Greek Orthodox Rev. Michael K. Courey blesses Hermosa Kiwanis holiday tree lot
Rev. Michael K. Courey from the St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Chruch blesses the trees at the Kiwanis 33rd annual holiday tree lot on Novemeber 27. (Photos ) Pandemic restrictions almost cancelled the annual Hermosa Beach Kiwanis Christmas Tree Lot for the first time since it began 33 years ago. However, with mask and distancing guidelines in place, the month-long Christmas tree sale was approved by county officials. On the morning after Thanksgiving, Reverend Michael K. Courey from the St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church blessed the trees in the traditional ceremony that marks the opening of the lot. Kiwanis president George Barks and Reverand Michael K. Courey at the 33rd annual Kiwanis Holiday tree lot. A dozen Kiwanis members gathered as Rev. Courey said a brief prayer in Greek before translating it and then walking around the lot to sprinkle holy water on each Christmas Tree. The Christmas tree lot brings in more money for local charities and nonprofits than any other Kiwanis event, according to President of the Hermosa Kiwanis Club and former Mayor George Barks. “This is our major fundraiser,” Barks said. “All the money goes to charities in the South Bay.” The charities…
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