Annual Festivities feature 'Tree of Lights'

By Jennifer Jenkin

A 45-foot “Tree of Lights” will be turned on Dec. 10 during the 11th annual ceremony sponsored by Ramona Chamber of Commerce. Co-chairmen Bill Jenkin and Vince Franano anticipate something special for the opening ceremony in flipping the switch, marking the beginning of the lights that will be turned on nightly through the holidays.

The ceremony takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. in the vacant lot in the 1300 block on the west side of Main Street. Santa Claus will be arriving in a fire engine and youngsters will have an opportunity to have their pictures taken with the jolly visitor.

Jeanne Wood Photography will provide photography services at a cost of $2.00 each. “We took over 350 pictures last year,” said Jeanne Wood, “this is a very popular part of the event so plan to get there early to avoid the lines.” Pictures with Santa will be available for pickup at the Chamber office, 960 Main Street, Ramona, approximately 2 weeks after the event.

Franano said the tree lighting event is to create a Christmas atmosphere in our community. “We (the Chamber of Commerce) feel it is important to have this significant event as a means of bringing the community together and for the families to come out and interact with other families at this time of year,” he said.

Jenkin said he expects to see between 3,000 and 4,000 people turn out for the free festivities. "We had 4,000 last year, mostly people from here," he said.

This year the ARODEO committee is sponsoring a very elaborate hay ride. “There will be an awesome entry way built of straw,” said Tony Montegna,

“A tractor will pull the hay bales with professional carolers along”. About 150 bales of hay were donated for the popular hay rides from local feed stores including Elstons, Kahoots and the Livery.

A dozen trees will be decorated by elementary school children during the afternoon of the ceremony. Donating the trees for this years event are Albertsons of Ramona and Pine Tree Acres.

There will be 30 booths set up by local businesses and crafters, featuring a wide variety of food and gifts.

Children’s Theatre, under the direction of Julie Clemmons, will offer a sample of “The One and Only Santa.” Holiday music played by a disc jockey will be scheduled throughout the four hours.

The Ramona Chamber of Commerce thanks its sponsors and a special thank you to RE/MAX Direct/Jeff Gann and Calvary Chapel for use of the lots.

For information on becoming a sponsor or on the festivities, call the chamber office at (760) 789-1311.