Oakland Day was a huge success. Congratulations to the team that pulls this event together each year.
Next is the Chamber’s Volunteer Firefighters Appreciation Day on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 9, from 2-3 p.m. at the fire department behind Town Hall on Hickory Street. The fire trucks will be out for kids to explore and firefighters will be on hand to show off equipment and uniforms. Drawings for the many raffle prizes will be held as well. Come out and say “thanks” to our fire and rescue unit for the work they do.
Oakland Clean Up Day is Saturday, Nov. 7, from 7-11 a.m. This event is sponsored by the Oakland Beautification Committee and they welcome all to come out and help. This committee works hard to keep Oakland clean and to bring fun activities and events to the community.
Oakland’s tree lighting is set for Dec. 6. The afternoon will start with a twilight children’s tea at 4:30 p.m. and includes a visit from Santa. We will also have a Victorian caroling group from the Southaven area who will join us for the 5:30 p.m. tree lighting, followed by our annual community Christmas celebration at the Chamber building.
As I write this, the suspension of SNAP benefits is planned. I know a few judges elsewhere have ruled that emergency funds should be used, but in the meantime, our nonprofit grocery in Oakland, Farmacy Marketplace, is offering 30 food boxes a month to elderly and households with children in the community who present their EBT card. For each additional $30, the store can offer an additional box.
I am so moved by the number of people who are sending $30, $90, $150 to help ensure that no one in Oakland is hungry. You can write a check to In Her Shoes Inc. and mail to Kini Bradford Jefferson, 457 Redbud St., Oakland, MS 38948. I serve on this board and am proud of the work this group does.
Mr. Joe Jenkins has added some color on his building with a retro-look tire shop logo and paint in three colors announcing Jenkins Tire Shop. Our local artist, Gay Lynn Haynes, designed and painted the building. Good work, y’all! It definitely adds interest to the downtown area.
Thanksgiving is fast approaching and with all the hustle and bustle of the season, it often gets relegated to a one-day big feast, ballgames and hunting. As hard as it is to do most days, try to pause and reflect on daily gratitudes. What are the small things and the big things that make you thankful?
Take time to outwardly express your appreciation to someone each day — maybe they just made you smile or opened a door to make it easier for you. Think about ways you can give back to your community through your activities.
Write someone a “real” letter and let them know how much they mean to you. And don’t stress over perfection as you plan your upcoming holiday activities. Bringing family and friends together is the gift.
Wishing you the best week ahead.
