By RANDY GRIFFITH
VINCO — Walking through the display of decorated evergreens, Clarence and Audrey Ling of Vintondale reflected on how the Jackson Township lineup of Christmas events brings the community together.
“I think it’s nice,” Clarence Ling said, surrounded by colorful lights of the Festival of Trees display in Veterans Park.
Hundreds strolled along the lineup of 24 trees decorated by businesses and organizations, voting for their favorites Sunday during Jackson Township Light Up Night festivities.
“It is a good crowd,” township Manager David Hirko said. “It will be steady all evening. The weather is beautiful. Everybody is out and not shivering. You can’t ask for any more than that.”
Inside the Jackson Township Senior Center, local Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts sold refreshments for those taking a break to enjoy some holiday music, admire the senior center model train display and, of course, visit with Santa Claus.
“I will tell him I want a toy crane,” 4-year-old Zach Fisher of Vinco said. “I think I want some new Play-Doh, too.”
Although the refreshment stand is not a budget-maker for the Scouts, it helps offset expenses through the year, Scoutmaster Rodell Snyder said.
“Summer camp costs about $235,” she said. “We also have things like the Klondike Derby and winter camp. It helps out with all the little things like that.”
Mostly, the Scouts are happy to be part of the community event, she added.
“It keeps getting bigger and bigger every year,” Snyder said.
“People seem to enjoy it.”
A steady stream of young and old alike filed through the model train display, which has grown steadily through its
10 years of existence. It started with two trains and a donated platform, chief engineer Phil Boyer said.
The 84-year-old retired factory worker takes particular pride in the display’s coal tipple and re-creation of Old Bedford Village.
“That is very unique,” Boyer said.
Light Up Night music was provided by Chickaree Union Church, Pike Grace Brethren Church, Singer Hill Grace Brethren Church, Vinco Brethren Church and Jackson Elementary chorus.
Festival of Trees entries will remain on display through
Jan. 7.
The township is also sponsoring a holiday decoration contest.
More information is available on the township Web site, www.jacksontwppa.com.
