OLD LYME — This past Friday evening saw the start of a new and wonderful tradition for Old Lyme when the Lyme Academy of Arts held their first community tree-lighting event and illuminated the towering tree in front of the Elisabeth Gordon Chandler Center pictured above. Despite the rain, a large crowd of all ages turned out for the event including a number of local dignitaries pictured below.
Gathered for a photo are from left to right, State Rep. Devin Carney (R-23rd), Interim Business Director of Lyme Academy of Fine Arts Frank Burns, Old Lyme First Selectman Tim Griswold, Lyme-Old Lyme Chamber of Commerce President Rich Shriver, Lyme Academy of Fine Arts Board of Trustees member Bob Potter, and ‘The Nutcracker’ played by Bob’s wife Jeanne Potter.
The crowd stood patiently in the rain outside the Chandler Center listening to speeches from
State Rep. Devin Carney (R-23rd),
Old Lyme First Selectman Tim Griswold, and
Lyme Academy of Fine Arts Board member Bob Potter.
Then the crowd moved to the Stobart Barn to hear the Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School Band perform seasonal numbers under the direction of conductor Carrie Wind. This is the 21st year that the band has participated in holiday festivities organized by town organizations.
Rick Kaye snaps a shot of the LOLMS Band …
… who played beautifully …
… under the stellar direction of long-time Middle School Band Director Carrie Wind, pictured above, who addressed the audience with her usual verve!
Inside the Chauncey Stillman Gallery, these smiling elves were helping children write letters to Santa …
… while willing parents helpde their children make ornaments. In the photo above, Brittany Sterling of Old Lyme assists her son Graham in his creation.
… and meanwhile, the band played on merrily!