Once again, the Veins of Life
Watershed Society participated in the annual Christmas tree decorating
competition at The Empress Hotel, in support of B.C.
Children’s Hospital. As was the case last year, the
Vein’s tree was sponsored by the folks at Chek
6 News. In total, there were 43 participants in the
event. Trees were judged on the basis of creativity, team
spirit, and “bribes” of toys and cash donations to the Children’s
Hospital. Among the judges was Victoria’s mayor Alan Lowe.
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Figure 1. Judges accepting bribes from the Veins
of Life decorating crew.
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Due to the Vein’s of Life non-profit nature, we were unable
to sway the judges with exorbitant bribes, although, we were
able to donate a children’s book and some finger-puppets. However,
they were clearly impressed by the creativity of our tree, and
the team spirit of our crew. Our theme was watershed-centered,
with streams and rainbow trout running down the tree towards
the base where we created a beach with sand and shells.
A singing big-mouth bass completed the scene at the base of
the tree. Our initial goal had been to create a mountain at
the top, from which the streams were to have originated.
However, technical difficulties ensued, and our mountain turned
into a mound of tinsel perched atop the tree. Team leader
David was not amused, due to his extreme case of tinsel-phobia.
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Figure 2. The finished Christmas tree.
All of the teams had from 4 to 6pm to decorate their trees.
During this time, the various groups of judges circulated, collecting
bribes. After 6 o’clock the judges came around and made
their final decisions, to be announced later on in the evening.
At six, The Empress opened the doors to their Crystal Ballroom
where a buffet style dinner was served to all the participants.
The judges announced their winners which consisted of Broadmead
Pharmasave (First Place), the P.A.C.E. group (Second), and The
Newsgroup (Third). Last on the program a pianist/singer entertained
the group with Christmas carols followed by an ensemble piece
including more carols and some original songs performed by the
Sooke choir.
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Figure 3. The Sooke school choir performing Christmas
carols.
The Christmas trees will be displayed at The
Empress Hotel until January 3rd where the public is invited
to vote for their favorite trees with a two-dollar donation
to the Children’s Hospital. Vote for the Veins of Life
Watershed Society!!!!!! |
