Festive atmosphere, nice weather draw good crowds at Vision of Trees

    Last weekend, the Champion Junior Women’s Club sponsored the annual Vision of Trees at the Champion Community Center.
    Thirty decorated Christmas trees were displayed with versions of this year’s theme,  “Christmas Magic.”
    Winning first place for best decorated tree in the People’s Choice award was Lana Stromberger of Champion.
    Second place went to Kelsey Steinkraus, also of Champion.
    Raffle prize winners were Bob Hartman, wooden patio furniture made and donated by Lloyd Hazard; Carla Colton, a decorated Christmas tree donated by the Challenger 4-H club; Bill Brophy, a quilt made by Rhonda Smith and Jean Farrer; Cheryl Bree, a winter window hanging donated by Betty Jo Goodell; and Donna Ferebee, a photo collage of Champion Mill donated by Kaylene Silvester.
    “The silent auction was very successful. There were 43 items up for bids. These items were donated by area businesses and individuals,” said Rhonda Smith.
    Popular items sold during the two-day event were 21 wreaths made and donated by the Women’s Club.
    “Attendance was very busy both days. We sold around 180 baked potatoes on Saturday and 190 bowls of soup on Sunday,” Smith said.
    Entertainment for this year’s event included Marla Smith and her guitar students and her Methodist Gospel Band which included Jim Brown and Don Newman.
    Phyllis Mock brought several of her piano students to perform.
     Jan Clark also entertained the crowds on the piano, and Morayah Cupp and friends presented a medley of Christmas songs.
    “I would guess there were around 400 people in attendance during the two days,” said Shona Heim.
    “I think the nice weather helped boost attendance,” Smith added.
    Proceeds from this event will go to area families who are in need.
    “Last year, we donated cash and gift cards to nine families,” Smith said.