By JAMES MITCHELL
Sunday Times Newspapers
SOUTHGATE – It began looking a lot like Christmas in Southgate, especially after city officials flicked the switch and let the lights signal another holiday season.
The tree-lighting ceremony Dec. 4 kicked off the season with a visit by Santa Claus, Christmas carols and ice-sculpting demonstrations and displays by local businesses. Local families turned out in full force to greet the season, sip hot beverages and carry on longtime traditions.
The spirit of the season continues this weekend when city officials travel around town to pick the winners of the annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest. The winning home displays in several categories will be honored next month during a meeting of the city council.
In the spirit of giving back, Dec. 20 marks the final performance of Acting Out Productions’ “Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Santa Smells” at 3 p.m. at the Royal Majestic Theater inside Trillium Academy, 15740 Racho Blvd. Theater workers will collect donations in the lobby for care packages being sent to troops serving overseas.
For information go to actingoutdownriver.com.
(James Mitchell can be reached at [email protected])