Thomas, WV – With so many holiday traditions this time of year, the Cortland Foundation hopes that their first annual Christmas Carols and Cookies becomes a local favorite. Slated for Friday, December 13 from 5 to 7 p.m., the festivities are the perfect family-friendly kick-start to the holiday season.
In addition to complimentary hot chocolate and warm holiday cookies for everyone, there will be a children’s ornament making station, live pine wreaths, a large variety of cookies by the dozen and Macy Lou’s Gourmet apples will be for sale. Children from the Mountain Laurel Learning Cooperative and Cortland residents will provide caroling, along with several other groups, throughout the evening and everyone is encouraged to stroll through the decorated trees and vote for their favorite. Of course, no holiday festivity would be complete without a visit from St. Nick himself…Santa Clause.
“When we first started talking about a possible event this holiday season, we wanted to raise awareness and funds for our new music the music therapy program”, explains Cortland Foundation member Crystal Boone. “It didn’t take long for the enthusiasm to spread among the residents and staff. Now we have what I believe is a wonderful mixture of fun, food, and caroling for the local community to enjoy. If you haven’t been to Cortland in a while, plan to spend an evening with us and see for yourself the unique programs our residents enjoy”.
The centerpiece of the evening will be a short concert by the members of the music therapy program – – pre-school children from the Mountain Laurel Learning Cooperative and residents of Cortland Acres. “The residents are all looking forward to celebrating Christmas with the community and sharing a moment in music”, explains music therapist Patricia Allison. “They’ve been working hard learning songs and spending time with our kids from MLLC. Come join us and make a joyful noise!”
The event is open to the public and proceeds will benefit the new Music Therapy Program. Cookies for sale by the dozen include Cranberry White Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, M&M Cookies, Chocolate with Icing & Peppermint Sprinkles, Peanut Butter with Kisses, Snickerdoodles and Thumbprint.
