One Nation, Under God
The weather was beautiful on October 27th as the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Malta Merchant's Committee, and our three area banks kicked off the giving season with the 3rd annual Oktoberfest and Christmas Scrip Kick-off.
While attendance seemed to be down slightly from previous years, and good time and some screamin' deals were had by all. Julie Snellman, President of the Merchant's Committee, noted that the dreaded curse of 2020 may have had something to do with it. "I personally feel the 18 cases in 36 hours affected everything, it was definitely the topic of conversation that day. Still a good day to live in Lil ol' Malta, Montana!"
Whatever it was, it scared off all the scarecrows, but the soup was still good and hot. Monica Taylor from the Hitchin' Post took home the bragging rights for the two top prizes with her Cabbage Roll and Beef Noodle, andBridgett Ereaux from the Westside Deli came up right behind her with her Chicken Noodle (the kid's made the noodles!). Due to COVID-19, only restaurants and licensed caterers could enter this year's competition. Next year promises have many more entries – but I am willing to hedge a bet that Monica and Bridgett will be fighting for those top spots once again. Spare Change once again took home top prize in the Storefront Decorating Contest. I've seen Valene's "I dare you" face, and trust me, just do it. Dare her . . . and start planning your 2021 storefront decorations now.
Everyone seemed to agree that having it in conjunction with Trivia Night at Blue Ridge Brewing was a great way to finish off a full night of shopping and friendly competition.
If you haven't gotten your Christmas Scrip loan yet, head downtown to your bank. It is a great way to support your local businesses and keep everything afloat through the holidays for purchases large and small!
New this year was the Malta Chamber of Commerce's Virtual Costume Contest, which proved to be a tough competition in its own right. It's hard to choose with so many amazingly cute and original kiddos in all of their glory. Chet and Jens took home the bragging rights this year as Lloyd and Harry, but let's face it, those grins are hard to beat on any given day. Have you checked out the Chamber's Facebook page recently? It's a great resource for upcoming events, deals, and not just a little bit of heart-swelling Phillips County pride!
Next up on the calendar is the Holiday Open House at Patty's Floral and Greenhouse on Saturday, November 14th from 4 to 7 p.m. and Sunday the 15th from noon to 3 p.m. They will also accept private shopping reservations for your larger "circle of friends & family" at alternative times either day. Please call 654-1951 to reserve a time as soon as possible.
The First State Bank will also be holding its annual Open House on Monday, November 16th.
Check back next week for a full schedule of downtown late night openings, events, and button drawings.
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