On a brisk December weekend in Bedford County, Virginia, families bundled up against the cold to continue a cherished holiday tradition: selecting and cutting their own Christmas trees at Bedford Evergreens Christmas Tree Farm. For many, like the Downey family, this annual outing is more than just a task—it's a ritual that brings generations together, no matter the weather. "We've been doing this for years, and it's a tradition," a Downey family member explained, their breath visible in the frosty air as they scoured the fields for the perfect tree. The sense of togetherness was palpable as children, parents, and even grandparents debated which tree would grace their living rooms this year. "I love it because all my family is together. Kids, grandkids, you can't beat it," the Downeys added, capturing the spirit that keeps them returning year after year.
Eric Capps, another loyal customer, echoed the sentiment. "We do this every year, we've been doing it for probably, about, almost 10 years, I would say," he said, recalling memories made among the rows of evergreens. Despite the chill, the farm was bustling with activity, laughter, and the crunch of boots on frosty grass. The experience is about much more than just a tree—it's about creating memories, forging connections, and marking the beginning of the festive season together.
Dan and Dana Young, who have owned and operated Bedford Evergreens Christmas Tree Farm for 25 years, have witnessed firsthand how these traditions endure. Even as artificial trees become more popular, with the American Christmas Tree Association reporting that 83 percent of people plan to choose an artificial tree in 2025, the Youngs say their business remains robust. "The people who want a farm experience, so not only are they coming out for a tree, they want to walk around, they want to be on a farm, they might want to take a wagon ride. That's what you're getting when you come here," Dan explained. The farm offers not just trees, but wagon rides and the simple pleasure of wandering among the evergreens—a slice of rural life that can't be replicated by a box-store purchase.
For Dana, the real magic is seeing the smallest visitors light up with excitement. "The part I look forward to the most is the children. They are just thrilled," she said, her eyes twinkling as she watched a group of kids dart between the trees. The Youngs take pride in the joy they help cultivate, year after year. "When we get to this point of the season when people can actually come out and essentially enjoy the fruits of the labor and find something they can take home and decorate, it just makes me feel good," Dan reflected. Their hope is simple but heartfelt: that these family traditions will continue for generations to come.
While families in Virginia celebrated the warmth of togetherness, a very different holiday story was unfolding in West Deptford, New Jersey. Just days before Thanksgiving, Wheels of Change—a local charity dedicated to supporting families in need—faced a heartbreaking setback. On November 25, 2025, members of the organization discovered that their storage unit had been broken into over the weekend. The thief, who the group has dubbed "the Grinch," cut through three locks to steal bags filled with holiday gifts, primarily toys, that were destined for more than 600 children in the community.
The break-in left only some clothing behind, with most of the carefully collected presents gone. Wheels of Change, based at 1997 Gateway Blvd., Suite 4, serves as a vital resource center for families, providing not just holiday gifts but essentials like clothing, shoes, toiletries, food, and baby products such as diapers and formula. The loss of so many gifts was a devastating blow, especially so close to the holidays. Yet, in the face of adversity, the organization responded with remarkable resilience and optimism.
"Are we upset? Yes, we are but bigger blessings are on its way to (Wheels of Change) and the families this impacted," the group shared in a social media post, choosing hope over despair. Rather than dwell on the theft, they turned to the community for help, launching a campaign to replenish the stolen gifts. "Don’t let the Grinch take away your Christmas spirit," another post read. "We aren’t dwelling on what happened here last weekend, we are looking ahead in what we can do for our community." Wheels of Change is now collecting monetary donations online and accepting in-person donations—such as toys, coats, blankets, and winter accessories—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. "No gift is too small," the organization emphasized. "Each one has changed children’s lives and restored the magic we’ve been missing for years."
Despite the setback, Wheels of Change remains steadfast in its mission. The charity is urging locals to help restore the magic of the holidays for the children who rely on their support. Community members can contribute through the group’s online donor box or by dropping off items at their West Deptford location. The response so far has been heartening, with neighbors and strangers alike stepping up to ensure that the spirit of giving endures—even in the wake of loss.
As for the identity of the thief, details remain scarce. The organization has not released any information about who might be responsible or what motivated the crime. For now, the focus remains on moving forward, not on the act itself. "We aren’t dwelling on what happened here last weekend, we are looking ahead in what we can do for our community," the group reiterated. Their message is clear: adversity will not dim the holiday spirit, nor will it stop them from serving those in need.
The contrasting stories from Virginia and New Jersey offer a snapshot of the holiday season’s complexities. In Bedford County, families braved the cold to nurture traditions that bring them closer, savoring the simple joys of togetherness and nature. Meanwhile, in West Deptford, a community rallied to overcome a blow to its most vulnerable members, choosing hope and generosity over anger and defeat. Both stories, in their own way, highlight the enduring power of community and the spirit of giving that defines this time of year.
Whether it’s the delight of children picking out a Christmas tree or the collective effort to ensure no child wakes up without a gift, these moments remind us of what matters most. As Dan and Dana Young hope for their farm’s traditions to last for years, and as Wheels of Change works to restore holiday magic for hundreds of children, the message is unmistakable: the true heart of the season beats strongest when people come together.
