If you live in or near Bogota, N.J., or feel like driving there to play a small part in the War to Save Christmas, check this out:

Bogota Mayor and Republican Gubernatorial candidate Steve Lonegan told Essex County Republicans last night that he is organizing an “illegal” night of Christmas Carols, Hanukah songs and other musical pieces banned by the South Orange/Maplewood Board of Education and urged people of all faiths to join him.

Lonegan’s comments came in response to school district actions which this year banned from their annual “Holiday Concert” even instrumental versions of “controversial” songs like “Silent Night” and Handel’s “Messiah” among others.

The Mayor asked people of all faiths to join him at 5 pm on Tuesday, December 21st to sing and listen to various songs the school district has banned. The district reaffirmed that ban at the December 7th meeting.

“The school district’s decision to prohibit even instrumental versions of classic Christmas tunes shows that those who claim to speak for tolerance are in fact the most intolerant,” Lonegan said. “It’s time people lighten up and enjoy the Christmas and Hanukah season instead of denying the religious foundation of our nation and the holiday season,” Mayor Lonegan noted.

Be subversive: Rejoice in the Lord and sing His praise!