United Way of Morris County Events
Past Events

Hyatt Morristown at Headquarters Plaza
2005 Tree Lighting
Wednesday, December 7, 2005

The Morristown community gathered together on December 7 to share the holiday spirit with good friends, great food, and the sounds of the season at the annual Tree Lighting at The Hyatt Morristown at Headquarters Plaza. 

The event was indeed a festive one, complete with a chorus from the Morris Conservatory and adorable ornaments made by children from local child care centers that partner with United Way, including Collinsville Child Care Center, Children on the Green, Morristown Neighborhood House Association, and the Salvation Army in Morristown.

Each year, the Hyatt Morristown at Headquarters Plaza honors a local non-profit organization for its service to the community.  United Way of Morris County is thrilled to be selected as this year's honoree.

Paul Joseph, general manager of the Hyatt Morristown at Headquarters Plaza, kicked off the evening and thanked the families and friends in attendance for joining him for the occasion.  Joseph also thanked United Way for its work throughout Morris County. 

Kevin Rigby, vice president of Public Affairs, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation and United Way of Morris County board member, talked about how United Way touches everyone in the community, including infants, children, parents, seniors, and those facing personal crises. 

John Franklin, chief executive officer of United Way of Morris County, thanked the Hyatt Morristown for recognizing United Way's community-building work.  Franklin then brought a special friend to the podium – five-year-old Natalie, who attends Collinsville Child Care Center – to help him place an ornament on the tree. 

Mayor John Delaney of Morristown had the honor of "flicking the switch," which lit up over 700 white lights on the 20-ft tall tree, decorated with silver and red ornaments.

United Way thanks the Hyatt Morristown at Headquarters Plaza for its support, and also acknowledges the dedication of the hundreds of volunteers who help United Way build stronger, healthier communities. 

To learn more about becoming a United Way volunteer, email JoAnn Tsonton or phone 973.993.1160, x120.