, Brentwood has been coming online with increased public safety measures, park renovations – notably the significant cleanup at Roberto Clemente Park – and public works projects set for the near future.
“God willing, for 2027-28, we can begin construction for the sewer line,” said Gonzalez. “The Town of Islip can apply for the $10 million downtown revitalization grant and we can begin to put Brentwood on the map.” Gonzalez also recognized the Suffolk County Police Department and Third Precinct Commander Michael Kelly for their mobilizations to make sure the area is secure, namely in moving the bus stop on Washington Avenue to the LIRR Brentwood Station.
“I want to open up a Brentwood village, with ice skating in Ross Park during this time of year, with vibrant music and attractions,” said Gonzalez. “That’s my Christmas wish.”
Gonzalez, fresh off a re-election win in Suffolk County’s Ninth Legislative District, says that it’s “another opportunity to work” for his constituents.
The Legislator kicked off the event by telling community members that they were “completely safe” at the event, stating in Spanish [translated], “I don’t let anything happen to anyone, and what I’m talking about are the shameless feds that are out there. That’s not going to happen here tonight.”
The event began with the color guard, posted by Boy Scout Troop 371, followed by a stunning rendition of the National Anthem by Christopher, of the Brentwood High School Concert Choir, and holiday favorites Angels We Have Heard on High, The First Noel, and Jingle Bells performed by the choir en masse.
Hot chocolates were enjoyed by officers of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department and services and information were offered by Youth Enrichment Services (YES), a powerful force in the Town of Islip for keeping the youth off the streets, off drugs and substances, and into vocational training and mental health help as needed.
Shyla Silva, a sophomore of Smithtown High School West, was recently crowned Miss Long Island Teen 2026. Silva delivered remarks before the Brentwood Fire Department arrived with a special guest.
“I’ve been supported by this community for all these years since I was very little. It’s been so amazing to know that I can come to you for help and we have each other’s backs,” said Silva. “This holiday season is a time to hold on to your faith and family.”
Intricate Latin dances were then performed by students of El Teatro Rodarte Hispanico Dance Company, based in Central Islip, as Santa Claus descended on the scene to help light the tree, adorned with wooden ornaments made by students in the district.
