WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:08.000 Good evening and welcome to the 51st annual Holiday Tree Lighting at Western Oregon University. 00:00:08.000 --> 00:00:12.000 cheering, applause. 00:00:12.000 --> 00:00:15.000 Who's ready for the parade? cheering. 00:00:15.000 --> 00:00:18.000 I love it. cheering, applause. 00:00:18.000 --> 00:00:22.000 Is this anybody's first Holiday Tree Lighting? cheering. 00:00:22.000 --> 00:00:27.000 Nice! Welcome. Like we said this is the 51st one. 00:00:27.000 --> 00:00:31.000 Who's been here to all of them? Yeah. 00:00:31.000 --> 00:00:36.000 Anybody been to all 51? Anybody been to 50? 00:00:36.000 --> 00:00:44.000 40, 30, 20? Got a wow. I heard a wow. 00:00:44.000 --> 00:00:48.000 That is impressive. If you've been to 20 of them that is really impressive. 00:00:48.000 --> 00:00:52.000 Ten? Oh, I bet a few people have been to ten. 00:00:52.000 --> 00:00:56.000 How many people have been to like five? cheering. 00:00:56.000 --> 00:00:60.000 That's a good amount. Alright. Where are our alums at? cheering. 00:01:00.000 --> 00:01:05.000 Heck yeah! Welcome, y'all. 00:01:05.000 --> 00:01:10.000 Oh, it's coming up close. It's coming up close. 00:01:10.000 --> 00:01:17.000 Make sure to huddle together for warmth and dryness as we observe the wonderful parade. 00:01:18.000 --> 00:01:22.000 Make sure to really cheer on these floats. 00:01:22.000 --> 00:01:28.000 You've been stuck in the rain waiting for them but they're walking in the rain. They're walking in those puddles. 00:01:28.000 --> 00:01:33.000 Yeah, thank you. Be sure to cheer on and wave for these student groups and local businesses and local community groups. 00:01:33.000 --> 00:01:41.000 We really appreciate y'all coming out to help support this whole event. Making this all happen. 00:01:41.000 --> 00:01:48.000 sirens. 00:01:48.000 --> 00:01:55.000 sirens. 00:01:55.000 --> 00:01:58.000 Everybody say hi and thank you to the Monmouth police department. 00:01:58.000 --> 00:01:63.000 Hi, Monmouth Police! Thank you for keeping the parade people safe. 00:02:03.000 --> 00:02:10.000 sirens. 00:02:10.000 --> 00:02:15.000 And for letting us know the parade was starting. Right? 00:02:16.000 --> 00:02:21.000 sirens. 00:02:21.000 --> 00:02:25.000 Hi, Public Safety. Give it up for WOU Public Safety for keeping us safe here on campus. 00:02:25.000 --> 00:02:29.000 Hi, Public Safety! 00:02:29.000 --> 00:02:37.000 Coming up next we've got the WOU Army ROTC marching with the National Colors and the Oregon sate flag with two guards as the color guard. 00:02:37.000 --> 00:02:43.000 They're usually announced as Western Oregon University's Army Reserve Officers Training Corps' Color Guard. 00:02:43.000 --> 00:02:48.000 That's a mouthful but thank y'all. Thank you for carrying our Colors. 00:02:48.000 --> 00:02:53.000 cheering. 00:02:53.000 --> 00:02:58.000 Who's this festive group? Oh, my gosh! That's the WOU Child Development Center. 00:02:58.000 --> 00:02:65.000 The Child Development Center here at Western Oregon University are walking pulling wagons and they have bikes. 00:03:05.000 --> 00:03:09.000 And some of them decorated their own wagons. 00:03:09.000 --> 00:03:14.000 I love these lit umbrellas. That's fabulous. Hi, Opie! 00:03:16.000 --> 00:03:23.000 There's some celebrities in there. I wonder if Wyatt's in there. There's Wyatt and Opie and Jackson. 00:03:25.000 --> 00:03:29.000 All your faves. All my faves. They work across from my office 00:03:29.000 --> 00:03:35.000 So I get to see them playing on their tire swing when I'm in a stressful meeting. It makes me very jealous. 00:03:35.000 --> 00:03:40.000 drumming. 00:03:40.000 --> 00:03:44.000 drumming. 00:03:44.000 --> 00:03:49.000 drumming. 00:03:49.000 --> 00:03:53.000 Thanks for braving the elements, future Wolves. 00:03:53.000 --> 00:03:58.000 drumming. 00:03:58.000 --> 00:03:61.000 All right. Tap your toes and clap your hands for the WOU Drumline. 