Let’s celebrate our country’s 250th birthday
OPINION — The ball has dropped, and it is now 2026. Dropping the ball, of course, does not magically change one year into the next — it is simply the tradition we use to mark the moment. The New Year’s Eve “Ball Drop” began in New York City in 1907. Just imagine how different life was back then.
This year’s ball was updated to a dazzling “Constellation Ball,” made of thousands of Waterford crystals and powerful LED lights. It weighed an impressive 12,000 pounds.
If you stayed awake until midnight to watch the drop, you saw it descend 141 feet in exactly 60 seconds, reaching the bottom precisely as the clock hit midnight. And suddenly — it was 2026. Like many of you, I find myself praying for peace and kindness in the year ahead, knowing those things must begin with each of us.
Speaking of lights, I would be remiss if I didn’t share a special treat I enjoyed the day after Christmas — a beautiful yard filled with Christmas lights. The always-creative Faye Seroyer, transformed her yard into a glowing wonderland. Angels, trees, Santa’s sleigh loaded with gifts and my personal favorite — a gazebo wrapped in hundreds of twinkling lights — made for a magical visit. Inside the gazebo stood a large tree that shifted from red lights to green and blue. (See photo.)
Faye, thank you for picking me up and sharing your beautiful display — It is truly a gift to our community. I wish you a blessed 2026. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll take you up on sitting in that gazebo on a nice summer day. Just a thought! Many of you may also know Faye’s sister, Ruby of Krave Korner. I met Ruby when I first moved here and consider her and her family dear friends. Blessings to you in 2026 as well, Ruby.
Looking ahead, America’s 250th birthday — also known as America 250 — will officially be celebrated on July 4, 2026, though events will take place nationwide throughout the year. The stated goal is “to foster unity and inspire future generations.” That sounds like something our churches and communities could come together to pray for diligently. How about it, LaFayette? Communities are encouraged to share their stories, and I’m excited to say this column will be taking part in that celebration. Check back next week for the first experience.
Powell Chapel UMC is also doing something worth celebrating — they have opened a warming station. What’s a warming station, you ask? Even if you didn’t ask, I’m going to tell you. During this cold weather, Pastor Kelsey Barnes and his congregation have opened their doors to provide a safe, warm place to sleep for those in need. Beds, blankets, water and care are provided — and most importantly, compassion. This warming station truly has a warm heart, thanks to Pastor Kelsey Barnes and the church members who make it possible.
A few readers have told me they appreciate when I share upcoming events, so here are a couple to note. The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will be held Monday, Jan. 19, from 11 a.m. to noon, with lunch served. Please RSVP through the LaFayette Main Street office. I attended last year and found it to be very special. Pam Holloway is organizing it again this year, so I know it will be a meaningful tribute.
The LaFayette City Council will meet Monday, Jan. 12, at 5:30 p.m. at the ALFA Insurance building. I hope to attend more meetings — and I hope many of you will, too. We elect this council, and it’s important to stay informed about what they are doing and how we can support them.
Until next week — smile, be kind and let others know you care.
Peace, Ms. Laura
