One of the most active groups working behind the scenes of Columbiana is the Columbiana Merchants and Professionals Association.

The non-profit corporation was founded in Sept. 2000 with the goal of offering a way for merchants and professionals to give back to enhance the city.

The current officers recently elected are: President Sharon Ogle of Regions Bank; Vice President Dr. Stancil Handley, Columbiana City Council; Secretary Laura Edwards of M & F Bank; and Treasurer Billy Ray Jones of Bryant Bank. Richard Cook is the immediate past president.

Music on Main Street is one of the events the association produces, funded by members donations.

For three years, it has steadily grown and had the largest audiences this season. Community members come out to South Main Street on Friday nights in June-August with lawn chairs and picnics, dancing in the blocked off street. This summer, the Columbiana Cruise-In with vintage and classic cars was held every third Saturday.

The annual fund–raiser, the Fall Yard Sale, will be Saturday, Oct. 3 on North Main Street in front of the courthouse. The sale is from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and costs $15 to have a space for your wares.

The yard sale is always a great place to shop for unique bargains. Anyone interested in participating, please call Georgiann Farrington at 670-5563 or 669-0530.

The annual Monster Walk in Columbiana is one of the greatest ways the association gives back. Susan Conn of Main Street Florist decorates the town in festive fall decorations, and businesses have booths giving out candy. This year’s Monster Walk will be Friday, Oct. 30 from 4-5:30 p.m.

The annual Christmas House will be Nov. 13-14, when shops and businesses will open, fully decorated for Christmas. Dec. 5, 12 and 19, will be Christmas Shopping Days in Columbiana.

Dec. 5 will be the Columbiana Tour of Homes and the annual Christmas Parade. Conn decorates the beautiful Christmas tree at the corner of Main and College Street, and the highlight of the parade is the lighting of the tree.

Dec. 12 is the Children’s Shopping Day when stores have a special day for the kids, and the arts council also has activities for them.

Santa Claus will also be in town that day to close out a busy season for the busy Columbiana Merchants and Professionals Association.

Phoebe Donald Robinson can be reached by e–mail at phoeberobinson@bellsouth.net.