Published December 21. 2022 01:40PM
by Lani Goins Special to the Bethlehem Press
Fountain Hill celebrated the lighting of the Borough Christmas tree on an overcast evening Dec. 4. Recreation Committee Chair Jamie Johnson served as the emcee, assisted by her puppy, Argus.
The tree is across from the Fountain Hill Fire Department on Cherokee Street.
Borough Councilwoman Annmarie Davenport Jordan said, “The tree lighting has been happening for at least 70 years.”
The band started off playing “Jingle Bells.” Broughal MS Band Director Adam Stoltz invited the attendees to sing along.
Johson spoke of the light of the holidays, and how many faiths celebrate the cold and dark winter season with lights.
Father David J. Kozak of Saint Ursula’s Catholic Church gave the invocation, building on Johnson’s theme, reminding all that Jesus came to the world to bring it light and hope.
A moment of silence recognized those who could not be home for the holidays.
The band played “O Christmas Tree,” then the tree was lit by Jacinda Blatt, granddaughter of Council President Norman Blatt.
The band played “Jolly Old Saint Nicholas” as emergency vehicles rolled down the hill, their lights and sirens cutting through the gloomy dusk. At the rear of the procession, Santa Claus waved at the crowd from atop the big ladder truck. A firefihter escorted Santa down the side of the truck to greet the children.
Pastor Jim Ricci of the Joy Center of Fountain Hill concluded the celebration with a prayer.
The attendees proceeded across the street to the Fountain Hill Fire Station for hot dogs (cooked by Mayor Michael Johnson), hot cocoa and other goodies.
Attendees file into the Firehouse for food and drink and snacks following the tree lighting.
Santa receives a helping hand from a member of the Fountain Hill Fire Department.
Miss Jacinda Blatt lights the tree, surrounded by her grandparents and watched by Borough workers and Council members.
PRESS PHOTOS BY LANI GOINS A band made up of members of the Broughgal MS and Liberty HS bands perform under the direction of Broughal Band Director Adam Stoltz.
Emcee Jamie Johnson is a member of borough council and chair of the Recreation Committee. The puppy is Argus.
The Christmas tree and decorations are across the street from the Fountain Hill Fire Station on Cherokee Street.
Santa Claus waves from atop the Fountain Hill Fire Department's ladder truck.
