By Scott Harvey
Ladonia – A number of events are scheduled in Ladonia this weekend to celebrate Christmas and the season for giving.
The "Giving before Getting" Christmas event features the city's annual parade, blood drive to honor all military personnel and their families, plus Toys for Tots gift donation, where participants are asked to bring an unwrapped toy or non perishable food item.
Ladonia Chamber of Commerce President Chris Porter says the event's theme was created with the idea of selflessness in mind.
"Giving blood before we get together with family and friends or giving presents to others before we get presents for ourselves," said Porter.
Crews from Texoma Regional Blood Care will be on hand from noon until 4 p.m. Saturday on the Downtown Square. The parade is set to begin at 2 p.m. with Toys for Tots to follow, which features an appearance from Santa Clause.
Fat Boys BBQ will also be providing samplers for those who give blood.
"This [event] is kind of a new aspect in an attempt to get more community involvement in our town," said Porter.