Christmas with Doorway, put on by Doorway to Louisiana, marked the beginning of the Christmas season here in East Carroll this past Sunday.
The afternoon event began with a welcome by President Cassie Condrey and prayer by Vice President Wayne Parker. A community choir, led by Olivia Condrey, sang old favorite Christmas carols and the crowd joined in.
A tree was planted in memory of Ms. Betty Reed, a founding member of the organization and a woman integral in the opening of the Byerley House, the annual T.T.C. Christmas choir program, and the Christmas trees along the lake bank. A poem, written by Olivia Condrey, was read aloud to honor Ms. Betty’s legacy of preservation in service to the town and parish.
The crowd participated in a spirited countdown to the ceremonial lighting of the trees on the lake bank, which will remain lit for the remainder of the season. The choir ended with “You Better Watch Out” and a promise to the children that next year’s countdown will be led by Santa Claus himself. All enjoyed cookies and hot chocolate inside, provided by Board Member Andrea Davis, while local resident Willie Johnson continued the carols on the piano and youth artist Dyandra Atkins displayed some of her latest work for sale.
A coat drive for local children (new or gently used, sizes 4-10) continues, with the Byerley House as a dropoff point.
A special thank you goes to board members John Boyte and Wayne Parker for their dedication in rewiring the trees to go along the lake bank. They were also assisted by Eddie Hamilton, Glen Jordan and Pat Hill. (See more photos on page 6) Merry Christmas to everyone!
ALL PHOTOS BY JANIE NEIGHBOURS
A poem for Ms. Betty
We plant this tree today to honor a lady who had lots to say about history and buildings and community, and set a standard of service for all to see.
Ms. Betty Reed had a heart for LP, for East Carroll to be a doorway of discovery.
Her love of culture let music sound, starting T.T.C. to sing all around.
Bringing plays, musicians, ensembles here to expose the arts to our eyes and ears.
We pray that this tree will take root and grow as an evergreen reminder of the need to sow honor, service, commitment and love, and to daily thank our Creator for his amazing grace from above.
