13th Annual Tree Decorating Contest winners announced

    Stillman Bank held its 13th annual Tree Decorating Contest in conjunction with the Cardinal Community Christmas event in downtown Stillman Valley on Dec. 1. There were 28 groups that participated, including local schools, businesses, and community organizations.

    Each year, cash prizes are awarded in four categories: Creative/Original Tree, Best Use of Theme, Overall Appearance, and People’s Choice. Local community members judged the trees for the first three categories and winners were announced at the Tree Lighting Ceremony that evening.

    Congratulations to all of the winners!

    Julia Hull District Library won Creative/Original Tree with their “See the World. Visit your local library!” theme.

    Stillman Fire Association won Overall Appearance with their “Spread Christmas Cheer by being fire safe this year” tree.

    Finally, the USPS (Stillman Valley Post Office) walked away with Best Use of Theme for their Christmas package delivery themed tree.

    To determine the People’s Choice winner, attendees at the event donated their loose change for their favorite tree. Nearly $100 was raised and all funds were given to the Bread of Life food pantry in Stillman Valley. Girl Scout Service Unit 313 won People’s Choice with their Girl Scout themed tree.

    The trees will remain on display at the corner of Main and Maple streets in downtown Stillman Valley through New Year’s Eve. Thank you to all who participated in the contest!

    Stillman Bank is an independently owned community bank founded in 1882. The bank has approximately $579 million in assets and operates full-service banking offices in Byron, Oregon, Rochelle, Rockford, Roscoe/Rockton, and Stillman Valley.