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River Heights will light city Christmas tree Dec. 6

November 19th, 2010 Posted in Opinion

By Megan Allen

RIVER HEIGHTS–As Christmas gets closer, cities around the country are preparing to create festive atmospheres in their communities. River Heights is among these towns.

On Dec. 6, the River Heights Christmas tree will be lit for the first time this year. The tradition of the Christmas tree was started about 15 years ago by Carolyn Bentley, a former member of the River Heights Art Council, said Councilwoman Kathryn Hadfield.

The city will use the large spruce tree on the northeast edge of Heber Olson Park at 400 South and 600 East. As citizens gather, everyone will sing Christmas carols and enjoy each other’s company, Hadfield said. They will turn on the tree lights and then spend more time singing.

After the lighting and the singing, everyone will move to the city pavilion where the City Council will build a fire and serve doughnuts and hot chocolate. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there talking to all of the children and giving them additional treats.

“Last year we had Santa and Mrs. Claus in the city office because it was really cold but I think this year we will make sure we have a space heater for them to stay outside,” Hadfield said. “I think we exceeded the fire marshall’s limit of the number of people we should have in the city office at one time last year.”

The Christmas tree lighting is for all members of the community.

“It is mostly attended by families with younger children,” Hadfield said, “but teenagers often come with their friends, along with lots of grandparents.”

Hadfield said the Christmas tree lighting does more than just celebrate Christmas.

“We like to encourage activities for families that will bring the community together,” she said. “We also like to promote the arts by having the caroling.”

Teaching these things is a part of their job as council members, she said. “Building a sense of community is one of the purposes of government.”

Last year, Santa Claus gave treats to about 150 children. “If you consider they came with parents and grandparents, we have a pretty good group of people,” she said.

The tree lighting will take place Dec. 6, with festivities starting at 6:30 p.m.

NW

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  1. One Response to “River Heights will light city Christmas tree Dec. 6”

  2. By 55 Gallon Drum Stackers on Nov 25, 2010

    Good Post! Thanks for sharing.

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