25th Annual Hospice of San Joaquin "Tree of Lights" Ceremony


                      Hospice of San Joaquin Tree of Lights 2013 - 25 Years at Delta College

(Stockton)
The Hospice of San Joaquin and Delta College illuminated the holiday sky at the 25th Annual Hospice of San Joaquin "Tree of Lights" Ceremony, Nov. 26, 6 p.m. at Delta’s main Pacific Avenue entrance. As is traditional, a local hospice services family fliped the giant PG&E switch, coloring the tree with 1600 multicolored lights. This year, the family of Ramon "Ray" Vigil had the honor.

A seasonal Stockton favorite, this popular and festive ceremony rings in a dazzling opening to the holiday season. It's always a magnificent sight as one of Delta’s huge Pacific Avenue evergreens blooms to colorful life. The college likes to boast: “We believe Delta has the best holiday tree in Stockton!”

A dedicated crew of volunteers from PG&E decorates the tree each year. PG&E switched to "energy efficient" LED lights several years ago. The team coordinates 2-3 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 25 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.”

Rasmussen and his crew received special recognition at this summer's Hospice of San Joaquin dinner. Delta College also received an award as host of Stockton's "Tree of Lights" for 25 years. Stephen Guasco, CEO of Hospice of San Joaquin said, "The Board and staff are deeply grateful for the long and loyal support of San Joaquin Delta College, which reflects its leadership in the community."

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. These families emphasize the Hospice of San Joaquin’s commitment to help those in need who 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...

For more information and to donate a light, call the Hospice of San Joaquin: (209) 957-3888, or visit Hospice of San Joaquin online at: www.hospicesj.org.

 
                       The Delta Singers at the 2013 Hospice Tree of Lights Ceremony

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

            The family of Ramon "Ray" Vigil lit this year's Hospice of San Joaquin Tree of Lights.

               This is Delta College's 25th year as host of Stockton's Hospice Tree of Lights!

                       Delta College Choral Director, German Aguilar, directs the Delta Singers.

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

                                                                     ###