Beginning on Friday, November 27^th at 11:00 a.m., the Western Park doors will open wide marking the beginning of a three day Tree-viewing for the Gala.  The public can view the magnificent trees that have been decorated and donated by the benevolent-minded people of our community.  On the following Monday, November 30th, the trees will be presented at the Auction Gala with all proceeds going to a number of local and national charities.

 Although the Tree-viewing is a huge part of this event, the greater purpose is to raise awareness and funds for those in need.  Even in our small community, the list of charities in need is endless—especially with the recent economic downturn.   In years past, a tree that may have easily sold for thousands could find itself getting a fraction of that amount this year.  When times are financially tough, it isn’t upon the shoulders of the financial giants that we should rely to step up and make the difference.  While we do welcome and are immensely grateful for their continued support, it should be known that everyone can participate.  As the community pulls together during tough times, it is each individual person that will make the difference to the whole. 

It is with this individual contributor in mind that the Tree Topper Donation has been focused with greater emphasis in this year’s event.  With the Tree Topper Donation, even the smallest effort is appreciated.  This year as you take your children and loved ones to the Tree-viewing, pay close attention to the charities that will benefit from the donations made through its sale.  Video presentations focusing on each of the charities will portray the stories behind the donations.  Listen to them and select the charity that you would like to support.  Before you leave the viewing, leave your donation—large or small—in the envelopes provided at the front desk.  These funds will then “top-off” what is earned after the sale of the tree on the night of the Auction Gala.  As the saying goes, “Only you can make a difference.”

As with every year that this event has taken place, volunteers have worked countless hours in an effort to make it the very best of the best.  This year is no exception.  In an effort to streamline and make a more stimulating evening, new procedures have been implemented for the night of the Auction Gala.   The evening will begin with a catered dinner, interspersed with the drawing of the various raffle and donated items.  Auctioneer Travis Peatross and Master of Ceremonies Teena Christopherson will then ignite the fires of excitement with a fast paced evening of bidding and action. 

We hope to make this an affair to remember for everyone involved.  There are still a few openings for those who would like to enter a tree or arts and craft project.  Applications are available at the Chamber of Commerce.  The deadline for entering is the 12^th of November so hurry and get yours today!     Remember, the Tree-viewing is free and the tickets for the Auction Gala portion of the events are $20 each and can be purchased at the Chamber.