Santa Claus joins Bay Ridge Lawyers in spreading holiday cheer to military families

December 12, 2023 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

U.S. Army Maj. Roger Hafford, BRLA President Adam Kalish, Margaret Stanton, and Joann Monaco at the Breakfast with Santa event, showcasing the community's support for military families.
Photos: Mario Belluomo/Brooklyn Eagle

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The Bay Ridge Lawyers Association (BRLA) once again brought festive joy to the community with its annual Breakfast with Santa event on Saturday, Dec. 2 at Sirico’s in Dyker Heights.

The popular event, organized by past presidents Joann Monaco and Margaret Stanton, featured a brunch, an Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest, arts and crafts, a piñata, a Build-A-Bear station, a photo booth and a much-anticipated visit from Santa Claus himself.

Attendees of the event were encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for donation to the children of Fort Hamilton military personnel, continuing the BRLA’s tradition of community giving. Adam Kalish, the current president of the BRLA, praised Monaco and Stanton for their dedication to this cherished annual tradition, which not only brings members of the bar and community together but also supports a noble cause.

The Breakfast with Santa event has been a highlight of the BRLA’s calendar since its inception at the Fort Hamilton Army Base in 2017. Over the years, it has evolved into a family-oriented occasion, breaking the mold of typical holiday networking events.

Despite a brief pause during COVID-19, the event has consistently drawn a significant number of locals, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm for this festive gathering.

In previous years, the event has featured various activities for children, including writing letters to Santa, face painting and the chance to take photos with Santa Claus. The BRLA’s commitment to the Toys for Tots program has been a constant, with members and guests bringing toys for donation to the children of soldiers stationed at Fort Hamilton Army Base.

The BRLA will host its annual Holiday Party and Judges’ Night on Thursday, Jan. 11 at the Bay Ridge Manor. The event is expected to bring a large turnout of local judges who call the neighborhood home.