The Christmas spirit is alive and well on "the hill" in Jim Thorpe.

Sunday evening close to 50 residents joined together to sing Christmas carols, targeting residents of the community who could use a little extra cheer."We had such a nice time," said Lori LaRizzio, one of the organizers of the event. "I think we surprised our hill. It's something that hasn't happened in a long time."LaRizzio said the idea for the group caroling was a joint effort, born a couple months ago.She and her husband, Ted, were visiting with Maureen and Farley Foster, and LaRizzio had been talking about how wonderful the people who live on the hill, also known as the Heights, had been to her and Ted. They decided they wanted to come up with something where all of these good people could get together and do something fun."There were a few ideas," said LaRizzio. "Christmas carols just stood out."The idea was shared on Facebook, and there was an outpouring on people who were interested.Jodi Hinger joined Foster and LaRizzio in organizing the event.Last week, about 25 people showed up for a rehearsal at the home of Jamie and Bill "Bumper" Solomon.Sunday night, there were 49 who came out to spread the cheer."We made 37 stops," says LaRizzio, "all on the hill."LaRizzio said they reached out to the different churches in the Heights to learn who would most benefit from some Christmas cheer, then planned their route accordingly.The carolers were accompanied by Dave Gasker, a local DJ, who brought along a karaoke machine to provide the music. Over the three hours that they caroled, they walked about 4 miles, weaving through the neighborhood.In addition to providing a treat for the ears, the carolers distributed cookies at each stop.LaRizzio, who loves spending time in her kitchen, coordinated the baking with other area residents. They ended up with more than enough cookies.The overall response?"They were elated," she says. "It was amazing. Everybody felt that this was what Christmas was all about; the true meaning of Christmas for sure. Everybody made time out of their busy schedule to do this, to serve others."As one gentleman told them, "If you believe in Christmas miracles, this is a Christmas miracle."When they were done sharing Christmas joy, the carolers enjoyed a get-together at the home of Sandy and Bernie Schweibenz.LaRizzio said the carolers are already excited about doing this again next year.