Thanks for the harvest in this farm country! Thanks for small town nods and smiles!

Thanks for being able to help others this time of year when we feel the “heart” and reach out with food goods and financial assistance so others can feel a part of the holiday season.

Thanks for small town events that bring joy to the season and thanks for the work of putting up the Christmas lights along our main streets that welcome us home.

The library’s open house is an annual holiday event in New Madison. It is scheduled for Dec. 13 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Recently the Phyllis Cole Dubbs Library Service Award has been given on the same evening. This year’s recipient is Marilyn Fritz, who has organized the genealogy assistance program with great response. That honor will be given at 6 p.m. Music, cookies and punch are all part of the festive event.

The Friends of the Library are working on a publication to highlight memories and pictures of the library. If you have a picture or special memory, see Brenda Miller, director. The roof at the library has been completed.

The community is having its visit from Santa on Dec. 3. Children can enjoy breakfast and sharing a special session with Mr. Claus! Breakfast begins at 9 a.m at the United Methodist Church, 149 N. Main St. Santa and breakfast will be available until 11 a.m. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, eggs, juice and coffee. Donations are accepted.

The churches of the Tri-Village community are joining together to present a live nativity scene on Dec. 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. This live presentation will feature members of the area churches and some local farm animals for the children to enjoy. There will be refreshments and a time for fellowship. The event was cancelled last year when heavy rain and wind came into the area. Let’s hope for a kick-off with friendlier weather conditions.

The annual Sugar Plum Market Bake sale at the American Legion is set for Dec. 3 at 10 a.m.

The Legion will be serving chicken suppers on Dec. 3. The time is 5 p.m. and you can enjoy broasted chicken, potatoes, baked beans and apple sauce.

The auxiliary is making fruit baskets for shut-ins. They are planning to distribute them after a meeting on Dec. 6.

Mark those calendars and get set for spirit of the season!