American Legion Post 521 in Shadyside, Ohio received a holiday gift this year as a result of Oglebay Institute’s annual Festival of Trees.
The annual fundraiser, held Nov. 10-17 at Oglebay’s Pine Room, brought crowds of people looking to get into the holiday spirit while supporting arts and cultural programs.
Festivalgoers enjoyed browsing a Christmas wonderland of fully decorated trees, wreaths, centerpieces and swags created by area designers. Special events took place throughout the week.
Proceeds from event admissions, sales and special events benefited Oglebay Institute’s nonprofit arts, cultural, and nature programs. Programs take place year-round and engage thousands of Ohio Valley residents of all ages.
American Legion Post 521 was also a benefactor of Oglebay Institute’s 2017 Festival of Trees, through what festival organizers call “the double giving impact.”
Patrons at the Festival of Trees wine tasting donated money to have a military-themed holiday display gifted to Post 521, which is now on display in the Post lobby for the holidays.
Decorated by Festival of Trees volunteers Christine Sacco and Ceil Dumas, the display includes a patriotic tree, military uniforms and memorabilia from all branches of the armed services and a “Fallen Comrade Table” in memory of fallen, missing and imprisoned military service members.
About Oglebay Institute
Offering public programs, classes and camps, special events and school programs for all ages in art, dance, theater, environmental education and history, Oglebay Institute is the oldest arts council in the nation, incorporated June 24, 1930.
Oglebay Institute operates six facilities in the Wheeling area: the Schrader Environmental Education Center in Oglebay Park; the Mansion and Glass Museums, also in Oglebay; the Stifel Fine Arts Center and School of Dance, 1330 National Road; and Towngate Theatre and Cinema, located at 2118 Market Street as well as the Terra Alta Mountain Camp in Preston County, West Virginia.
Photo Caption
Pictured, left to right, are: Post 521 trustees Willie Merryman and Jick Weatherson, Oglebay Institute director of administrator services and Festival of Trees organizer Connie Moore, display decorator Christine Sacco and Lynnette Sickles, Oglebay Institute executive assistant and Festival of Trees organizer.