DEMOPOLIS-Damp conditions forced Monday’s Crowning of St. Nicholas events into the civic center, but it did not dampen the spirits of the festivities.

Of the seven nominees, Terry Sprinkle was chosen to serve as 2005’s St. Nicholas.

Sprinkle, who coaches at Demopolis High School and teaches biology and anatomy, said he was surprised and honored just to have been considered.

“I was very surprised,” Sprinkle said. “I was on the stage with people I have known for 30 years who have given of themselves for a long time.”

Being named St. Nicholas, Sprinkle said, was just a bonus for his career as an educator.

“It is an honor,” Sprinkle said. “The honor is just being nominated. I feel fortunate because I have gotten to do what I love doing. I really enjoy it.”

Awards such as St. Nicholas, he said, are just an example of what makes Demopolis a great place to live.

“This is one of the things that makes Demopolis what it is,” Sprinkle said. “This is a community that works together.”

Demopolis Mayor Cecil P. Williamson said it was great to see a full stage of nominees. With many people recognized, Williamson said, it was just another example of the city’s caring attitude.

“St. Nicholas is one of my favorite celebrations for Christmas on the River,” Williamson said. “All of these people on this stage have worked very hard and all of them have put in volunteer efforts. This is what separates Demopolis from larger communities, our generosity.”

Before the naming of St. Nicholas, George Franks was named Christmas on the River’s 2005 Ambassador.

Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce President Jay Shows said the Ambassador is a way to honor those who aren’t always recognized for their hard work.

“This is someone that volunteers a lot behind the scene,” Shows said. “You don’t always see these people and their contributions so this is just a small reward to honor their contributions. It is just our way of saying “thank you.”

Christmas on the River festivities continue tonight with a performance by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra at First Baptist Church. Admission is free.