Lake greets the holiday season in style

    Father Christmas had to share the spotlight with Mother Nature Saturday, but their partnership made for a beautiful Christmas by the Lake celebration.

    About five inches of snow gently fell throughout Saturday’s annual celebration, making for a picture-perfect day.  Chamber of Commerce officials, who plan the weekend full of special holiday events, said good crowds full of the holiday spirit enjoyed the fun.
    “It was one of those Norman Rockwell types of days,” said Gene Madson, who has led the Chamber’s Christmas by the Lake Committee since it began in 1995.  “Everything went off as planned-- nobody had to cancel because of the weather-- and everyone seemed to be having a really good time.
    Among the many highlights was the crowning of Avery and Parker Moritz as the Christmas By The Lake Princess and Prince.  Three-year-old Avery and five-year-old Parker had their names drawn from 16 entrants.  Parents of the royalty are Jon and Terry Moritz.
    The snowfall seemed to put people in the mood to enjoy chestnuts roasting on downtown corners and Dickens characters roaming Main Avenue.  Santa and Mrs. Claus were kept very busy at their City Park home hearing the wishes of hundreds of children.
    The day ended with a lighted parade and fireworks.
    “The fireworks just seem to get better and better.  This year they were spectacular,” said Madson.  “We get - Read More Via e-Edition