In downtown Enterprise, last weekend was Winterfest, and the city was festive in the extreme.

Merchants outdid themselves in decorating their businesses, inside and out. Even one empty storefront was decorated by Hells Canyon Mule Days volunteers.

City forces contributed greatly with outstanding outdoor decorations.

When time came for the parade down Main Street, the sidewalks were packed with spectators, many of whom also did some Christmas shopping.

Then there were the two busloads of shoppers from out of town who rode the Holiday Shopping Buses, stopping in Enterprise after spending time in Joseph.

In short, it was a welcome relief from the many months during which the shopping district looked dismal, with empty windows and a dearth of shoppers.

To the business owners, city workers and shoppers who made it an enjoyable weekend, we say: Job well done!

For next year, we’d like in addition to see two things that would add even more to the festivities:

? New businesses occupying most if not all of the vacant buildings.

? Area artists and craftspeople joining together to create gift bazaars in the remaining vacant buildings, perhaps under the sponsorship of the Wallowa Valley Arts Council.

We hasten to add that this isn’t to detract from the great job Joseph merchants did – and usually do – to make their downtown a Winter Wonderland as well. Kudos to them, too.