A fun time was had by all at the Tree Lighting and Christmas Fair! Making pies, chutney, and chili filled many days. The festivities began on Thursday with our annual Tree Lighting with carols led by our music director, Raymond Hawkins, and members of St. Michael’s Choir.

The Heart of Christmas Fair began officially with the Friday night preview party. We had an incredible array of food, beverages, and decadent desserts. This year with the assistance of Steve Hersey the hall transformed itself to a glorious winter wonderland. We received accolades from our guests and encouraged them to share their experience with friends and family. Upstairs we had our usual display of greens and crafts, Rich Uncle items, jewelry, baked goods, beads, books, and our silent auction. Downstairs we had seven (7) vendors with very diverse and interesting items for sale.

Overall, the Fair was a success, in large part due to the amazing volunteers and table coordinators. We would especially like to thank our coordinators:

• Baked Goods – Pam Oppelt, Greg Bates, and many choppers & peelers!

• Books & Beads – Jenny Oliveira, Sarah Bates, Ann Foster and Ann Davis

• Greens, Wreaths and Crafts – Karen McMahon and Charlene Tyler with their arrangers, decorators, and other volunteers

• Jewelry – Linda Smidt, Octavia Moniz, and their volunteers

• Credit Card Station and Music Set-Up: Steve Clay

• Publicity – Pam Oppelt and Frances Nilsson

• Rich Uncle – Peggy Bittermann, Pat Spaberg, and Val Wyckoff

• Church Tours – Edward Nilsson, Dana Denault, Dick Lundgren, Frances Nilsson, and Rob Howie

• Vendors – Sue Cool

• Chili-in-a-Bag – Karin McCarthy, James and Jill Dearborn, Kate and Carl Renney

• Preview Party Wassail & Kitchen Crew – Frances Nilsson, Bill and Barbara Miler, Laura Tamagno and others who helped to serve and assist in the kitchen

• Saturday Lunch – Bill and Barbara Miller

• Silent Auction - Olivia Chickering

• Treasurer/Credit Card Station – Joe Oliveira, James Dearborn, Kristen Carlson, David Bittermann, Kim Hunt, Stephen Hunt, and Emma Hunt

- Submitted by Co-Chairs, Octavia Moniz and Karen McMahon