Ozark Christmas Angels celebrate the "True Meaning of Christmas"

By Amy Wilson/amy.wilson@westsidestar.net
Celebrating the "True Meaning of Christmas" again this year are the Ozark Christmas Angels, and they're asking the community to help them in their mission.
For the past six years, this small group of women has organized a Christmas party for mentally and physically challenged residents of the lake area.
The guests of honor get to enjoy a great meal, presents and games along with entertainment. Volunteers dress up as elves, clowns, Raggedy Ann and Andy, Captain Stainfighter. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit, and there is karaoke and face painting.
"They just have a ball. If you go and see their faces, that's the only reason you need right there to do this," says "angel" Jenny Payne.
So far this year, the Ozark Christmas Angels have raised about $2,000 but need more in order to provide a meal, presents and game prizes as the event has grown to more than 200 people.
The 2009 party will be held from noon-5 p.m. Nov. 22 at the Zack Wheat American Legion Post 624 on Lake Road 5-33 in Sunrise Beach.
Call Jenny Payne at 374-1102 or 552-5132 or Sharon Matheson at 374-7911 to donate or for more information.