GCC Hosting Tree Lighting on Thursday Afternoon

For any West Deptford residents who simply can't wait to get into the holiday spirit with Thursday night's tree lighting, Gloucester County College will hold its own tree-lighting ceremony earlier that day.

The college's tree-lighting ceremony is on Thursday, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the College Center. The event is free and open to the public.

The ceremony will include a performance by New York musician Mark Rust. He will sing Christmans carols as well as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Diwali songs. In addition, Santa Claus will make an appearance and visit with children from GCC's early childhood center. There will be refreshments available, including a chocolate fountain to dip different snacks into.

The holiday ceremony is in conjunction with the Gloucester County College Student Art Show. The art show, which will take place at the Dr. Ross Beitzel Art Gallery located within the College Center, will feature artwork from GCC students.

The college's Student Government Association and Phi Theta Kappa will also take donations at the event to help victims of Hurricane Sandy. The organizations will be at a table accepting $1 ornament donations. New, unwrapped toys and other cash donations will also be accepted.