00:04:01.000 --> 00:04:07.000 Under direction of Ben Protheroe and section leaders Austin Roark, Max Kilby, Noah Adams, and Charlie Scott. 00:04:07.000 --> 00:04:13.000 WOU Drumline is made up of music majors, non music majors, and some who've had no experience in music whatsoever. 00:04:13.000 --> 00:04:19.000 The ensemble plays at football games, various basketball games and many community events around the valley. 00:04:19.000 --> 00:04:26.000 This winter come join them at both men's and women's home basketball games. Support your Western Oregon Wolves. Woo! 00:04:26.000 --> 00:04:29.000 drumming. 00:04:29.000 --> 00:04:32.000 cheering. 00:04:32.000 --> 00:04:36.000 Yeah. Give it up for the Drumline. 00:04:36.000 --> 00:04:43.000 drumming. 00:04:44.000 --> 00:04:55.000 drumming. 00:04:55.000 --> 00:04:57.000 Fancy cymbal work. 00:04:57.000 --> 00:04:62.000 drumming. 00:05:02.000 --> 00:05:06.000 Woo! That is amazing. 00:05:06.000 --> 00:05:10.000 cheering. 00:05:10.000 --> 00:05:13.000 Thank you, Drumline. 00:05:13.000 --> 00:05:16.000 cheering. 00:05:16.000 --> 00:05:21.000 They don't only brave the elements, they like performed. Right? 00:05:21.000 --> 00:05:25.000 I demanded a chair and a tent like. laughter. 00:05:25.000 --> 00:05:34.000 drumming, cheering. 00:05:34.000 --> 00:05:39.000 I see candy. I do see candy. You grab me a piece please? 00:05:40.000 --> 00:05:45.000 Yeah. If someone wants to bring us some candy we wouldn't be mad. I will not say no. We will not say no. 00:05:46.000 --> 00:05:53.000 I believe up next we have the Women's Rugby Team. 00:05:53.000 --> 00:05:58.000 Women's Rugby are walking along. I believe they might have some candy. 00:05:58.000 --> 00:05:64.000 And they are a club sport here at Western Oregon University. 00:06:04.000 --> 00:06:08.000 Thank them for the sweet treats that they are providing. 00:06:08.000 --> 00:06:19.000 cheering. 00:06:19.000 --> 00:06:26.000 This is Monmouth Independence Mothers of Preschoolers otherwise known as the MOPS. 00:06:26.000 --> 00:06:33.000 Monmouth Independence MOPS. They're walking with the banner and they're handing out all the sweet candy canes and information about their group. 00:06:33.000 --> 00:06:39.000 More sweet little toddlers. Stay warm, kiddos. Stay warm. 00:06:40.000 --> 00:06:46.000 These kids making me feel guilty 'cause they're working so hard. Thanks, children. 00:06:46.000 --> 00:06:49.000 cheering. 00:06:49.000 --> 00:06:52.000 Looks Like Alpha Chi Omega is here. One of the sororities on campus. 00:06:52.000 --> 00:06:58.000 They just want to spread holiday cheer and represent themselves in the parade so they're walking together. 00:06:58.000 --> 00:06:62.000 Thanks Alpha Chi Omega for showing up. Thanks A Chi O. 00:07:03.000 --> 00:07:10.000 Students, don't forget you can rush next term to join one of our Greek letter organizations. That's a great point. 00:07:10.000 --> 00:07:15.000 chatter. 00:07:15.000 --> 00:07:20.000 Alright now we have Kappa Delta Chi. Kappa Delta Chi is the second sorority on campus 00:07:20.000 --> 00:07:25.000 And their float represents the Beta Delta chapter of the Kappa Delta Chi Sorority. 00:07:25.000 --> 00:07:31.000 Their float, they are a winter wonderland and is highlighting their mascot the penguin 00:07:31.000 --> 00:07:36.000 because that is the mascot of their whole organization. And their colors are pink and maroon 00:07:36.000 --> 00:07:39.000 Which I see are predominately highlighted. 00:07:39.000 --> 00:07:46.000 K D Chi is a non traditional sorority that was chartered at WOU in November ninth of 2012. 00:07:46.000 --> 00:07:49.000 They've been here for six years. Great work! And have been growing ever since. 00:07:49.000 --> 00:07:52.000 They're Latina founded and a multicultural based sorority 00:07:52.000 --> 00:07:57.000 That focuses on academics and community service. 00:07:58.000 --> 00:07:65.000 Alright looks like Omega Delta Phi up here next. They're a multicultural social service fraternity 00:08:05.000 --> 00:08:08.000 That aims at graduating their members while also helping out the community. 