May 21, 2024

COLUMN: Creston Chamber of Commerce for December

Hello All. I want to begin this month by highlighting again, some of the events and activities taking place during No Place Like Creston for the Holidays December. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the many people that are involved with all that is happening. It is not just one or two groups, but many volunteers and organizations in and around Creston who care about our community. Your time, effort and talents are very much appreciated. Thank you everyone.

Also I would be remiss if I did not mention that while you are out and about enjoying all of the happenings that you remember our various businesses that are waiting to welcome you during the holidays. Please show our Creston merchants your support.

Santa will again be visiting the Depot 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 9. The Creston Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.) will have their elves on hand to help Santa. The Model Railroaders will be working at the Depot at the same time. The (C.A.R.E.) Bake Sale will take place in the Mealsite on the from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 9.

Crest Area Theatre will present, “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)” on Dec. 8 and 9 at the SWCC Performing Arts Center beginning at 7 p.m. and again 2 p.m., Dec. 10.

The Tuba Christmas will take place 4:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at the SWCC Instructional Center.

I could go on with the list of things happening during December, but will suggest instead that you visit the Chamber Website at www.crestoniowachamber.com for a fairly complete schedule. Please click on the link at the top of the page. There truly is, “No Place Like Creston for the Holidays.”

4th Annual 2023 Creston Holiday Decorating Contest for both homes and businesses in Creston

The Decorating Contest will run through Dec. 10. For a list of homes and businesses participating please visit the Chamber Facebook and Twitter sites or stop by the Chamber Office for a list of participants.

Winning entries will be determined by the public vote.

Creston Bucks makes holiday shopping easier

I would also like to pass along an idea to make your holiday shopping a little easier and less time consuming. The idea - purchase Creston Bucks at the Chamber Office. They are similar to a gift certificate, except that they can be spent at most Chamber business that the person receiving them wishes.

Anyone can come into the Chamber of Commerce office to buy Creston Bucks. The Creston Bucks can be purchased in increments of $5, $10 and $20, and there is no fee for this service.

Creston Bucks can also be personalized to say something like “Compliments of XYZ Company” or “Merry Christmas Todd from Joe and Rhonda.” If you would like your Creston Bucks personalized we would appreciate knowing a day in advance in order to give us time to produce the custom made Creston Bucks

Remember, when you purchase Creston Bucks you are keeping the money right here in Creston. Creston Bucks are a great way for everyone to support Creston.

Gold Star Business Honored

The Chamber honored American Home Design Center in Creston as the December Gold Star Business in Creston. They were nominated because of the appearance both inside and out of their building and property. Congratulations.

December Hi-Fives For Great Customer Service

The following individual received the Hi-Five Honor in December. Congratulations to Mark Evans, USPS. Job well done.

Remember to contact the Chamber with your Hi-Five or Gold Star Honoree.

Last, but certainly not least, we at the Chamber Office would like to extend our wishes to all of you for a safe and happy holiday season and thank everyone for their support during 2023. We look forward to working with you in 2024 - Creston a Great Place to Visit, Work and Call Home.

Ellen  Gerharz

Ellen Gerharz, executive director, Creston Chamber of Commerce

Ellen Gerharz is the executive director of the Creston Chamber of Commerce. She has held the role of the ED at Creston's Chamber of Commerce since July of 1999. The Creston Chamber of Commerce is located at 208 W. Taylor St., Creston, IA 50801. To reach the chamber, call 641-782-7021 or email chamber@crestoniowachamber.com.