Downtown tree an example of prosperity and growth
I am just learning of the planned demise of the beautiful downtown tree. As I recall, a group of Junior Auxiliary ladies went through much red tape to get the tree planted many years ago. Yes, it has grown tremendously. What a beautiful example of prosperity, growth and strength.
This tree became the focal point of not only downtown, but the annual Christmas in the Park sponsored by Junior Auxiliary of McMinnville. For those of you unfamiliar with Junior Auxiliary, this is a service group in our community, catering to the underprivileged, at-risk children in our community. If you have never attended Christmas in the Park, shame on you. You truly missed a blessing of mixed talents provided by children from various schools and churches in the county.
You also missed an event that keeps Christ in the celebration, not to mention delicious homemade cookies and spiced cider. My children look forward to this event yearly.
To me, the tree represents tradition. It also represents each and every child that has been mentored by a Junior Auxiliary Big Sister and less fortunate children that were taken on sponsored shopping trips to shop for themselves and others while learning the true meaning of Christmas. The list could go on and on.
Yes, the tree has become very difficult to decorate and without the loyal help from MES employees and their trucks, Junior Auxiliary wouldn’t have been able to get the tree decorated for the holidays.
If this beautiful tree is in the way, then I say move it, but don’t chop it down for the sake of unwarranted sacrifice.
Dorinda Walker
Junior Auxiliary past president
257 Grass Lane
McMinnville