When I was a young girl growing up in the country outside Lampasas, our annual ritual was for my whole family to head to the pasture for The Perfect Christmas Tree. We would search until we found just the right one, Daddy would cut it, and we’d bring it home for decorating.

Vision Lampasas!’s contest for The Perfect Tree is designed to evoke those sentimental feelings in our community. We are hoping for a very large, very beautiful cedar tree that will complement our very large, very beautiful courthouse. Our judges will come and inspect all entries to pick a winner. We will cut the tree and bring it to the square, with the cooperation of the property owner. The person who donates the winning tree will be acknowledged by a sign on the courthouse lawn and will ride in the lighted parade on Friday, Dec. 4.

To possibly answer any questions:

1. We are hoping for a cedar tree; most landowners want to clear cedars, so it won’t be a loss, but we do plan to have it mulched so it is recycled.

2. Cedars are a symbol of our area, and we feel it is fitting to use one as our Christmas tree.

3. We can’t use a tree with a ball and plant it on the courthouse lawn, according to the requirements of the Texas Historical Commission.

4. Deadline for entries is Friday. You can enter by calling me at 525-5200 or e-mailing us at visionlampasas@gmail.com.

5. We will be decorating the tree and the square on Saturday, Nov. 28 at 9 a.m. We need lots of help, so please come and be a part of Hometown Holidays.

We are making every effort, partnering with Courtyard Square Association, Keystone Square Museum and Lampasas County Historical Commission to provide a terrific event in Hometown Holidays. This will be three days of fun, celebration and history on Dec. 4-6. We have planned something for everyone. This is for our whole area, and I believe it will be something we can all enjoy and be proud of.

Please find The Perfect Tree, come and participate in as many activities as you can, invite your friends and family, and be a part of the passion and dedication that is moving our community forward.
Maryann Severn
Board president, Vision Lampasas!