Turning On The Lights

Headquarters Plaza Hotel 2001 Annual Tree Lighting

Hundreds Gather for Special Tree Lighting

Photos By Joe Gigli

MORRISTOWN - With the help of a festive 25+ foot Christmas tree, the staff of Headquarters Plaza and members and friends of the CHERAB Foundation ushered in the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony. Providing entertainment was the Morris Conservatory of Music based in Boonton. (above right) Robert and Christina with their mom Denise Harrison, of Manalapan; can't believe the size of the tree decorating the lobby of the Headquarters Plaza Hotel. (left) Chorus members of the Morris Conservatory, perform before the lighting of the tree.

MORRISTOWN - With the help of a festive 25-foot Christmas tree, the staff of Headquarters Plaza here and members and friends of the CHERAB Foundation ushered in the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony. Providing entertainment was the Morris Conservatory of Music based in Boonton.

 The CHERAB Foundation was this year's nonprofit group honored by the Headquarters Plaza during the event for its commitment and dedication to the community. Founded in September 2000, this organization disseminates education and training programs designed to improve the health and welfare of all children with complex speech and language disorders. It focuses on providing and funding research, education, screening and therapeutic information for apraxia worldwide. Apraxia is a severe, neurologically-based, often undiagnosed speech disorder.

 In addition to the exciting tree lighting and uplifting music, the evening featured hor'dorves and beverages for all. And, of course, a special visit from Santa for the little ones.

 The Morris Conservatory of Music, founded in 1987, is an independent, non-profit, nonsectarian equal access performing arts organization that helps its members reach their full musical potential, while encouraging an appreciation for the classics among Morris County residents.

(top) John J. DeLaney, Mayor of Morristown, gives the official word to Serge Leoni, General Manager of HQ Plaza Hotel; and Lisa Depoorteer, Director of Fund Raising for the CHERAB Foundation; to light the tree. (above left) Children gather around Santa. (above right) Chorus members from the Morris Conservatory, perform during the evening.