presents
Duck Commander Duck Derby Stars Of Duck Dynasty Flotilla Commander Christmas Laser Show
Commu!i"y Ch#i$"ma$ Guid% • D%c%mb%# 2013 -Ja!ua#y 2014
• Community Christmas Guide 2013
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Commander Christmas Committee Christie Messinger, Chairman Ernest Finch, Flotilla Chairman Kelsea McCrary, Graphic Design Brook Sebren, Duck Derby Chairman Thomas Reeves, Parking & Transportation Myra Gatling-Akers, Downtown Monroe Alliance Program Director Matt West Kristy Statham Mac Oliver Alise Oliver Katie Burke Belinda Carver Billy Haddad Linda O’Neal Natalie Ingle
Downtown Economic Development District Larry Bratton, Chairman Earl Davis, Vice Chairman Rick Saulsberry, Secretary Doug Walters Butch Tolbert Ray Patron Dr. Anthony Nelson Matthew Cameron
Executive Editor: Myra Gatling-Akers Assistant Editor: John Bivens Assistant: Katie Burke Contributing Writers: John Bivens, Tejal Patel, Mark Sanders Robertson Family Photos: Eric Adkins, Compliments of Universal Music Group Nashville Photography: Patty Stewart Photography, The News-Star Graphic Design: Teresa Sanderson
DowntownMonroeAlliance.com
HAPPY! Tis The Season To Be
Happy Happy Happy
The Downtown Monroe Alliance invites you to come celebrate this holiday and Christmas season with a month full of exciting festivities in downtown Monroe. We encourage you and your family to explore and enjoy everything our community has to offer. We have many activities and events planned that you’re sure to love. Spending time with the people you love is an important part of the holidays. This is why we strive to make activities and events family-friendly. Don’t forget to add the Downtown RiverMarket, presented by Community Trust Bank, to your list of go-to places for all of your holiday shopping. The RiverMarket is a great place to shop for unique gifts. Bring your family and friends out Saturday, December 14 for Commander Christmas. The RiverMarket will host Commander Christmas with a Stars of Duck Dynasty Look- A-Like Contest and the Duck Commander Duck Derby as feature entertainment for daytime festivities. There will be a laser show, flotilla, and concert alongside the scenic Ouachita River to round out a lineup of exhilarating night time activities. We hope you join us during this event-filled night to enjoy all the new and old traditions we have planned.
Join us as we celebrate Christmas on the River in our community. We wish you a HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY Christmas season!
Downtown Monroe Alliance Kathy Czeschin, President Denise Smith, Vice-President Secretary, Debbie Rainwater Treasurer, Byron Avery Cole McEacharn, Director of Downtown River Jam Christie Messinger, Director of Friends of the RiverMarket Myra Gatling-Akers, Program Director
Friends of the RiverMarket work to assist with marketing of the RiverMarket,
CommanderChristmas.com
Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
The Downtown Monroe Alliance works to revitalize the downtown area and assist the Downtown Economic Development District Board with its development goals. Our goal is to stimulate development throughout the downtown by providing locals with fun and entertaining events and attractions. We have proudly hosted the Downtown River Jam, The Downtown Duel: Dueling Pianos, Cochon de Lait, Virtual Tours, Downtown Christmas Market, Downtown Christmas Tour, and Business After Hours. We have completed several beautification projects, including Bry Park, Anna Gray Noe Park, and Art Alley. We also work to provide retailers with promotional opportunities in downtown Monroe in an effort to stimulate local commerce. Several companies have recently relocated to the downtown area, and we look forward to welcoming many more.
aid in the development of educational workshops, assist in securing entertainment, and lead efforts in fundraising for the enhancement of the market. It’s with the leadership of this committee that Commander Christmas is coming to the community. Commander Christmas will benefit the Food Bank of NELA, which helps countless people in our community by providing food to those in need.
