Dedication and commitment are characteristics of people that you cannot recognize with a simple “thank you” or “we could not have done it without you.”
When individuals dedicate, decades of their life to an organization these words do not express the true appreciation the community has for them.
The Sweet Home Community Singing Christmas Tree is a not-for-profit organization founded in our community 39 years ago. This origination received its tax-exempt status though the hard work and dedication of a small group of individuals.
The heart of the group was Sue Olson. Sue joined the Tree in 1992 and was the successor to Kathy Roll. Connie Nice and Paul Rowton founded the Tree in 1981.
Sue, with passionate dedication from her family, maintained and led the Tree for 29 years. Sue gave of herself because she loved the Tree, and the work she did to set the path forward will never be forgotten.
The Olson family will forever be a reminder to the Tree that giving of one selflessly is an example of being a good neighbor.
Along with Matthew 7:12, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than that a man should lay down his life for his friends.”
This is the image the Olson family brought to the Tree.
Another family that gave of themselves to the Tree was that of Ken and Sherry Johnston.
The Johnston’s family dedicated 34 years of service to the Tree. Ken could be described as the “backbone” of the Tree.
It is noteworthy that among all the things Ken did for the tree included storing the structure in our cargo trailer at his home and maintaining choir member and audience safety.
He did more than his fair share. Follow “The Duct Tale Trail” and you would find Ken.
Sherry could be described as our “mom.” Her heart is filled with love and passion for everyone. Her passion did not just stop at the annual performance or cast party.
Sherry founded the Annual Arts and Craft Fair and hosted for 15 years. The Tree will never forget the love the Johnston family gave to it.
The art of moulding young voices is one that many of us would struggle with.
Molly Laycock committed endless hours supporting our young singers over the many years. Her commitment to helping them come together to celebrate the season with us, is one that brings joy to all of our hearts.
From the first time you heard “All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” to the “Little Drummer Boy,” we all felt the passion that Molly resonated though her kids.
We are proud to have had the opportunity to have Molly guide our young voices over the years, and happy to know she is able to relax with her family.
Volunteerism is often thankless and goes without a lot of recognition.
We know there are individuals not listed that have given of themselves to the Tree. Your support does not go unrecognized, and we could not do what we do without the love and support of our members, and community.
The 2021 Sweet Home Community Singing Christmas Tree Board of Directors would like to express their sincere thank you and gratitude to Sue Olson, Ken & Sherry Johnston, Molly Laycock, Debbie and Cody Walvatne for dedication and years of service.
– Submitted by the 2021 SHCSCT Board of Directors
Ben Mattheisen, chair;
Colby Montigue, vice chair; Kari Bennett, treasurer;
Brenda Suing, secretary;
David Dominy, past director;
Paul Rowton, past director; John Klutz, director;
Randy Burnett,
Gina Riley,
Ralph Myers
As we look to our 2021 year, the board is evaluating the pandemic to ensure we protect our members and guests while providing our gift to the community of Sweet Home. For up-to-date information please follow our Facebook page @ (Link to FB)
Respectfully,
2021 SHCSCT Board of Directors
Ben Mattheisen, chair; Colby Montigue, vice chair; Kari Bennett, treasurer; Brenda Suing, secretary; David Dominy, past director; Pauyl Rowton, past director; John Klutz, director; Randy Burnett, Gina Riley, Ralph Myers