Town tree gets lit

RITZVILLE – Mayor Gary Cook welcomed the community to this year’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, in front of the library Friday, Dec. 4.

The event was done “virtually” this year, with the tree lit at 5:30 p.m., and the event broadcast live on the Ritzville Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

Mayor Cook thanked the city’s Public Works Department for putting the tree up and putting on the ornaments, many of which were made and donated by community members.

Mary Chamberlain spoke for the chamber, listing events the chamber will be hosting this holiday season while keeping social distancing restrictions in place.

This season’s chamber events are:

The Gingerbread House Contest will be conducted virtually. Participants are asked to submit a photo of their creation, along with a photo of the gingerbread house and the person who made it, to [email protected] by Dec. 18. Photos will be posted on Facebook, and those with the most “likes” will receive a prize. All ages are welcome.

Jingle Bell Shop is also underway. Anyone making a purchase in a local, participating business can request a raffle card, and write their name and phone number on the back. Winners’ names will be drawn on Dec. 22.

The Giving Tree is back at Umpqua Bank, now STCU. Community members can take tags off the tree, and return gifts to the bank no later than Friday, Dec. 18. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the bank lobby will be locked, and participants will need to wait for someone to let them in during business hours. Masks are required. Questions can be directed to Danielle Bolin at 509 659 4900.

Saturday, Dec. 12 is the town’s first-ever Santa Parade, at 1 p.m. The parade will be on Main and Broadway avenues to allow for social distancing. Entries are asked to wear a Santa hat, and either choose a unique theme for their outfit, or stay with the traditional red suit. All entries must be in a motorized vehicle. To enter, email the chamber at the address above.

Other local happenings include Santa at the Ralston Grange Dec. 12, a parade in Lind Dec. 13, Christmas trees for sale at Boxwood Home and Garden and Santa coming to the Ritzville Grade School Saturday, Dec. 19 (See Santa flying in to town A2).