CARIEVALE - The Carievale and District Fire Department held its second annual Christmas tree lighting on Nov. 21, and it was a huge success.
The event began in the afternoon with a large screen at the hall that showed a special Christmas movie for the kids, which included some snacks.
Laura Stanley, a member of the hall committee, said the building has undergone some major renovations after it was flooded out in 2014.
Over the years with donations and fundraisers, they have spent around $250,000 to fix the hall. These funds have come from locals and surrounding areas as many people come to the building.
The screen they use for the movie is one they had in the 1970’s and it now it is for children's movies.
Around 60 kids and 20 adults attended.
According to Stanley, town foreman Colby Murray has done a great deal to make the small community look festive.
He prepares the tree for lighting, but also puts up the ornaments that are on the light posts. Stanley said these were made by Murray and people should come to the small village and check out the great job he has done.
Purchasing the ornaments is costly, so instead Murray decided to make them.
On hand was RCMP Sgt. Michel Chateauneus. He joined the Carnduff detachment in June and he has been a familiar face in the community by regularly helping the fire department and making his presence known to the kids and adults in the area.
Jared Phair, captain of the Argle Fire Department, was present with the fire truck and ready to help with handing out treats.
Once the movie was over, everyone gathered around the tree and sang Christmas carols while newly-elected Carievale Mayor Greg Martin lit the tree. The kids were handed treats at this time, and everyone returned to the hall for more festivities.
“This is our way of kicking off the Christmas season,” said Stanley. “And we offer it for free as we have a great community and rural area.”
Hotdogs were served in the hall and people had the opportunity to socialize and enjoy the gathering.
