Community

Special Christmas party held in Mingo Junction

MINGO JUNCTION -- Santa arrived at Hills Elementary School's Christmas party via Mingo fire department ladder truck.

The annual Christmas party organized by the Mingo Business Association with help from various organizations and businesses featured pizza, cookies, cupcakes and drinks. Bob Pizzoferrato served as the master of ceremonies for the evening, inviting the children to sing along with him as he performed some of their favorite Christmas songs.

"The children were thrilled by the guest appearance of Alvin and the Chipmunks singing and dancing to three of their classic Christmas tunes," noted Jim Freiling of the MBA. Pat and Becky Pesta dressed as snow men and entertained the children while passing out cupcakes. Jefferson County Sheriff Fred Abdalla was invited to read "The Night Before Christmas" but much to his surprise, the children sat him in his rocking chair and instead read to him "How the Grinch Stole Christmas."

"The sheriff smiled, high-fived and held children throughout the story," Freiling noted, adding that Abdalla thanked the children, said they did it well and then read "The Night Before Christmas" to them as is tradition.

"The highlight of the evening is always Santa Clause, and his entrance was very special," Freiling continued. Pizzoferrato led the children to the back entrance of the school while singing "Here Comes Santa Claus." "The children, standing outside, could see in a distance, the Mingo police cruiser and fire truck. Lights were flashing and sirens blaring as they drew closer. The children started jumping up and down as they chanted, 'Santa, Santa, Santa.'"

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived and enjoyed listening to the children's Christmas wishes.

Freiling extended gratitude to the Mingo police and fire departments, the Woman's Club of Mingo Junction, Mingo Lions Club, Hills School, Indian Creek superintendent and the sponsors, Softite Community Federal Credit Union, Schuetz Funeral Home, Downtown Pizza, Pesta's Market, Eat and Park and the MBA.