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Thanksgiving: Only a Day Away—The Final Countdown

Rachel Lauren
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Thanksgiving: Only a Day Away—The Final Countdown

With Thanksgiving just a day away, excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a bit of stress are in the air. The holiday marks a time for reflection, celebration, and coming together with family and friends. But as the clock ticks down, many find themselves scrambling to finalize preparations—whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or getting ready for long-distance travel. Here’s a look at the whirlwind of activities and emotions that lead up to Thanksgiving Day, and how to make the most of it.

The Rush to Prepare: Last-Minute Cooking and Shopping

As Thanksgiving draws near, the pressure to get everything ready intensifies. For many, the day before the holiday is spent finishing up the final details. From grocery shopping to last-minute cooking, the hours before Thanksgiving Day are crucial for making sure everything runs smoothly.

If you haven’t already completed your shopping, today’s the day to grab any remaining ingredients. Fresh produce, last-minute spices, and dessert items can often be found in abundance at the grocery store, but don’t wait until the last minute—stores will likely be crowded with others doing the same. Consider organizing your shopping list by category to make the process more efficient and avoid any unnecessary panic.

In the kitchen, the real work begins. Many dishes can be prepped in advance—pie doughs can be rolled, vegetables chopped, and sauces prepared. Desserts are often baked the day before, ensuring that they have time to set and cool. Whether you’re roasting a turkey or making casseroles, the final day before Thanksgiving is all about getting things ready for the big feast.

The Spirit of Gratitude: Reflecting on the Year

While Thanksgiving is about feasting and festivities, it’s also a time to pause and reflect. The stress of preparing the meals, preparing your house, and getting ready over all can often make you forget to slow down and appreciate the fact that you’re even able to do such things. The day before Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to prepare mentally and emotionally for the holiday by taking stock of what you’re thankful for.

In the final hours before the big day, consider taking a moment to reflect on the past year—your successes, challenges, and everything in between. Whether you jot down your thoughts in a gratitude journal or share them with a loved one, this can be a grounding moment before the busy-ness of the holiday kicks in. Thanksgiving is, after all, a time to express thanks for the blessings in your life.

A Day Away from Gratitude and Togetherness

With Thanksgiving just one day away, there’s no time to waste. The final hours are about preparing the meal, the home, and the heart for what promises to be a day of connection, reflection, and joy. Whether you’re finishing up last-minute shopping, getting ready for travel, or reflecting on the year, the day before Thanksgiving is a blend of activity and anticipation.

Don’t forget to take some time to stop what you’re doing for a moment and show your gratitude for both the small and big things in life.

Grateful Hearts, Stronger Together

Lee Allen Miller
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Grateful Hearts, Stronger Together

This Thanksgiving, I want to pause and express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey. To our customers, partners, employees, and community—thank you for trusting us, supporting our vision, and helping us grow.

As we reflect on this season of gratitude, we are reminded that our greatest achievements are built on the foundation of relationships. Whether it’s powering your homes and businesses, helping you share your story, or partnering to make a positive impact, your trust inspires us to do our best every day.

This year, we are especially thankful for the opportunity to serve the wonderful communities of East Texas and beyond. Your loyalty and feedback continue to shape our growth and guide us toward innovation, integrity, and excellence.

We are also deeply grateful for our hardworking team members, whose dedication and passion fuel everything we do. You are the heart of our mission, and we couldn’t achieve these milestones without you.

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate this season, let’s also remember to reach out to those in need and extend a hand of kindness and generosity—because together, we can make this world a better place.

Wishing you and your families a blessed, joyous, and safe Thanksgiving!

With gratitude,

Lee Allen Miller

Nancy Windham Honored with Silver Bucket Award for Leadership in Economic Development

Rachel Lauren
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Nancy Windham Honored with Silver Bucket Award for Leadership in Economic Development

Nacogdoches, Texas— In a moment filled with heartfelt applause and admiration, Nancy Windham, Regional Advisor for the Texas Forest Country Partnership (TFCP), was presented with the prestigious Silver Bucket Award during the 19th Annual Economic Development Summit. This accolade, awarded at the Equity & Elevation Summit hosted at The Fredonia Inn on November 20, 2024, recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to regional economic development and community growth.

