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Hundreds gathered at the Manchester Township Municipal Complex to continue the joyous tradition of joining in our Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 4. As one of the many events hosted by Manchester Township’s Recreation Department, the annual ceremony allows residents to join together to celebrate the holiday season with their neighbors.

Rev. David Rittinger of Whiting Bible Church began the festivities by offering the invocation. Mayor Kenneth Palmer then delivered opening remarks, wishing everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. “This is the time to come together and celebrate all of the good things in our lives,” including our friends, family, and community, said Mayor Palmer.

The festivities continued with musical performances by Shayna Goble, Kayla Fata, and Amber Lowe; Cub Scout Pack 44; the Manchester School Chorus; Manchester Township High School band; and Amanda Batista. Santa Claus himself made a special appearance, arriving at the Municipal Complex with much fanfare aboard a Manchester Volunteer Fire Company engine. To cap off the night, children and their families were welcomed into the Civic Center for refreshments and a visit with Santa.

A special thank you goes out to Manchester Manor, Whiting Health Care, Pines at Whiting, Crestwood Manor, and La Bove Grande for their generous donations of refreshments. Also providing invaluable assistance in bringing this event together were the Manchester First Aid and Rescue Squad, Manchester Volunteer Fire Company, Manchester Buildings and Grounds Staff, Municipal Staff, Social and Senior Service Staff, and Joe Tomei.

Among those in attendance were members of the Township Council, Business Administrator Donna Markulic, and numerous municipal employees and their families. Remember, the Recreation Department’s Holiday Home Decoration Contest is in full swing – call 732-657-8121, ext. 5102 or 5101 by Friday, December 11, to enter. Thank you to everyone who attended and shared in this special event!