On October 3rd, the Big Sandy CSI, the committee that organizes the Christmas Stroll, met to discuss the planning of the 2022 stroll. There was some concern in the air as the day approached, because new volunteers and helpers were needed to pull off the mammoth event. Previously, The Mountaineer published an S.O.S. (Save Our Stroll) article dealing with the potential for the decades-long town tradition may be in danger of coming to an end. The meeting drew 14 attendees, quite an increase over the normal 4 participants. In addition, locals who could not attend expressed willingness to help out with various aspects of the stroll. The large response is particularly important, as the December 3rd event is fast approaching, and there is a great deal of work to be done to prepare.

Marlys Myers, who chaired the meeting, opened with a discussion of themes for the event. The theme is important because it impacts the float designs, crafts, costumes, buttons, and other aspects of the event. Various ideas were discussed including "The Town That Saved Christmas," and my suggestion "A Very Die Hard Christmas." Eventually, the committee agreed on "Miracle on Main Street," which is a play on the classic 1947 Christmas film: "Miracle on 34th Street." The theme was selected because of the strong pop culture connection and the wide variety of options for floats and creativity on the theme. In addition, the committee felt that it was a perfect commentary on the strong community turnout to keep the stroll alive and the return of the event after a 3-year hiatus due to Covid concerns in recent years.

The majority of the meeting dealt with discussion about which recurring aspects of the day would be taken on by which volunteers. New ideas for activities were also discussed.

Te ever popular Breakfast with Santa on Saturday Morning was the first topic of discussion, with the Senior Center volunteering to host the gathering. The breakfast will provide a much needed fundraising opportunity to the recently reopened community organization.

The Christmas buttons for the drawing was discussed at length, with the decision being made to reach out to the school for art submissions and a contest, as in years past. Leslie Gregory and Jessica Sietsema volunteered to manage that aspect of the event, as well as the manufacturing and coordinating of button sales. Some discussion took place regarding pricing. Auction items for the Saturday evening gathering were discussed. The task of managing that aspect of the event will be taken on by Demra Brown and Laci Labuda, from the bank. The craft show at city hall, which is a significant undertaking, will be organized by Cassie Bahnmiller, with Ann Quinn and Danielle Weaver assisting. The Christmas parade will be organized by Twila Grant and Leann Williams. The annual cocktail throw-down will be changed to something different that will be announced closer to the date of the stroll. Other activities are being discussed and will be announced when they are finalized.\

Anyone who is interested in becoming involved with helping out with an aspect of the stroll and keeping the Miracle on Main Street moving forward on schedule should contact the individual associated with the area they are interested in helping. Or you can email me for more information at Sietsemail@gmail.com.

The committee will be meeting again on Monday, October 17th at 6:30 at the AgriPrairie office. Please show up if you'd like to be a part of the miracle of bringing Christmas back to Main Street, Big Sandy.