The Allentown Rose Garden Neighborhood Association organized its first tree lighting to take place at the gazebos Dec. 1. Despite the cold temperatures, a sizable crowd came out to support this first-time event that hopefully will continue to grow. Luminaries graced the steps and walkways to the tree. The tree was purchased by the RGNA for this specific event.

A number of RGNA members were on hand to make this event possible. President Anthony “Tony” Moyer and fellow members Arjana Etchason, Deb Stovall, Sam Stovall, Kelly Phillips and Janet Gross mingled throughout the crowd engaging with the residents. Janet married into the Gross family for whom the Malcolm W. Gross Memorial Rose Gardens are named.

Members of the community were greeted by the beautiful carols performed by the outstanding Emmaus High School Brass Ensemble under the direction of Don Hughes. EHS’s Band Director Spencer Koppenhol joined the students in this special event by playing a sousaphone. The band members were assisted by parents Ariel Scholz and Dominic Campono. The band performed popular carols throughout the hour.

Girl Scouts Evelyn Resch, Avarie Ubiera and Kennedy Dekrell used hand chimes and joined voices with RGNA members Lori Call, Kelly Phillips, Heather Dekrell and Stacy Confer-Resch to lead the singing of the carols with Moyer.

Allentown Mayor Matthew Tuerk was on hand to greet the attendees and thank the volunteers who organized the event. Special thanks was given to the EHS Brass Ensemble and the Girl Scouts. Tuerk provided the countdown with Santa to the tree lighting. The lighting was handled by Rose Garden Maintenance Worker Nick Huttie who previously had worked for Longwood Gardens.

Santa Claus arrived to the playing and singing of “Jingle Bells.” Stovall embodied the spirit of Santa Claus and provided candy canes to attendees. The children in the crowd were excited for his arrival. Even the “big children” were happy to see Santa. Santa was given a big hug by Allentown’s Vice President of City Council Santo Napoli. Maybe he wanted to make sure he is on this year’s Nice List?

Etchason said this is the first time for the tree lighting at the Rose Garden and the committee hopes this will become an annual event for the city of Allentown. Allentown Rotary Club members Rosaria Stoops and Linda Friedman provided complimentary hot chocolate from Dunkin’ and the RGNA provided complimentary cookies for attendees.

Etchason said the RGNA is always seeking new members. The group meets once a month. There are several committees that volunteers can join. More information can be found on the website http://www.rosegarden-na.org.

The group’s next event is the Christmas party Dec. 8.