Christmas spirit brightens Heritage Heights

CHELAN – The festive season arrived early at Heritage Heights in Chelan, courtesy of a heartwarming event orchestrated by 13 enthusiastic Manson Grange Youth Fairs program members on Saturday, Dec. 9.

Community service is a cornerstone of the Youth Fairs program, a beacon guiding students toward the significance of altruism and community engagement. Rachel Kiesecker, the Activities 

Director at Heritage Heights, played an integral role in coordinating the day's proceedings. Reflecting on the event, Kiesecker shared, “The event was fun and so special; our residents really loved and enjoyed it. They said having kids perform with them made their day super special, and it’s an early Christmas gift for them.”

Kicking off the festivities, Norm Manly, the Youth Fairs Program Manager, set the tone with introductions and a brief overview of the program's essence. "This is going to be a fun event; it’s even snowing outside. The only thing that would make it better is a visit from Santa Claus," exclaimed Manly. As if on cue, Santa Claus made a grand entrance, accompanied by the cheerful melody of "Jingle Bells."

The event unfolded with two Youth Fairs members delivering heartfelt Christmas solos, followed by the entire group joyfully singing classic tunes like “Jingle Bells” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” Myra Kurtz, with the able assistance of Kaya Banghart, orchestrated the musical performance while residents gleefully joined in.

To add to the festive cheer, personalized Christmas cards crafted by Youth Fairs members and cookies baked by Sally Colman were distributed with Santa Claus, and students lent a helping hand.

The jubilant occasion culminated in a photo session with Santa, offering residents a chance to share moments with the beloved figure and receive candy canes. Not to be left out, Youth Fairs members also seized the opportunity to capture cherished memories with Santa Claus.

“The Youth Fairs program is open to students from 5 to 19 and is similar to 4-H and FFA. It is one of the many Grange programs for youth. The Manson Grange Youth Fairs program is focused on students five through eighth grade, preparing the student for involvement in FFA at Chelan and Manson when they begin high school. When students join Youth Fairs the entire family becomes Grange members.

The mission and purpose of the Grange “Youth Fairs” program is to provide an opportunity for young Grange members to participate in an educational setting, designed to increase confidence, strengthen character, learn invaluable life skills and teach the importance of self-discipline. The program encourages learning opportunities for the members,” stated Manly.

As the Manson Youth Fairs gears up for its second year, a new member sign-up night is scheduled for Jan. 16 at 6 p.m. at the Manson Grange. For further details, interested individuals can visit the Manson Grange website www.mansongrange.com or get in touch with Norm Manly at 509-293-0225.