Spring City tourism commission schedules Nov. 30 "Lighting the Way to Christmas," approves event logistics and by‑laws

The Spring City Tourism and Events Commission on Aug. 27 set its annual "Lighting the Way to Christmas" celebration for Nov. 30, 2024, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., and approved several logistical items and committee assignments to support the event.

At the meeting, commission members agreed to add a business "stroll" or Christmas passport to encourage shopping, bring in food trucks, offer carriage rides and award prizes for decorated homes. The commission also discussed collecting nonperishable food donations for the local food pantry and confirmed that Santa and Mrs. Claus will appear and that three horse‑drawn carriages will be available during the event.

Candy Harris will chair a Passport Committee to recruit participating businesses, with Teresa Evans, Jody Bauer and Ricki Dash serving on that committee. Stephanie Strader will chair the Music Committee. Robbie Harvey was named chair of committees handling food and food-truck coordination. Jody Bauer and Teresa Evans will manage sponsorship outreach, and Kristin Urani is seeking printing quotes for promotional materials; final sizes and formats are to be decided at the commission's Sept. 24, 2024 meeting.

Robbie Harvey moved to rent the large stage for the event; Teresa Evans seconded and the measure carried unanimously. Harvey also moved to acquire the correct stamp for event ornaments; that motion likewise passed. Candy Harris moved to accept the commission by‑laws with corrections made during the meeting; Robbie Harvey seconded and the motion was approved.

The meeting opened at 6:36 p.m., recorded a quorum and was adjourned after the listed votes. The commission noted that Alex Fine, Rhea County Tourism Director, is expected to attend the Sept. 24 meeting to follow up on planning and regional coordination.