While “Mother Christmas” was unable to preside, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus helped spark the holiday spirit in Chesapeake Beach, Sunday, Nov. 25 as the bayside community held its annual lighting ceremony.
Chesapeake Beach “Lights up the Town” was held during the early evening hours at Town Hall.
During his opening remarks, Mayor Bruce Wahl announced that due to some health issues, Barbara “Jo” Finch, the former town councilwoman who long ago earned the moniker “Mother Christmas,” would not be able to attend the event. Wahl said later he was fairly certain this was the first time Finch has missed the ceremony.
During the late 1980s, Finch led the effort to purchase Christmas lights for display throughout the town. The Chesapeake Beach Department of Public Works takes care of putting up the lights. The installation includes displays at Veterans Memorial Park and the Chesapeake Beach Water Park, as well as Town Hall.
The Nov. 25 ceremony featured a song by Brownie Troop 4343 accompanied by guitarist Greg Morris and holiday selections by the Beach Elementary School Fifth Grade Band under the direction of Marilyn Beeson.
After Mrs. Claus waved the magic wand the multi-colored lights came on and children headed to a large tent in the Town Hall parking lot to visit with Santa Claus. Under the tent refreshments were served and parents and children enjoyed Christmas songs performed by the Twin Beach Players Youth Troupe accompanied by xylophonist Bob Snider.
The town is again conducting its Brightest Beacon on the Bay contest to identify the best decorated homes, businesses and boats. More information may be obtained by contacting the Chesapeake Beach Town Hall at 301-855-8398 or 410-257-2230.
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