Chestnuts weren't roasting on an open fire, but Jack Frost was definitely nipping at the nose. It was a cold 35 degrees Nov. 28 at the fourth annual "It's a Wonderful Life in Bloomfield."
Chilly temperatures, though, didn't hinder the spirits of those who braved the cold to support the recent holiday tradition. A joint effort between the Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce and the Bloomfield Lions Club, the festive street celebration drew revelers of all ages.
"Every quarter we try to have an event that focuses on the town," says Chamber board member Dee Loflin. "A Christmas promotion just seemed like the logical choice for this time of year."
"Unfortunately," Loflin adds, "the weather sometimes plays havoc with our plans, and over that we have no control."
The biting cold this year caused the cancellation of the carol singers, and the planned outdoor showing of two children's movies. Other activities, however, went on as scheduled. The Kids Outdoor Zone ministry from First General Baptist Church in Bloomfield provided hot dogs, savory chili, mac and cheese, and fresh cookies to those who stopped by their table. Morgan Wilkinson, a professional face painter from Bloomfield, donated her artistic services to the children who anxiously waited for her to work her magic.
Steaming hot chocolate and buttery popcorn served by Beech Grove General Baptist Church provided a quick warm-up while visitors strolled the streets and visited among themselves.
SEMO Electric hosted an open house inside the Buck Building, providing a warm place to shake off the chill. They also offered popcorn and cookies to those who stopped in. In addition, the company sponsored a toy drive through the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Campaign. Anyone who donated a toy was given a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Town and Country Supermarket.
The Chamber also sponsored a raffle, which included prizes of a 7-inch tablet and gift certificates to Elderland and Town and Country.
Santa, of course, was on hand to listen to the secret wishes of the several children who stood in line to get their turn.
Chamber member Jacob Goodin auctioned off an array of baked goods, which were donated for the event. This effort raised $200 toward the scholarship that will be awarded to a Bloomfield senior in the spring.
"I remember Bloomfield when I was growing up," recalls Lynn Aslin Huffman. "We didn't go anywhere else to shop, and during the Christmas season it was always so exciting to be in town on Saturday morning. The businesses were all decorated and everyone was in the streets talking and visiting."
"I am glad," observes Ann Beal Bye, "that the Chamber makes an effort to draw people into town. While I know we will never see Bloomfield as it was when we were young, at least a few times during the year, it is revitalized and people are once again excited to be here."
"Hopefully," she adds, "the 'It's a Wonderful Life' event will continue to grow and become a well-established, much-anticipated holiday tradition."