By Ruth Ann Ruiz
The Post Newspaper Features Editor
Children enjoyed running around the grass in the front lawn of city hall and stepping into line to pick up hot chocolate and cookies. Adults were seated and standing without running in the grass, though some of them did enjoy the refreshments. The promise of rain was not fulfilled Saturday, allowing Christmas tree lightings to take place across Galveston County.
Texas City’s tree lighting included the added treat of music provided by Texas City High School’s saxophone ensemble. It was very enjoyable when the ensemble performed traditional Christmas tunes, such as “Jingle Bells” and “Hark the Hearld Angles Sing” but when the group stepped into a jazz waltz, first-year experimental group demonstrated their expertise with a difficult piece of music.
“This is the first year, and it is an experimental group,” said the ensemble’s director. “The kids just show up. It’s not a class. Hopefully it keeps growing and going.”
Next to provide music were fifth graders from Levi Fry Intermediate School. Their young voices engaged the audience in drawing deeper into the spirit of Christmas. “Feliz Navidad” inspired a sing-along, and some audience members spoke of memories from the first time they heard the song by José Feliciano.
Flipping the switch on the Christmas Tree and lighting up the Christmas spirit was Mayor Dedrick Johnson.
Though the tree being lit is usually the grand finale of the event, this year’s version of the tradition offered one more twinkling star to behold.
Guests were entertained by a surprise vocalist, Darian Johnson, daughter of Mayor Johnson. She punctuated the evening with her soothing voice as she sang, “Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
The crowd rewarded her with enthusiastic applause, and she was surrounded by friends and others who complemented her performance.
According to Mayor Johnson, this was the fourth and final tree lighting in the current location. Due to demolition and construction, the mayor explained, next year the tree lighting will be located someplace else on city property.
