As the holiday lights twinkle across Southeast Missouri's 573 area the 573 Magazine sends warmest wishes. May the Spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with love, joy, and peace. Gather with family and friends, exchange special gifts, savor delicious feasts, and cherish moments lively or calm. Like the little drummer boy, we humbly share our stories and talents to brighten your season. Explore our past Christmas tales, spread cheer in our wonderful communities, and embrace the

Many businesses in the 573 inspire us to come together as a community and often help brighten our day and lighten our load. "

Ebenezer Scrooge, the main character in Charles Dickens 1843 novel A Christmas Carol, is a cold-hearted, selfish miser who hates Christmas. His name has come to represent greed and a mean spirit. Scrooge's catchphrase, "Bah, humbug!" is often used to express disgust with Christmas traditions. But was it really Christmas that Scrooge hated? ...it can be easy to forget good manners and the true spirit of the season... With the recent downturns in the economy it can be easy t