On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, Jordan Bush of thecity1.com captured the essence of the Saturday, December 6, 2014, Christmas Walk, in Morrison, IL. Her photos will appear on the Chamber website.
Ron and Vicki Wiebenga, seated at left, and Bob and Irma Brands were early diners at the four-soup supper served by St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, 401 N. Cherry Street.
Morrison United Methodist Church, 200 W. Lincolnway, served loaded baked potatoes with 11 topping options.
The corner of U. S. Highway 30 and IL Route 78 was the scene for the beginning of the holiday festivities. Bretherren in Christ Church, 209 E. Knox Street, recreated the Nativity. Chamber President Heather Toppert introduced Mayor Everett Pannier, who offered his compliments to all who made this evening possible. Then he began the countdown to the tree lighting. Ashford University in Clinton, IA, again donated the lovely tree grown by Timber Lane Christmas Tree Farm, 7250 Garden Plain Road, Morrison. The City of Morrison Public Works Department skillfully erected and decorated it. After the lights were lit, Eric Phend led the crowd in Christmas carols.
The Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Silent Auction captivated Sharon Moore. It was held in the lobby of Wells Fargo Bank, 100 W. Lincolnway, also the site of songs by the Morrison High School Madrigals.
The American Legion Color Guard followed the Morrison Police squad west along Main Street. Mark Schuler conveyed Mayor Pannier and his wife Nancy in the iconic family Chrylser.
One striking parade entry from Prophetstown, IL, was this luscious gingerbread house. Santa and Mrs. Claus were the much-anticipated, final entry, riding above the crowd atop a giant sleigh. After their journey to and through town, the jolly couple greeted youngsters inside the charming miniature Santa House in the Dr. Robert A. Millikan pocket park. Miniature ponies from the parade awaited petting outside the building.
Six Main Street businesses served Christmas Cocktail Concoctions as part of the adult fun. They were Da’ Bar, 109 E. Main; Fat Boy’s, 201 E. Main; Hero’s Tap, 208 E. Main; KJ’s Bar & Grill, 115 W. Main; Original Taco, 123 E. Main. This mulled red wine called “Misteltoe Mist” was the choice at the Donnybrook Bakery Cafe, 201 W. Main.
