Tree lighting opens holiday

Saline County folks turned out for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Saline Creek Pioneer Village and Museum.

Almost as if it signifies the beginning of the holiday season the Saline County Historical Society hosted its annual tree lighting on the grounds of the museum Tuesday night. Many from the area came out to enjoy hot chocolate, homemade cookies, hot apple cider and Christmas music.

"It represents a spirit of joy and love here at the Saline Creek Pioneer Villiage," Mayor Dale Fowler said.

The event opened with words from Mark Motsinger, Historical Society president, who later thanked all those involved with the society for working so hard on the tree lighting celebration.

Fowler followed Motsinger with words of encouragement and appreciation.

"We count our blessings and give thanks to our veterans whom without we would not be able to share in this beautiful occasion," Fowler said.

What Christmas celebration would be complete without a reading of Clement Clarke Moore's "'Twas The Night Before Christmas," read Tuesday night by Emily Drone of the Harrisburg Public Library. As the story concluded and all attention was on the tree, Motsinger led the count down.

The lights on the tree sprang to life as Mayor Fowler flipped the switch, the sound of applause and gasps filled the air as the once dark tree illuminated the night.

Afterward, Charles Bramlet entertained the crowd with some familiar Christmas music, and the folks were encouraged to share stories with one another as the families took their children to Aydolette Cabin to sit on Santa Claus' lap and share their Christmas hopes.