Vision of Trees delights with decor

    The first things that catch  your eye when walking into the Champion Community Center are the lights and color on Christmas trees lining the walls.
    That’s the focus of the annual Vision of Trees, organized by the Champion Woman’s Club. They enjoyed another successful run last weekend.
    Twenty-six trees were decorated this year, said Jessie Schmidt who coordinated that aspect of the two-day event.
    As people browsed, it was easy to hear them comment on the creativity and use of items not normally seen on Christmas trees.
    The child-centered tree designed by Lana Stromberger of Champion was picked as the People’s Choice winner.
    Her tree was set up inside a baby crib with a running toy train circling around it. Ornaments featured her child’s photos and a Merry Christmas banner was strung along the crib’s front.
    While looking at the trees, people could also bid on a group of silent auction items and purchase baked goods, Christmas and fall decor, crafts and gift items.
    Santa arrived Saturday to visit with children. Piano music from Jan Clark entertained Saturday and music students from Phyllis Mock entertained over the weekend.
    Tracy Heathers, club treasurer, said 130 were served a baked potato lunch Saturday while 140 enjoyed soup Sunday.
    A special guest Sunday was Karen Crandall of Papillion, president of the Nebraska Federation of Women’s Clubs, and her husband Keith.
    Raffle winners included Marcia Elder, decorated Christmas tree; Kelsey Steinkraus, patio furniture; Dan Wiege, quilt; Cate Weiss, framed Champion Mill picture; and Jeannine Cox, decorated Christmas door.