Christmas across the land

Santa took time out of his busy schedule to meet with area residents and spread his holiday cheer in anticipation of Christmas Day on Sunday, Dec. 25. When asked how he could be in so many places at once, Santa just winked mysteriously and carried on his jolly way. The Township Journal is investigating. Byram Laughter, giggles and squeals of excitement could be heard over the fire engine sirens as Santa arrived at Byram’s Annual Tree Lighting on Sunday, Dec. 4. The event was organized by the Youth Guidance Committee and the Byram Fire Department in a continuance the annual tradition. Every child had a chance to sit on Santa’s lap, receive a gift and feast on holiday goodies. The Byram Fire Department will make its annual Santa Claus Run on Dec. 17 and 18. Chris Cringle himself will be driven through the township on a decked out fire truck - giving out candy canes, ho-ho-hos and plenty of good cheer. The route is expected to be the same as it has been over the past 20 years, with the Brookwoods, Lackawanna and Cranberry areas being visited on Saturday and the Forest and Dorchester areas being toured on Sunday. Stanhope Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations were kicked off in Stanhope on the evening of Sunday, Dec. 5. Locals gathered to celebrate the lighting of the borough's holiday tree. Students adorned in reindeer antlers, and Santa hats sang Christmas, holiday and Hanukkah songs. Frosty the Snowman helped officiate the ceremonies by assisting with the tree lighting. Once the candy cane lever was pulled to illuminate the tree, Santa Claus was whisked in by the Stanhope Fire Department and the Stanhope-Netcong American Legion Ambulance Corps. Upon his arrival, Santa distribute candy canes and then led the crowd to the First Presbyterian Church of Stanhope for refreshments and a magic show. Newton Newton residents gathered for their annual tree lighting on Monday, Dec. 12. Children placed ornaments on the tree, made by fourth and fifth-grade Merriam Avenue students. They also sang and played holiday music. After the tree was lit, people enjoyed hot cocoa and cookies, and then visited with Santa Claus, who arrived on Newton Fire Department Truck 804. The Town of Newton Recreation Department coordinated the event.