Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department steps up to help the community power through to kick off the Christmas season
Not even a rain storm and power outage were a match for the Florenceville-Bristol annual Christmas tree lighting on Nov. 28.
Thanks to the Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department, which generously loaned the District its generator, the lighting went ahead as scheduled, with a few minor tweaks to the program.
As word spread that the lighting was still a “go,” residents braved the cold and wet weather to enjoy the free hot chocolate and cookies provided by True North Baptist Church and the evening’s entertainment.
Mayor Andrew Harvey opened the ceremony, thanking everyone who ventured out in the weather to help celebrate.
He also thanked the fire department for “going above and beyond” to ensure the event could still go ahead as planned.
After lighting the tree, Iris and Evelyn Lloyd, along with Sparrow Houghton and Baby Larkin, led the group in singing Christmas carols. The evening ended with a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who took time from their busy schedule to visit with the children.
The power outage and poor weather didn’t dampen the spirits of the District’s Tourism, Heritage, and Culture Manager, Sharon Johnston. She maintained her festive mood.
“We are working with what we have, but we’re pleased with how it turned out,” she said. Our plans changed, but thanks to the support of the crowd and the fire department, we’re rolling with it! Who would have ever thought we’d have a power outage on the night of the tree lighting?”
