Veterans’ Day is a day that many people take off to pay homage to those that have served our country. Butch Kieffer chose to not only pay honor to those that have served, but do a little serving of his own.

As a newly re-elected member of the Springfield City Council, Kieffer believes he has the support of the community to continue the direction he is heading.

“I am very passionate about preserving the history and unity of this city and our county,” he said.  “I want to leave a legacy for our children and our children’s children to be proud of.   That’s why I am here on Veterans’ Day working with the Christmas In Effingham Committee. I believe that this event is important because it brings everyone together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.”

“Last year was a big success, we had the support of several local businesses like Citizen’s Bank, L&J Enterprises, Hinson’s Georgia Market, Effingham Hardware, just to name a few. This year we plan to expand this celebration to include more non-profit organizations. We plan to start at 3 p.m. with our ‘Christmas Village’ that will showcase many of the non-profit organizations in the area that help people. So far we will have booths for the Downs Syndrome Society, Treutlen House, Boy Scouts, Historical Society, and Mars on Main just to name a few.  But we expect many more to sign up by Dec 1,” said Kieffer.

Kieffer said that the music on stage will start at 3 showcasing local talent such as Chandler Pate, David Edwards and the South Effingham Elementary Choir led by Paul Petit. And he expects a few more folks will sign up prior to Dec. 1. 

The finale will start at 6 p.m. on stage with local leaders such as County Commission Chairperson Verna Phillips; Mayor Ken Lee of Rincon; Mayor Michael Garvin and Mayor Pro Tem Les Pevey of Guyton and Springfield Mayor Barton Alderman. They will be joined by the Christmas in Effingham Choir led by Susan Hartzog.  

“Everyone that comes will sing Christmas carols, light candles, watch the lighting of the Christmas tree, hear the Christmas story read by Evan Hartzog, and of course see Santa Claus,” Kieffer said.

This event will be held behind the new courthouse in downtown Springfield. If anyone is interested in being involved with this event, contact Kieffer at Effingham Hardware or Lonnie Pate at 888-395-0440 or via e-mail @ ljpate@southernco.com.

Interview done by Lonnie Pate.