As the familiar opening notes of Aretha Franklin’s “RESPECT” filled the room, Nancy approached the stage amid a standing ovation, embodying the spirit of leadership and dedication that the Silver Bucket Award celebrates.

The Silver Bucket Award is a revered honor within the TFCP community, symbolizing resilience, collaboration, and tireless service. Nancy’s contributions to East Texas have not only advanced economic opportunities but also inspired a culture of innovation and equity across the region’s diverse counties.

“Nancy has been a steadfast advocate for our communities, ensuring that every county and every voice is represented in the economic growth of this region,” said Eddie Hopkins, Executive Director of the Jasper Economic Development Corporation, who introduced the award presentation. “Her vision has helped shape a brighter future for East Texas, and this award is a testament to her unwavering commitment.”

As a Regional Advisor, Nancy has been instrumental in fostering partnerships between local governments, businesses, and educational institutions. Her work has facilitated economic initiatives that have strengthened workforce development, expanded infrastructure, and brought investment opportunities to the area. Whether working with county officials or hosting regional summits, Nancy’s leadership reflects a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that define East Texas.

Under her guidance, the Texas Forest Country Partnership has successfully elevated the voices of rural communities, advocating for equitable access to resources and empowering local leaders to take ownership of their economic futures.

Taking the podium, Nancy expressed her gratitude with characteristic humility. “This award is not just about one person,” she said. “It represents the countless hours of work by so many—our board members, local leaders, and community stakeholders—who share the vision of making East Texas a place where everyone can thrive.”

She continued by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community-driven solutions, highlighting that “no challenge is too great when we come together with purpose and determination.”

Nancy’s family joined her at the stage for a commemorative photo, symbolizing the personal connections that have fueled her professional dedication. Surrounded by colleagues and community members, the scene reflected a shared sense of admiration and gratitude for a leader whose impact has touched both the economic fabric and the hearts of those she serves.

The Silver Bucket Award presentation underscored the summit’s overarching theme of “Equity & Elevation: Every County, Every Voice.” Nancy’s work serves as an enduring example of how dedication, compassion, and strategic vision can transform communities and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Nancy Windham’s recognition is a reminder of the profound impact that one leader can have on an entire region. As the applause subsided and the summit moved forward, her words lingered as a call to action: “Let’s continue the work. Together, we can build something extraordinary.”

Angelina College Baseball Holding Evaluation Camp

Gary Stallard
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Angelina College Baseball Holding Evaluation Camp

Session for Prospective Players Taking Place in December

The Angelina College Roadrunner baseball program has established itself as a pipeline for players seeking to advance to the next level, including those at the university levels and the major leagues. With numerous former Roadrunners having earned their way to the next level – including Major League Baseball’s ranks – AC Baseball has long been a proven source of locating and developing young talent who launched their careers from the diamonds at Angelina College.

In an effort to find more future Roadrunners, the AC baseball team will hold an evaluation camp for prospective players 9th grade and older in December. The session will take place starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at Poland Field on the Angelina College campus.

The fee for each camp is $50.00. Participants should pre-register for the session by visiting the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/baseball-winter-evaluation-showcase-december-14-2024-registration-1053552105709?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Walk-up registration will be available at the gate the day of the camp by credit card only. No cash transactions will take place. 

The camps will focus on skill evaluation only. There will be no game. Staff will grade on running, arm strength, fielding, hitting and power. Pitchers will throw brief bullpens in order to grade pitches and velocity. 

For further information, contact the AC baseball staff at (936) 633-5367, or e-mail head coach Jeff Livin at jlivin@angelina.edu.

The e-mail address for AC’s Sports Information Director is gstallard@angelina.edu.

Top 10 Energy Myths Debunked

Lee Allen Miller
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Top 10 Energy Myths Debunked

In a world filled with energy-saving tips and tricks, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. Misconceptions about energy consumption can lead to inefficient habits that cost you money. At Amerigy Energy, we believe in empowering our customers with accurate information so they can make smarter energy decisions. Let’s debunk 10 of the most common energy myths once and for all.

