Deck the halls with a Christmas wreath

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

— When the Festival of Trees started in 2008, organizers wanted to add something indoors, Sylvia Camacho-Green of the Bella Vista Property Owners Association said. She knew Bella Vista had the perfect venue at Riordan Hall, so in 2010, the Wreath Extravaganza began.

“It gives people a chance to use their creativity and then put it on display,” Camacho-Green said.

Last year, 54 wreathes came in from groups like the local Girl Scout Daisy troop and individuals, including a woman who was in the process of moving into the area from out of state.

Many of the wreaths were built according to a theme, Camacho-Green said.

The Sophisticated Ladies dance group used handpainted ballerinas to decorate their wreath, while the Cooper Elementary School wreath featured the school mascot - Broncos.

Some unusual materials were used, including ceramic mugs, photos and natural branches.

The wreaths were hung in all the corridors of Riordan Hall, which, Camacho-Green pointed out, is one of the most visited facilities in Bella Vista. People using the hall were able to enjoy the wreaths for a month.

While on display, some wreathes were entered into a silent auction.

The creators chose whether or not to participate in the auction, and they also got to choose which nonprofit organization would benefit from the proceeds.

This year’s event is scheduled a little earlier so wreath purchasers can bring them home to enjoy throughout the season. Entries will be hung on Oct. 31 and available to go home on Dec. 3.

There is space for 58 wreaths, and it will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, Camacho-Green said. There is no entry fee; however, no materials are provided.

For more information, call Camacho-Green at 855-5019.

Area, Pages 29 on 09/28/2011