Finding the perfect tree to ring in the Christmas holiday in Northampton was not a problem this year.

The evergreen tree was just one yard away from the East Eighth Street property from which last year's tree came.

Borough Public Works Director Steve Gerny said Monday when last year's tree was cut down last November, he had his eye on what became this years tree as it graced the lawn of Kevin and Nicole O'Donnell, 607 E. Eighth St.

Although 10 families were willing to donate a tree to become the borough's official Christmas tree, Gerny said it was the O'Donnell tree that captured his attention, with its height and branches majestically reaching out.

"The tree was planted in the yard by his father, Jack O'Donnell, 40 years ago. There is a lot of sentiment," said Kevin's wife, Nicole. "We have been living here for eight years. It was Kevin father's home and family who planted the evergreen tree about 40 years ago."

Nicole added her husband each year wrapped lights around the tree.

Gerny said when he visited the O'Donnells, Kevin said he would have liked to keep the evergreen tree for another Christmas season, but it seemed the time was ripe to give it away.

So, last week, borough public works personnel took down the tree, loaded it on a flatbed trailer and, with the assistance of a crane from Sidleck Welding & Fabricating, Whitehall, brought the tree for placement in the triangle between Bob's Flower Shop and Miller's Diner..

The tradition of a family donating a tree to the borough is a long-standing one.

The borough will usher in the Christmas season 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, at the plaza, Main Street and Laubach Avenue. The tree lighting ceremony will include holiday music performed by the Italian-American Band. Santa will arrive on a fire truck..

The honor of officially turning on the lights on the tree, Nicole said, will go the couple's youngest son, 8-year-old Barry.

Borough Manager Gene Zarayko said the borough is willing to replace the O'Donnells donated tree with one that is much smaller.