New executive director welcomes fall season

As we welcome the fall season, the Chamber is buzzing with activity. We have a full calendar of events and initiatives designed to connect, support, and celebrate our members. From networking opportunities to community events, we’re excited to share what’s coming up this season.

As the new Executive Director, I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who has reached out with kind words and wishes! Many of you already know me from my years at the Chamber. It has been a privilege to be part of this organization and its mission for nearly eight years, and I am honored to continue serving in this new role.

Billy Kahn gave me my start at the Chamber in February 2018. He was a wonderful person to work with, a great mentor, and he is deeply missed. I love our town and our community. As a native, I have so many memories – hanging out with friends on the Courthouse Square during the Magnolia Homes Tour and attending prom and Christmas formal at the beautiful Stafford Opera House.

Back then, these historic landmarks were simply part of the backdrop of our lives. I hadn’t realized yet how truly beautiful our town was, how rich its history is, or how old it really is. Even the huge, castle- like structure on the square – the water tower – was just “the water tower” to us. It wasn’t until I started working at the Chamber that I realized our town is special, it is beautiful, it is charming, and it holds the distinction of being the oldest surveyed and platted Anglo-American town in Texas. Columbus isn’t just another rural town in Texas – it’s a vibrant connection point where community, business, and fun come together! Whether you’re here for a relaxing day on the river, antique shopping, a delicious meal, a craft beer, the Columbus Country Market, or one of our beloved festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Rooted in deep Texas history with a unique Americana charm, Columbus is a family-friendly, businesssavvy community that welcomes all.

Over the years, we’ve had visitors stop by the Chamber and say, “This town is amazing – it’s like Mayberry.” My response is always the same: “It truly is, and we love it.” As I begin this new chapter, I want first to express my deep appreciation for the trust placed in me. Our members are at the heart of everything we do, and I remain committed to serving you with the same dedication, integrity, and collaborative spirit that I have brought to my work from the very beginning.

I’m excited about the opportunities ahead- to strengthen our impact and continue building a vibrant, inclusive community together. As we step into the last quarter of the year, things are getting busier at the Chamber. Here’s a look at our upcoming events: Columbus Country Market – Halloween Edition: Saturday, Oct. 25, 9 a.m. - 12 noon on the Courthouse Square. Get ready for a festive fall favorite.

The Columbus Country Market – Halloween Edition will feature the annual kids’ costume contest, plenty of shopping from local vendors, and a chance to soak up the lively atmosphere of this beloved community tradition.

Visitors can also enjoy handmade and homemade items, plants, produce, arts and crafts, jellies and jams, canned goods, fresh eggs, sourdough bread, pottery, wine and honey, coffee, drinks, delicious food, live music by Darrel Appelt and Songbird Phil, and so much more while exploring everything the market has to offer. Trick-or-Treat Around the Track: Tuesday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m. at Columbus Memorial Stadium.

This year marks the first Trick-or-Treat Around the Track, hosted by the Chamber. Formally known as Lots of Treats, this festive evening invites families, businesses, and individuals to join in the fun. To get a free booth space, email me at [email protected] or call the Chamber at 979-7328385.

A special thank-you goes to Jennifer Brune for her many years of dedication in running this wonderful community tradition. Lighted Christmas Parade: Tuesday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. – Downtown Columbus. This cherished holiday tradition lights up downtown with floats, community groups, and festive cheer. Join us for a magical evening in downtown Columbus as we kick off the holiday season with the lighted parade, Christmas tree lighting, and caroling. Enjoy free photos with Santa, free hot cocoa, and cookies (while supplies last)—a joyful night of holiday music and community cheer. Bring your family, your friends, and your holiday spirit – this is a celebration you won’t want to miss! Participation in the parade is free and open to everyone. Please email me at [email protected] or call 979-732-8385 for an application.

Ladies Night Out: Thursday, Dec. 4, 4 – 9 p.m., Downtown & Around Town, Columbus. Gather your friends for an unforgettable evening with shopping, commemorative wine glasses, horse-drawn carriage rides, wine tastings, food bites, music, a free photo booth, and so much more.

Wine glass sales begin on Nov. 17 at the Chamber office. Shop, sip, and celebrate as you join in the Jingle & Mingle Hop and Shop shopping spree. Make a purchase and receive a stamp at 12 out of the 14 participating Columbus businesses and enter your card for a chance to win $1,000 in cash plus other incredible prizes.

Columbus has so much to celebrate this season. We hope to see you at these events as we come together to support our community, our businesses, and the spirit of the holidays.