The MSU Student Association is planning a new holiday celebration with hopes of it becoming the newest university tradition. "Holiday in the Junction" will take place Monday, Nov. 26, at 7 p.m. in The Junction and is open to the public. Activities will include music, specially decorated wreath displays and the lighting of the university Christmas tree. "The Student Association encourages everyone to participate in 'Holiday in the Junction,'" said Braxton Coombs, SA attorney general. "With your help, we can make this event both a great success and a continuing tradition for Starkville and MSU." A number of special guests will provide entertainment during the ceremony. The Black Voices and the MSU String Ensemble will perform and lead the crowd in singing carols. Dr. Bruce Lesley, director of the MSU Choir, also will provide entertainment. "We are planning for this to be an exciting time for students to celebrate the upcoming holiday season, and we really hope everyone will join in the holiday cheer," said Bethany Shipp, SA director of public relations. In addition to guest performances, the ceremony also will feature wreaths decorated by organizations on campus. The SA is inviting each organization to decorate a wreath representing its interests. All the wreaths will be hung on a fence enclosing The Junction Christmas Tree. The SA also has invited various elementary classes in the Starkville community to participate in a wreath decorating contest. Members of the winning class will have the honor of lighting The Junction Christmas Tree at the climax of the ceremony. "We want to cultivate a deeper sense of community at Mississippi State," said Lauren Green, director of student activities. "We hope this new holiday tradition will become a paw print at MSU." For additional information about the ceremony, contact the Student Association office at 662-325-3917.