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Presents
Downtown Rivermarket from Tejal Patel
The Downtown RiverMarket will kick off the Christmas season with a day of entertainment and fun on December 7, all leading up to The Downtown Monroe Alliance and Community Trust Bank’s a VERY MERRY COMMANDER CHRISTMAS FEATURING THE STARS OF DUCK DYNASTY on December 14, 2013. On December 7, the RiverMarket will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 88.7 The Cross Radio Station will present Family Christmas entertainment featuring LA Legecy Jazz Band featuring Lisa Lee Phifer, Naomi Holder and more. You can have lunch with Santa at 11:00 a.m. Children are invited to come meet, eat, and greet with jolly St. Nick. The Christmas Pet Parade will begin at 1:00 p.m. Bring your pets dressed in cheery Christmas gear and join in on the fun! The RiverMarket will host a variety of vendors that day, serving up delicious eats such as funnel cakes, burgers, fish, cajun sausage,
red beans and rice, chili dogs, chicken on a stick, and other great foods. And be sure to add the RiverMarket on your list of go-to places for that perfect Christmas gift! There will be unique crafts like handmade holiday décor, face painting, and a spacewalk activity for the children. On December 14, a day of Happy Happy Happy Christmas events will begin with a live, acoustic performance by musical sensation Tony Pasko at 10:00 a.m.
DowntownMonroeAlliance.com
For more than 25 years, Tony’s performing background and knowledge of musical products, sounds, and styles has set him apart and given him the opportunity to work and perform with some of the greatest musicians in the industry. Tony currently writes music for hit T.V. shows on A&E, Spike TV, & Syfy. His music is featured on A&E’s No.1 rated TV show Duck Dynasty, Season 2. Following Pasko’s performance will be a live show by Avery Michaels and the Exit 209 Band. While incorporating an underlying tone of 80’s country and still keeping the style current, Avery Michaels and Exit 209 are real showmen. They will have a special Duck Dynasty tribute, “That’s A Fact Jack”, will be performed. The talented students from the Missy Crain Dance Studio will also be making an appearance at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m, performing a special Duck Dynasty ensemble to “Sharp Dressed Man”.
Food Bank, or at www.CommanderChristmas.com The Flotilla line up will start at 4:30 p.m. at Forsythe Park, and the parade will begin at 5:30 p.m., making its way to The Downtown RiverMarket. Floats will be covered in twinkling lights, featuring different themes and characters for the audience’s enjoyment. The Flotilla will be followed by a Laser Light show by Daystar International. The exciting, 30-minute laser event will feature a colorful array of beams, upbeat music, high graphic video art, and attention grabbing sound effects. The light show will lead into a live musical performance by the Trey Hawkins Band.
88.7 The Cross will present Kids Christmas Caroling. Commander Christmas attendees will be seeing double at the Stars of Duck Dynasty Look-A-Like contest at 2:00 p.m. Community Trust Bank will present the Duck Commander Duck Derby and it will begin at 3:30 p.m. near the Endom Bridge, where thousands of rubber ducks will be released to float freely past the market area. To get competitors in the spirit of the race, Charles Martindale will provide “Music on a Duck Call”. This unique and talented entertainer will be playing the sounds and songs of the race, to be enjoyed by all that are cheering on the ducks and enjoying the beautiful riverside. Ducks can be purchased at any Community Trust Bank location, the Northeast Louisiana
Thanks to our RiverMarket Sponsors:
Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
CommanderChristmas.com
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Presents
Stars of Duck Dynasty Look-A-Like Contest from Tejal Patel The Commander Christmas crowd will see double at the Community
look-a-like contest can be found at www.CommanderChristmas.com or
Trust Bank and Downtown Monroe Alliance sponsored Stars of Duck
at the RiverMarket on the day of the event. For more information call
Dynasty Look-A-Like Contest on Saturday, December 14, 2013. This
318-329-4947.
