Ucross Christmas Celebration Draws Large Crowd

Ucross held their 12th annual Community Christmas Celebration, on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Raymond Plank Center. The Center was standing room only, and crowd spilled out unto the outdoor patio. According to Eric Hoversten, Ucross, there were over 500 people in attendance last night. “That may be a record.”

One popular part of the celebration is the annual short story written and read by local author Craig Johnson, Ucross resident.

Judy and Craig Johnson

Johnson has been reading his short stories since the first celebration at Ucross, 12 years ago. He talked about coming to Ucross to read his new Longmire story.

On Monday, December 16, at 6 p.m. Johnson will read at the Clearmont Community Library in Clearmont. He also talked about the books he has written so far.

He had a table at Ucross with Longmire books which Johnson was happy to sign, along with Longmire merchandise.

Joan Thompson enjoying the music and the party.

In-coming president Caitlin Addlesperger gave the welcoming address to the crowd.

There was music by the Buffalo High School Band and Chorus; carols by the Buffalo Balladiers and the Buffalo High School Jazz Band.

The Balladiers;

Johnson gave his fireside reading of his new short story, “Starters End.” He talked about how this year’s story came about.

Following the reading was a musical performance by Dave and Julie Huebner of the Two Tracks.

The evening ended with fireworks by Bruce Burns and his crew, and cannon fire, this year in honor of the late horticulture manager at Ucross, Kel Harris.

Ucross would like to thank Innominate Cofffeehouse and Bakery for the refreshments; Star Video Audio; Big Red Society Members and Ucross Staff and Trustees for making the party a success this year.