BY SARAH STEPHENS, OWNER/EDITOR
Just before 6 p.m. at Village Green Park in Millbrook Thursday, Dec. 5, a huge crowd had packed in front of the stage, ready for the annual City’s Christmas Tree Lighting.
Wise Men, Mary and Joseph, an Angel and a goat named Nicky were lining up in the Manger Scene, courtesy of Robinson Springs United Methodist Church members and youth. Another RSUMC crew was manning the concessions table with hot chocolate and other goodies.
Frank and Cindy Clem, with “Clemency,” had been leading the crowd in some Christmas Caroling, while choir members from Airport Road Intermediate and Coosada Elementary were getting last minute information from their Choir Director Melissa Galanopoulos.
Earl Monroe, emcee for the evening, introduced Pastor Gary Jackson, with Lake Elam Missionary Baptist Church of Millbrook, to get the night started with an opening prayer. His prayer asked for protection and guidance for the city, and for the community to come together for the real reason for the season.
He then told the story of Jesus’ birth in the manger all those years ago, and how this time of year is more than just presents and decorations. He reminded those present to be mindful of the greatest gift the world ever received, and to keep that close to their hearts as they make their way through the season.
There was more Caroling with Clemency, lots of hot chocolate drinking, and then the big moment arrived as Mayor Al Kelley took the microphone. He introduced members of the Millbrook City Council, and talked about the work that goes into Christmas events in the city.
“There is so much behind the scenes that has to happen for these events, and I want to give a huge thank you to the Spirit of Christmas Committee, The Parks and Recreation Department, Street Department, Utility Department and all employees who had a hand in this. I thank everyone here and everyone participating tonight. This is a great city with great people, and we want everyone to have a very Merry Christmas.”
Much mention was also made of the decorations throughout the city that keep popping up particularly along Deatsville Highway, Grandview Road and Five-Points. The Street Department, and Director Brandon Harris, are behind all of those decorations, many constructed with painted hay bales and a lot of creativity.
Kelley introduced his granddaughter, Kinsley Kelley, who has helped with the countdown for many years at the annual event.
As the Countdown began, the lights in the park dimmed, then exploded with light as the beautifully decorated City Christmas Tree sprang to life. The tree was provided by the Millbrook Civitan Club and decorated by Jenny Lynn’s Florist with a little help from city employees as well.
After the tree lighting the much-anticipated performances of the school choirs began, with parents and family members crowding around the stage to take plenty of photos and videos. As the performances came to a close, the crowd began watching the light display in the park, set to music. The City’s IT Expert Andy Markley, designed the light/sound show again this year, and families were quick to take off, children dancing to the music, as they walked through the displays. Many families used the opportunity for group photos in front of the Christmas Tree.
The Christmas decorations, and lights set to music will be on display through the end of the year. Visitors can walk around the park, or sit in the warmth of their cars tuning into their radios and watch the show.
REMINDER!!!! The City’s Annual Christmas Festival will take place Saturday, Dec. 7 beginning at 9 a.m. in the Village Green Park. Forty vendors will be there with food and plenty of shopping opportunities. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for FREE photos in the Gazebo from 11 to 1 courtesy of Valley Bank and Chrietzberg Photography. The first 200 kids will receive a free gift.
The Parade “A Musical Millbrook Christmas” will roll up Main Street at 2 p.m. from Smokehouse Pit Barbecue down to Village Green. Grand Marshals this year are members of the band and choir from Stanhope Elmore High School. Come out early to do some shopping, stay for the parade, and then head back to the park! It will be a day full of fun, excitement and Christmas memories!
Pastor Gary Jackson with Lake Elam Missionary Baptist Church of Millbrook. 