event takes place at 2:00 p.m. on the center stage at the Downtown RiverMarket. Grow out your beards, grab your camouflage, and get Happy, Happy, Happy. Participants can dress up like Uncle Si, Jase, Mrs. Kay, or any of their other favorite cast members to compete for the prize. Duck Dynasty’s Sadie and John Luke Robertson will judge the contest. Winners will be chosen from all age groups. Prizes will come from the Robertson’s official Duck Commander store. Entering is easy! Just make a donation, or bring some canned goods to the Food Bank of NELA. The Northeast Louisiana Food Bank works to aid a 12-parish community of 39,000 with 42% of those helped being children. Official entry forms for the
Thanks to our Commodore Sponsors:
DowntownMonroeAlliance.com
Presents
The Duck Commander Duck Derby from Tejal Patel Thousands of rubber ducks will hit the Ouachita River during the Duck Commander Duck Derby presented by Community Trust Bank. The fun begins at 3:30 p.m. near Endom Bridge on Saturday, December 14, 2013. The ducks will float freely to the end of the Downtown RiverMarket, where the winners will be announced and prizes will be awarded. The first place winner will receive a tour of the Duck Commander facility, while the second place winner gets to meet with Luke Bryan. Those wishing to participate in this event can enter by adopting a duck at any Community Trust Bank location and receive an 8x10 photo of the Stars of Duck Dynasty, or at the Food Bank for Northeast Louisiana office on Central Avenue in Monroe, La. The goal is to sell and release 30,000 ducks. Money raised from duck purchases will benefit the Northeast Louisiana Food Bank this Christmas season. Single ducks will be sold for $5. The Quacker package, which includes six ducks will be $25, while the Big Quacker package containing 100 ducks will be $400.
Duck Derby will be a great opportunity for families to participate in Christmas activities for a great cause. For additional information regarding this or other Commander Christmas events, please visit www.CommanderChristmas.com or contact Belinda Carver at 318-322-3567 Ext. 307.
Thanks to our Captain Sponsors:
Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
CommanderChristmas.com
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Presents
A Night on the River Christmas Flotilla and Laser Light Show from Tejal Patel
After a day of fun filled events, Commander Christmas will bring back an old family tradition, kicking off its finale at 5:30 p.m. with A Night on the River Christmas Flotilla. The Flotilla begins at Forsythe Park and will make its way to the Downtown River Market, where it will open the Laser Light Show. The stars of Duck Dynasty will serve as the grand marshals from their Universal Music Group Nashville sponsored float. Set designers are already busy designing the spectacular Stars of Duck Dynasty boat to make a grand entrance at the flotilla! Our judges and you will determine a winner for the best decorated float. You can vote at the
Downtown Monroe Alliance’s Facebook page. Prizes include $1,000 for first place, $500 for second and $250 for third place. The bright and colorful decorations will surely be a sight! Floats will be covered in twinkling lights, featuring different themes and characters for the audience’s enjoyment. Entry fee is $25 and will benefit the Food Bank of NELA. Music from the Robertson’s album “Duck the Halls: A Robertson Family Christmas” will play during the flotilla. The holiday album features the voices of our very own Stars of Duck Dynasty and special guests like George Strait, Alison Krauss, Luke Bryan and Josh Turner. The album can be purchased at the RiverMarket on Saturday, December 14 during the Commander Christmas events. A Night on the River Christmas Flotilla will sail right into a colorful Laser Light show by Daystar Lasers International. Daystar Lasers International is an award-winning, full service laser production company that has put on magnificent light shows enjoyed and remembered worldwide. The exciting 25-minute laser event will feature a colorful array of beams, upbeat music, high graphic video art, and attention grabbing sound effects. The Community Trust Bank sponsored presentation begins immediately following the flotilla and can be seen from both sides of the Ouachita River. For Flotilla entry forms and information regarding the laser light show, please visit www.CommanderChristmas.com. For questions about the Flotilla, contact Ernest Finch at 318-516-3585. For more information about “Duck the Halls: A Robertson Family Christmas,” please visit www.DucktheHalls.com.
DowntownMonroeAlliance.com
Presents
Trey Hawkins Band Concert from Tejal Patel
Community Trust Bank and the Downtown Monroe Alliance are sponsoring a live performance by the Trey Hawkins Band following the Laser Light show. The Trey Hawkins Band is one of the hottest and most recognized groups in the world of up and coming musicians. Trey Hawkins, along with guitarists Aaron Murphy and Andrew Breedlove, drummer Jonathan Breedlove, and bassist Mark Bolin, are sure to be a crowd pleaser with their heart wrenching hits about breakups, love, pain, growing old and growing up, and living in the south. Performing a unique mix of blues, soul, and grassroots country, the Trey Hawkins Band will present an interesting and new take on great, southern music. The Downtown Monroe Alliance and Community Trust Bank hopes to make this an exciting and memorable experience for all who attend. For information regarding this or any other A Very Merry Commander Christmas event, please visit www. CommanderChristmas.com or call 318-329-4947.