00:08:08.000 --> 00:08:13.000 Today O D Phi is handing out candy and 100 teddy bears to kids. Aww! 00:08:13.000 --> 00:08:16.000 As some walk and some are in the car stay warm 00:08:20.000 --> 00:08:25.000 Too hype. O Phi, too hype. 00:08:25.000 --> 00:08:27.000 laughter. 00:08:27.000 --> 00:08:31.000 cheering. 00:08:31.000 --> 00:08:38.000 Alright behind them we have Model United Nations in a joint float with the International Club. 00:08:38.000 --> 00:08:43.000 These are both clubs that we have here on campus that students can do. 00:08:43.000 --> 00:08:46.000 And they can show off all of their different flags that they do. 00:08:46.000 --> 00:08:52.000 M.U.N. of course likes to go to different conferences and represent and learn about global politics. 00:08:52.000 --> 00:08:59.000 And the International Club is made up of both domestic and international students who are here attending Western. 00:08:59.000 --> 00:08:63.000 And they put on some great events. And they also have Jedi Knight Abraham Lincoln with them. 00:09:03.000 --> 00:09:09.000 So I'm just blown away. Oh, I was reading the cue card and I missed it. That I am disappointed. 00:09:10.000 --> 00:09:14.000 Next up we have the WOU Students Veterans of America. 00:09:14.000 --> 00:09:20.000 This float is by the Student Veterans of America Club, our student organization here on campus. 00:09:20.000 --> 00:09:26.000 Inside they're collecting donations in support of Toys for Tots which they are marketing as well. 00:09:26.000 --> 00:09:31.000 If you have brought toys or a cash donation, you can reach out to one the members in uniform inside. 00:09:31.000 --> 00:09:33.000 Thank you for your service. 00:09:33.000 --> 00:09:35.000 cheering. 00:09:35.000 --> 00:09:43.000 I love that positive energy everybody. Keep it up. We're about, we're less than halfway through. We're almost about halfway through the parade. 00:09:43.000 --> 00:09:46.000 There's so many more beautiful floats to go. 00:09:46.000 --> 00:09:52.000 These are the smartest people here driving their car down the street. I believe that's Women's Soccer Club. 00:09:52.000 --> 00:09:56.000 cheering. 00:09:56.000 --> 00:09:60.000 Rumor has it that the walkers of the Women's Soccer Club have candy canes so. 00:10:00.000 --> 00:10:03.000 Be on the lookout. Be on the lookout. 00:10:03.000 --> 00:10:06.000 cheering. 00:10:06.000 --> 00:10:12.000 Oh! They're hopping out. I think I see a candy cane. They candy is flowing. Candy cane delivery! Candy cane delivery! 00:10:12.000 --> 00:10:16.000 It's happening. This is not a drill. Not a drill. 00:10:16.000 --> 00:10:20.000 Up next we have the Central High School Multicultural Leadership. 00:10:20.000 --> 00:10:27.000 The Multicultural Leadership is a club at Central High School that strives to represent the variety of cultures within our community. 00:10:27.000 --> 00:10:31.000 The mission of their Multicultural Leadership Club is to celebrate diversity 00:10:31.000 --> 00:10:36.000 And promote acceptance and tolerance of all that make up their Central High School family 00:10:36.000 --> 00:10:39.000 As well as making the leaders of tomorrow. 00:10:39.000 --> 00:10:45.000 Within this club they will promote and work to achieve a higher education. 00:10:45.000 --> 00:10:49.000 I hope to see many of you at Western Oregon University. 00:10:49.000 --> 00:10:65.000 cheering, chattering. 00:11:05.000 --> 00:11:09.000 I love the truck decor. That is gorgeous. 00:11:09.000 --> 00:11:13.000 I don't even know how you got that tree to work in the bed of the truck but I am impressed. I don't even care. 00:11:13.000 --> 00:11:17.000 I know. That's Christmas magic. That's just magic, literal magic. 00:11:17.000 --> 00:11:19.000 cheering. 00:11:19.000 --> 00:11:24.000 When you all come to Western you should join the Multicultural Student Union and a million other clubs. We're looking forward. 