Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
The first annual tree lighting ceremony held at the Carrington Medical Center was on Dec. 1, 1987. This tree was planted in October 1987. At that time one could stand on a ladder and reach the top. Now 32 years later, even with the help of Brad Weninger of Otter Tail Power Company, the use of their boom truck, and the assistance from Carrington Medical Center maintenance, one can barely reach the top.
Lights may be purchased in memory of a loved one or as a greeting to family and friends. The forms can be found in local churches, at Carrington Medical Center, Happy Heart Hutch gift shop, the Carrington Chamber of Commerce and the Nov. 12 issue of the “Foster County Independent.”
Lights may be purchased through December 23, and there will be a listing of all contributors in the hallway near the Happy Heart Hutch. The lights options include white for $2, blue for $5, green for $10, red for $25 and gold $50.
Proceeds from this year’s “Tree of Lights” will be donated with one half going to CHI Health at Home and Hospice and the other half towards medical equipment for Carrington Medical Center.
The tree lighting ceremony will be held in the south courtyard at Carrington Medical Center on Monday, Nov. 26 at 6:30 p.m. A special program and refreshments will be provided by CHI Health at Home and Hospice.
Councilman Al Trader will bring greetings from the City of Carrington, followed by an invocation by Pastor Fred Grundmann and greetings from Mariann Doeling, President of Carrington Medical Center. Renee Riedesel, Carrington Medical Center Auxiliary president, will bring a welcome and Paul Murphy will perform special music.
Who could imagine that so many years after Marie Bennan began this special event that we would still be celebrating and enjoying this beautiful tree with its spectacular lighting!
