By Glenn Rolfe

GEORGETOWN — New Year’s revelers in Georgetown ushered in 2022, harboring hope, concern and uncertainty as the world remains embroiled in a surging coronavirus pandemic.

The event, highlighted at the stroke of midnight with the lighting the crystal ball that flashed “Happy New Year 2022” over the heart of Georgetown, was sponsored by the town and Greater Georgetown Chamber of Commerce.

The celebration was upbeat and festive with positive vibes that better days lie ahead in 2022.

“Healing, I’m looking for healing, and that there is always hope for a new year,” Dareth Penuel of Georgetown. “And, less in COVID cases.”

That was echoed by Mary Lawson of Georgetown, who called for community unity.

“I want more unity with people. We’re all here. We’re all going through all of this together,” said Ms. Lawson. “If we stay together, I think it will be a lot better for everybody. So, more unity ... more helping each other.”

This year’s event was punctuated by change. The staging venue shifted from The Circle to the courthouse parking lot.

“That way we didn’t have to mess with the traffic. We could keep it flowing,” said Penuel Barrett, among several Georgetown council members on hand for the event. “We have plenty of room in the parking lot.”

And this year, the digital ball – six feet in diameter with approximately 1,200 LED lights – was stationary and not raised as in previous years.

“It’s a good deal for Georgetown, and we’ll keep it going,” Mr. Barrett said.

For next year, the parking lot staging venue could remain. “Or we can go back on The Circle,” said Mr. Barrett.

Food/beverage vendors include Dewey Beer Company, Stockley Tavern/JD Shucker’s, Friends Clams & Oysters, Hot Dogs & More, Richard Allen Coalition, El Gordo Taco and Chunky Monkey Kettle Corn.

Music was provided by Wade Perdue Entertainment. Mike Baker Photography offered his Shasta Shutterbug photo booth for commemorative keepsakes.

Staff writer Glenn Rolfe can be reached at grolfe@iniusa.org.

Follow @glennrolfeBTBN on Twitter.