Thanks to our Commander Sponsors:
Thanks to our Lieutenant Sponsors:
Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
CommanderChristmas.com
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Free Consultation Free Hearing Screening Auditory Therapy
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Christmas Traditions TRADITIONS Christmas dinner at mom’s house. All the family that can make it is there and most of the time is spent reminiscing. – Byron Avery
When I was a child, my family & I would go to my grandmother’s pasture & pick out a Christmas tree…she would keep a lookout all year long for trees with good potential. After my family & I made our selection, we would cut it down, take it home and decorate it. We lived in the country, and sometimes our tree selection would have rivaled Charlie Brown’s tree ,minus a branch or two, but we had such fun & were so excited to pick out our tree straight from the woods in “mamaw’s pasture”. – Cindy McKinney Sitting before the Christmas meal telling how God has blessed me in the past year and then praying over the meal. – L Konrad When I was a child “many years ago” our church would buy oranges, apples, and the netted boot Christmas stocking and they would give them out to all of the kids in church and the community. We would go sing carols to the neighbors and it would be so cold!. As an adult I just love getting together with my 5 siblings and their families with eating, playing games and watching the children open their gifts and the adult play Chinese Christmas! – Linda O’Neal After Christmas Eve service, my and my wife’s families gather for dinner at one of our houses. – Matt West The quiet time on Christmas morning, before the house awakens to presents, excitement and celebration...the time I give thanks to God for sending His Son Jesus to us, and silently sing happy birthday to my Savior. – Pollyanna Burt-Elton
Picking a name off of the Salvation Army Christmas tree! It’s the season for sharing and giving and I appreciate the opportunity to help others! – Heather Morris Moore
The arrival of the camels and wise men at First Christian Church. – Mark Sanders Singing Christmas carols with family and friends... at church or at home. – Woods Watson The fireworks “spectacle” at my mom’s house when the Janes Gang gets together is one of my favorites. It’s all about family time for us. The prayer before we eat, when more than 50 of us hold hands and remember those we’ve lost throughout the year, those we’ve added and give thanks to our soldiers at home and away from us. And my uncle ALWAYS says in Jesus name we pray. – Kristi Kirkham Decorating the tree with my daughter and her husband. I try to acquire a new and unique ornament every year. When we get them out, we always associate them with the memories we got them with.... like the glass pears from a chandelier that someone had thrown away, or the small carved gourd from the museum in Norman, OK, or the unicorn ornament my sister sent to my daughter years ago, or the dumb Oscar Weinermobile we’ve had since Mabry was 6. No theme to our tree, just good memories. – Sunny Meriwether Going with a group to the nursing homes singing Christmas carols to all the folks. – Travis Whitehead
‘Tis the season for shopping
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Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
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RECIPES Recipes for the Christmas Holiday from Mark Sanders
Celebrity chef and judge of Food Network’s Chopped, Maneet Chauhan, has selected two recipes submitted by Mark Sanders to be included in a collection of Thanksgiving recipes. Divided by regions and traditions, Sanders’ Oyster Dressing and Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary Pecans will be featured as part of Southern favorites and Autumn-inspired dishes.
Hashbrown Casserole
Oyster Dressing
1 (2pound) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed ½ cup butter 1 small onion, diced ½ red bell pepper, diced 1 clove garlic, minced 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar ¾ cup shredded Pepper Jack 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon cayenne Additional ¼ cup finely chopped Italian parsley 4 oz. cheese or 1 cup breadcrumbs (with 4 Tbsp melted butter) to top, if desired
6 slices bacon, cut into a small pieces 1/2 cup butter 1 cup celery, chopped 1 small bell pepper, diced 1 medium onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper 6 cups crumbled cornbread 6 cups day-old French bread, cubed 4-6 green onions, chopped 1 pint oysters, cut in half and drained 2 to 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium) 5 large eggs 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon fresh black pepper Tabasco, to taste Preheat the oven to 350°. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over moderate heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the butter and let melt, then add the celery, green pepper, onion, minced garlic and red pepper and cook until softened, 7- 8 minutes. In a large bowl, combine cornbread and French bread cubes. Add bacon and vegetable mixture, along with oysters. Stir to combine. Add chicken broth to moisten (start with two cups, then gradually add more until bread mixture is moistened. In a small bowl, lightly whisk eggs with salt, pepper and Tabasco. Stir into bread & oyster mixture. Pour the dressing into a well buttered 9 x 13 casserole. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve hot with turkey or with roasted pork loin.
