>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

One of my favorite holiday traditions is happening right around the corner. This holiday tradition would of course be taking my family to look at the beautifully decorated trees that are displayed at the Armory during the Festival of Trees.

By taking the time to view these amazing trees with my family, I not only get the opportunity to spend time with my loved ones; I am also helping to raise money for numerous programs here in my community.

The proceeds that are gained during the Festival of Trees help fund programs like Kids Club, a before- and after-school program for children. With support from the Festival of Trees, Kids Club is able to offer parents safe and affordable care for their children.

Visiting the Festival of Trees is a great way to start your holiday season, not only for its stunning trees, but because it supports a wonderful cause.

See you there!

Erin Barrett

Cove

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I have been a library patron for many years. I loved the old library for its quaintness and ambiance so was not too sure we needed a new one. Boy, was I wrong!

The new library is so wonderful. It is beautiful and light and airy and big. Anyone who hasn't been to see it should make a point to do so.

However, no library, no matter how beautiful, can function without a capable staff, and we are lucky to have a library staff as great as our new library's. The library staff have always been pleasant, professional and capable. They select books, tapes, CDs and periodicals the people in our community want and need. I was surprised when I was in Eugene to find that the La Grande Library has a better and wider selection of books and CDs on tape than the Eugene Public Library.

The library staff also offers computer training and special classes free to the public. They keep the library open long hours, and although they are few in number, the staff are always ready and willing to assist even the youngest patron to find the materials he or she needs. A visit to the library is invariably a pleasant experience.

Everyone should venture into the new library and meet its staff. We are blessed to have an outstanding library staffed by caring and thoughtful people who are equal to the expectations of our new, beautiful library.

Sandra B. Young

La Grande

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In the Veterans Day parade I saw a veteran carrying a sign that read "CBI" and in smaller letters "China, Burma, India, the forgotten theater." Right on. I fought in India and Burma, and we guarded airfields in China to the end of the war.

Thanks to all you buddies who served, wherever you served. You lady vets, too.

God bless you one and all.

Roy Hills

Island City

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My granddaughter Ashley is a student at Island City Elementary School, and I attended the Veterans Day tribute the entire school put on to honor veterans. The program was exceptional. There were many tears in the eyes.

With my father a World War II veteran, my husband a veteran of the Vietnam War, my son in Desert Storm and a nephew in Iraq, I was deeply moved.

I am grateful that the Island City school took the time and effort to put on such a wonderful program.

Jeanne Schumacher

Baker City