Fire Department Memorial Tree lit in Lafayette

by Ruth Klossner
The weekend’s fresh snow made a perfect background for the lighting of Lafayette’s first annual Fire Relief Association Christmas Tree.
Community residents gathered at the Lafayette Fire Hall Sunday evening, Nov. 30. After enjoying cookies and hot beverages, they were welcomed by Cheyanne VanDeest, who brought the idea of a memorial tree to Lafayette.
Fire Chief Nick Klingler then read the names of 140 honored Lafayette and area residents.
At 6:30 p.m., the group moved outside for the tree lighting. The switch was flipped to light the tree as the crowd counted down.
Bulbs on the memorial tree are sponsored by individuals and families to remember loved ones who have passed, those serving our country, and/or those facing health challenges. Additional bulbs are dedicated to people who serve or have served the community, including the staff of Lafayette Good Samaritan Center over the years.
The bulbs are sponsored by donations of five dollars or more, with the Fire Department Relief Association realizing $1,140 from the project. That money will go toward the celebration of the Fire Department’s 125th Anniversary in 2027.
The tree will be lit through New Year’s Day as a reminder of the love, memories and strength that connect the community.
The names of all those read at the program will posted outside the Fire Hall.

For more photos of the event, check out the December 3 issue of the Winthrop News.