Trees were lighted, voices resounded, speeches were made, Santa arrived, and the weather cooperated, all to celebrate Frenchtown's annual Christmas Tree lighting Sunday night.
This year's tree did not stand alone. Owing to the efforts of Edwin "Pinkie" Olive and that venerable man around Frenchtown, and master of ceremonies, Alan Richardson, the tree was surrounded by six spruced deputies.
The major tree was lighted by local businessman and major contributor to the Frenchtown Civic Organization, which sponsored the event, Monty Rintelman.
The festivities were delayed a bit anticipating the arrival of Gov. Charles Turnbull, so the show started without him.
He took it all in good humor when he was kidded about it by Richardson in his opening remarks. Richardson was followed by his brother, Henry Richardson, who delivered the main address, followed by Turnbull and Sen. Lorraine Berry.
The St. Anne's Choir sang traditional carols, followed by the Voices of Love marching in with their unique interpretations of seasonal music.
A innovation this year was a colorful yellow and white striped tent and seating for some of the happy throng, which numbered more than 200. After Santa's arrival amid presents and guavaberry, the celebration carried on until the early hours with dancing and music by the Sea Breeze Band.
