New Branson Christmas tree honors American Veterans and their families
[Pictured left to right: (FR)Grant Hulland, WRVEC; Ann McDowell, Christmas Coalition; Lynn Berry, Branson Chamber; Wendell Clare, Veterans Task Force; Julie Peters, Branson Chamber/ CVB, Valorie Coleman, College of the Ozarks; and Tammy Peters, Northpole Productions. (BR): Larry Maric, WRVEC; John Hathcock, Veterans Task Force; Del Leath, Veterans Task Force; William (Dub) White, Veterans Task Force; and Michael Galito, College of the Ozarks]
In support of the Branson Christmas Coalition’s vision to make the community “America’s Christmas Tree City” a new tree is on display in the Veterans Memorial Garden at West Highway 76 and Roark Valley Road. The tree was made possible through the combined efforts of the Branson Christmas Coalition, Branson Veterans Task Force, White River Valley Electric a Touchstone Energy Cooperative and Veterans Memorial Garden.
With recommendations and support from the Veteran Task Force, a 26’ tall, artificial Giant Everest tree has been decorated with blue, gold and silver stars in honor of military families.
The display of service flags or banners bearing stars by military families originated during World War I and was later expanded to include “any period of war or hostilities”.
The term “Blue Star” refers to those who have a family member in active military service.
The term “Gold Star” indicates the loss of a family member in military service.
A lesser-known practice of using a “Silver Star” indicates a service member that has been disabled in military service.
The tree was installed on site at the Veterans Memorial Garden November 1 – 2, 2017. Branson Christmas Coalition leaders and Branson Veterans Task Force members assisted with the final touches of the installation and decorating of the tree.
FACTS ABOUT THE VETERANS CHRISTMAS TREE:
Tree Height: 26 feet Diameter at Base: 15 feet
Tree Lighting: 2,088 soft white, C7, LED lights Tree Topper: 4 feet tall; LED Starburst
5-Pointed Stars: 45 lighted, mesh stars; 15 each of three different colors: blue, gold & silver Value: More than $25,000 for tree and décor.
Location, delivery, installation and volunteer labor provided free-of-charge.
Vendor/Partner: Tammy Peters, Northpole Productions
High-resolution photos can be viewed at http://bit.ly/BransonVeteransTree2017
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For More Information:
Ann McDowell, Branson Christmas Coalition @ 417-337-4235 | annmcdowell@centurytel.net
Lynn Berry, Branson/Lakes Area CVB & Veterans Task Force @ 417-334-4084 | lberry@bransoncvb.com
Rod Romine, White River Valley Electric Cooperative @ 417-335-9335 | rromine@whiteriver.org
Ben Kinel, Veterans Memorial Garden @ 417-336-1900 | VMG@centurytel.net
