‘Tis the season

Residents enjoy moderate temperatures during Warwick’s annual tree lighting WARWICK - Several years ago Warwick residents, holding their umbrellas, braved a heavy downpour to witness the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Lewis Park. Last year they bundled up for the same event, which occurred during a cold spell. But this year, on Friday evening, Nov. 24, the crowd finally got a break. Temperatures were on the mild side with clear skies. Moms and dads, children in tow, turned out in record numbers. Mayor Michael Newhard thanked the Warwick Volunteer Fire Department for sponsoring the tree lighting ceremony as well as Santa’s early visit. He also mentioned that this was the best turnout in recent memory, and he praised the people of Warwick for their holiday spirit. Warwick Fire Department Chaplain Chris Yount, pastor of Warwick’s United Methodist Church, blessed the tree and then led the assembly in prayer. Santa also made an early visit via a fire engine. He had a heavy workload this year as he handed out goodies to the extraordinary large number of excited children lined up to greet him. “We didn’t expect such a large crowd,” the mayor remarked. “I hope he brought enough candy.” He did and the children were delighted. In 2003, the Christmas tree lighting ceremony returned to Lewis Park after years of being held at the privately owned Railroad Green. The large evergreen tree at Railroad Green Park, now a village park, had been removed during its rebuilding. At that time, the Historical Society of the Town of Warwick graciously provided the magnificent evergreen just outside its Old School Baptist MeetingHouse. The annual event traditionally marks the beginning of the local holiday season. Recently, with help from the Village of Warwick Department of Public Works, members of the Warwick Valley Gardeners also installed and decorated another Christmas tree in the large urn at Railroad Green Park. Additional photos appear online at www.warwickadvertiser.com.