Who knew the opportunity to create unique, miniature Christmas trees would be so popular with 46 area designers? Morrison Chamber of Commerce Board members hoped it would capture both the interest of holiday artists and lovers of Christmas decor. Add to the event those who wished to support the Chamber fundraiser–to purchae new street light banners–and you have a winning collaboration.
Tiny trees made their debut on Monday, November 25, 2013, in several businesses around town, and bidding began. On Saturday, December 7, the mini-artworks reappeared to share their combined beauty and whimsy, in the festive lobby of Wells Fargo Bank, 100 W. Lincolnway, Morrison, IL. Final bidding took place until 7:30 p.m., then happy winners took home their seasonal displays.
Some where purchased as gifts, and some were chosen to support an exhibitor or a cause. Some were simply compelling and had to be purchased!
Little trees lead to large amounts of shared joy. Chamber Administrator Corinne Bender noted Greg Schlafer won the bid for “An All-Star Christmas” tree, decorated with sports motifs and mustang ornaments. It was created by Farmers National Bank. He asked Bender who might enjoy having the holiday decoration, and he donated it to Morrison High School. MHS Office Manager Nadine VenHuizen stated the gift is “in the office. I think it was a very nice, generous donation. It is really cool!”
Regardless of the motivation, Morrison Chamber of Commerce recognizes all bidders, with a resulting donation of over $2000.
Bender submitted the following report.
The Morrison Chamber of Commerce would like to express their sincerest gratitude to all of the businesses, organizations, school groups, churches, and individuals that participated in the 26th Annual Morrison Christmas Walk–“A Star Spangled Christmas Celebration.” Those that attended the two-day celebration were treated to a true community event, including the lighting of the Christmas tree, live Nativity, lighted parade, Christmas Tree Walk Auction, church suppers, entertainment, refreshments, and warm hospitality.
Trees that were recognized in the Christmas Tree Walk Auction were:
- Best of Show – Vegter Steel Fabrication, Kelly Vegter decorator
- Honorable Mention – Morrison Schools Foundation, Heather Bush decorator
- Most Creative – Morrison Community Hospital – Administration Department decorators
- Traditional Christmas – Resthave Nursing & Retirement Home, Tawnya Bottoms and Marcia Blean decorators
- Highest Bid on a Tree – Fat Boy’s Bar & Grill, Heather Bramm decorator.
Auction winners are reminded to pick up their trees at the Chamber of Commerce Office, 221 W. Main Street. Proceeds benefit “Banners for Main Street.”
Winners of the Christmas Walk Parade were:
- Best Decorated Vehicle – Resthave Nursing & Retirement Home
- Best Entry by a Community Group – Kids for Christ
- Best Entry by a Business – Morrison Community Hospital
- Most Spirited Entry- Henry C. Adams Memorial Library of Prophetstown, IL
- Best Use of Theme – Morrison Elementary School.
Hugh (Whitey) and Shirley Nelson [below] were this year’s Christmas Walk Hosts. It was 50 years ago in October 2013 that Nelson’s Electric moved into their present location at 101 W. Market Street, Morrison, IL. Founded by Howard Nelson, joined by his brother Hugh, the business continues with the next generation of Nelsons, Whitey’s sons, Randy, Todd, and Dan. Whitey will be a young 80 years old next year and still shows up for work every day. Shirley Nelson, a renowned cook known for her pies and her years at the American Legion, is a Morrison native.
Riding on the Morrison Rotary float were international students participating in the Youth Exchange study-abroad program, hosted by area Rotary Clubs. Krits Jedjinda is from Thailand. He attends Morrison High School, while staying with Dr. Suellen and Tanner Girard. Morrison Rotary Club is made up of your neighbors, friends, and community leaders who come together to create positive, lasting change in our communities and around the world.
This year’s Christmas Walk would not have been possible without the assistance of these generous sponsors: Morrison Auto Supply, Inc., The Dancer’s Hut, CGH Morrison Health & Vision Center, Wells Fargo Bank, Community State Bank, THE National Bank, Farmers National Bank, Sterling Federal Bank, Whiteside News-Sentinel/Shawver Press, The Prairie Advocate, Ashford University, and Dunlap Lodge #321.
Special thanks to the City of Morrison Public Works Department, Maurits & Jost Insurance Agency, Morrison Police Department, Nelson’s Electric, Rick’s Auto Body, Brethren in Christ Church, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Santa’s elves, the parade judges and line-up volunteers, parade announcer Brian Zschiesche, Mayor Everett Pannier, Eric Phend, Sharon Habben, and Christmas Walk Committee members Nance Anderson, Jean Eggemeyer, Diane Garcia, Jan Roggy, Heather Toppert, and Stephanie Vavra.