SANDRA M STANWAY
Brooks Bulletin
A 30-foot cylindrical Christmas Tree with a 10-foot base may adorn Veteran’s Park this holiday season thanks to the Brooks Filipino Community Association.
Members of the association addressed city council committee members last Tuesday stating they want to give back to the municipality.
“We are both celebrating Christmas,” Emelcris Aurelio, president of the Filipino Community.
“Christmas is a big event for both of us.”
The plan that is proposed is to have a ceremonial tree lighting following the Santa Claus Parade and just before the fireworks.
“It will be another event that will make our city alive,” said Emelcris.
The majority of city councillors agreed with the concept but there is some concern that a strong wind could knock the tree down and not only be damaged but other infrastructure around it.
While sand bags will be placed at the base of the tree. Guide or tension wires could also be used to keep the tree erect.
The tree has received support from the BRZ which sees it as a “potential trademark” for the city.
Power cost estimates will be determined, however, before the project gets the final OK a development permit will be applied for to ensure that all precautions are taken and that there is insurance coverage.
A similar tree was used in the square in Braga, Portugal in 2015.
