With the previous nativity scene showing signs of wear, a possible replacement — namely, an 11-piece set made out of a resin material — was found by the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Chamber of Commerce. The cost was estimated at approximately $1,200 plus shipping.

The chamber planned to look for donations, but Amazing Canvas and Upholstery, a North Webster business, beat it to the punch, donating $1,250 to purchase the new nativity scene.

In addition to the new nativity scene, the chamber is looking for other donations to further decorate the downtown area.

Shop Local passports and save the date cards were also passed out to chamber board members during the regular board meeting, Nov. 11. The Shop Local event will be in conjuncture with North Webster’s Santa Visit on Saturday, Nov. 23, in addition to other county events located in Warsaw, Pierceton and Syracuse.

Participants for the Shop Local event must visit at least six designated business — nine of which are in North Webster — and have the entire passport filled with stickers from those businesses to be entered for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree. The drawing will occur Dec. 16. Passports can be picked up at participating merchants.

North Webster will also hold a $100 gift basket drawing at 3 p.m. prior to Santa’s visit at 3:30 p.m. The Santa parade and lighting of the Christmas tree will be at 6 p.m. During this time, there will be carolers and hot chocolate.

(For a more in-depth account of the meeting, see this week’s issue of The Mail-Journal.)