We all need this special time to gather together as family, friends and people of faith, to celebrate the gift of the Christ Child. In these difficult and uncertain times, we need the peace, joy, love and hope that Jesus brings to the world. In our nation and around the world, where there is so much anger, division, conflict, and war, we are in need of something greater than ourselves to bring light to dispel the darkness and lift our spirits.

Arts for Rural Texas’ free after school classes introduce children to various forms of art while encouraging creative thinking in a fun and safe environment. Taught by local artists, musicians, and educators, classes are designed to build self-confidence while contributing to artistic skills, leadership development, better academic performance, and barrier breaking.

On Dec. 5, the Fayette County Czech Heritage Society hosted its annual Christmas party at Hanslik Hall in the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange. It was a festive event; members and guests caroled Czech Christmas songs with Jimmy Fucik accompanying them on the accordion, exchanged gifts, and ate a turkey and dressing meal catered by Richters Catering, followed by a cake baked by HEB Bakery. Members and guests also played Czech trivia and exchanged well wishes and Veselé Vánoce (Merry Christmas) with each other.