Drive-thru Christmas event planned in Rostraver Twp.

By Christine Haines

chaines@yourmvi.com

When Rostraver Township officials began planning this year’s community Christmas event, they wanted to make it a point of stability in the year as well as a fun time for local children.

“When we started putting this together a month ago, we considered the possibility that things were going to spike, so we made it a drive-thru event,” said Rostraver Township Commission Chairman John Lorenzo.

Lorenzo said the last thing anyone wanted was to have last-minute uncertainty and changes adding to what has already been a stressful year for many families. By keeping everyone in their vehicles and having everyone wearing masks as treats are handed out, the event can move forward as planned.

The Rostraver Township Christmas Celebration is set for 4 p.m. Sunday at the John DiVirgilio Sports Complex, 150 Recreation Drive.

Lorenzo said it will be different from past years, but should still be festive.

“All the fire departments will be there with decorated fire trucks,” he said. “Our fire departments are unbelievable at these events. Santa’s going to be there on top of a fire truck, waving to the kids.”

Lorenzo said the event has always been popular, so canceling it was out of the question. About 500 children participated in past years’ events and he expects at least that many this year. Because the children won’t be lining up to discuss their Christmas wishes with Santa, Lorenzo said vehicles will most likely move through the sports complex more smoothly than in the past when the driveway was lined with vehicles waiting to get in.

To read the rest of the story, please see a copy of Friday’s Mon Valley Independent, call 724-314-0035 to subscribe or subscribe to our online edition at http://monvalleyindependent.com.