Press Release

Media Advisory For More Information Contact: Delta College Public Information Office (209) 954-5131, or (209) 954-5051 jvergara@deltacollege.edu

                              23rd Annual Hospice of San Joaquin "Tree of Lights"
                                                   Illuminates the Holiday Sky!

The Hospice of San Joaquin and Delta College illuminated the holiday sky at the 23nd Annual “Hospice Tree of Lights” ceremony, on Tue., Nov. 22, 6 p.m., at Delta’s Pacific Ave. entrance.
With one of the largest turnouts in memory, the family of Connie Giannini, a local hospice services recipient, flipped the giant PG&E switch, coloring the tree with almost 1600 multicolored lights.

Delta College likes to boasts: “The best holiday tree in Stockton!”

A seasonal favorite, this popular and festive ceremony rings in the season as attendees witness Delta’s magnificent 80-ft. evergreen bloom to life. The “Tree of Lights” ceremony always signals a dazzling opening to the holidays, with music, cookies and hot cider for all.

A dedicated crew of volunteers from PG&E decorates the tree each year. PG&E recently switched to "energy efficient" LED lights. The team coordinates four aerial lifts, which allows the crew to wrap over 3,000 ft. of light cable around Delta's huge fir tree. In addition, about 3,000 ft. of garland trims the tree…over one mile of decorations! No easy task.

For 23 years, PG&E Supervisor, Mark Rasmussen, has directed his crew of devoted volunteers. Normally, about 10 volunteers are needed. “We usually have the same group of PG&E volunteers each year," says Rasmussen. "I wouldn’t say we have it down to a science, but we’re getting better every year." As with any big job, there's no substitute for experience. "It used to take us two days," adds Rasmussen, "now we can get the job done in one! Most important, it’s for a great cause.”

The Hospice Tree of Lights ceremony has another important purpose: To remember and honor loved ones by dedicating a light on the “Tree of Lights.”  Names of honorees and donors are placed on a marquee at the base of the tree through Dec. 31.  Proceeds from the “Tree of Lights” help the Hospice of San Joaquin provide the highest level of care for terminally ill patients, their families and the bereaved of our community.

Carolyn Gomes, of Hospice of San Joaquin, says, “We always invite a hospice family that has young children to light the tree; this year, the Connie Giannini family. These families emphasize the Hospice of San Joaquin’s commitment to helping those in need face terminal illness.”

Family and friends are invited to remember and honor loved ones by dedicating a light on San Joaquin Delta College’s Tree of Lights. Light up a light…light up a life...

To donate a light, call the Hospice of San Joaquin at, (209) 922-0242, or, visit Hospice of San Joaquin online at: www.hospicesj.org/news_events/hospicesj_events/tree_of_lights.html.

                      Delta College's 2011 "Hospice of San Joaquin Tree of Lights"

                
         The family of Connie Giannini had the honor of lighting Delta's 2011 Hospice Tree of Lights.

                          German Aguilar directs the "Delta Singers" at this year's ceremony.

                                                           Another big turnout!

        Hospice donors find a loved one's name on the marquee under the Hospice Tree of Lights.

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