00:11:24.000 --> 00:11:28.000 My name's Megan. This is Rhys. You missed our introductions earlier. Come see us when you all join. 00:11:32.000 --> 00:11:36.000 cheering. 00:11:36.000 --> 00:11:40.000 Alright give it up for the WOU Gerontology Student Association. 00:11:40.000 --> 00:11:45.000 The WOU GSA Club is walking with the Monmouth Senior Center and other old adults from the community. 00:11:45.000 --> 00:11:50.000 They're wearing festive clothes, handing out silver bells and just spreading holiday cheer. 00:11:50.000 --> 00:11:53.000 chattering. 00:11:53.000 --> 00:11:57.000 cheering. 00:11:57.000 --> 00:11:59.000 Looks like the WOU Dance Team is here as well. 00:11:59.000 --> 00:11:62.000 cheering. 00:12:02.000 --> 00:12:06.000 The WOU Dance Team performs routines at many football and basketball halftimes. 00:12:06.000 --> 00:12:13.000 The WOU Dance Team also makes appearances at other events throughout the year including women's basketball halftimes and high school competitions. 00:12:13.000 --> 00:12:20.000 They'll be performing tomorrow at halftime at that men's basketball game we told you about at seven p.m. 00:12:20.000 --> 00:12:22.000 chattering. 00:12:22.000 --> 00:12:28.000 They're coming in hot now. I think Griswolds have come to town. Clark may have decorated this truck himself. 00:12:28.000 --> 00:12:30.000 That's the Monmouth Public Works Department. 00:12:30.000 --> 00:12:36.000 They're here supporting the community and celebrating the spirit of a Griswold Christmas and making spirits bright. 00:12:36.000 --> 00:12:39.000 They want to wish you all a happy holiday season. 00:12:39.000 --> 00:12:44.000 They really decked it out. They, that is. I am impressed. 00:12:44.000 --> 00:12:49.000 So like the one tree that really excited me earlier, that rig impresses me so much. 00:12:49.000 --> 00:12:52.000 Yeah I know. I don't even know where to begin. I don't either. 00:12:52.000 --> 00:12:58.000 How are they? Can I give the truck an award? You win the Rhys Finch Award. Best truck. The Best Truck Award. 00:12:58.000 --> 00:12:61.000 Are those gingerbread people on the back? Oh, my gosh! 00:13:01.000 --> 00:13:05.000 That is impressive. So much detail. So much detail. 00:13:05.000 --> 00:13:10.000 Up next we have the Girl Scout Troop 10601. Woo! 00:13:10.000 --> 00:13:16.000 Girl Scout Troop 10601 is represented girls that are Kindergarten through fifth grade. 00:13:16.000 --> 00:13:19.000 And they are Daisies, Brownies and Juniors. 00:13:19.000 --> 00:13:23.000 The girls go to Monmouth Elementary, Independence Elementary, Ash Creek, 00:13:23.000 --> 00:13:29.000 Oakdale, Whitworth, Luckiamute, Valley Charter School, Kings Valley Charter School and homeschool. 00:13:29.000 --> 00:13:33.000 Cookie season pre orders start on January fifth. 00:13:33.000 --> 00:13:37.000 So if you don't have a Girl Scout cookie hookup this is where you make a friend. 00:13:38.000 --> 00:13:44.000 And following them up is Girl Scout Troop number 10106. 00:13:44.000 --> 00:13:50.000 A Girl Scout Troop from Monmouth troop 10106 are all Brownies and in their third year of Girl Scouts so second graders. 00:13:50.000 --> 00:13:54.000 Their theme is announcing the upcoming Girl Scout cookie season. 00:13:54.000 --> 00:13:58.000 Find a local girl scout on or after January fifth to pre order your cookies. 00:13:58.000 --> 00:13:64.000 They'll arrive around February seventh and booths will start February fifteenth. 00:14:04.000 --> 00:14:09.000 The group's troop earns a dollar for every box sold and they appreciate your support. 00:14:09.000 --> 00:14:14.000 We appreciate your presence. You now have two groups of humans you can get cookies from 00:14:14.000 --> 00:14:19.000 So you are welcome. Support all you can. Support all you can. It's my favorite season. 00:14:19.000 --> 00:14:22.000 This is true. Yeah. 00:14:22.000 --> 00:14:29.000 Up next we have some community members, Mike and Andra. They're Mike and Andra Huston. 00:14:29.000 --> 00:14:33.000 They're riding in their car decorated with holiday lights and festive decorations. 