Representatives of the City Council, Nehemiah Foundation Board, Columbia Lodge #81, and Masonic Lodge
#81 gathered in a joint effort to provide the 1st Annual Christmas in Pacific Park, on Saturday Evening, at 5:30 p.m.

 

First Annual Christmas in Pacific Park
Termed a Success by Organizers

 

by: Bobby McDonald

 

Valanderous Bell, one of the main organizers of Christmas in Pacific Park, addressed the crowd
on Saturday night and extended a welcome to everyone.

 

Temperatures dropped and the winds blew strongly from the north, but it failed to "blow away" the enthusiasm of a group of people in Sulphur Springs, who had staged the historic Christmas in Pacific Park. Members of the City of Sulphur Springs, The Nehemiah Foundation, Columbia Lodge #81, and Masonic Lodge #81, as well as many of the churches had joined forces to create a display of lights, games, food, and fellowship, as well as the arrival of Santa Claus, in Pacific Park. "We'd certainly have enjoyed the weather cooperating a little bit more and us to have been able to 'light-up' the large Christmas tree, but the wind decided to 'kick-up' and thwart those plans," advised Valanderous Bell, organizer of the event. "But, that certainly didn't prevent us from having a great time, and to already be making plans for next year's event to be even bigger and better!"

 

Everyone was "eyeing" the succulent BBQ ribs that were grilling on the grill, and could hardly wait to taste
them for dinner!"

 

 

"Anytime a mix of people from all races, creeds, and backgrounds join forces to work together, it's a success and positive influence on our community," continued Bell. "And, under those terms, it was certainly a success, in more ways than one! Hey, it's almost the middle of December, you can expect a little bit of cold weather!"

 

 

 

Mayor Protem, Craig Johnson, brought greetings from the City of Sulphur Springs and pledged support
for many more events, in years to come, in Pacific Park.

 

 

"Ribs on the grill, hotdogs, and great cooking," it looks great to me!" expressed Sulphur Springs Mayor Protem, Craig Johnson, as he addressed the group. "Pacific Park has a rich, rich history, and we all need to work together to make Christmas a special time here!"

 

And, the youth in the crowd enjoyed a number of games, as they awaited the arrival of Santa Claus.

 

 

Although the weather possibly kept a few people away, it was a large crowd of people who joined together to light the lights that had been strewn throughout the park, and to enjoy food and fellowship, before Santa arrived to the delight of the children.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Merry Christmas from
Pacific Park!!!

 

_____