BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
When Christmas Caroling began at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at Village Green in Millbrook, the crowd had already arrived, and more people continued to stream in throughout the event. Officials estimated the throng was close to 3,000.
Many came to see their kids perform in the multiple entertainment groups. Band members from both Stanhope Elmore High School and Millbrook Middle School put on a show. Choral members from Stanhope Elmore High School and Airport Road Intermediate were also in attendance, as well as the ARIS Dancers.
The City of Millbrook purchased six “snow” machines for the event which was a big hit with the crowd. As soon as the tree and lights were illuminated throughout the park, a heavy shower of “snow” began to fall, with lights in the park set to music. as a beautiful background. The light and music show will continue in the park through the end of the year.
Last year was the first year for “snow” to fall at the Tree Lighting. It was a light shower at that time, but the additional machines made a huge difference this year. “Now, that is what I am talking about,” Kelley said as the snow (bubble mixture) began to fall this year.
The SEHS Diamond Club sold out of concessions before the end of the program, but a lot of people were able to enjoy the hot chocolate and baked goodies. The sale was a fundraiser for the SEHS Baseball Team.
Caleb Strickland is the pastor for River Region Church of the Nazarene. He opened the event with prayer, and later shared the story of Christmas for the audience.
“Clemency” opened with Christmas Caroling, and continued throughout the night in between other performances. They succeeded in getting the crowd participation and the voices echoed through the park.
Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley welcomed the crowd to the event, commenting on the huge turnout. “This is the biggest crowd we have ever had, and it is just so wonderful to see everyone out to enjoy a true, hometown Christmas.”
Kelley said that while the population for Millbrook is growing at a rapid rate, the intent is to keep the hometown feel alive and well in the city. The Tree Lighting and Parade are one of those things that make the city special.
“Millbrook is just a special place to live,” Kelley said. “I grew up here, and a lot has changed over the years. We have a lot of new growth coming very soon, but we will keep our positive atmosphere and a loving community.”
City Council members present for the ceremony included Jimmy Harris, Jacquelyn Thomas, Justin Jones and Council President Michael Gay. They introduced their families and wished everyone a wonderful start to a Merry Christmas.
Spirit of Christmas Committee Chairwoman Kathy Kelley thanked the team members, the city employees, the Street Department and Parks and Rec Department, and the Millbrook Police and Fire Departments for their work throughout the year to prepare for the annual Christmas events.
Bill Roberts served as the emcee for the evening, promoting upcoming events for the city and keeping the mood jolly and light.
Families stayed long after the event was over to watch the light show, play in the snow, and mix and mingle with old and new friends. It was a night of smiles and cheers, to be sure.
Make sure to visit the Village Green Park during the Christmas season.
