By ABIGAIL SNOW
Moapa Valley Progress
The Mesquite Arts Council held its 19th annual Festival of Trees in the CasaBlanca Resort Event Center last weekend. Local businesses, vendors, and constant entertainment helped contribute to a festive and successful holiday event.
“We are thrilled to be the host venue of the 19th Annual Festival of Trees,” said Mesquite Gaming Director of Entertainment Krissy Ayon. “The Mesquite Arts Council has worked very hard in organizing and putting this event together, along with all the community volunteers and groups who participate by decorating trees or providing live performances or any number of activities that take place.”
The theme this year was “Joy,” and was illuminated by beautiful decorated trees provided by organizations, businesses, and individuals for display and purchase to benefit the fundraiser.
Each tree present was decorated around a theme. Some won awards with titles ranging from “Most Beautiful” to “Most Whimsical.”
The Festival of Trees is a fundraiser for The Mesquite Arts Council. Monies raised are used to host and sponsor performances such as the Missoula Children’s Theatre, Mesquite Kids on Stage, and other events. Additionally, the council gives scholarships to local high school students each year.
“Not only is the Festival a fundraiser for the Mesquite Arts Council, which in turn supports several organizations under its wings, but also there is the the Angel Tree by the Salvation Army, a special program for our veterans, and an opportunity to donate canned goods for the local food bank,” said Ayon.
Mesquite Salvation Army Advisory Board Members, Pamela Gagnom and Charlette Alsman, were running the booth to promote their “Salvation Army Angel Tree” program. This program distributes donated gifts and clothes for needy children at Christmas. Both women commented on how they feel the people of the community are the best supporters of the Salvation Army in all of the State of Nevada. They are amazed at the generosity and care the residents in the community have for others.
Those who donated two cans of food received a discount on admission to the festival.
The food donated benefits both the Salvation Army and the Virgin Valley Food Bank.
“At our food bank we serve about 450 families per month where they can come every other week and fill up a box of food,” said Virgin Valley Food Bank Manager, Leslee Montgomery. “We are hoping to receive enough donated food to be able to supply Thanksgiving dinners to as many families as possible this year.”
Constant entertainment was provided during the festival including; singing, dancing, and musical performances from area schools to individuals.
Outstanding crafts from artists in the community were featured, vendors had homemade items for sale, and many children’s activities were held. Mrs. Santa Clause was present on Saturday to read stories to the children.
“We truly appreciate the CasaBlanca and Mesquite Gaming for their donation of the Events Tent,” said Festival Chairman Aleta Ruth. “Not just the tent itself, but the staff who are so kind and helpful. We know it costs them a huge amount to run heaters, lights and everything else involved and we so appreciate their goodness in helping us run a successful event. We have amazing people in our community.”
