Coordinators prep for DYW program on March 17

The Distinguished Young Women program coordinators are gearing up to host the annual DYW of Lind-Ritzville program on Saturday, March 17, at the Lind-Ritzville Middle School.

The program will feature five local girls vying for the title, as well as honoring the three outgoing representatives.

The program has been moved to Lind in order to utilize a larger gymnasium, as last year’s event was standing room only.

This year’s contestants are Kelcee Carlson, Else Gielisch, Madison Melcher, Chelsie Watterson and Kierstin Witt.

Outgoing royalty members are DYW of Ritzville Tessa O’Brien, and representatives Rachel Schell and Sierra Kiel.

Tickets for the program are available for $10 from any DYW contestant, or at Northwest Farm Credit, located at 201B West Broadway Avenue in Ritzville.

In coordination with the event, the Ritzville Festivals Association is also looking for monetary donations to help support the costs of the Ritzville Community float, which the DYW representatives use.

The money raised is used to build the community float, provide DYW scholarships, maintain the float and trailer, and maintain the Festivals Building.

The Ritzville Festivals Association is celebrating 41 years of community service within Ritzville. The organization was incorporated on Feb. 22, 1977.

Those interested in contributing to supporting the Festivals Association can mail a donation to PO Box 393 in Ritzville.