Christmas Tree Lighting
The Chardon traditional kickoff of the Christmas season is Dec. 3 with the special gathering of those singing Christmas carols, others lighting candles and little ones awaiting the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus in their sleigh. Festivities start at 5 p.m. with a hot chili and hot dog dinner at the Pilgrim Christian Church next to the Chardon Fire Department.
Everyone is then welcome to arrive at 6:30 p.m. on Chardon Square; the official lighting is at 7 p.m.
Chardon Kiwanis members and spouses will enjoy a sit down dinner at Heinen’s Cafe and then enjoy the fantastic entertainment by the CHS Free Harmony group.
Birthday Greetings
Bob Lampman turned a young 86 on Nov. 29, which was followed by Dan Rayl who celebrated his birthday on Nov. 30. I was honored to sing to both members of the “Bond Reunion” on each day. I wish them both best wishes for this birthday and for many more to come.
God Shines His Light
Chardonite Clara Marie Shaner Rayl, 101, joined her wonderful husband Lester “Buzz” Rayl in heaven after departing her earthly home on Nov. 23, 2015. She was born on Feb. 7, 1914, and lived a full and rich life. I think surviving the global influenza epidemic of 1918 prepared her for a full century of love of family, friends and God and I was blessed to be one of her friends.
She was a very wise and saintly women who taught me about moral values, love of life and especially the bond of friendship that we shared for decades. May God bless her family always.
10th Anniversary Party
On Dec. 4 from 4-7 p.m., the public is invited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of BellAmore Salon and Spa located in the Marc’s Plaza. Refreshments, a raffle and more will be available. Call 440-286-1779 for information.
St. Luke’s Community Dinner
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Chardon will hold a community dinner Dec. 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donations are welcome, but not necessary.
Lunch with Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor
The Northeast Ohio Republican Women’s Club of Geauga County will host a luncheon with Ohio Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor as its special guest speaker. The event will take place on Dec. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bass Lake Tavern, 426 South St. in Chardon.
RSVP to Sue Stevenson by Dec. 4. The cost is $25.
Afternoon Holiday Tea
The Bolton Republican Women’s Club of Lake County will host a holiday tea with Ohio Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor Dec. 10 from 3-6 p.m. at the newly-renovated Steele Mansion located at 348 Mentor Ave. in Mentor. The cost is $15. RSVP to Janet Kuslan at Janet@BoltonClub.org. Credit cards will be accepted as payment that afternoon.
FOE Cookie Sale
The Fraternal Order of the Eagles of Chardon Area Women’s Auxiliary will host a cookie sale Dec. 12 at 317 Water St. Call 440-286-9921 for information.
The FOE also hosts spaghetti dinners every Tuesday from 5:30-7 p.m. and fish fry dinners every Friday evening.
Comment for the Day
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you go. On Chardon Square, the band shell is adorned with festive greenery in preparation for the annual Christmas tree lighting. The trees are up as well and ready for lighting.
I attended both the organ concert and service to celebrate the erection of the beautiful steeple and cross on Pilgrim Christian Church. The service was especially memorable as Ward Lawrence and his wife gave a detailed history of the church and its members. Congratulations to the entire congregation for this history-making addition to Chardon’s beautiful square.