A-B Tech’s Lighting of the Green

The lights weren’t the only thing shining bright in Fernihurst in December.

By Aaron Richman

Darryl Rhymes kicked off A-B Tech’s fourth annual Lighting of the Green with an astonishing vocal performance that left the packed Fernihurst crowd in awe.

Beginning with “Caroling, Caroling,” a beloved Christmas tune made popular by Nat King Cole, Darryl immediately lit up the faces of his listeners with a passion and depth of voice that resonated throughout the historic mansion. The audience, shoulder to shoulder in the Fernihurst foyer, overflowed into the surrounding rooms.

The evening continued with “What a Wonderful World” and Celine Dion’s “Have You Ever Been in Love,” two songs not traditionally associated with the holiday season. But on that chilly December night, spiced by the aroma of hot apple cider against the backdrop of Fernihurst’s Christmas decorations, the song selection seemed perfectly fitting for the occasion. Particularly impressive in “Have You Ever Been in Love” was Darryl’s vocal power and range, building at times from a gentle baritone to a powerful tenor.

It was the artist’s closing song, though—the more classically-oriented “I Believe”—that brought many in the crowd to tears and truly exemplified the generous spirit for which Darryl is known. As he sang, “Open your heart to those who need you/ In the name of love and devotion/… And giving our love we’ll make heaven on earth,” it was difficult not to think about the generosity and devotion shown by Darryl in his many roles at A-B Tech.

Darryl works as an Employment Specialist in the Human Resources Department; he also dedicates many evenings and weekends to teaching both Curriculum and Continuing Education courses. This year’s first Lighting of the Green provided an opportunity for many of those who work with Darryl on a daily basis to experience his benevolent and exuberant spirit on a new level, while also setting a positive tone for the season at A-B Tech.