CommanderChristmas.com
2 to 3 pounds Louisiana sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (1” cubes) Olive oil cooking spray 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup pecan halves 1 Tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely minced 2 Tablespoons brown sugar 4 Tablespoons melted butter Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using olive oil cooking spray, grease a shallow roasting pan (you can line it with aluminum foil to help with clean-up). Combine cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, kosher salt and pepper. Bake for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, combine pecan halves, rosemary, brown sugar and melted butter. Add pecan mixture to the sweet potatoes and toss to combine. Bake an additional 15 minutes, until sweet potatoes are lightly browned and tender and pecans are toasted.
Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
Cooking Instructions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large, deep skillet, melt butter. Sauté onions, pepper and garlic until softened, but not browned. Add soup, sour cream, salt and pepper. Remove from heat. Add thawed hashbrowns and cheeses. Pour into a lightly greased 8 x 12 casserole. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove cover. You can add additional cheese, paprika and/or breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered an additional 10-15 minutes. Allow to rest 10 minutes. Top with finely chopped parsley before serving.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary Pecans
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DOWNTOWN Let’s Go Downtown for Christmas DECEMBER EVENTS December 1-December 22 – Santa’s Christmas Village at the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum For more info 318-361-9611 or www.nelcm.org
December 1-December 31 – Dancing Lights in Downtown Monroe For more info 800-843-1872 Check map at www.monroe-westmonroe.org
December 5 – December 5 – December 7 – December 7 –
Downtown Gallery Crawl, 5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., Info 318-387-5691, www.downtowngallerycrawl.com Christmas Tree School Art Project Ceremony, 100 Desiard Street, 7:00 p.m. For more info 318-387-5691. Enjoy shopping at the Downtown RiverMarket, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., www. DowntownRiverMarket.com Puppet Show at the Downtown RiverMarket, 10:00 a.m., For more info 318-329-4947 www.DowntownRiverMarket.com
December 7 –
Lunch with Santa at the Downtown RiverMarket, 11:00 a.m., For more info 318-329-4947 www.DowntownRiverMarket.com
December 7 – December 7 –
Christmas Pet Parade at the Downtown RiverMarket, 1:00 p.m., www.DowntownRiverMarket.com Bold Fierce Fire (Christian Rap Group) at the Downtown RiverMarket, For more info 318-329-4947 www.DowntownRiverMarket.com
December 7 – December 7 –
City of Monroe Christmas Lighting Ceremony at Monroe Civic Center Plaza, 6:00 p.m. Watch the Monroe Renaissance Fireworks Extravaganza Sponsored by Ouachita Independent Bank in Downtown Monroe, 7:00 p.m., For more info 800-843-1872.
December 7 – December 7 –
Kiwanis Club of West Monroe Christmas Parade sponsored by Ouachita Independent Bank. Up On the Rooftop Party at Vantage ONB Tower Parking Garage presented by Monroe Renaissance, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. For more info 318-324-0001.
December 7 –
Twin City Ballet Christmas Gala at W.L. “Jack” Howard Theatre at the Monroe Civic Center, 7: 00 p.m., For more info 318-388-3011.
