COMMITTEE MEMBERS STANDING (L-R): BILL THORNTON, MICHELLE NEALON, JOHN & KITTY JEDD, GEORGE SMOTHERS, SHARON PATALINO, LARRY GERMAN, AND JOE PATALINO. SEATED (L-R): MELODY SMOTHERS, MARCIA, BOB, & HARLEY LEADBETTER, PAT THORNTON, AND ELLEN WHITTEN.
On Sunday evening, November 30, more than 400 people gathered under the portico in front of the Clubhouse to celebrate our community’s annual Tree Lighting Event.
Strolling Carolers, members of the New Hope Presbyterian Church choir, were led by their coral director, HP resident Ellen Whitten. They sang traditional carols and happy Christmas songs. Marcia and Bob Leadbetter, and their beautiful golden retriever, Harley, sat by the tree and Harley, wearing his festive bandana, posed for pictures and was petted and admired by all. Committee volunteers passed out programs and “magic glasses.”
The Lee County Sheriff’s Department, once again, brought their wonderful ice cream truck and provided delicious free ice cream. The Club also provided coffee, hot chocolate, and pastry chef Damian’s excellent cookies.
General Manager, Tracy Irons Izzo welcomed everyone. And then with much hoopla, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in a vintage patrol car driven by a member of the Sheriff’s Volunteer Community Response Unit and accompanied by Lt. Angelo Vaughn. After some brief remarks by Lt. Vaughn, our carolers led the crowd in singing some festive holiday songs.
Then it was time for the dramatic lighting, of not only our beautiful tree, but all the lights on the palm trees along our promenade. Everyone put on their “magic glasses,” and when the switch was thrown, all the lights became truly magical.
Many thanks to all our volunteers and to Larry German, Cheyanne Baker, and the F&B staff. Thanks to our resident photographers, Vince and Mary Ann Maisano, for capturing happy moments. This ceremony has truly become an annual EVENT, and we look forward to seeing everyone next year!
SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER
CHEYANNE BAKER.
BEING ESCORTED BY LEE COUNTY
SHERIFF OFFICE MEMBER LT. ANGELO VAUGHN.
