With temperatures nearing zero degrees on Thursday, Mayor Anne Burt, dressed in red and green, stood and addressed the crowd inside the newly renovated Central Park.
She then began to count down starting from ten. At the end, the tree outside on the south patio was brightly lit with warm white lights, marking Woodbury’s first of hopefully many Christmas tree lightings.
According to Burt, hosting a tree light has been an idea she’s held for the last seven years.
“I’m thrilled that we finally have something going,” Burt said. “And because this is inaugural, we’re hoping each year will build off of this year. It’s a great way to bring people together.”
People in attendance were greeted warmly with hot chocolate, arts and crafts for kids and roaming Christmas carolers from Open Door Community Theatre. They were also greeted by City Council member Steve Morris, who, less warmly, was dressed as the Grinch.
“There were a couple of tree lightings tonight, Cottage Grove, Oakdale. I am at the best one,” Morris said under his holiday persona.
WNN asked how the Grinch, known for his negative attitude, could possibly be so positive. He jokingly replied “Don’t worry, the budget meeting is next week.”
