LCC holds fun 'Silver Bells' watch party

By Alexandra McCluskey
Staff Writer

Lansing’s 39th annual Christmas event, Silver Bells in the City, was not only was viewed downtown, but at Lansing Community College as well.

LCC hosted a Watch Party filled with fun events that drew students, faculty and their families. Activities including free caricature drawings, cookie decorating, petting real reindeer and giant checkers were offered, while two jumbo screens broadcast events occurring live downtown.

The Gannon Commons was filled with people watching the Silver Bells in the City electric light parade on the big screens, while also frosting Christmas cookies and playing games.  Photo by Alexandra McCluskey

Additionally, a long line of owners and their therapy dogs dressed in the holiday spirit graced the event, bringing smiles to the waiting kids and parents.

Sharon Kremsreiter from Love on a Leash, explained that she and her fluffy white Samoyed named Tobi frequent LCC and other places within the community.

“We’re all certified therapy dog (owners),” Kremsreiter said. “We participate in reading programs at libraries, visit hospital and assisted living communities.”

Sharon Kremsreiter (left) and Connie Ianchiov are shown with two therapy dogs - Samoyed Tobi and Golden Retriever Rielee - during the LCC Silver Bells Watch Party.  Photo by Alexandra McCluskey

There was a steady stream of people on both the first and second floor of the Gannon Building, enjoying the holiday festivities.

“My favorite would definitely have to be the reindeer,” said Erika Rodriguez, an ultrasound major at LCC. She and her and her family circulated through the activities.

Vanessa Foster, handler of the two reindeer present, Melvin and Noel, works with the Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm in Clare. The farm group brought their reindeer to light up people’s day.

“People think they don’t exist,” Foster said. “We travel all over, especially during this time of year. We’re hosting our ‘Pancakes with Santa and Grinch Day’ events these next few days.”

With an LCC band playing well-known Christmas songs for a bustling group of people, LCC hosted a festive atmosphere for the Silver Bells in the City Watch Party … out of the cold, thankfully.

Leah Hatt stands on top of a giant checkerboard during the Silver Bells Watch Party at LCC on Nov. 17 as her mother, Carrie Hatt, helps her contemplate her next move.  Photo by Alexandra McCluskey