Spin Cycle

Gov. Eliot Spitzer flipped the switch for the 2007 holiday tree in Empire State Plaza tonight. Thousands of Albany residents and a handful of local dignitaries joined Spitzer, his wife Silda Wall, and their daughters for the lighting and fireworks.

Prior to taking the stage, the Spitzers were entertained by both an all-boys a cappella group specializing in pop standards and a women’s choir singing Christmas carols. The governor also picked up hot chocolate for his family before braving the frigid temperatures.

During his pre-switch speech, Spitzer reminded the crowd of the last time he spoke publicly downtown – his inauguration last New Year’s Day, and the rain and sleet that started off that morning. He reminisced about his 6 a.m. run through the park with Mayor Jerry Jennings, who was also seated on stage, in front of Santa Claus.

One youngster commented on the fairness of Santa taking a backseat to all the politicians. Her mom shrugged.

Our previous governor, George E. Pataki, only attended the tree lighting early in his 12-year tenure, leaving the honors to Lt. Gov. Mary Donohue most years.

Melissa Mansfield