00:14:33.000 --> 00:14:38.000 This is their first Holiday Tree Lighting so if that was you that cheered they're in good company. 00:14:38.000 --> 00:14:41.000 And they are grateful to be participating in the event. 00:14:41.000 --> 00:14:46.000 Bring out your car next year and sign up. Anybody can sign up to be in the parade. 00:14:46.000 --> 00:14:52.000 Looks like RHA the Residence Hall Association is grooving around in their grey Subaru. 00:14:52.000 --> 00:14:58.000 They hope to spread holiday cheer year round with Preview Day coming up in the Spring term for all you future Wolves. 00:15:00.000 --> 00:15:05.000 Behind them we have the Bike Shop which is right downtown here in Monmouth. 00:15:05.000 --> 00:15:10.000 Who asked for a bike for Christmas? Rhys did so. I did. 00:15:10.000 --> 00:15:14.000 So hopefully. Fingers crossed. Whoever gets Rhys' bike gets it from the Bike Shop downtown. 00:15:16.000 --> 00:15:20.000 They also do bike service. Yeah. And all kinds of other great things. Thank you, Bike Shop! 00:15:20.000 --> 00:15:23.000 sirens. 00:15:23.000 --> 00:15:26.000 chatter, cheering. 00:15:26.000 --> 00:15:32.000 sirens. 00:15:32.000 --> 00:15:35.000 chatter. 00:15:35.000 --> 00:15:41.000 Looks like we've got the WOU ASL Club. So Happy Holidays from the American Sign Language Club at Western. 00:15:43.000 --> 00:15:48.000 Behind them we have Wolf Royalty. 00:15:48.000 --> 00:15:53.000 I see them from the car. They look. They're too diva to be out in the cold. 00:15:53.000 --> 00:15:59.000 So we've got Carlos Chairez and Riley Bardes who won Wolf Royalty this year at Homecoming. 00:15:59.000 --> 00:15:64.000 Carlos is a business major and Riley is a physical education major. 00:16:04.000 --> 00:16:11.000 Both were nominated and won the votes of their peers earning recognition of Wolf Royalty at the Homecoming game. Congrats, y'all. 00:16:11.000 --> 00:16:14.000 sirens. 00:16:14.000 --> 00:16:20.000 Is that a firetruck? That is quite the firetruck decked out in holiday attire. 00:16:20.000 --> 00:16:25.000 Is something happening? I swear that means something every year but I can't confirm it. I don't and I can never remember 00:16:25.000 --> 00:16:29.000 Why would there be a firetruck you think? Do y'all know why the firetruck is here? 00:16:29.000 --> 00:16:32.000 Wait a minute. Who's riding on that firetruck? 00:16:32.000 --> 00:16:38.000 gasps. Oh, my God! It's Santa! People, it's happening. 00:16:38.000 --> 00:16:45.000 People, it's Santa. Give it up for Santa. All the way from the North Pole here to Monmouth. 00:16:45.000 --> 00:16:49.000 All the way. Hi, Santa. Hi, Santa! 00:16:49.000 --> 00:16:53.000 chattering. 00:16:53.000 --> 00:16:57.000 He's so excited to meet all the good children of Monmouth and Independence and our surrounding areas. 00:16:57.000 --> 00:16:62.000 So be sure to take your photo with him in the Werner University Center following the parade here. 00:17:02.000 --> 00:17:08.000 Give him some time to go get settled in his area. Yes. So don't bum rush Santa please. 00:17:08.000 --> 00:17:13.000 Give him some time to breathe. Yes. And get settled where he needs to be. Yes. 00:17:13.000 --> 00:17:17.000 Santa will disembark at the end of the parade route. 00:17:17.000 --> 00:17:23.000 And when he does he gets to go inside and he gets to taste the cookies in the cookie tasting competition first. This is what I've heard. 00:17:23.000 --> 00:17:29.000 You know no shame. You get to try the cookies first I don't mind. So yeah you have to let him get through the cookie line while you stay out here. 00:17:29.000 --> 00:17:32.000 And you enjoy the rest of the outdoor program. 00:17:32.000 --> 00:17:37.000 But you can wave to him now and start to get excited! 00:17:38.000 --> 00:17:44.000 We now have for you President Rex Fuller who will be your host for the rest of the outdoor program. 00:17:44.000 --> 00:17:48.000 Thank you. I've Megan. And I'm Rhys. Have a great night. 00:17:48.000 --> 00:17:50.000 cheering. 