During this season of Thanksgiving one tends to look back and reflect. I find myself looking back at the season that was filled with long days and endless activity. When the evenings and conversations lingered on into the warm nights. It is now, when the cold air creeps in through the windows and we shuffle through our errands about town at a quicker pace, that I think of the many thanks due to so many people that helped shaped our memories of the past season. 

Thanks to those that made these things possible: Grabbing your camping chair and heading down to hear the music against the harbor backdrop. The popcorn, the corn roasts, beer tents, and pig roasts. The big ships, antique boats, and the blessing of the fleet. The strawberries, the pumpkins, the full bag brought home from the Farmers' Market. The local music, Barn Theatre laughs, craft fairs, concerts, and dinners in the mansion. Civil war days, Festival Days, and the Fourth of July. Antique cars, parades, and high flying kites.  Just to mention a very few. 

Thank you to those that kept our streets safe. And to those that helped keep them beautiful.  Thanks to those that kept our parks clean, and our playgrounds safe. 

Thanks to all of you that work tirelessly behind the scenes, making our village a destination year after year, allowing us to meet new people who stumble upon us, and decide to stay awhile. To our business owners, our event planners, our volunteers, and our village employees...know that you are appreciated and that we, as your neighbors, your visitors, your co-workers, and your friends, are thankful for all you do. 

And with that I say have a very blessed and happy Thanksgiving to everyone out there. May we all find someone in our own communities, take a moment, and give thanks. 

As we all know, the Sanilac County Historical Museum & Village, are well versed in keeping our calendars full of things to do. For many of us, we will find ourselves at their doors once again this winter season, weather we are enjoying a concert in the church, a fine Victorian Dinner, or belting out a few Christmas carols in the mansion. Whatever the occasion, there will always be fine hosts, a beautiful venue, and a fine time!

November 26th, from 6-9pm they will be hosting their Annual Christmas Open House and Caroling in the mansion. Bring a friend or neighbor and enjoy yourselves over refreshments and the spirit of the holiday season. There is a minimum donation of $2 for adults and $1 for children. Thank you in advance for helping to support such a wonderful organization that knows how to entertain, educate, and perform for visitors, old and new, each and every year!

For all the fine diners out there, December 3rd and 10th, at 6pm the Museum will be holding their Victorian Dinner at the Mansion. A fine dining event and gourmet delight, the evening will be full of victorian charm and friends, both old and new. There are but a few seats left for these dinners. Reservations can be made by calling the museum at (810) 622-9946. Tickets are $70 ($65 for members). 

Thanks to all the folks at the Museum for all they do! What a wonderful place to spend an afternoon or evening. The village just wouldn't be the same without your tireless energy and enthusiasm. 

November 26th is the 2nd annual Small Business Saturday. It is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year. Millions of people will be shopping at their favorite local stores, helping to fuel the economy. Support your community by shopping locally this holiday season. If you are a business, there are free marketing materials, including E-Marketing materials, In-store signage, and $100 worth of free Facebook ads! For more information, visit their website. 

Many of our downtown shops are still open and willing to help you find that perfect gift! Raymond Hardware has endless ideas for the season, and not just for the men in your life! East Port Exchange is always stocking the shelves with new and unique finds. Try their handmade soaps...heavenly scented with lemongrass, honey, or lavender mixes. The Van Camp House is always a beautiful venue for a fine dinner with a loved one. Chef Andy continues his support of local farmers well into the chilly side of the season, making his culinary delights with a side of community. If antiques are what you crave, the open flag is still flying over at Gray Cottage Antiques, seems they've been adding a few things to their collections...don't miss out!

We have a few local businesses that have their doors closed for the season, but remain open online! For all your bakery needs, Bake Krazy is still taking orders online. Be sure to check out their website at www.bakekrazy.com. If you would rather get your man a fishing pole instead of a doughnut, make a note that Port Sanilac Bait and Sporting Goods is open on the weekends and by appointment during the off-season. Check out their facebook page here.

For a full listing of our local businesses, click here.

 

Our local Lions Club is looking for a few good men and women. Do you enjoy giving back to your community, helping with events, and sharing your talents? If you're interested in becoming a member, contact Glenn Risse, Port Sanilac Lions Club, at (810) 622-8370.

Looking for a meal with friends? How about a game of cards afterwards? The Bark Shanty Community Center is Port Sanilac's Senior Dining Center. Wonderful meals are served Tuesday-Thursday for those over 60 years of age. The number of seniors taking advantage of this program are quite low at the moment and we don't want to lose this great program! If you, or anyone you know, is interested in a little food and fellowship during the week, come join us over a cooked meal and great conversation!  Call Maggie (before 8:30 am) at 359-5665 to make your reservation for that day. You may also call Marc, at 359-8833 (before 8:30 am). Please share this information with your neighbors and/or friends who may be interested. It makes life a little easier, and lunch a bit more enjoyable! For more information about this program, click here.

 

The Port Sanilac Exchange Bank is hosting a pie sale this Wednesday, November 23rd. All the proceeds will benefit the Sanilac County Food Pantry Truck. Dress you Thanksgiving table with a pie, knowing that you have given someone else something greater.

 

The Sanilac County Humane society is always looking for caring volunteers. Volunteers are needed for animal care, cleaning, maintenance, 'adopt-a-thons', and office help. Donations in the form of monthly pledges, or spontaneous deposits of change or dollar bills to their SCHS canisters located throughout the county are also greatly appreciated. For those who wish to give in another way, SCHS has a 'wish list' posted on their website in regards to supplies that are needed to help the animals, further their mission, and keep their office running. For more information, please visit their website.