Community

Rotarians Provide Holiday Tree for City

Dec 7, 2004

Maricopa Rotary Club members as well as interested residents gathered last night at 6 p.m. to decorate a community Christmas tree at City Hall on John Wayne Parkway. Traditionally Rotary has provided trees that were cut in northern areas of the state where permits are required.

The 20 foot tree.

Rotary Club president Richard Fleming and fellow club member Arb Campbell share a spot by the fire.

Fire Chief Eddie Rodriguez, District Fire Board member Don Pearce, and local realtor Bill Smale traveled to a location about 25 miles south of Alpine this weekend. Their permit was for a tree about 20 feet tall. According to Mr. Smale, “It was quite an adventure. We rescued a park ranger in our jeep and then almost got stuck in the snow ourselves.”

Don Pearce (center) and Bill Smale regale Pat Clark (left) with tales of their tree-cutting trip.

Food, a warm fire and plenty of fellowship accompanied the decorating, which was organized by Barbara Brady.

Santa himself drove up to join the festivities.

The light of day revealed a beautifully decorated tree.