By RHEA-FRANCES TETLEY
Staff Writer
The Crestline Chamber of Commerce held a Christmas Tree decorating contest last month. They gave out over 100 flocked four- and five-foot-tall trees to their business members and created seven categories for the trees to be judged on. Being able to choose a category in which to enter made each business better able to express their creativity.
The “Most Elegant” tree at Toni’s Kitchen.
Then the chamber offered a three-week window of opportunity for all community members to go to the various businesses and vote for their favorites. Each tree had a QR code so people could vote on the spot as they saw the trees in the numerous locations around town. These trees made the town so festive and added to the décor of the community. Voting ended at midnight on Christmas Eve and winners were announced New Year’s Eve.
In a couple categories the winning tree was decided by just a few votes. It was encouraging to see so many community members get involved. It is hoped that next year, when they hold the contest, even more community members will vote. There was even one tie for the winner. It was obvious from the voting patterns that none of the businesses stuffed the ballot box.
The category with the tie, was in the Best Business/Non-Profit Showcase category. The winners are Goodwin & Sons’ Market, with their many shopping carts on their tree, and Higher Grounds Coffee House with their variety of coffee cups. The Crestline Chamber board members decided to award the award to both for their imagination and creativity.
The Bear Claw Saloon won for the Best Execution of ‘Holidays in the Pines’ theme. The winner for the Most Traditional Tree was the Crest Forest Senior Citizens Club. The Most Elegant Tree was set up by Toni’s Kitchen.
The award for Best Use of Humor was captured by the Alpine Styles Hair Salon with their second story view of Lake Gregory. Lake Arrowhead Jiu Jitsu won for Best Use of Recycled Materials, while The Tackiest Tree aka Ugly Sweater Tree Award was won by Crestline Antiques.
Each of winners will receive a certificate and a small prize. The chamber thanks all the residents who voted for these trees, and they hope your favorite tree won.
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