BODY POLITIC

CATCH THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT IN ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS

Lets hear it for a small town Christmas! For the next few weeks, on First Avenue in Bedford Falls, er, Atlantic Highlands, the holidays are coming alive. Under a series of events for everyone to enjoy, this season is starting like none before.

This past Saturday, the new street light decorations made their debut. Under the watchful eye of Councilwoman Kim Spatola and her holiday light committee, the festive holiday bells were installed. In an effort to improve on an existing program, the committee traded in our shooting stars of the past for some bells at no additional cost to the taxpayers. The borough had a three year lease with the company that supplies the lights, and upon renewal, decided that holiday bells would be a nice change of pace. Add that to the red bows on the poles, and the First Avenue visuals are much improved.

Across from borough hall, the Christmas tree sale is reborn. After many years of dedicated work by the fireman, a new group has emerged to fill the void for selling trees to our residents. Led by Scout Master Michael Burke, Cub Scout Pack 97 is also hawking wreaths, linings, in addition to the trees. When last seen, Mr. Burke was organizing the very successful wiffle ball tournament for the Recreation commission this past August, so you know that this fundraiser will be successful and that the trees will go fast. In fact, there is one less Douglas fir to be had because the author has already placed his order. 

If you can't get into the spirit until the lights go on, then mark down Saturday afternoon on your calendar. The annual Christmas tree lighting and parade is scheduled for 4pm and the Recreation Committee is leading the way. Once again, Xena Kammers has spent countless hours organizing a community affair for the entire family and it is always a special occasion when the Henry Hudson A Capella choir performs. There is something for everyone, including juice and cookies for the kids!

For those who can't stand the sight of the mall, First Avenue is the place to be. You can do your shopping with the local merchants and enjoy the convenience of a small town. With all of the activities and shopping, its enough to make even the most industrious elf tired. Not only do we have great business in our town, but we are fortunate to have many volunteers that want our town to shine. Everyone loves Atlantic Highlands, it wouldn't be surprising to see George Bailey running down First Avenue this year!