An America 250 celebration was held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, when the Malad Valley Community Choir opened its 51st annual Spring Concert with four patriotic numbers: “God Bless America,” “This Is My Country,” “This Land Is Your Land,” and “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” 

Ralph Bennett conducted the chorus in spite of having to use a walker due to back surgery. Helen Ward returned as the chorus accompanist with Lamona Bennett joining her to play the difficult piano duet accompaniment for “Battle Hymn.”  Jim Christiansen sang the baritone solo part on “Battle Hymn.”

The patriotic tone of the evening was heightened by United States and Idaho flags on display.  The women chorus members wore scarves with the Stars and Stripes   on them, and the men wore flag-themed ties. Jim Christiansen was the announcer for the program.

The chorus next sang “Thankful,” expressing gratitude for all that we have in this country. Kylee Francom and Mark Jones were the narrators for “Inscription of Hope,” which was inspired by words written on basement walls by Jews hiding during World War II.

Helen Ward and Ralph Bennett

 The remainder of the program consisted of well-known religious songs, including “Consider the Lilies,” “Beautiful Savior, “Come Unto Him,” The Prayer,” and “How Will They Know?” Katrina Bennett Stucki was the oboe soloist on “Consider the Lilies” and “Come Unto Him.”

Before the concluding number, Jim Christiansen expressed appreciation for Ralph Bennett putting forth the effort to conduct the choir after his back surgery and to Helen Ward for being the accompanist. He presented gifts to Ralph and Helen on behalf of the 27 choir members.

The program concluded in its traditional way by singing “The Lord’s Prayer.”