On Thursday, November 26th, Johnston Agencies hosted the 7th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The ceremony this year was very different from previous years; in order to comply with Covid-19 best practices, the event was held virtually and streamed live on Facebook.
Bob Nicholson, Deputy Mayor and evening’s emcee, welcomed the viewers at home and talked a bit about how this year’s experience is different than what we’ve come to expect, but that he is still grateful that we can continue this tradition. Bob explained that typically we honor an individual as our “Official Tree Lighter” but that this year we are honoring all Essential Workers.
Mayor Nick Wood then offered a heartfelt and moving speech thanking all of our Community’s Essential Workers. He also implored us to continue to be kind and considerate to one another. His speech in its entirety can be found on page 2.
Bob & Nick then called for the tree to be lit and, after a slight electrical glitch, the Tree and Ornament Row shone brightly. If you get a chance to check out Ornament Row in person, you will see that we have new, more durable ornaments this year, thanks to JilyBee Designs. Bob then recognized that over 280 essential workers would be receiving a small gift certificate, redeemable at any of the Porcupine Plain eateries, as a token of appreciation for their work.
Amber Hoffus of Johnston Agencies, event sponsor, then thanked the people involved in the event, and specifically this year’s honorees, the Essential Workers. Amber reflected upon the lyrics of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” specifically that someday we’ll be together, but until then we’ll muddle through. Amber encouraged everyone to remember that we are in this together and that being apart won’t last forever.
If you are interested in watching the ceremony, or the short video that highlights some of the more than 280 Essential Workers nominated this year, you can find it on the Porcupine Plain Holiday Tree Lighting Facebook page.