Founder of the Internet Reset Talk Show, Junior Giddings, along with co-organizers, brought together scores of community children on Dec. 13 for the group’s 2nd Annual Christmas social, hosting a celebration at the Reflection Church Hall on Utica Avenue in Brooklyn.
Youngsters and their parents enjoyed festive music and selected presents from 500 gift sets, designed to ensure that each child aged 0-17 took home two items, assisted by Santa’s elves.
Lunch included chicken sandwiches donated by a local Popeyes, further fueling the festive spirit. McDonald’s also contributed Happy Meals, adding to the children’s excitement and joy.
During the festivities, the boys and girls, dressed in their finest Christmas outfits, said ‘cheese’ in front of a digital camera for jolly smiles that would last a lifetime.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, for his part, put a twinkle in the children’s eyes when he shared gifts, after which, he flashed his usual peace sign and posed with the little ones holding their precious toys.
Host of the Reset Talk Show, JR. Giddings welcomed U.S. Rep. Yvette D. Clarke to the toy giveaway and asked why it was important for her to find the time during her busy schedule to attend the Christmas social.
In response, U.S. Rep. Clarke, in whose 9th Congressional District the festive event was held, extended happy holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, to all, noting, “giving back to the community is the most important thing that we can do year-round, but especially during the holidays. “We want to make sure our families feel loved and supported.”
“I know that times are hard for most of us during this time. However, throughout this year, it has been stressful for many families. There’s a lot of anxiety in the community, and if my presence to bring just a little bit of stability, just a little bit of hope that there’s someone fighting for our community in Washington, DC that’s what I want to do,” said the elected official.
“I want to be on the ground with my people where they can feel me, touch me, and be a part of what’s happening, pray for me, that energy is what I take with me to represent our community in Washington, DC.
“We are in a battle. I look at the children who are here. They deserve a government that is responsive to their brilliance, their beauty, and their intelligence, and right now we are failing them. I’m not going to stop fighting until we get the victory, until our people have a pathway to their dreams, their goals, and their aspirations.”
“I’m here to let my community know that out of sight is not out of mind. While they sent me to Washington DC to work for them when I’m home, I like to be a part of the community,” said U.S. Rep. Clarke.
Giddings, host of the Reset Talk Show, shared his frustration that their foundation partner, Toys for Tots, could not provide toys this year, underscoring the need to fulfill the event’s mission.
The host said he immediately reached out to Lead Pastor Louis Straker Jr. of Reflections Church, where the Christmas toy distribution was held, and received a donation to purchase toys.
Immigration Attorney Melnia Cordis also wrote a check, “so that the children would not be disappointed.” Other donors, Sybil’s Bakery in Queens, and United Beverage Distributors of Brooklyn, stepped in to spread Christmas cheer.
“We were able to go out and purchase these gifts because we didn’t want to disappoint the children. Community is what it’s all about. When we lean in together, we win,” said Giddings.
“We get an opportunity to let the light shine, no matter what faith or tradition you are, and what you’re celebrating this season. It’s a season of light. Hanukkah is a season of light, Kwanzaa is a season of light, and then Christmas we get to shine the light of Jesus Christ, so during all the darkness and all the dark, toxic things that are happening, it’s a time to break away and put smiles on our young people’s faces. We are honored at Reflections Church,” said Pastor Straker Jr.
This community has supported my business since 1966, so it’s my obligation to give back. When JR Smith, a local youth coordinator, came into the store, I was more than happy to support this endeavor and the children of this community,” said Lisa Lonuzzi, second-generation owner of United Beverage Distributors Corporation, at 4517 Glenwood Rd.
Giddings said, “What’s important is that we all must come together at this time of year to make sure our community is served properly.
“It’s in my bloodline. My dad, now deceased, inspired me to do charity work. He also introduced me to the Lonuzzi family-owned United Beverage Distributors, and I have been friends with them since then. When we talk about community and diversity, Lisa embodies that perfectly.”
“Our sponsors, MetroPlus, McDonald’s, Popeyes, and others played a significant role to make this happen. When we talk about being inclusive, we must pay homage to the businesses that are here in our community.”
Giddings also thanked the elected officials, volunteers, and all who contributed to making the children’s Christmas event a success.
Director of Operations at Popeyes Kings Highway, Karan Kaknia, and VP of Operations at Liberty Restaurant Popeyes, Daniel Di Chiara, both stressed the importance of giving back to the community.
To learn more about or join the Wednesday’s weekly Reset Talk Show, log on to www.theresettalkshow.com.
