Tis the season. . .

Once again the time is upon us to wish peace on earth and good will toward men and with that in mind Leitchfield and Grayson County will celebrate "Hometown Christmas 2002" on Saturday, December 7th.

The day is full of events that are sure to please the entire family.

The 2002 Hometown Christmas Run will be organized at the James D. Beville City Park Pavilion. Late registration begins at 7 am, and the run will start at 8:30. To pre-register contact Anthony Miller at 259-6573.

Also beginning at 8:30 will be "An Uptown Yard Sale" inside the historic Jack Thomas House, sponsored by the Grayson County Historical Society. Stop by early for a preview and for the best selection from a bounty of goodies for you and your home.

The 9th Annual Hometown Christmas Craft Show, sponsored by the Grayson County Jaycees, begins that Saturday at 9 a.m. and will continue until 3 p.m. that afternoon. You can start your holiday shopping with this annual event to be held this year at The Center on Main in Leitchfield. Citizens will be able to view and purchase work from locally talented craftsman and artists.

Also at the Center on Main will be "Meet the Elder Family", sponsored by the local Habitat for Humanity organization. Viewers will be able to track the Elder's Caneyville home's progress and meet Habitat Board members to learn how individuals or companies can help the local organization with both time and materials.

"Home for the Holidays" is this year's theme for the Christmas Parade. Participants will line up beginning at 8:30 Saturday, December 7th at the Grayson County Fairgrounds in north Leitchfield. The parade will follow a route from the Fairgrounds to the Southgate Mall in downtown. To pre-register your entry or for more information about the parade contact the Grayson County Chamber of Commerce at 259-5587.

Immediately following the parade, you are encouraged to stop inside the Grayson County Courthouse on the square in Leitchfield to view exhibits by local artists while enjoying performances by local talents. There will be a special section just for children with clowns, puppet shows and a variety of other activities sure to keep the whole family entertained. The "Hometown Arts Showcase" is sponsored by the Leitchfield Woman's Club, GCHS DECA Club, and the Grayson County Community Education office.

The Grayson County Public Library is sponsoring a "Kiddie Christmas" from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. Children will find activities such as storytelling, music, crafts, and face painting. Santa will also be available at the library for photos at a cost of $1. There will be a Scholastic Book Fair and a Dessert Auction also.

H. W. Wilkey Elementary will play host to a variety show from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m., featuring magicians, clowns, Santa and more. Hosted by the Grayson County Jaycees.

Something that will be going on the entire month of December is "Christmas in the Park". Grayson countians can take a drive out to Rough River Dam State Resort Park to view the wonder of the holiday season while taking in the spectacular lighted displays provided by local companies and groups.

Also if you love to all out when decorating your home or business for the holidays you can enter the decorating contest sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Commission and News-Gazette.

To nominate yourself or someone in your neighborhood, look inside this issue of the News-Gazette for our Hometown Christmas Home Decorating ad.