1. Myth: Leaving Lights On Uses Less Energy Than Turning Them Off

Truth: Turning lights off when they’re not in use always saves energy, regardless of how frequently you switch them on and off. Modern light bulbs like LEDs are designed to be energy-efficient and have long lifespans, even with frequent switching.

Tip: Make it a habit to turn off lights when you leave a room and consider motion-sensor lighting for high-traffic areas to maximize savings.

2. Myth: Appliances Don’t Use Power When Turned Off

Truth: Many appliances and electronic devices continue to draw power even when they’re switched off. This “phantom load” can account for up to 10% of a household’s energy use. Items like TVs, computers, and microwaves are common culprits.

Tip: Use power strips to turn off multiple devices at once or unplug items that aren’t used frequently to reduce phantom power consumption.

3. Myth: It’s Cheaper to Leave Your Thermostat at One Constant Temperature

Truth: Setting your thermostat to a constant temperature throughout the day isn’t as energy-efficient as adjusting it when you’re away or asleep. Lowering the temperature by 7-10°F for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% on your heating and cooling costs annually.

Tip: Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re out of the house or asleep.

4. Myth: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

Truth: Closing vents can actually increase your energy bill. HVAC systems are designed to balance air pressure, and closing vents can make your system work harder, potentially causing duct leaks and inefficiencies.

Tip: Instead of closing vents, consider zoning systems or adjustable dampers to direct air flow more efficiently.

5. Myth: Ceiling Fans Cool the Room

Truth: Ceiling fans don’t cool rooms; they cool people. Fans create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler, but they don’t actually lower the room’s temperature. Leaving them on when no one is present just wastes energy.

Tip: Turn fans off when you leave a room to save on energy costs.

6. Myth: Hand-Washing Dishes Saves More Water and Energy Than a Dishwasher

Truth: Modern dishwashers are often more water- and energy-efficient than washing dishes by hand, especially if you’re running a full load. Energy-efficient dishwashers use about 3 gallons of water per load, whereas hand-washing can use up to 27 gallons.

Tip: Skip the pre-rinse and run your dishwasher only when full for maximum efficiency.

7. Myth: Bigger HVAC Units Are Always Better

Truth: Oversized HVAC units cool or heat a space too quickly, leading to inefficiencies and increased wear and tear. This rapid cycling can make the unit less effective, raise your energy bill, and shorten its lifespan.

Tip: Consult with a professional to ensure your HVAC system is appropriately sized for your space.

8. Myth: LED Lights Are Expensive and Not Worth the Investment

Truth: While LED bulbs may cost more upfront than traditional incandescent or CFL bulbs, they use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer. The long-term savings make LEDs a much better investment.

Tip: Replace your home’s most frequently used bulbs with LEDs to see noticeable savings on your energy bill.

9. Myth: Washing Clothes in Hot Water Cleans Them Better

Truth: Modern laundry detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water. Washing in cold water can save up to 90% of the energy used to heat the water, and it’s just as effective for most clothing items.

Tip: Reserve hot water washes for heavily soiled items or specific needs, and switch to cold water for everyday laundry.

10. Myth: Switching Energy Providers Is Complicated and Expensive

Truth: In the deregulated ERCOT market, switching energy providers is simpler and often comes with significant cost benefits. Amerigy Energy makes the process seamless by offering a range of energy plans tailored to your specific needs. Our team handles the details, so you don’t have to worry about hidden fees or service interruptions.

Tip: Contact Amerigy Energy for a personalized consultation to explore how switching plans can lead to better rates and long-term savings.

Busting Energy Myths for Smarter Savings

Don’t let energy myths lead to higher bills and inefficient energy use. By understanding the facts, you can take control of your energy consumption and make choices that are good for both the environment and your wallet. At Amerigy Energy, we’re here to help you navigate the energy market with clear, reliable information and competitive plans that fit your lifestyle.

