Margy Hughes, St. Joseph
On Dec. 2, downtown St. Joseph was able to have a celebration and a whole lot of fun. There was the tree-lighting at the Bello Cucina patio, followed by caroling. Then we went over to Heritage Hall for time with Santa and Mrs. Claus, being able to make a tree ornament to take home, eat wonderful cookies, drink hot beverages and have more sweets in a treat bag from Santa.
All this was made possible by the contributions from so many local businesses, organizations and individuals. Thank you to: Dr. Joseph Styles D.D.S. and his RiverBluff Christmas Tree Farm, Bello Cucina, St. Joseph Jaycees, St. Joseph Action Group, Sentry Bank, Central Minnesota Credit Union, College of St. Benedict Office of Sustainability, Kay’s Kitchen, Sliced, Sisters and Co., Coborn’s Inc., Minnesota Street Market, St. Joseph Newsleader and St. Joseph Area Chamber of Commerce.
Our 2016 guest illuminators for the tree-lighting were CSB President Mary Dana Hinton and her family, husband Robert Williams and their children, daughters Hallela and Hosanna, and son Hillel. Carols were led by Judy Meemken and Dan Theilman. Jeff Engholm of Local Blend set us up at the patio with the PA system. Danielle Taylor and her elves were in charge of the tree.
Heritage Hall was very busy with excited children as well as folks having their supper that was hosted by the St. Joseph (Catholic) Church, along with shopping at the vendors who had their lovely items for sale.
It was a special evening, blessed with perfect weather, and made possible by the work and donations of so many. A big thank you to all for making this a special “Destination Night” in St. Joseph.