COLUMN: The holiday spirit is alive

     Last Friday night, I took a few seconds to sit back and take in what was happening on our street. Car after car was making its way up our street and looping their way back down, taking in the scenery of festive Christmas lights, children handing out treats and three grown men wearing their firefighter gear, collecting donations for one of their own.

Admittedly, I got a little emotional. Not just because of the outpouring of generosity but because our neighborhood came together and put on a wonderful display of lights and the community responded just like I knew it would.

When the night was all said and done, my feet hurt, I was tired, a little chilled. But none of that paled in comparison to how happy my heart felt. I only wish I had spent a few extra minutes soaking in the night’s activities. But there was work to be done.

On behalf of Pine Street, I would like to thank everyone that drove up our street, donated, shared in the Christmas spirit. The words spoken by many that night was touching. The questions asked were enjoyable. (next year I will keep track of the time it takes to put our lights up and count how many lights I use)

I would also like to thank my two fellow firefighters, Johnny Russ and Marv Kelchen. This was Johnny’s idea to turn our light fight into a fundraiser for Don McCarthy, our chief. We’ve had a friendly competition between the three of us the past few Christmas seasons and it was enjoyable turning it up another level for the good of our friend Don.

We also were glad Don and his family were there to share it with us.

Johnny ended up raising the most money and has been declared the Pine Street light fight champion. Congrats to him. Many of us on the street have “borrowed” his ideas to help create our displays.

We also would like to thank KCRG for the coverage of our event as well as Kim Brooks showing up for the Monticello Express. (like she had a choice there!)

Last but not least, our fundraiser was very successful, the amount we raised exceeded our expectations. Many have asked “how much?”. We’ll keep that private between ourselves and Don’s family and a few close friends. But to be honest, we don’t have a final tally yet because donations are still coming in. Merry Christmas everyone!