Guerneville Community Column
Crunch time, folks! Hard to believe it’s that time again! And it seems, too, that the weather can’t believe winter is coming, with the 80 degree temps in November. Hello Global Warming!
Guerneville Holiday Celebrations
So, as expected, I’m going to write about the Holiday festivities we’ve got going on this month. It’s December and we all know that means the Holiday Extravaganza is here! On Thursday, December 2nd, Guerneville will be celebrating the 3rd annual Open House & Town Tree Lighting Ceremony. That’s right. This is the third year the Chamber of Commerce has successfully erected a beautiful Christmas Tree in the Town Plaza in celebration of the holidays, for all River Rats to enjoy. Come enjoy the warmth of the Shops and their special sales, or sing with the River Choir as they go caroling around town and then gather at the Plaza to witness the dance of the Guerneville School students and then the lighting of the Town Tree. The entire evening starts at 5:00 p.m. and runs until about 9:00 p.m., with the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 pm. Stop by the Chamber for a complete list of participating stores and the evening schedule. Also, if you see those pretty princesses around town, be sure to buy a raffle ticket from them! The money gathered helps fund the Parade of Lights. And don’t forget the Princess Crowning Ceremony Dinner, Friday, December 3rd at Chef Patrick’s at 6:00pm. Contact Beth Rudometkin to RSVP at 707-869-9063.
Parade of Lights
This year marks the 10th Annual Parade of Lights, Saturday, December 4th. The theme, “World Dance Celebration,” was designed to not only celebrate each and every culture from around the world through their dance and music but also to encourage world peace. If you want to darn your truck or trailer with lights, drop by the Chamber for a form. Parade starts at 7:00 p.m., so bundle up the kids and dogs and let’s celebrate together!
Where’d my Tradition go?
Now, I’m all about getting presents, I mean who doesn’t love ripping open a box with some mysterious item of joy waiting inside? But I’ve been getting to thinking about how so much of our culture relies so heavily on having THINGS for happiness, rather than having EXPERIENCES. Every year, I watch my children rip through their presents on Christmas morning, only to say, “is that all?” when it’s all said and done.
What’s the value of a gift when really the only part that’s truly enjoyable is right before we discover what it is? This is why we have traditions. Traditions give us the gift of experience; everything from decorating the Christmas Tree or dusting off the Menorah to buying food and clothing for the needy. Traditions are what give the gifts true meaning. So this year, think about what traditions you celebrate in your family and maybe think about adding a new one like avoid going to the mall for gift shopping or volunteer at the Holiday Community Dinner. In the end, it’s up to you and whether or not what you do makes you feel good inside.
The Guerneville Community Holiday Dinner
From the time I was 17 years old celebrating my first Christmas on my own with my new husband, this has been a very favorite tradition of mine. All are welcome to enjoy this warm, loving tradition at the Vet’s Hall on Christmas Day. The dinner is from 1-4 p.m. Donations are welcome. If you’d like to volunteer, please call Leslyn Dooley at 707-869-0660.
1st & Church St
Guerneville, CA 95446
Labels: COMMUNITIES
