On Thursday, November 28th, Johnston Agencies hosted the 6th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Bob Nicholson, town councillor and evening’s emcee, welcomed the festive crowd and talked a bit about the journey of replacing the Christmas Tree. The tree that had been in front of the hall for the past 30 years had to be removed in October, due to extensive cracking of the trunk. The new tree is the size the old one was when it was originally planted. Bobby then explained the criteria for nominations of “Official Tree Lighter”. The individual should be community minded and carry the kind spirit of Christmas year round. This year’s honoree was Shelly Schultz.
Shelly has been nominated multiple times over the past six years, with many of the nominations citing her commitment and unwavering energy to the Cubs and Scouts organization. Shelly has been at the helm of the Porcupine Scouting Association for over 25 years, making a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of children in our Community.
Mayor Carol Belchamber also summarized some of the other nominations, where a common theme was Shelly going out of her way to make things better for those around her. One of the nominations spoke of Shelly’s infectious smile, and her belief that anything can be made better by kindness.
Shelly then responded, in her ever humble way, that the joy that she has gotten back over the years of volunteering and helping people has far outweighed what she has given. She also thanked her husband Danny, who has been supporting and helping her volunteer activities throughout the years. (Fun Fact – Danny Schultz actually planted the original tree in front of the hall!)
Carol then presented Shelly with the official “Tree Lighting Ornament” and a small keepsake to say thank you. This year the ornament , along with those of the previous five Tree Lighters, will hang on a lighted wire next to the Christmas Tree.
Shelly then gave the order to “Light up the Tree” and, much to the relief of the Johnston Agencies team, it lit up and the choir sang “Joy To The World.” Amber Hoffus then addressed the crowd to say thank you to everyone that helped to make the night a success, and reminded those in attendance that it’s important to stop looking for the “perfect tree” and start paying attention to the adventures and people around the tree you’ve got because that’s what really matters! The program concluded with the Community Choir giving a little taste of their Christmas Cantata.
It was then time for hot chocolate, cookies, sleigh rides and visiting around the fire!
There are so many people that we need to thank for an evening like this, so please visit our Face Book page at Porcupine Plain Holiday Tree Lighting, or take the time to read one of the posters up around town.
From our families to yours, Have a Safe & Happy Holiday Season!
Lorraine Padalec, Coralynn Hipkins, Karen Wick & Amber Hoffus
