Sentimental tree to shine at Arctic League annual broadcast

ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM) — A tree was selected and transported to the Clemens Center on Thursday for the Arctic League’s upcoming annual broadcast, and its owner said it holds a lot of meaning.

The tree that was selected, amongst six other nominees, came from a residence located on Baty Street in Elmira, the Arctic League explained. On Thursday, Dec. 4, the tree was taken from the residence to the Clemens Center.

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The owner of the tree, Mary Lewis, said her late husband planted the tree in their front yard in 2008 because she had always wanted a Christmas tree outside that they could decorate for the holidays. Since Lewis is now widowed, she explained that she is no longer able to maintain or decorate the tree, so she chose to offer it to the Arctic League.

“I have always wanted a Christmas tree in my front yard, and he one day went out for my birthday and bought me a Christmas tree,” Lewis exclaimed.

The Arctic League further said on Saturday, Dec. 6, volunteers will decorate the tree. The tree will then be featured on the stage in Mandeville Hall during the broadcast on Sunday, Dec. 7.

The broadcast is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and will air on WETM-TV. Further, as part of the broadcast, Mary Lewis will be on stage to light the tree.