by David Flint
A good crowd of close to 100 people, young and old, turned out last Sunday evening to kick off the holiday season in Stephentown with the lighting of the Christmas tree in Veterans Park. On this, the third annual tree lighting celebration, residents were pleased to have U.S. Congressman Chris Gibson and his family join them in the singing and the fellowship. [private]“The tree is a symbol of our unity and hope,” Gibson said, “And we are hopeful – for peace in the world and that the economy continues to move forward so that everyone may have a chance.”
The Stephentown Seniors led by Cathy and Morgan Lawless hosted the event this year. Edie Beach enlisted the aid of Town Supervisor Eckhardt to help lead the singing. The West Stephentown Baptist Church Choir was there, too, adding a more professional touch to the singing. The Stephentown Veterans assisted in preparing the tree by stringing the lights beforehand with aid and equipment from Frank Zwack. Councilman PJ Roder provided tower lighting so that people didn’t stumble around in the dark and could read the music handed out by the Seniors.
An opening prayer was offered by Rev. John Close of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and a closing one by Rev. Trygve Tomlinson of the West Stephentown Baptist Church.
Following the carols, most of the crowd, including the Gibson family, adjourned to the Stephentown Fire Hall for cookies, refreshments and camaraderie.
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