This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across Texas. They can be reached at 877-631-8875 or info@amerigyenergy.com

The Origins of the Turkey Trot

Rachel Lauren
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The Origins of the Turkey Trot

The history of the Turkey Trot dates back to 1896 when the first race was held in Buffalo, New York. The idea was simple: a five-mile race to celebrate Thanksgiving and bring the community together. Only six participants took part in this inaugural event, which took place on the dirt roads of downtown Buffalo. The race was a modest occasion compared to what we know today, but it sparked an idea that would grow into a beloved tradition across the United States. At that time, competitive running events were few and far between, so the Turkey Trot stood out as a unique way to celebrate the holiday.

Though small in scope, the first Turkey Trot laid the foundation for something bigger. As the years passed, the race would see changes and growth, eventually spreading to other cities across the nation. What began as a local race in Buffalo soon became a symbol of Thanksgiving spirit, with communities embracing the idea of starting their holiday morning with a run.

The Rise of Costume Culture

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Turkey Trot is the costume culture that has developed over time. As the event grew in popularity, participants began to add a lighthearted and festive touch to the race by dressing in creative costumes. While some runners still opt for traditional athletic wear, many embrace the opportunity to wear fun and whimsical outfits. Turkeys, superheroes, Santa Clauses, and even bananas have all made appearances at Turkey Trots across the country.

The trend of wearing costumes has become so ingrained in the Turkey Trot culture that many races now offer special awards for the best-dressed participants. This playful tradition has turned the Turkey Trot into more than just a race—it’s a celebration of creativity and fun. Costumes provide a way for people to express themselves, and the laughter and enjoyment that comes with seeing fellow runners in outlandish outfits adds to the festive spirit of the event.

Turkey Trots as a National Tradition

Today, the Turkey Trot is a cherished national tradition. While it started in Buffalo, the race has spread to communities all across the United States, with thousands of Turkey Trots held annually. These races have become an essential part of the Thanksgiving experience for many families. Whether taking part in a race on Thanksgiving morning or the weekend before or after, people across the nation participate to start their holiday on an active note.

The Turkey Trot has also become a way for families to bond and spend time together. Many races are family-friendly, with fun runs and activities for children. For some, it has become a tradition to dress in matching costumes or to race together as a family team. The inclusive nature of these events allows people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to join in the fun, making the Turkey Trot a symbol of community and togetherness.

With millions of participants every year, the Turkey Trot is the most popular type of road race in the United States. It has grown from a small local event in Buffalo to a nationwide phenomenon, attracting both serious runners and casual participants. The appeal of the Turkey Trot lies not only in its festive atmosphere and family-friendly nature but also in the sense of tradition it fosters. For many, it’s a way to stay active before the big Thanksgiving feast, and the race has become a fun way to burn some calories while raising money for local charities.

What makes the Turkey Trot especially unique is its ability to cater to all kinds of runners, whether they’re seasoned marathoners or someone just looking for a fun, lighthearted race to participate in. It is this inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that has solidified the Turkey Trot as a staple of Thanksgiving morning in communities across the country. As the most popular road race in the United States, the Turkey Trot has truly become an iconic part of American culture.

Still Got A Pumpkin?

Diana De Leon Bon
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Still Got A Pumpkin?

With Halloween and its copious candy long gone, I bet many of you still have a pumpkin or two lying about.  

I’m not referring to the one you carved, but the one still intact that was used for decoration. That left-over fruit still has a lot of uses and a lot of history for Thanksgiving, less than a week away. 

The pumpkin is native to North America, used extensively by Native Americans, and is believed to be a part of the first thanksgiving where the 50 surviving pilgrims dined with close to 90 Indians from the Wampanoag tribe.  

Far from the crusted pumpkin pie we love today, the first pumpkin was most likely prepared by filling a hollowed-out pumpkin with milk, honey and spices, then baked in hot ashes near an open fire.  

Historians believe that the pilgrims were not very impressed by the Indians’ large squash until they had to survive their first harsh winter when about half of the settlers died. 

