Tree lightings kick off Christmas in Mission Valley
Karen Peterson/Leader - Kanyon Stevens, left, admires a Christmast ornament while his friend Troy Mitchell looks on. The two were some of the few dozen folks who turned out for the Mission tree lighting ceremony Saturday.
By Karen Peterson - Leader staff
It's officially Christmas time in St. Ignatius.
Last Saturday, on Dec.1, in Gariepy Park, the city's Christmas tree was lit-up to celebrate the holiday season.
"The lights were put on the tree with the help of Mission Valley Power, without them, we couldn't have done it," Chamber of Commerce member Fred Gariepy said. "Mission Valley Power also donates the power for the lights."
During the lighting ceremony, children decorated the bottom level of the tree with ornaments made by Mrs. Colleen Cordier's first grade class at St. Ignatius Elementary School.
"They did a great job," co-coordinator Darren Orr said. "We wanted to have more classes participate but we ran out of time."
After the tree was lit, Tim Orr pulled up with the hay wagon to give carolers a ride around town while they sang. Kendra Taylor organized the song list and helped keep everyone on the right note.
"We went around Mission several times. It was cold but no one froze. The hay really helped. Everyone did a great job," she said.
Hot drinks and cookies were available during the event to help keep everyone warm.