I realize there are a lot of charitable organizations in need of help, but one in particular is near and dear to us at the Times. The Empty Stocking Fund has been a tradition here for several decades, dating back longer than anyone still here remembers, but we all know that Miss Edith Smith, our late receptionist and an employee for more than 45 years, helped to spearhead the campaign for many years. She and our angel, Jim Hennly, personally ensured that children in the poorest of circumstances would have presents under the Christmas tree each year.

The fund has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through the years, and each year The Salvation Army is able to purchase toys for children who need help. The Salvation Army is also using Angel Trees to help supplement the fund as the need is so great in our community. The toys collected in the annual Toy Run are always instrumental in ensuring that The Salvation Army has enough to go around.

If you are fortunate enough this year to have a few extra dollars to spare, no amount is too great or too small and every donation is appreciated. Please consider giving by sending contributions to Empty Stocking Fund, c/o Margie Blanton or Jim Hennly, Guardian Bank, P.O. Box 3340, Valdosta, Ga. 31604.

Santa is coming!!

Ricky Plair is reprising his role as Santa Claus for the 30th year in the Greater Valdosta Community Christmas Parade this Saturday at 5 p.m.

Behold “Christmas Lights on Parade” as floats follow the theme and decorate to showcase their creativity. The night should light up with beautiful displays, along with holiday music, cute characters, marching bands, and much much more.

The parade route is along Patterson Street from Woodrow Wilson to the reviewing stand by the courthouse downtown.

It’s an exciting time of year, a lot of really hard work goes into planning the parade, and we are thrilled at the Times to be a part of it.

Enjoy the Winterfest all day downtown, enjoy the run before the parade, and come see the wonderfully festive Christmas parade in Valdosta.

Business Roundup

Chick-fil-A is edging closer to its opening date just after the first of the year. The restaurant, located on Inner Perimeter, looks finished from the outside for the most part, with the interior finishes being worked on now. Even the playground is done.

The addition on the Smok’n Pig is supposed to be finished by Dec. 10, in time for holiday parties.

Confetti & Lace is moving from its location on North Oak Street Extension. The bakery closed this week and the retail portion will be reopening in the Publix shopping center in another week or so. The store will be between Magpie’s and Ti Lina Jewelers.