December 7 –
88.7 The Cross Presents LA Legacy Jazz Band, featuring Lisa Lee Phifer, Naomi Holder & More, 11:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Downtown RiverMarket, www.DowntownRiverMarket.com
December 14 – 88.7 The Cross Kid’s Christmas Caroling, Downtown RiverMarket, 11:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., www.DowntownRiverMarket.com
December 14 – Enjoy shopping at the Downtown RiverMarket, 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m., www.DowntownRiverMarket.com December 14 – Tony Pasko plays music of Duck Dynasty Show at the Downtown RiverMarket 10:00 a.m. www.DowntownRiverMarket.com
DowntownMonroeAlliance.com
December 14 – Avery Michaels plays his song about the Robertson Family at the Downtown RiverMarket 12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., www.DowntownRiverMarket.com
December 14 – Missy Crain Dancers at the Downtown RiverMarket, 3:00 p.m. www.DowntownRiverMarket.com December 14 – Charles Martindale plays Music on a Duck Call, 3:30 p.m., www.DowntownRiverMarket.com December 14 – Stars of Duck Dynasty Look-Like Contest to Benefit the Food Bank of NELA Commander Christmas presented by Community Trust Bank and the Downtown Monroe Alliance, 2:00 p.m. at the Downtown RiverMarket, For more info 318-329-4947, www.CommanderChristmas.com
December 14 – Duck Commander Duck Derby to Benefit the Food Bank Of NELA Commander Christmas presented by Community Trust Bank and the Downtown Monroe Alliance, 3:30 p.m., For more info 318-329-4947, www.CommanderChristmas.com
December 14 – A Night on the River with the Stars of Duck Dynasty Christmas Flotilla, 5:30 p.m., Commander Christmas presented by Community Trust Bank and the Downtown Monroe Alliance, For more info 318-329-4947, www.CommanderChristmas.com
December 14 – Commander Christmas Laser Show Presented by Community Trust Bank and the Downtown Monroe Alliance, Immediately following the flotilla, For more info 318-329-4947, www.CommanderChristmas.com
December 14 – Trey Hawkins Band Concert Presented by Community Trust Bank and the Downtown Monroe Alliance, For more info 318-329-4947, www.CommanderChristmas.com
December 15 – Monroe Symphony Orchestra at the Monroe Civic Center, 3:00 p.m., Info 318-812-6761, http://www.monroesymphonyorchestra.com/
December 17 – Louisiana Delta Ballet presents the “Little Match Girl” at the Monroe Civic Center, Time: 7:30 p.m., For more info 318-329-2225, http://www.louisianadeltaballet.com/performances
December 30 – Children’s Winter Workshop at the Masur Museum, For more info 318-329-2237, http://www.masurmuseum.org/index.php
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HOLIDAY Tips for the Holiday Home from Mark Sanders
1. Take a cue from Mother Nature. Decorate with the colors of the season - from evergreens to dark green clusters of magnolia leaves, seasonal colors are an easy anchor for the holiday table.
13. Fill small cellophane bags with toasted pecans and tie with a pretty fall ribbon. Tie on a tag with your favorite recipe for toasted pecans for a favor for your guests.
2. Create place cards from pinecones and Christmas greens. Spray small cones with silver or gold spray paint. Embellish them with metallic beads and sprigs of cedar or boxwood. Tuck in a flag of colorful paper with the name of each guest.
14. Not enough room for a large centerpiece on your table? Try using a hanging cornucopia from your chandelier to add height and provide extra room. Let branches weave through the chandelier and use a flowing element such as ivy to drape down from the cornucopia.
3. Add clusters of magnolia leaves and evergreens across the top of armoires, tall bookcases and mantels. For added interest, tuck clusters of Christmas lights under and behind greenery to add a soft glow without looking like a plain string of lights. 4. Mix up the mantel. Use traditional items combined with new ideas to create a custom look. Frame pictures from Christmas-past to add interest, along with a mix of Christmas stockings -- Much more unique than having four or five matching stockings in a row. If you already have matching stockings, try stitching or hot-gluing unique ornaments to the top corner of each stocking. 5. Any evergreen or hardy foliage as a quick, inexpensive filler nandina, magnolia, cedar, pine, eucalyptus or boxwood will withstand several days without being in water. 6. Combing various shapes and textures of plates will create a unique place setting. Try using a wooden charger with a traditional white or ivory dinner plate topped with a salad or dessert plate in a fall color. 7. Seasonal salad or dessert plates with a holiday pattern are often an inexpensive way to add a pop of color to your traditional place setting. 8. Check out the produce section of the grocery store for inspiring ideas. Use fresh artichokes, bunches of red chard or kale, red apples, oranges or pineapples make for interesting components of a centerpiece -- and they can be used after your party. 9. Don’t be afraid of adding or mixing texture. A white tablecloth can take on a rustic, warm feel with the addition of a natural woven runner or a natural grass placemat. 10. If you do not have a runner, try using extra wide wired ribbon in a complimentary color to run the length of the table. Top the ribbon with chargers and place settings and let the ribbon taper off at the ends of the table. 11. The addition of gold or copper pieces with the natural elements like pinecones and greenery add a little bit of glitz to dress up a rustic table. 12. Use magnolia leaves with a gold paint pen to create beautiful gift tags.
