Paulsboro celebrates delayed tree-lighting festivities

The annual tree lighting ceremony in Paulsboro, New Jersey was finally held after facing a two-week delay.

Near-freezing temperatures, the toxic chemical spill, and subsequent evacuations had postponed plans for the Dec. 6 event.

 

 

According to the South Jersey Times, the visit from Santa was well worth the wait for the local kids.

Representatives from the Paulsboro Refining Company participated in the annual parade, tossing candy out to those along the route.

According to company community relations specialist Mark Wilgns, they felt it important to continue participating in the yearly event.

“It’s a matter of community,” he said, standing with his colleagues in the Paulsboro Fire Hall parking lot on Swedesboro Avenue just prior the start of the parade. “It shouldn’t matter what happens, if the parade and tree lighting is happening, it’s important that we be here.”

Rubbing his gloved hands together, he added: “However, we all took a vote and decided that Christmas in July may be a good idea.”