“Tis’ the season to be . . .”
While the standard refrain encourages us to be “jolly,” the month of December in New Bern may very well usher us into “active”, “entertained”, “volunteering”, “fully scheduled” – pick the one that works best for you. Most certainly, the community provides ample options for all tastes and temperaments!
Just shy of December, the celebration kicked off with the Tree Lighting in Union Point, complemented by the extensive decorative displays that go well beyond anything I could do at home with my trusty C9 and C7 strands. Musically, Tryon Palace hosted an intimate Chamber Music ensemble while the New Bern Civic Theatre showcased the jazz and rhythm talents of Bernard Purdie. History and architecture were on display with Candlelight at Tryon Palace and the annual Holly and Ivy Holiday Homes Tour.
The latter featured the taste treats of homemade cookies fashioned by the ladies of the New Bern Woman’s Club.
Local ballet dancers graced the stage in The Nutcracker while the downtown ice rink presented its own version of “gliding” though in my case with quite a bit less grace than the ballerinas.
As our activity director, Ellen Cioccio has shared, Newcomers Activity Groups continue to offer opportunities for adventure, acquiring new skills and building new friendships. Thanks to her leadership, we had a great time walking in the New Bern Christmas Parade publicizing the club and enjoying the throngs of spectators. Our last 50/50 raffle proceeds helped support Wreaths Across America, with multiple club members participating in the laying of the wreaths in the National Cemetery. And tonight, many joined together at the Holiday Party with prizes awarded, tasty food enjoyed and some fancy footwork on the dance floor! Mark your calendar for 2024 – Friday, December 13: next year’s Holiday Party!
Whew! – With the new year approaching, I may need to rest up in preparation for a full schedule in 2024.
Join us at our next General Membership meeting, the first meeting of the New Year – January 11, 2024. Our guest speaker will be Tammy Rodriguez from the New Bern Visitor’s Center. An excellent community resource, the Visitor’s Center is a “must stop” for those new to town. It offers ample literature and guides helpful for unlocking the treasures of New Bern.
See you there!
Bill Brettschneider, president