By DON FLETCHER
News Staff Writer
Hundreds of Atmore residents and visitors flocked to the downtown area last Friday, December 6, to do some pre-holiday shopping and to witness the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree.
Individuals, couples and families walked downtown sidewalks, mostly window shopping and checking out the festive decorations or going inside shops and stores to take advantage of the extended hours and pre-Christmas markdowns during the Jingle Bell Walk.
United Bank employees handed out free reindeer food, pictures with Santa were available for $25 a pop, and at least two hot chocolate stands were set up to take the light chill off the evening as the highlight, lighting of the giant Christmas tree in First National Bank & Trust’s green space, approached.
Several youngsters, bored with shopping, played football, chase and other games near the site as they waited for the event to wind down.
A large crowd counted down with Mayor Jim Staff and Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce Interim Executive Director Addison Long, then the mayor flipped the switch, and the tree came alive with multi-colored lights to “oohs,” “aahs” and a round of applause from the gathering.
Candace Wooten, who attended with her family, said the annual warmup to Christmas has always been a big deal.
“It’s awesome,” she said. “It’s a great community event, and all the children are having a good time. It helps bring the community together.”