Current events
Columbia County birthday
In 1770, a grant was issued for land in the township of Wrightsborough for those "seeking a newer world." This was the first official settlement for what was to eventually be Columbia County, chartered Dec. 10, 1790.
In honor of Columbia County's birthday, a Christmas-at-the-Courthouse Birthday Celebration will be at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the old courthouse.
The author and illustrator of the recently published history of Columbia County, To Seek a Newer World, will discuss their work and sign books.
The birthday event, which is being held by the Columbia County Historical Society, will also feature the Historical Kiokee Church Choir, historical keepsakes on display and refreshments.
Thomson parade
The Thomson Christmas parade will begin at 3 p.m. Sunday. The parade will start at the IGA Food Store shopping center and will continue toward downtown on Main Street. For more information, call the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber of Commerce at (706) 595-5967.
Bethlehem Boulevard
Advent Lutheran Church, 3232 Washington Road, will hold Bethlehem Boulevard from 2 to 4 p.m. today.
Patrons may walk among the common folk on a re-creation of the day Jesus was born. Meet angels, a Roman soldier, a census taker, a potter, the innkeeper, the three kings and shepherds. Attendees also may visit Mary and Joseph, a Jewish home and the village well. Refreshments will be in the marketplace.
Holiday party
The Columbia County Advocates for Special Education is holding a Holiday Party from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday at the Vineyard Church, 3126 Parrish Road, off Furys Ferry Road.
Family and Friends are invited to attend. Refreshments and entertainment will be provided. For more information, call Rose Mary Bradley, C-CASE PTO president, at (706) 860-9222.
Mayors' Christmas Motorcade
The City of Harlem is participating in the Mayors' Christmas Motorcade, which brings joy of the holiday season to patients at Georgia's eight regional mental health and retardation hospitals.
Donated items from Harlem will be delivered to Georgia Regional Hospital on Wednesday. For more information, call Kathy Sparks at (706) 556-3448.
Homemade gifts
The Columbia News-Times is planning a story on homemade Christmas presents. If you make your own gifts, or know someone who does, please contact Donnie Fetter at 868-1222, ext. 109.
Holiday concert
The Lakeside High School Chorus will present its holiday program at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the school auditorium on Blue Ridge Drive in Evans. Admission is free. For more information, call Stacy Branch at 863-0027, ext. 224.