Christmas For Channahon's Mayor Is A Time To Give Back

Channahon, IL - Having a heart that knows no bounds and a spirit to give back to those in need, Channahon's village president Missey Moorman Schumacher opens up with us on winter in the village and some of her favorite Christmas memories and traditions.

You've lived in Channahon your whole life - what's your favorite memory growing up about winter here?

"My favorite winter memory is skating on the I & M Canal. I was fortunate to grow up along its banks and ice meant skating, sometimes a little earlier than we should have and we'd listen to the ice creaking as we'd race along the canal."

What is your favorite winter activity?

"Snow still makes me feel like a kid at heart. I still love building snowmen and making snow angels."

What is your favorite family tradition for the holidays?

"My favorite tradition is one we started just a few years ago. Instead of buying adult siblings gifts, for the past few years we've adopted a needy family and made sure their Christmas was merry. It truly brightens your heart to give to someone else, and what a wonderful lesson to teach our children and grandchildren."

I'm sure you must have a favorite Christmas dish - what is it?

"This will probably seem silly, but my favorite Christmas-time dish is poppy-seed cake. It's counter intuitive, because I don't like the texture of cakes, but Christmas Eve is my birthday; it's my birthday cake to myself. I just need one piece a year, and ONLY this cake, with my coffee."

For those not from Channahon - what would you encourage them to come see in town this winter?

"We have many dining and entertainment options in Channahon for people coming to town, from a fun family night out at the Skateland Recreation Center or Channahon Lanes, to social gatherings at River Hawk Brewing. Grab some dinner at Pesciolino Osteria, Lallo's Bar & Grill, Country Blaze, Channahon Bar & Grill, and so many more. Or get outside and visit Four Rivers Environmental Education Center and the scenic I&M Canal Trail for hiking, cross country skiing, or snowmobiling. There are plenty of options for visitors to experience Channahon."

Is the village doing anything special for the holidays?

"We are holding our annual Tree Lighting Event on December 8th from 3pm to 5pm at the Channahon Village Hall. Residents are invited to come out for a visit with Santa, horse drawn carriage rides, cookies & hot chocolate, Christmas carols, crafts and of course to see our beautiful tree lit up in celebration of the holidays."

For those interested in giving back this holiday season - what's your favorite non-profit to support?

"There are a lot of great local charities that directly impact the greater Channahon area. Some that come to mind are Pink Heals, People for Channahon Parks Foundation, Chanooka Wish, and Cozy Hugs Against Cancer, and many more. Choose your favorite cause and share some love this holiday season."

Finally - anything else you wanted to share?

"The Village of Channahon wishes all of our residents a safe, happy holiday season!"

To learn more about the Village of Channahon, including upcoming events, please visit www.channahon.org