Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center was filled with many unique Christmas tree designs created by area businesses, organizations and individuals as part of the Dreaming of a Green Christmas and annual lighted evening Christmas Strolls. Trees lined the garden pathways and were adorned with seasonal décor made of recycled and repurposed items to represent Shangri La’s mission of environmental-consciousness. Over 6,000 visitors participated in this year’s holiday-related events at Shangri La and had an opportunity to see and vote on their favorite decorated trees. Each year, a Christmas Tree Decorating Contest is held to choose the most outstanding decorated tree in one of seven categories. Christmas tree design winners for 2012 are as follows. Director’s Awards, chosen by Shangri La’s staff, were given to R & R Auto Supply and Horizon Dental for their commitment to meeting Shangri La’s mission through their environmentally-friendly tree designs. Located at 2111 West Park Avenue in Orange, Texas, Shangri La is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Group tours are available. For more information, call 409.670.9113 or visit www.shangrilagardens.org .
Best of Show:
Orange County Master Gardeners
(Thanks to Sheri Bethard, Sandra Hoke, Joyce Kennedy, Sharon Odegar & Wanda Woods for their ideas, craftsmanship and decorating the tree.)
Business Division: 1st Place – Kroger’s 2nd Place – Infocus Camera & Gifts 3rd Place – LaQuinta, Bridge City |
School Division: 1st Place-Van Buren Elem.Groves 2nd Place – West Orange-Stark Middle School Visual Arts Department |
Organization Division: 1st Place – Red Hot Flashers 2nd Place – OC Auditor’s Office 3rd Place – Cub Scout Pack 311 |
Family Division: 1st Place – McCormack Family 2nd Place – Bill and Nancy Peveto 3rd Place – Speck Family |
Church Division: 1st Place – Grace Lutheran Church |