Time to check our calendars and make our ‘to do’ lists. It is officially the holiday season.

The town looks great come evening as the street lights that echo the holiday décor beam and glow as we slow up a bit more than usual to enjoy the annual display.

Like most things, it takes a lot of behind the scenes effort to present our village spirit. The equipment necessary was from Ludy’s Greenhouse and Nick Hollinger (lifts) and Bill Marshall (truck and trailer).

Those with a helping hand were Charlie Godsey, Jodi Fisherback, Jerry Vietor, Jim Lawrence, Brent Hollinger, Adam Hollinger, Nick Hollinger, Duane Cook, Bill Dafler, Lowell Munchel, Doug Hunt, Ed Jay, Jeff Drew, Tom Flatter, Jeremy Frech and Bill Marshall.

Kenny Baker keeps records and orders supplies long before time to hang the ornamental display. Lauren Armstrong serves as the treasurer.

The whole project is divided into three phases. First check it all and make repairs, then attach the light decoration to the poles, then remove and store.

Enjoy the lights from Thanksgiving through New Years. And thank any of the people listed above for community service.

Remember that Santa adds his spirit when he arrives for breakfast with village youngsters. On Dec. 7, he will be at the United Methodist Church on Main Street from 9 to 11 a.m. Santa will listen to Christmas wishes and you can bring a camera.

There will be an open house at the New Madison Public Library on Tuesday, Dec. 10. Slip in for a cookie and a cup of punch! Say hello and happy holidays to the staff. The volunteer of the year award will be given at 5:30 p.m. This Phyllis Cole Dubbs award honors an individual who works to make our library welcoming and cheerful. Phyllis loved the library and served as a trustee and was most proud to help bring the new building plans into reality.

Help out the campaign to brighten Christmas for Tri-Village youngsters who need some assistance. Besides contributing to the fund effort, you can donate baked goods for the December 13th carnival that begins at 5:30 and continues through 7:30 p.m. Cakes, pies, cookies and brownies will be used in the popular cake walks and funds help support the adopt a family project. Contact the school for information.

Brittani Hampton and Sarah Eley are in charge of this effort to serve others.

Enjoy the lights, the friendly waves and the twinkle in the eyes of our youngsters.