“This time of the year is for faith, family and friends,” said Master of Ceremonies Mike Wargo as he kicked off the 55th annual tree lighting and holiday concert Nov. 26 at the Old Stone Church in Monroeville.
Wargo, a financial adviser and previous master of ceremonies, went on to thank everyone who made the night possible, including police Chief Kenneth “Doug” Cole, the Monroeville Historical Society and the bands that performed throughout the evening.
Mayor Nick Gresock agreed, welcoming the community and adding, “There’s a lot of people who deserve recognition, including you, (the public).”
The church at 2700 Stroschein Road is owned by the municipality and is overseen by the historical society.
The concert featured holiday music courtesy of the Hip Bones, who performed outside the church entrance. They are a small group of instrumentalists who play throughout Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, typically with five to seven members. This was the group’s first appearance at the church.
The Gateway High School String Orchestra is comprised of 14 middle and high school students. Directed by Dennis Persin, the students performed holiday favorites such as “Do You Hear What I Hear?” and “Star of Bethlehem.”
Led by director Lynn DeFalco, the Monroeville Community Chorus sang a myriad of holiday favorites, such as “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Must Be Santa” and “It’s the Holiday Season.”
In addition to the concert, Santa Claus made an appearance, followed by the tree lighting by state Rep. Brandon Markosek and ringing of the bell by Gresock.
Each year, the annual holiday concert is hosted by the historical society. Specifically, committee chair Renee Float and Vice President Joe Ventresca make sure the evening runs smoothly.
“This is a great community event that is for the whole Monroeville area,” said historical society President Bruce Walker
