HERRIN (WSIL) -- One woman has been recognized for helping light up Herrin last Christmas, and for bringing back a holiday favorite event.
Brenda Brewster is a lifelong resident of Herrin. She said she noticed the city hadn't had decorations in a few years. So she decided it was time to bring back the community favorite tradition.
"We wanted to bring life to Herrin, and we hope to bring new life because we need to put 2020 behind us and get on with living," said Brenda.
The theme for 2020 involved traveling back in time with what she called older retro decorations. The businesses had festive window displays, a parade, Santa, elves, treats, and a Christmas tree placed at First ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Bank.
"As we were putting up the tree, we had people come by, and they started crying. It was just so heartfelt because we had been in such a bad situation with COVID, and we just wanted to lift people's spirits and to bring back some life."
Even though Brenda has been recognized, she said she is part of a committee of volunteers who helped get the ball rolling, and she wants to make sure everyone involved gets credit for their contribution. She said Lighting Up Herrin was a community-wide event that raised over $30,000.
"Herrin is a good town, and we really would like to see more people get involved," added Brenda.
Brenda said the committee has already begun working on next year's Christmas celebration, but she would like to pass the torch on to younger people who are willing to carry on the tradition.
