2008 Holiday Lights to Stretch for Three Miles
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ Selected the Chamber of Commerce's "Citizen of the Year" last January, Tourism president Judy Smid found herself in a slightly different role at the organization's regular monthly meeting last night when she was the principal speaker.
Smid, who only last week re-located her crafts business in downtown Du Quoin, informed approximately 25 Chamber members and guests of the latest plans for this year's Holiday Lights Fair being presented for the ninth year at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds.
"We've gone green this year," Smid said, "and now have millions of lights and fixtures spread over the approximately three-mile drive-through trail which will be opening the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 28th."
Smid expressed appreciation to the many volunteers involved in presenting what is perhaps the area's most elaborate outdoor Christmas display.
In addition, to the outdoor excursion, the "Fair" also includes weekend entertainment and other features for youngsters at the Exposition Hall location on the grounds. Specific schedules are listed in brochures available throughout downtown Du Quoin or at the Chamber/Main Street office adjacent to the depot.
Chamber president Chuck Novak announced that new officers included board members Gary Kelly, Bill Huff and outgoing president Frank Deaton. Also, Bonnie Williams and Sheila Haggard were elected second vice-presidents. First vice-president is Fred Huff.
Chamber members will also be participating in the Veteran's Day parade sponsored by Main Street next Tuesday, Nov. 11. It will start at 11 a.m. after assembling at the Banterra Bank parking lot and passing through downtown Du Quoin before finishing in Keyes City Park. Organizer Pam Pereira is anticipating more marchers this year and appreciative of increased interest shown by veterans planning to participate.
The Chamber will also again be sponsoring a free matinee for youngsters at the Grand Theater. It's scheduled for Friday, Nov. 28, when participants will be encouraged to donate an item for the city's food pantry.