Independent Editor,
We would like to thank everyone, including merchants and guests, who made the 1st annual “Christmas Fantasy” an exciting success in the city of Perry. The participation of local businesses was nearly 100 percent and the attendance for guests was an all-time high for events of this nature. Working together for the benefit of everyone is truly an overwhelming feeling of satisfaction.
Key features during the Saturday, Dec. 9, holiday event included: the Living Nativity, coordinated and performed by Perry Baptist Church (what an awesome sight); the donkeys were provided by Carrie and Haylee Koc; and Christmas carolers performed from the Congregational Church.
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in town in a classy horse-drawn wagon, courtesy of Dr. Tammy Mika of Perry Dental and provided by Doneth Farms of Durand. Perry Police Chief Kyle Bawks and officer Tom Royal escorted the two seasonal visitors, who were followed by Ty Rockafellow and a group of nearly 35 elementary choir members and their parents singing Christmas carols.
Dr. Dave Mika, of Mika Orthodontics, organized an exciting scavenger hunt with numerous prizes, which incorporated the festive business windows painted by members of the Perry High School (PHS) National Arts Society. Thanks to PHS teacher/advisor Sarah Rozdilski for all her help.
Thanks to Tom and Kellie Willson, the former Unique by Nature building was transformed into a performance/activity center, with the Infinity dancers performing early in the evening; followed by Dennis Malloy and Digital DJs, who played popular holiday tunes.
Two “selfie” stations were set up for photo enthusiasts, including Mistletoe Stop, thanks to the Floral Gallery (kissing ball) and Total Resale, and a vintage tractor was provided by Randy Davis and encouraged by Spalding Insurance.
Various fun-filled activities were provided by several merchants, including: Carl’s Super Market; Funxtional Fitness; Hemenway Business Services; Darling Art; Pink Shear Pet Spa; Spalding Insurance; Jessica’s Diner; the Bentley Branch Library; and Total Resale.
Lots of free goodies and giveaways were available to guests, including those from: 7-Eleven; Mugg & Bopps, Swan Creek Candle; Lockhart’s Authentic Grooming; Don’s Sports Vehicles; PNC Bank; Darling Hardware; Eye Care Associates; and Children’s Community Theater.
Gratitude is also extended to: Road Trip Oasis; John Plowman; Brent’s Pizza; Joyful Soul; Charlie’s Bar & Grill; the Calkins-Macqueen House Museum (Nancy Parrish and Jann Lardie); the Howard Tree Farm; chili contest judges Leland Scott, Bart Darling (52 Tattoo) and Kyle Smith; and Great Gazebo.
Help with setting up the event was graciously provided by the Perry DPW, Perry Area Fire Rescue (you guys were awesome from beginning to end), Devin Miller, Kevin Johnson (Total Resale), Mayor James Huguelet, Rob Kehoe, Joann Velting, Shirley Smith and Greg Wekwert.
Whether you helped make event decisions, donated prizes, sponsored an event, opened your business as a warming center, or attended as a guest, thanks again from the bottom of our hearts. We hope everyone has a very merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years.
Sincerely,
The Perry Christmas
Fantasy Committee