by David Habberjam
The annual tree lighting in Oxford Mills occurred on Friday, December 3, presented by the Oxford Mills Community association (OMCA). The event started with the OMCA President thanking the Indigenous peoples for the use of their unceded lands, then the Girl Guides singing Christmas songs as people gathered for the festivities. The entrance to the area was complete with complimentary hot chocolate and cookies for whomever wanted it (it was noted at one point that the servers were bribing the OPP attendee with goodies – but would not comment on the reason). Goodies provided and served by the OMCA and Jim and Norah DeVette.
The tree lighting was done by The Davidson Family in thanks for their ongoing support and contributions to the OMCA/Hamlet. The lights on the bridge and by the falls are lit courtesy of this family.
Then guess who showed up? Santa Clause, of course.
The line-up of families with children to present wishes to Santa stretched almost to Kemptville (maybe that’s a bit of a stretch too?). That line up also included many adults, just wanting to talk to Santa (not least the members of our NG Council, who muscled their way to the front, no doubt to get their wishes in early).
A rough count revealed over 100 attendees (at which point the observer lost count).
All-in-all it was a wonderful event – only lacking snow.
Merry Christmas to all.