15. Add a burst of color to other areas. A cluster of greenery, red roses and berries, along with a seasonal candle are easy additions to your guest bathroom. 16. Add candles are burning sticks to planters at your front entry -- the smell of the holidays will greet your guests before entering your home. 17. Too many leftovers and too few people? Stock up on disposable zip-type bags, boxes or Chinese take-out boxes to send your guests home with extra dessert or enough turkey for a traditional left-over sandwich. 18. Add silver or mercury glass candlesticks to add a reflective element to your table, buffet or to your mantel. 19. Fill clear glass cylinder vases, apothecary jars and canisters with “antique” style glass ornaments.
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20. Use fresh garlands of evergreen to drape your outside entries. The fragrance will last through the season. Wire clusters of magnolia leaves into traditional garland to add depth and texture. 21. Simple white votive candles in oversized cylinder vases add a warm glow to your tablescape or mantel. Using a cylinder vase as a votive holder provides a “hurricane globe” and prevents greenery from touching the flame. 22. Subtle touches can make a big difference. Tuck a sprig of holly into a traditional silver napkin ring with a crisp, white napkin. Add miniature poinsettias to the base of your indoor plants like a ficus or palm, to add an “underplanting” look. Tiny vases with miniature roses, Star of Bethlehem or Bells of Ireland can be tucked into greenery on an entry table or mantel. Use shadow box style frames to add a new life to old family ornaments. 23. Add fresh garland around the arms of a chandelier. If your lighting has a chain, tie a loose, flowing bow at the ceiling and allow the tails of the ribbon to fall down around the chain. 24. For extra “wow factor,” visit your favorite home improvement store and purchase enough mirror tile to cover the top of your table. Set your platters, candles and greenery directly on the mirrors. The reflection and glimmer adds a glamorous look to your tablescape. 25. Use what you love! If sea shells are your thing, use them - spray with gold, silver or copper spray paint, then add a hint of spray glitter. If a more natural look is more your style, use natural elements like wood, greenery, pheasant feathers and fresh berries. 26. Gifts can be a fun way to add color or show your style - Try solid papers with brightly colored ribbons, or go monochromatic with gold
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28. Use small chalkboards with each guest’s name tied to the back of each chair with a wide ribbon that matches your table décor. 29. Think outside the box! Christmas does not have to mean red and green. Use what works best with your home décor! Chocolate brown, turquoise, coppers and gold are huge this year. Choose items that fit best with each room’s main colors and styles. 30. Add height to your centerpiece by uplifting arrangements or ornaments on stacked cake pedestals. Crystal, pewter, silver or porcelain cake stands can add interest without taking up too much “real estate” on the table. 31. When all else fails, keep it simple. Sometimes understated is best. 32. If you’re hosting a party remember these few tricks: Food, Ambiance, Lighting, Music and Mood! Do not take on more than you can handle -- your mood is going to show. Pick food that can be done ahead of time, set the ambiance through your decorations, light your rooms to best display your tree(s) and decorations (do not use the brightest lights in your house!) and play your favorite Christmas music softly in the background. Enjoy your party, love your family, make your guests feel at home and don’t stress!
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27. Try hanging a collection of like-colored ornaments in varying lengths from your dining room chandelier. Use a simple gold thread or a very thin ribbon to avoid taking away from the ornaments.
Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
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paper and gold ribbon, or white paper with a shimmery white ribbon.
