Annual Bearden Christmas tree lighting sparks the holiday spirit

By Mike Steely

Senior Writer

steelym@knoxfocus.com

The Sunday before Thanksgiving a hundred or so people gathered at the Everly Brothers Park just off Kingston Pike in Bearden for the annual Christmas tree lighting. Several elected officials visited with each other and the crowd on the cold November evening for the special event.

The Bearden Village Council's Dennis Owen introduced visitors, officials  and many others. Elder's Ace Hardware was thanked for the donation of tree lights.

Vice Mayor Andrew Roberto delivered a brief message and Nancy Strange and Don Castle sang Christmas tunes and those gathered counted down to the official lighting of the neighborhood's tree. The entire gathering joined in the singing of "Jingle Bells."

Warm apple cider and other drinks and snacks were served and even ole Santa Clause attended and welcomed children and adults to sit with him and tell him their holiday wishes. The warm welcome on a cold evening saw elected and veteran officeholders chat and pose for photos together.

Bearden kicked off the Christmas season in an appropriate and festive spirit.

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