Aldermen in Christmas Swing

The Board of Aldermen struck a holiday note at today's meeting. Christmas songs were heard ringing through the archways of City Hall as a choir from Rosati-Kain High School entertained the board with a medley of Christmas carols.

After the choir wrapped up, Board President Jim Shrewsbury assured the board the entertainment was not over and summoned Alderman Craig Schmid, 20th Ward, to the dais.

Seized by the Christmas spirit, Schmid retrieved a trumpet that had been secreted behind the podium and belted out “Deck the Halls” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”.

Afterwards, his colleagues complimented the alderman on his performance; many noting, “I didn't know you played.” Something the ACC discovered just a month ago.

Schmid said he began playing the trumpet in grade school, but he hasn't played much recently.

Given that he's facing a challenge for his aldermanic seat this spring, he may want to "blow the horn" a little more often.