00:17:50.000 --> 00:17:56.000 Well good evening and welcome to Western Oregon University's 51st Holiday Tree Lighting. 00:17:56.000 --> 00:17:63.000 On behalf of the university and the community I want to thank each of you for joining us this evening's festivals. 00:18:04.000 --> 00:18:11.000 In just a few minutes we'll light up the hundred food sequoia tree just to across the street here on Monmouth Avenue. 00:18:11.000 --> 00:18:15.000 The theme this year is Together We Celebrate. 00:18:15.000 --> 00:18:23.000 As we come together it's truly a time to celebrate the season and to give thanks to our family, friends and supportive communities. 00:18:24.000 --> 00:18:26.000 It's also the season of giving. 00:18:26.000 --> 00:18:32.000 I encourage you to remember those less fortunate than you are with care and compassion. 00:18:32.000 --> 00:18:39.000 And to give any time and energy you have to help those around you have a happy holiday season. 00:18:39.000 --> 00:18:48.000 Tonight we are honored to have the Mayor of Monmouth Steve Milligan and the Mayor of Independence John McArdle join us for this evening's celebration. 00:18:48.000 --> 00:18:54.000 The Mayors will now share a few words with all of us. First Mayor Milligan. 00:18:54.000 --> 00:18:57.000 applause. 00:18:57.000 --> 00:18:61.000 Good evening. Welcome to Monmouth. Welcome to another Tree Lighting. 00:19:01.000 --> 00:19:08.000 This year we did something new and fun. We created a program called Making Spirits Bright. 00:19:10.000 --> 00:19:17.000 We had a gathering at Main Street Park last Saturday and then we've had specials at a lot of our businesses throughout the week. 00:19:17.000 --> 00:19:24.000 Tonight there's some food carts down at Main Street Park if you're need some more to eat or go on down Main Street 00:19:25.000 --> 00:19:29.000 A lot of the businesses are staying open so you have something warm to drink. 00:19:30.000 --> 00:19:36.000 Another part of this was we, we did a Griswold award for the businesses. 00:19:36.000 --> 00:19:42.000 And there were four categories that they got judged on so they would get a from one to five 00:19:42.000 --> 00:19:49.000 So one is blow a fuse, creativity, best use of color and Hallmark and traditional. 00:19:49.000 --> 00:19:55.000 And the judges on this were Kelsey Elam Geuting from Western Oregon University, 00:19:55.000 --> 00:19:60.000 Phyllis Bolman from the City of Monmouth and Martha Zuck from Petals and Vines. 00:20:01.000 --> 00:20:05.000 So they spent some time looking at the businesses and graded them. 00:20:05.000 --> 00:20:09.000 And so tonight I'd like to announce the winners. 00:20:09.000 --> 00:20:15.000 First place Griswold Gold went to Partners in Community Living. 00:20:16.000 --> 00:20:20.000 The Griswold Silver went to Haugen's Photo Galleri. 00:20:20.000 --> 00:20:29.000 And we had a shared prize on the Bronze for Mamere's Guest House and Windermere Real Estate. 00:20:29.000 --> 00:20:35.000 And then two businesses who didn't compete this year Petals and Vines and Find 00:20:35.000 --> 00:20:39.000 Were also decorated and we hope that more compete next year. 00:20:39.000 --> 00:20:43.000 So take time to go down and see all our well lit downtown 00:20:43.000 --> 00:20:48.000 And enjoy the businesses that are there and have a Happy Holidays. 00:20:48.000 --> 00:20:53.000 applause. 00:20:53.000 --> 00:20:60.000 Good evening. On behalf of the city and the people of Independence 00:21:00.000 --> 00:21:07.000 I want to welcome all of you this evening no matter where you came from or who you think your maker is 00:21:07.000 --> 00:21:14.000 I wish all of you a joyful holiday season. In tonight's ever changing fast paced cyber world 00:21:14.000 --> 00:21:20.000 Tonight is a night to celebrate a wonderful community tradition. 00:21:20.000 --> 00:21:25.000 At tradition that may remains a joyful moment for all of us. 00:21:25.000 --> 00:21:31.000 So many of us have come to the Tree Lighting in so many different times in our life. 00:21:31.000 --> 00:21:41.000 As students, as young adults, as young people with young children and some even as grandparents. 