"Ho Ho Ho" a Holiday Success

On Thursday, December 5th, the Phillips County Museum held the 21st Annual Christmas festival. This was originally the "Festival of Trees," and over the years the theme has change and this year it was a packed house that gathered in the spirit of Christmas.

The donations toward this fund raiser were as Kay Hould stated in her welcome. "...the most we have ever received!"

The new president of the PCM is Lori Taylor. She added, "It went well. The bidding was similar to last year. There were close to 40 entries this year. I thought the quality of the donations this year was really good."

Tokens were available to purchase so visitors could cast their vote for the "People's Choice" of the entries. Available to bid on were lap quilts, table runners, wreaths, outdoor planters, and decorated trees.

This year the donated items included a unique painting on agate, painted by Judy Michel, a wooden bird house created and donated by Gary Faydo, and a child's bench built of recycled fence posts and donated by Dean Kienenberger.

While visitors viewed the collection, they could also enjoy Tom and Jerry's and punch, which was donated by Kay Hould in memory of Don Hould. The Tin Cup donated wine for those who chose to partake in a glass.

An array of delicacies temped the crown to the back room where there was meat and cheese to choose from, little smokies, chips, crackers, breads, various dips, meatballs, delicate appetizers in won ton wraps, and cookies, fudge; and all of these were calorie free. Of course, Santa had removed all the calories so the guests wouldn't feel guilty about enjoying them.

From the loft, the magical hands of Penny Mackay soothed the atmosphere with carols of the holidays and Christmas. A special group, The Chime Choir, also provided entertainment.

The tables on the east wall displayed the donated items for the silent auction. These items ranged from lap quilts, baskets of goodies, framed art work, and holiday arrangements. Through the last couple of weeks, people could stop by and purchase tickets, as well, to place into containers for the Chinese Auction items, which had also been donated.

Just as Christmas comes every year, so do the Garden Club donated centerpieces, which are available to purchase; they also bring snacks and desserts.

When Tanner Anderson started taking bids on the auction items, those attending gave generously from the heart, knowing the work the museum does and supported the fundraiser, which is the main fund raiser of the PCM.

When the evening came to a close it was announced that the bird house made by Gary Faydo was again the "People's Choice."

It took a lot of willing hands and volunteers to make the event another success. The museum is grateful for the support of everyone and will soon begin making plans for the 2025 event.