Ice destroyed Christmas lights must be replaced

Last winter’s ice storm completely destroyed Clay Center’s Christmas decorations, but Chamber officials are in the final stages of selecting complete new designs to replace the old.

“They (city utilities) said there is nothing left,” Chamber director Andy Contreras said. “We’ll be getting them replaced and we’ve picked out a design we’re happy with.”

Contreras said the Chamber is in negotiations with two vendors, and that a final decision won’t be made until after Piotique.

“We’re not doing anything until Sept. 29,” Contreras said. He said the Chamber has access to some funds but may need to raise some contributions to complete the decoration replacement.

Among decorations being considered are five foot banners for light poles.

“I don’t know if we’ll be able to do all of it this year,” Contreras said, “but we’ve been working with Bill (Callaway) and he has been very helpful.

Contreras said he is spending most of his time in preparation for Piotique Sept. 27 and that the Chamber’s web site has received a lot of electronic registrations from vendors, parade participants and those interested in participating in the three-on-three basketball event.

“We still need people to sign up for basketball,” he said.