About Town: Sleigh Bells Ring, Are You Listening?

A CAROLING TRADITION LIVES ON

25 years ago, Regina and Bob Carlson of Mountain Avenue invited a few neighbors over for a buffet dinner and some caroling afterwards, and it turned into a tradition. The Sunday before Christmas, the group of neighbors and friends gather for a light supper, then head out to spread cheer through the neighborhood complete with jingle bells and song books. This year, the recipients had an extra special treat - carolers accompanied by bagpipes. Regina Carlson purchased the player at an auction intending to enhance her Christmas tradition, and thus made her legacy even stronger. As they moved from house to house, they gathered young friends who then acted as the greeters, ringing doorbells and starting carols–often before the piper! Enthusiasm accompanied by bagpipes is a recipe for good cheer, and sharing the spirit of Christmas is a tradition worth keeping. Santa hats off to you, Mr. and Mrs. Carlson, and your group of 30 or so, whose voices were heard ringing through the streets long after you returned home and closed the evening with cookies and cocoa.

HOOFIN' IT AROUND TOWN

While last week was a washout, this past Sunday was a perfect day for a horse and carriage ride through downtown with the family.  The riders enjoyed a slow trot around town and a candy cane treat upon departure.  According to Tony Melchionna, former Chairman of the Summit Downtown Inc., the carriages were full all day, and fun was had by all. 

IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO LUMINATE

Overlook Hospital's Summit Twig #2 sells Luminay Kits every year as a fund raiser to benefit the OH Auxilliary.  The goal is for the whole town to "Light a Candle in the Darkness" and illuminate our town on Christmas Eve.  If you've ever driven around after 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve, it is a sight to behold. What joy it brings to see a community join together in one act of charity.  If you did not have the chance to purchase your luminary kits from the Twig this year, you can still join the rest of your neighbors in illuminating this special evening.  Kryston's Hardware has all the necessary parts to make your luminaries: white paper bags, candles, and sand.  While it's easier to order them and know you are supporting a great cause, if you didn't, run to Kryston's and get the fixings to "Light Your Candle in the Darkness," and make sure you order from the Twig in time next year!

THANK YOU TEACHERS FOR ALL YOU DO!

The PTO's Hospitality Committee at Brayton hosted a lovely Holiday Luncheon for the teachers and staff on Friday December 17, a nice "thank you" during this time of year. The LCJSMS hosted a similar Holiday Luncheon last week, which was appreciated by all teachers and staff as well.  This is just a small gesture that parents can do to show appreciation for teachers, administration, and staff for all they do for our children.