The 2016 Winter Solstice Event drew people from the shores of the Shawsheen River including Andover, Tewksbury, Billerica, and Bedford. The weather cooperated covering the ground earlier by just enough snow to complete the atmosphere. A hot fire and plenty of food kept the participants warm while Bob Rauseo, past SRWA president and founder, explained the derivation of Solstice celebrations. The inspiring Yuletide poem, The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper was read and Bob Decelle appropriately read Robert Frost’s Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening. Following the Celtic tradition artist and SRWA board member Sharon Lapham displayed and retired the Holly King banner and then raised the Oak King banner as bells were rung. A traditional song was sung. Marlies Henderson delighted the group with her wonderful video, Shawsheen River Show 2016, which she played on a big screen in the woods. A birthday cake for SRWA president Justin Damon rounded out the festivities.