00:21:41.000 --> 00:21:48.000 The music, the stories, laughter and excitement of the Tree Lighting remain timeless. 00:21:48.000 --> 00:21:53.000 And as we await for the lighting of the tree we are all kids again. 00:21:53.000 --> 00:21:59.000 Eagerly awaiting this special once a year moment. 00:21:59.000 --> 00:21:62.000 Thank you to everybody who makes this evening possible. 00:22:02.000 --> 00:22:07.000 It really is a gift to the entire community. Good evening. 00:22:07.000 --> 00:22:10.000 applause. 00:22:10.000 --> 00:22:12.000 Please join me in thanking our two Mayors. 00:22:12.000 --> 00:22:17.000 applause. 00:22:17.000 --> 00:22:25.000 Every year the Students Activities Board of Western Oregon University invites students from Ash Creek, Monmouth Independence Elementary Schools 00:22:25.000 --> 00:22:29.000 To participate in a coloring and essay contest. 00:22:29.000 --> 00:22:32.000 We want to thank all of the students that participated this year. 00:22:32.000 --> 00:22:38.000 At this time we will recognize and congratulate the winners of the coloring contest. 00:22:38.000 --> 00:22:42.000 When I call your name please come forward to be recognized. 00:22:42.000 --> 00:22:44.000 Beginning with our Kindergarten winner. 00:22:44.000 --> 00:22:49.000 We have Joseph Redardi Cabrera from Monmouth Elementary School. 00:22:49.000 --> 00:22:52.000 applause. 00:22:52.000 --> 00:22:56.000 He's not in line so. Oh, he's right behind us! 00:22:56.000 --> 00:22:61.000 applause, chattering. 00:23:01.000 --> 00:23:03.000 Let's give it up for Joseph. 00:23:03.000 --> 00:23:07.000 applause. 00:23:07.000 --> 00:23:10.000 The award for the top first grade picture goes to 00:23:10.000 --> 00:23:16.000 Marisol Campos Marquez from Monmouth Elementary School and here she comes. 00:23:16.000 --> 00:23:21.000 applause. 00:23:21.000 --> 00:23:24.000 Congratulations. 00:23:24.000 --> 00:23:28.000 chattering. 00:23:28.000 --> 00:23:31.000 Congratulations! 00:23:31.000 --> 00:23:33.000 Let's give it up for Marisol. 00:23:33.000 --> 00:23:37.000 applause. 00:23:37.000 --> 00:23:40.000 A number of beautiful pictures are on display in Werner University Center 00:23:40.000 --> 00:23:47.000 Please stop by and view this wonderful work these students have created for all of us. 00:23:47.000 --> 00:23:50.000 We will now introduce the winners of the essay contest. 00:23:50.000 --> 00:23:56.000 This year students were asked to describe what happened on the best day of their life. 00:23:56.000 --> 00:23:61.000 The following winners were the top three among all of third through fifth graders. 00:24:01.000 --> 00:24:05.000 Again I ask you to please step forward as your name is called. 00:24:05.000 --> 00:24:10.000 In third place we have Katherine Carlson from Monmouth Elementary School. 00:24:10.000 --> 00:24:15.000 cheering, applause. 00:24:15.000 --> 00:24:18.000 Here you go, Katherine. Congratulations. 00:24:18.000 --> 00:24:22.000 chattering. 00:24:22.000 --> 00:24:26.000 In second place we have Olive Doellinger from Monmouth Elementary School. 00:24:26.000 --> 00:24:28.000 cheering. 00:24:28.000 --> 00:24:31.000 Go Olive! Go Olive! 00:24:31.000 --> 00:24:36.000 chattering. 00:24:36.000 --> 00:24:40.000 And now I would like to introduce the winner of this year's essay contest. 00:24:40.000 --> 00:24:46.000 This student will have the honor of reading her essay and the privilege of lighting the tree. 00:24:46.000 --> 00:24:49.000 Akaila Duncan from Monmouth Elementary School, please come forward. 00:24:49.000 --> 00:24:53.000 cheering, applause. 00:24:53.000 --> 00:24:59.000 chattering. 00:25:00.000 --> 00:25:05.000 chattering. 00:25:05.000 --> 00:25:13.000 Meeting my little sister. The best day of my life was when we were all upstairs talking about how excited we were because my mom was in the hospital. 