North Adams Officially Begins The Holidays
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Residents flocked to Main Street during the annual tree lighting to gear up for the holiday season.
After city workers finished stringing up necessary lights and standing up the two 30-foot-tall trees that bookend Main Street, the time was finally right to light everything up Wednesday.
Mayor Richard Alcombright led the city into the holidays.
"So we are all here tonight to light up the city, and I was just told that Santa is in the city, but we need to let him know where we are," the mayor said, as the crowd shouted.
And he did come, lead by the Drury band and on the back of the city's antique fire truck bearing gifts for the sea of children that engulfed his motorized "sleigh."
Before the countdown commenced, Alcombright asked for a moment of silence and asked residents to reflect on those in the world who may not know the peace and comfort enjoyed in North Adams and those who protect the city from atrocities inflected elsewhere.
"I would like to begin with a moment of silence and reflection as we remember with sincere reverence the so many people around the world who are victims of senseless violence," he said. "Also to reflect with deep respect and deep admiration we think of military, our police, our fire, our EMS and all who surround and protect us every day."
He along with events director Suzy Helme thanked all of those involved in the tree lighting, including Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals for donating the tree near City Hall and Norm and Ann Martin of Adams who donated the tree near the monument in memory of Max Fiske.
After obligatory hot chocolate and merriness, the Mayor wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving and happy holidays.
"On this Thanksgiving Eve please know that I am very thankful for my wonderful family, I am thankful for my abundance of friends, and I am most thankful for being part of this greater community," he said. "Happy Thanksgiving and happy holidays."
Tags: holiday story, tree lighting,
