The town of Dearing is on a roll. Two years ago, they started the Mayfest, which quickly became a huge annual event. Last year, they acquired a $500,000 grant to renovate their old elementary school gym into a community center. And this holiday season, the town will have its first Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
The idea, which was proposed by the Dearing Dream Team Relay for Life committee, was approved by the town council during their October meeting. Mayor Sean Kelley said the town has not had a Christmas tree before. In fact, the town didn't have any decorations of their own until last year when city clerk Judy Reeves requested two wreaths to be hung on the front doors of the town hall.
"Wow! We are going from no wreath to two wreaths to a tree," Mrs. Reeves said with a smile on her face after the vote.
Mayor Kelley said the town will pay for the tree and lights, and the Dream Team will handle the decorations and ceremony. The council voted to hold the lighting ceremony on Nov. 30 as a community event with festivities and refreshments. Details are not yet planned. For more information, call the Dream Team coordinator, Beverly McCorkle-Welch at 706-595-9702, ext. 100.
The relay team is also hosting Bingo at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27, at Dearing Elementary School. Call Mrs. McCorkle-Welch to donate prizes.
In other Dearing news, the mayor and Councilman Allen Axon ask all residents to report any burned out street lights by calling the town hall at 706-556-3725.
"Whether they are burning or not, we still have to pay the same amount for them," Mayor Kelley said. "So please report them."