00:25:13.000 --> 00:25:16.000 Because she was pregnant. My amazing grandma came down to watch us. 00:25:16.000 --> 00:25:23.000 I was probably the most excited because at the time I only had three brothers so I was excited. 00:25:23.000 --> 00:25:29.000 It was the nighttime and I had to go to sleep. I told my grandma you better wake me up if she's born tonight. She said I will. 00:25:29.000 --> 00:25:34.000 It took me about an hour to fall asleep because I was so excited. 00:25:34.000 --> 00:25:40.000 I had finally fallen asleep. It was the morning. My gram said get ready for the day because your little sister is born. 00:25:40.000 --> 00:25:44.000 Then she showed us a picture of her. My first response was you didn't wake me up? 00:25:44.000 --> 00:25:50.000 My grandma said she had tried but I was sound asleep. I was a little mad but I forgave her. 00:25:50.000 --> 00:25:53.000 My little sister was so cute though. 00:25:53.000 --> 00:25:56.000 My grandma made us all breakfast and then we got our shoes on. 00:25:56.000 --> 00:25:63.000 After we were done eating my grandma drove us to the hospital. We were all talking about how excited we were. 00:26:03.000 --> 00:26:09.000 It felt like an hour car drive well at least to me but apparently it was a 30 minute car drive which I don't think was true. 00:26:09.000 --> 00:26:15.000 We were all excited and finally we were there! We jumped out of the car and ran inside. 00:26:15.000 --> 00:26:21.000 We asked the lady at the desk what room my mom, dad and new baby sister were in. She told us. 00:26:21.000 --> 00:26:27.000 Then she gave me a sticker that said you're a big sister. I have now had that sticker for about two years. 00:26:27.000 --> 00:26:31.000 After she gave me the sticker we went to the room and knocked on the door. I heard a voice. 00:26:31.000 --> 00:26:35.000 My mom's voice that said come in. We all walked in. 00:26:35.000 --> 00:26:41.000 I saw her in real life. She was so cute. I asked my mom if I could hold her she said of course. 00:26:41.000 --> 00:26:46.000 I loved her little baby hands and I loved her little cry. I could tell I would always love her. 00:26:46.000 --> 00:26:53.000 I held her for a while just staring into her eyes. I held her well at least until she started to cry. 00:26:53.000 --> 00:26:55.000 Then my grandma held her and my brothers. 00:26:55.000 --> 00:26:59.000 We were at the hospital for an hour or two then we went home. 00:26:59.000 --> 00:26:63.000 We all said bye and we got in the car and my grandma drove us home. 00:27:03.000 --> 00:27:08.000 When we all got home we made signs for my little sister for when she came home. 00:27:08.000 --> 00:27:14.000 Like one of them said welcome to your new home, Mariah. We waited maybe after an hour and we heard a knock. 00:27:14.000 --> 00:27:19.000 We all ran to the door after, and after that we smothered her. 00:27:19.000 --> 00:27:22.000 I will always love Mariah Emily Duncan. 00:27:22.000 --> 00:27:24.000 cheering. Great job. 00:27:24.000 --> 00:27:27.000 cheering. 00:27:27.000 --> 00:27:30.000 Let's give a round of applause to Katherine, Olive, and Akaila. 00:27:30.000 --> 00:27:34.000 applause. 00:27:34.000 --> 00:27:37.000 And now the moment we have been waiting for. 00:27:37.000 --> 00:27:44.000 As the winner of the essay contest Akaila will you please assist us in lighting the holiday tree? 00:27:44.000 --> 00:27:47.000 May I have the lights out please. 00:27:47.000 --> 00:27:55.000 cheering. 00:27:55.000 --> 00:27:62.000 So let's begin the countdown with ten. Nine. Eight. Seven. Six. 00:28:02.000 --> 00:28:07.000 Five. Four. Three. Two. One. 00:28:09.000 --> 00:28:15.000 cheering, applause. 00:28:15.000 --> 00:28:20.000 What a gorgeous sight. Akaila, thank you. 00:28:20.000 --> 00:28:26.000 Thank you for attending the 51st annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and enjoy the rest of your evening. 00:28:26.000 --> 00:28:28.000 jingle bells. 00:28:28.000 --> 00:28:31.000 Merry Christmas! 00:28:31.000 --> 00:28:47.000 chattering, jingle bells.