Christmas time is a time of laughter and cheer, and one of the most symbolic components of Christmas is the tree. However, many families will not have a Christmas tree this holiday season. Members of the community, including students, participated in organizing the annual Schuylkill Christmas Gala to help decorate trees for these families.

Students have been active in the Christmas gala for many years. Representatives from the Sketch Club, majorettes, flags, Tide Tones, Life Skills, Publications and other groups have been involved over the years.

“All these organizations helped in the success of the gala. I hope we have a great year again,” Mr. Zane Rist, the gala’s entertainment supervisor, said.

Schools and businesses participated in the event, in addition to individuals who decorated, cooked and provided entertainment. The gala attendees judged the participants’ 20-plus decorated trees. The winners were announced at the conclusion of the event, and then the trees and their decorations were distributed to the local families in need of a Christmas tree.

“The purpose of the gala is to provide joy and entertainment for the people of the community,” Mr. Rist said.

The Schuylkill Christmas Gala was formed nine years ago as a goodwill gesture to the communities in and around Schuylkill County. Next year, the gala will celebrate its 10th anniversary.

“Students had a great time participating in the Gala. They look forward to doing it again next year,”Mrs. Sara Arnold, art teacher, said.

Mr. Robert J. Thomas, from the Square and Compass Club of Pulaski Lodge, organized the annual Schuylkill Christmas Gala. The gala was held in the Masonic building at 2nd and West Norwegian St. in Pottsville over two weekends in December.

“I was very happy to participate in the gala. It’s always fun to decorate, especially for a good cause,” said senior Sarah Griffiths.