O Holmdel Christmas Tree!

Thirty years ago, Walter Friedauer of Holmdel Nurseries on Main Street planted a Douglas Fir near the gazebo on the side of Town Hall. It grew to be around 40 feet and was the focus of many holiday lighting ceremonies.

But lately the tall tree had been looking a little droopy. A bit peaked. "It wasn't happy," said Friedauer. "They don't like air pollution. It could be that, or any number of things."

So last week the loyal Holmdel Christmas Tree was decommissioned. And Walter Friedauer returned to Town Hall to plant a new one, this time the hardier Colorado Blue Spruce he estimated to be "around 18 to 20 years old."

"They will live to be anywhere from 30 to 40 years old, and 30-35 feet high," he said.

On a balmy Tuesday, the Parks and Recreation Dept. men were hanging red bows on the columns outside Town Hall and stringing the new tree with lights, being mindful of not getting tangled in the new-tree stakes.

The Hanukah menorah and the creche had come out of storage and were placed on the lawn.

The annual tree lighting countdowncountdown and Hanukah Menorah lighting is set for 6 p.m. There will be music from the talented student musicians who brighten many of the township functions. 

Afterwards, the party will move to the Senior/Community Center next door for some snacks and refreshements.

There is a rumor that a certain surprise visitor may stop by. (Better be good!)