Fostoria active in holiday cheer

FOSTORIA — It's Christmastime in the city.And Fostoria's all in regarding activities that aim to make your days be merry and bright, whether it's honoring a Snow Queen, adding special touches to the downtown area or participating in the time-honored tradition of gift-giving.Fostoria's Snow Queen, a woman of at least 60 years of age who is active in Fostoria happenings, annually is chosen prior to Thanksgiving to represent the city in various events, such as the Rotary Club of Fostoria's Christmas parade and summer festivals.The nominees for this year's honor are Christina Costilla, Deb Tyson and Biola Villarreal. The women are profiled online at https://community.reviewtimes.com/snow-queen/, where votes may be cast to determine the winner. The link may be found at website www.fostoriaohio.gov and on the city's Facebook page. Voting will close on Monday.The successor to 2024 Queen Sue Echelberry will be introduced at 11 a.m., Nov. 26, at the Fostoria Learning Center, 342 Perry St., and her first act will be lighting the city Christmas tree at the municipal building, 213 S. Main St., at 7 p.m., on Dec. 5. Before the tree is lit, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photos at the lawn's gazebo, beginning at 6 p.m.The new queen will then ride in the next day's Christmas parade, which is scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m., on Main Street. Immediately after the parade, Fostoria police officers, as "Santa's Sidekicks," will distribute more than 200 toys to children at the intersection of Main and Tiffin streets.During the days leading up to Christmas, downtown businesses and organizations may take part in a window-decorating contest, with the top three places being awarded. All windows must be fully decorated by Dec. 12. Photos will be taken and posted on www.fostoriaohio.gov and the city Facebook page for online voting. Voting will conclude Dec. 19.Businesses or organizations wishing to participate in the window-decorating contest should contact Fostoria Administrative Assistant Maddie Stearns by calling 419-435-8282, ext. 103, or by emailing to admin@fostoriaohio.gov.