Ryker Christensen proudly showed off his art work to his friends at Monday's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.

A second-grade student at Weston Elementary School, he was the local winner of the Hospice of San Joaquin for the Tree of Light event held at the evergreen tree adjacent to the Veterans Memorial Wall at the Ripon Historical Society Veterans Museum.

For the first time, the Hospice of San Joaquin worked in collaboration with the City of Ripon and the Ripon Chamber of Commerce on the community tree-lighting event.

Each light was in remembrance of a loved one for this holiday season.

Christensen's colorful art work of a Christmas tree was featured on the cover of the program consisting of Hospice of San Joaquin CEO Rebecca Burnett, Ripon Mayor Leo Zuber and Chamber CEO and President Kelly Donohue, to name a few.

"He was surprised when he found out (that he won)," said Ryker's mother, Susan. "He loves art. He enjoys drawing."

Weston Principal Lisa Fereria indicated the art contest was opened to the entire school. "We had a lot of participation at all the grade levels," she said.

Ryker Christensen, who received accolades for his accomplishment at his school, had his art work nicely framed by Hospice of San Joaquin.

Those in attendance, in addition, were grateful for the reprieve from the wet weather, which had dampened the area for the better part of the day.

Ripon is one of eight communities celebrating tree-lighting event in the county. 

The Hospice of San Joaquin annual Tree Lighting in Manteca is scheduled for 6 p.m. tonight at Doctors Hospital of Manteca, 1205 E. North St.