(From a press release) MILLWOOD - Preparations are under way at Long Branch to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas holiday season.

Susan Claytor, chair of the Long Branch Special Events Committee, has announced that this year's Gala chairs are Polly Crawford and Colleen Zoller. Nina Heidelberger has accepted the position of Decorating Chair.

The annual Gala will be held on Dec. 5.

These local garden clubs will participate in the "Home for the Holidays" theme:

• Garden Club of Warren County


• Old Fredericktown Garden Club


• Woodlea Manor Garden Club


• Winchester-Clarke Garden Club


• Hawthorne Garden Club


• Glen Burnie Garden Club


• Lord Fairfax Garden Club


• Town and Country Garden Club


• Greenway Garden Club


• Tommy Dillon, a local arranger

Interior designer Phyllis Nee of a Room with A View in Middleburg will decorate the 12-foot Frazier fir in the front hall at the base of the spiral staircase and the dining room. David Gedney, owner-chef of Apartment 2G in Front Royal will cater the event.

The Gala will feature a raffle and a silent auction.

Long Branch is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to preserve and utilize the assets of the Long Branch estate for the benefit of tthe local and regional community. The historic house, active farm and scenic open space allow the group to promote education, provide environmental preservation, and host community events.

For more information, contact Jennifer Seo, director of events, at (540) 837-1856.