Community Interest

On Saturday, November 30, the New Melle Chamber of Commerce, along with sponsors and volunteers, hosted the New Melle Country Christmas and Tree Lighting at the snow-covered grounds of New Melle Sports and Rec. Santa (Cameron Reese) and Mrs. Claus (Janet Hespen) arrived by New Melle Fire Protection District firetruck and lit the community Christmas tree, decorated by Matt Joerling.

The evening offered limited outdoor activities due to the snow. The sponsors provided hot dogs, walking tacos, popcorn, hot chocolate, and s'mores around the fire pit. Inside, kids and adults could enjoy a photo booth, magic show, face painting, crafts, cookies, reptiles with the Snake Lady, and visiting Santa and Mrs. Claus. Thanks to everyone who donated teddy bears honoring Trevor Joerling, which were distributed to children in the hospital on Christmas.

New Melle Country Christmas is a free family-friendly event made possible each year by the generosity of the community. Thanks to everyone who participated in making this Christmas tradition possible. Special thanks to Kate Reese for chairing the event and to Carla Brakensiek for the stage and hall design, she does a fabulous job each year. Special thanks to Paul Mittler for the excellent sound system for the New Melle Community Choir as they sang carols with the snow falling.

Pictures and story by Kathy Miller.

Teddy Bears collected honoring Trevor Joerling and donated to children in the 
Hospital on Christmas. 

New Melle Community Choir

Carla Brakensiek, Sarah Hayek and Maureen Blondin. 

Dr Paul Moore and wife Cheryl, handed out popcorn. 

Dennis Kluge collection for Wreaths Across America. 

 

 

Santa and Mrs. Claus with Teddy Chilcutt.

The City of New Melle provided cookies and punch. 

Lauren Tripp 

Photo Booth with Julie Welge. 

Kate Reese, Amy Schneider and Kyle Shell, volunteers. 

The "Snake Lady" and her helpers.