I couldn’t determine exactly when the first pumpkin was brought back to the European continent, but we do know the many names it has had as it made its way around Europe.  

Pumpkins get their name from the Greek word pepon, which translates to “large melon”.   The French then adapted it to pompon.  First introduced to Tudor England by the French, the flesh of the pompon was quickly accepted as a pie filler The British then evolved it to pumpion, and when recipes of this large fruit made it back to the United States, we started calling it the modern name, pumpkin.  

Only 30 years after the pilgrims ate pumpkin at their new settlement, a pompon recipe was listed in a now very famous French cookbook in 1651. Below is the first known pumpkin pie recipe, from an acclaimed French cookbook by a famous chef, Francois Pierre la Varenne.  

Tourte of pumpkin – Boile it with good milk, pass it through a straining pan very thick, and mix it with sugar, butter, a little salt and if you will, a few stamped almonds; let all be very thin.  Put it in your sheet of paste; bake it.  After it is baked, besprinkle it with sugar and serve.

Almost 150 years later in the newly formed United States in 1796, the very first, truly American cookbook had “Pompkin Pudding” listed among its many recipes.  American Cookery, by an American orphan by Amelia Simmons had two similar pumpkin recipes that were baked in a crust very similar to modern pumpkin pies. 

Not be forgotten are the seeds.  Roasted pumpkin seeds are a popular snack for some. One of my buddies is mildly obsessed with the roasting of the seeds.  It is a process that he describes as taking a couple of hours with taste testing every 10 minutes.  He’ll keep them in the oven and at the peak of “roasted-ness” (just prior to burning), he will pull them from the oven.  

If you want to grow pumpkins, you’d need lots of space in your garden.  Like other melons, they’ll take anywhere from 90 to 120 days from seed to harvest.   We can grow them as soon as all chances of frost have passed, but we typically wait until July to plant them so that we can harvest fresh pumpkins for the fall festivities.

Illinois is responsible for 40% of our national pumpkin production. This is more than the next five states combined.  Texas is ranked 6th in the nation for pumpkin production in acres and tonnage.

However, the USDA said that Texas led the nation in 2020 in its pumpkin crop value at $25.9 million! The other states that out produce Texas’ total volume, have a crop that is used for pie filling and other lower-value processed foods. 

This season, we’ll see pumpkin flavored cake, ice cream, waffles, pancakes, coffee, and even pumpkin beer. If you decide to give that original French recipe a try, I can shake free from work most any afternoon to help you taste test it!  

A Season of Gratitude: Reflecting on Blessings and Legislative Updates

Rep. Trent Ashby
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A Season of Gratitude: Reflecting on Blessings and Legislative Updates

As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, I’m reminded of the importance of gratitude. Gathering around the table with friends and family serves as a perfect opportunity for us to recenter our lives in the present and acknowledge the countless blessings God has given us. A mindset of thankfulness helps us see what is there instead of what is not. As we celebrate Thanksgiving with our loved ones this year, let us be mindful of God’s grace and favor in our lives and the importance of having a heart of gratitude that recognizes the good no matter the circumstances.   

With that, we’ll dive back into our examination of House interim charges. . .

House Interim Charge: Environmental Regulation

The House Committee on Environmental Regulation has jurisdiction over all matters related to air, land, and water pollution, the environmental regulation of industrial development, and the regulation of waste disposal. The Committee also has jurisdiction over the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission and certain aspects of the Department of State Health Services and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. 

During the interim, the Committee will monitor the implementation of House Bills 3060 and 4885. HB 3060 updated and modernized a number of definitions of recycling practices in Texas. This was done in order to allow for the development of new recycling processes and the economic benefits associated with these processes. 

HB 4885 established the Texas hydrogen infrastructure, vehicle, and equipment grant program. Additionally, the bill adjusts administration funding of the Texas Emissions Reduction Program (TERP) so that it is based on a percentage of the TERP fund, closely linking the workforce needed for administration to the relative size and usage of the fund.

The Committee will also study the implications of recently proposed EPA regulations to assess their impact on air quality in Texas. The Committee will also examine the need for a new State Air Quality Implementation program and legislation to balance regulatory compliance and economic vitality. 

