JOHN DAY Dancing, reading, music the fifth annual Heart of Grant County concert on Dec. 21 was a holiday spectacular, with entertaining treats for all ages.

A plentiful lineup showcasing the wealth of area talent presented a heartwarming evening at John Day s United Methodist Church, with all proceeds benefiting Heart of Grant Countys shelter programs.

Peggy Murphy again emceed the event, with young Riley Gregg kicking things off with a solo rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. Performers throughout the two-hour concert included musicians Ed Heiple, Jamie Lupien, Markku Sario, Brianna Murphy-Johnston, Cindy Wimer and Morgan Randleas.

George Meredith again provided several eloquent readings that varied from Roald Dahls humorous and slightly macabre The Pig to the classic A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement C. Moore.

And seven young dancers from Body, Fitness and Dance sparkled and twirled to Mariah Careys All I Want for Christmas.

More than 140 people packed the church for the event, which included refreshments and drawings, and concluded with a rousing audience sing-a-long of Christmas carols.