What will you decorate your home with this holiday season – a real Christmas tree or an artificial one? That is a question many people ask themselves at this most wonderful time of year. Although there is a large selection of beautiful artificial trees out there, the spicy, fresh scent of balsam fir filling the house is hard to beat.

The Flint Citadel Band of The Salvation Army played to a packed house for their 85th Annual Thanksgiving Concert on November 17. Special Guest, Bandmaster William Himes, showcased not only his musical talents as a euphonium soloist, but also his ability to bring the Gospel alive through musical scoring. The Flint Citadel Band performs this holiday classic concert every year on the Friday before Thanksgiving. This year, the performance featured 11 songs, including several by Bandmaster Himes, (“Come, Ye Thankful People,” “Jehovah Roi” and “Pathway of Hope”), as well as a euphonium quartet playing, “I’ll Not Turn Back.” Following the concert, the Flint Citadel Band League sponsored a meal catered by Roma’s Restaurant that was enjoyed by the musicians and Band League Support members.

At any holiday gathering, it’s always a good idea to offer your guests one or two non-alcoholic options for celebrating with a “cheers!” They’re pretty and festive, too.

Oh, the magic of Christmas is upon us, and what speaks of the holiday more than the heavenly aroma of cookies baking in the oven? Since the 1930s, children have left a glass of milk and a plate of cookies for Santa to snack on every Christmas Eve. It became a popular American holiday tradition during the Great Depression, and is believed to have begun as a way for parents to teach their children the importance of giving to others. It was also a way to show gratitude for the gifts they received during tough economic times.

The Greater Flint Jewish community will celebrate Hanukkah from December 24-31, according to Steven Low, the Executive Director of the Flint Jewish Federation. The eight-day celebration begins in the evening, when one candle is lit and placed on a menorah, a symbol of bringing enlightenment to the world. A candle is lit each subsequent evening during the observance.

Still need plans for the Fourth? Don’t worry … My City Magazine has you covered! Check out the Independence Day Events going on around Genesee County.

Davison, Mi – With support from our auxiliary units, Davison High School band, and other patriotic organizations, the parade will follow Main Street from the fire station to the Veteran’s Memorial at the base of the city hall flag pole. The day’s activities start with the parade at 10:30 a.m., memorial ceremonies with military honors and flag raising outside city hall, 10:45 a.m.-11:15 a.m. An open house follows at the Davison American Legion post, 10309 Davison Rd (across from the post office), with free hot dogs, and refreshments.