Sunshine Initiative — Local businessman Roy Malool.
GLYNIS HART

NEWPORT — The Newport Sunshine Initiative held its second annual Family Christmas Celebration Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Salt hill Pub.

Attendees were treated to a hot chocolate bar, food, and holiday sweets while organizers from the Newport Dog Park led a 50/50 raffle to help fund the future project. Stephen Emery, a 14-year-old Newport High School student, entertained the packed room with Christmas music live on the piano.

A “surprise” was promised for all in attendance by the Sunshine Initiative and it did not disappoint! Jay and Karen Lucas, founders of the Newport Sunshine Initiative were excited to welcome the New Hampshire Dance Collaborative created by Manchester resident, Joan Brodsky and her friend Amy Fortier.

The Dance Collaborative brought professional dancers from across the state to the Sunshine Town to perform a miniature rendition of the Nutcracker ballet! There wasn’t an empty seat in the house as everyone watched the beautiful holiday tradition with their families. Children and adults alike were invited to take photos with the dancers and receive special treats gifted from the Sunshine Initiative afterwards.

The evening closed out with a special presentation of the first ever "Roy Malool Award in Public Service," something the Sunshine Initiative hopes to award every year moving forward to individuals in the community who exemplify selflessness and determination to make the Sunshine Town an even better place to call home.

The first honored recipient turned out to be a wonderful surprise as the winner was actually Roy Malool himself. Jay Lucas stated, "Roy epitomizes the spirit and compassion of Newport and its residents. We are honored to call Roy a friend, a mentor, and an important member of the Sunshine Initiative."

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Sunshine Initiative honors Roy Malool