By Staff
Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
More than 75 Falkville residents braved rain and near-freezing temperatures to celebrate the upcoming holiday season at the 8th annual Christmas in the Park observance in Jack McCaig Park Sunday afternoon.
The observance, sponsored by Falkville Community Pride, featured entertainment, lighting of the town's live Christmas tree and hot chocolate and homemade cookies for everyone.
Falkville High School's jazz band presented a medley of Christmas carols to the delight of the audience and David Halbrooks sang "O, Holy Night" and led the group in the singing of "Silent Night" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."
Council member Bonnie Thompson had the honor of lighting the park's 15-ft. live evergreen tree in the absence of Mayor Jimmie Walker. The mayor is recuperating from the surgical removal of a kidney.
Members of Cub Scout Pack 5 led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, Chuck Smith led in prayer and Jessica Saint read a poem entitled "Origins of the Christmas Tree."
The program was emceed by Jim Garrison. He introduced several guests including elected officials and members of Falkville Community Pride who were present. He also asked for a hand of applause for Community Pride as a show of appreciation for what the organization is doing to foster and promote community improvements.
Council member and mayor pro tem Matt Stiles gave a report on an improvement project under way in the park.
He said 25 volunteers showed up for a recent Saturday work day. They began work on a nature garden with a water feature. It will include plants that attract butterflies.
Thanks to a grant and donations from local organizations the park will soon get a new sign as well as other improvements, according to Stiles.
"Basically, we're giving the park a facelift. We're trying to be good stewards," he said.