The annual Christmas Tree Toss took place on a damp and dreary afternoon in the parking lot of More Miles Automotive. But the weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd, nor the energy of the participants, who competed to see who could throw a Christmas tree the farthest.

A smaller tree was available, and was thrown by children, and also by Police Horse Pharaoh with Lieutenant Mike Leaser. In addition to competing to see who could throw a tree the farthest, member of the Bethlehem Police Department also brought toys for the children. Santa Claus appeared for photographs, and to cheer on the tree throwers.

Mike DeCrosta, who with his partners runs More Miles Automotive, served as the emcee and official tree throw measurer.

“This is our 19th year,” Decrosta said. “We are owned by a gentleman named Rick Penny who every year makes a large donation also. We have had so much fun, we have had much support from the city of Bethlehem and the police departments [city and township].

“Over the years some police departments have challenged each other; a couple years ago Bethlehem Township police and the Bethlehem City police competed against each other. Last year we had to go virtual; we are happy to be back live this year, though I think the weather has hurt the turnout a little, but I do believe people will be coming out and enjoying this again and supporting Turning Point.”

Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley serves victims of domestic violence in the Lehigh Valley, offering temporary shelter and other services.

Prizes, $25 gift cards, were given to the winners. Some of the winners, including Bethlehem Police Chief Michelle Kott, donated their prizes to Turning Point.

The winners

Longest Throw: 33 feet, by BPD Officer Chris Ross.

Longest Throw by a Female: 19 feet, by Bethlehem City Police Chief Michelle Kott.

Longest Kid’s throw: Dylan Budraitis 16.6 feet

Most Creative throw: Dan Golab, best technique.

Decrosta said $1,548 was raised for Turning Point during the Tree Toss. Donations are still being accepted. Donations can be made on Turning Point’s website, turningpointlv.org.