During the holiday season, we are fortunate to be able to spend time with family and friends as we celebrate old traditions and make new memories with those closest to our hearts. As most of us know, the holidays are filled with joy, happiness, nostalgia and even a little chaos. With the holiday season now in full swing, I’d like to encourage you to participate in the numerous festive holiday events in our local communities.

Around the region, there are plenty of community events for families to enjoy. From tree and wreath lighting ceremonies to ice skating sessions and charity drives, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse oneself in a little holiday cheer and the spirit of giving. For information about events in the City of Oswego and the surrounding communities, please check out this events calendar.

Families with young children may want to head to the City of Fulton on Saturday, Dec. 18 to see Santa and his friends, Frosty the Snowman and the Grinch, as they cruise around the city with the fire department. Stops are planned at Lanigan Elementary (1 - 1:20 p.m.), Bullhead Point (1:30 - 1:40 p.m.), Price Chopper (2 - 2:10 p.m.), Menter Ambulance (2:30-2:40 p.m.), Gilbert’s Grove (3-3:10 p.m.) and Cayuga Community College (3:20-3:30 p.m.). For more information contact the City of Fulton. 

During the holidays, it is important to take a moment to remember our service men and women who have sacrificed their holidays and time spent with loved ones to protect us at home. As part of National Wreaths Across America Day, on Saturday, Dec. 18 at noon, a wreath-laying ceremony will be held at the Fort Ontario Post Cemetery in Oswego. It is truly a remarkable and awe-inspiring event that strives to make sure these individuals are remembered; our veterans are honored, and we all reflect on the true cost of freedom. This year’s theme is ‘Live Up to Their Legacy,’ and if you’re in the area, I encourage you to stop by this free, patriotic, holiday-themed event.

Additionally, the spirit of generosity is alive and well in our area. Last month, I announced the second annual “Stockings for Veterans” drive – an effort to collect personal-care items for veterans who must spend the Christmas holiday at the VA Medical Center in Syracuse. Our veterans have given so much for our country and it is humbling to see the outpouring of kindness from those in our community. On Monday, Dec. 20, my staff and I, plan to deliver a carload of donated items to the VA in the hopes of making the holidays a little brighter and to say thank you for your service.

In the true spirit of the season, it is the people who step up to take care of others whose selflessness and generosity make a difference in our community. I hope you all have a joyous and safe holiday season.