Meadows of Dan Christmas Tree Lighting-Meadows of Dan, VA
November 29, 2009
At 5:30 PM on Saturday, November 28, the community leaders and citizens of Meadows of Dan as well as guests from throughout Patrick, Carroll and Floyd County gathered to watch the lighting of the first Community Christmas Tree.
Meadows of Dan's First Community Christmas Tree Lit in Saturday Ceremony
Remarks by Dreama Stimely, Chair of the Meadows of Dan Community Association, led off the ceremony, followed by a prayer by Pastor Michael Shockley of the Meadows of Dan Baptist Church. Then, just after darkness fell, the tree was lit to applause by the crowd. Sue Nester led the attendees in Christmas carols and then Santa made an appearance, driving his tractor up Route 58 while his elves tossed candy to the children.
Refreshments that were enjoyed by the crowd were provided by the Meadows of Dan Food Market, Poor Farmer's Market and Brenda Quesinberry in the form of hot chocolate, hot cider and cookies. The beautiful Christmas tree was donated by Charles Christmas Trees, Bent Road, Meadows of Dan and Roger Quesinberry staked it down to resist the high mountain winds. Members of the Meadows of Dan Community Association decorated it with lights donated by Christmas in the Meadows. Brenda Quesinberry led the decorating team that included Dreama and Jim Stimely, Jerry Lister, and Leslie Shelor. Jerry Lister made and donated the sign stating sponsorship by Meadows of Dan Community Association. Bob Wray of Blue Ridge Tree Climbing provided a warm fire to add to the festivities for the comfort of the crowd.
"This was a wonderful event," commented Dreama Stimely. "We know that at least 200 people were here. It's very special to see the entire community get excited about this project and the Meadows of Dan Community Association members appreciate the support and plan to work hard to expand the event next year."
The Meadows of Dan Community Association has a membership made up of business and civic leaders in the community. The Association sponsors the Meadows of Dan Folk Fair each year in August as part of the Virginia Peach Festival.