Finally, the Committee will evaluate the environmental impacts of the industrial development of emerging hydrogen markets, including production, transportation, storage, power generation, and other aspects of the emerging markets. The Committee will make recommendations to build a competitive hydrogen industry in Texas. 

The mobile office is taking a break from the road in December but will be back after the Christmas holiday. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My District Office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 and my Capitol Office may be reached at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will be posting regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and sharing information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.

A Thanksgiving Delicacy: Plum & Rosemary Upside Down Cake

Rachel Lauren
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A Thanksgiving Delicacy: Plum & Rosemary Upside Down Cake
Image by Image-Source on Envato Elements

Plum and rosemary upside-down cake is a delicious dessert that blends sweet and savory flavors in a simple yet tasty way. The plums become soft and sweet as they bake, creating a caramelized topping that adds richness to the cake. The rosemary brings a warm, earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the fruit. The cake itself is soft and moist, and when flipped over, the plums form a glossy, sticky layer on top. This cake offers a new twist on a classic, making it a great choice for any occasion, especially thanksgiving. It’s easy to enjoy, with flavors that are sure to please everyone.

If plums are not your style, that’s okay. You can always substitute the plums for a different seasonal fruit of your choice such as mangos, pineapples, apples, peaches, and so much more.

Ingredients:

– 4 to 5 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter for caramel
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened for the cake
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk

Time:

– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Yield: 8 servings

Instructions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Properly prepare your 9-inch round cake pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. To create a luscious caramel base, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of sugar, continuing to stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture takes on a rich golden hue. Pour this caramel into the prepared cake pan, ensuring an even coating.
3. Arrange the plum slices over the caramel in a visually pleasing circular pattern, allowing them to overlap slightly. Sprinkle the finely chopped rosemary evenly across the plums, enhancing both flavor and aroma.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, combining evenly.
5. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter with the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar using an electric mixer. Cream the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.
6. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for added fragrance.
7. Add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the addition of whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
8. Pour the prepared batter over the plum arrangement, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.
9. Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is lightly browned.
10. After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. To reveal the beautifully caramelized top, run a knife around the edges to loosen it and invert it onto a serving platter. Carefully peel away the parchment paper.

Ready to Serve!

Enjoy the cake warm or at room temperature. For a touch of luxury, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, both of which complement the cake’s flavors beautifully! You can even sprinkle some powdered sugar on top, adding extra flavor and style.

First Annual Shelby County Christmas Tree Lighting

Diana De Leon Bon
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First Annual Shelby County Christmas Tree Lighting

It is the most wonderful time of the year, and you are invited to celebrate the first Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting on Monday, December 2.  Entertainment will be begin at 5:30pm in front of the Historic Courthouse. The lights will turn on at 6pm. What better way to kick off the Christmas season.

Later in the week, plan on sampling tasty treats from our member restaurants and caterers at the annual Taste of the Holidays, Sponsored by Shelby Savings Bank. The Taste of the Holidays will be Thursday, December 5th from 4:30 – 7:30pm at the Civic Center. Thank you to our Silver Sponsors, Sabine State Bank and Specter, Inc. Tickets are on sale at the Chamber for $15 each.

The Lighted Christmas Parade, Sponsored by HR Group will on Saturday, December 7th at 6pm on the downtown square. JJ Ford, this year’s Grand Marshal will lead off the parade. There is still plenty of time to sign up your float, pick up truck, golf cart etc in the parade. Thank you to the following sponsors:  HR Group, City of Center, Dazzle Me Pink and Blue, Farmers State Bank, Holiday Nursing & Rehabilitation and Specter, Inc.

There will be a Historic Courthouse Open House again this year on Monday, December 16 from 12-noon until 2pm. The Excelsior ISD choir under the direction of Tim Verner will be performing at 1pm.

There will be many retail and bank open houses through out the month. Make sure you support our local business and shop local.

For more information, contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce at 936-598-3682 or email at info@shelbycountychamber.com.

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