Saturday's Hometown Christmas was a success, with events that were well-attended. Despite the cold, residents came out for the parade of lights and enjoyed hot cocoa.
The school commons was busy as children participated in making crafts and listened to stories being read, and the Legion building had breakfast, dinner, a vendor fair, and bingo throughout the day.
The vendor fair had 17 businesses, according to organizer Laurie Bennett. It was a wonderful source of holiday shopping, as handmade gifts were available from fudge to soap, knitted hats to wooden and holiday decor, and jewelry, spices, books, and more were offered.
Local organizations were encouraged to host events as fundraisers at Hometown Christmas, and the Garretson American Legion Post #23, the Garretson Volunteer Fire Department, the Garretson Youth Wrestling Association, Springdell 4-H, and the Scouts all participated, raising funds for their cause. All the organizations are grateful for the support offered by the community!
Elijah Ramsbey won the candy-guessing contest at the Garretson Museum. His guess was the closest to the number of pieces that were in the jar, and he won the candy as a result.
Ed and Sara Rogich continue to come out on top in the Christmas decoration contest, as their display at 1013 4th Street caught the attention of new Garretson residents Johnathan and Sarah Johnson, who were selected as judges by the Garretson Commercial Club. The Rogich family goes all out each year, decorating two large pine trees and the trunks of their other trees with lights, and dot their front yard with inflatables and other lighted holiday decor. However, the Johnsons selected Woody and Marcia Gnadt's house at 201 Main Avenue as honorable mention with their elegant display.
In the Shop Garretson First contest, punchcards were handed out to those who shopped at Garretson Commercial Club member businesses between November 13 and December 9. A full card could be turned in at the Garretson Food Center, and winners for the final drawing were held on Saturday. The two who received $50 gift certificates were Paetyn Dreckman and Cindy Lesko. The prior week, Dana Jensen, Robin Hermanson, Lee Ellis, and Rod Wolforth each won $25 gift certificates.
The silent auction had over 40 donations of spectacular items and gift certificates from local businesses and individuals. Proceeds are slated to benefit business improvements in Garretson, such as the speaker system that was recently installed. The generosity of those who donated, along with those who bid, was highly appreciated. The Garretson Commercial Club has plenty of plans to continue improving this small community, and is grateful to all those who patronize our local businesses!