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• Community Christmas Guide 2013
COMMUNITY Christmas Community Events December 5 –
Downtown Gallery Crawl, 5-9 p.m., Downtown Monroe and West Monroe, www.downtowngallerycrawl.com December 5 – Christmas Tree School Art Project Ceremony, 7:00 p.m., Downtown Monroe, 100 DeSiard Street, 318-387-5691. December 5-7, 12-15 – “Scrooge” presented by Family Church, 7:00 p.m., www.familychurch.org December 6-30 – Christmas at the Biedenharn, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., www.bmuseum.org December 6-7, 13-14 – Strauss Theatre presents: “Elves”, Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday 2:00 p.m., (318) 323-6681, http://www.strausstheatrecenter.com/ December 7-8 –32nd Annual Journey to Bethlehem, Open 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., www.pecanlandmall.com December 7 – Christmas at the RiverMarket, www.downtownrivermarket.com December 7 – Bah Humbug 5K Run, Race begins at 9:00 a.m., Antique Alley, www.ovrrc.com
December 7 – December 7 – December 7 – December 7 – December 7 – December 7 – December 7 –
December 7 – December 7 –
Chancie Neal Concert, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Antique Alley, www.antiquealleyshops.org Christmas Pet Parade at Downtown RiverMarket, www.downtownrivermarket.com Lunch with Santa at Downtown RiverMarket, www.downtownrivermarket.com 7th Annual Bawcomville Redneck Parade, 10:00 a.m., Downtown Bawcomville, 318-388-5858 Kids Alley, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., 800-843-1872, www.christmasontheriver.org Kiwanis Club of West Monroe Christmas Parade sponsored by Ouachita Independent Bank, 3:00 p.m. Monroe Renaissance Fireworks Extravaganza Sponsored by Ouachita Independent Bank, 7:00 p.m., Downtown Monroe Monroe Renaissance present the Up on the Rooftop Party, 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., 318-324-0001. Twin City Ballet Christmas Gala, 7:00 p.m., W.L. “Jack” Howard Theatre at the Monroe Civic Center, www.twincityballet.org
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December 12-14 –Holiday Evenings at the Biedenharn, Thursday & Friday: 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.; Saturday: 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., (318) 387-5281, www.bmuseum.org December 13 – Downtown Outdoor Movie sponsored by Southern Lady, 5:30 p.m., Antique Alley, www.antiquealleyshops.org December 14 – 88.7 The Cross presents Kid’s Caroling at the Downtown RiverMarket December 14 – Old Fashioned Christmas, 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., Antique Alley, 800-843-1872, www.christmasontheriver.org December 14 – Antique Car Cruise & Show, 12:30 p.m., Antique Alley, (318) 465-5838, www.christmasontheriver.org December 14 – Community Trust Bank Presents A Very Merry Commander Christmas from the Downtown RiverMarket, RiverMarket opens at: 10:00 a.m.; Look-a-Like contest: 2:00 p.m.; Duck Commander Derby: 3:30 p.m.; Flotilla: 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Laser Light Show: 7:30 p.m.; Trey Hawkins Band: 9:00-11:00 p.m., RiverMarket, 318-807-9985, www.CommanderChristmas.com December 15 – Monroe Symphony Orchestra, 3:00 p.m. http://www.ci.monroe.la.us/monroe-civic-center.php, http://www.monroesymphonyorchestra.com/ December 17 – A Celtic Christmas, 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Hamilton House, www.hamiltonhouseinn.com December 17-20 – Louisiana Delta Ballet presents “The Little Match Girl”, 7:30 p.m., Cost: $20, (318) 329-2225, http://www.louisianadeltaballet.com/performances December 19 – Strauss Theatre presents: Holiday Open House, 5:00-8:00 p.m., Strauss Theatre Center, http://www.strausstheatrecenter.com/ December 19-22 –The Grinch That Couldn’t Stop Christmas, 7:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., The Assembly West Monroe, 715 Cypress Street, (318) 387-1500, http://firstassemblywm.org/ December 30 – Children’s Winter Workshop, Ages 5-8: 9:00 a.m.12:00 p.m.; Ages 9-12: 2:00-5:00 pm, Masur Museum of Art, http://www.masurmuseum.org/index.php
esponding to the spirit of God in our lives, we reach out in reverence and compassionate service to every person through our healing ministry. St. Francis wishes to extend a loving touch, and wish you and your loved ones a joyous Christmas and a healthy new year.
Community Christmas Guide 2013 •
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• Community Christmas Guide 2013