Bellmawr Christmas in the Park December 11

The Fire Department will deliver Santa Claus to Borough Hall, where he will help Mayor Frank Filipek and Council members throw the switch to light the tree, marking the beginning of the holiday season in Bellmawr.

Last year’s bone-chilling temperatures forced the Bell Oaks Chorale indoors. Yet, they are scheduled to perform in this year’s ceremony despite the ever-cooling autumn air.

The popular Christmas In the Park will be December 11-14 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bellmawr Recreation Centre on Creek Road.

Filipek has said this is the only event of its kind in New Jersey free of charge.

Last year’s \”sleigh rides\” drew an estimated 8,000-10,000 adults and children.

The mayor said 65 food baskets were recently distributed to local needy families for the holidays.

In other business, Class II Special Police Officer Sal Cufari is resigning from the Department after 10 years of service to Bellmawr.

Director of Public Safety John Bollinger thanked Cufari for his time and dedication to residents.

Under committee reports, Councilman Pete Di Giambattista said they would begin to work on the 2010 budget after Thanksgiving.

All business listed on the evening’s agenda was unanimously approved, with the following of note:

As to Resolution #11:221-09, known as the \”Recycling Grant,\” Councilman Di Angelo said the Public Works Department does a great job with Bellmawr’s recycling efforts.

Also, Council okayed an ordinance on second reading providing for reimbursement to the Borough for services rendered by Bellmawr EMS.

Filipek wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

The next Council meeting will be Monday, December 21, at 7:30 p.m.