Encinitas CA— The Encinitas Historical Society (EHS) is starting its campaign to raise funds for the much-needed undergrounding of electrical lines leading to the Encinitas Heritage Tree at 406 4^th Street.
“For the past 22 years dedicated citizen Luis Ortiz had brought together volunteers to donate funds to light the magnificent 75-foot star pine tree during the holiday season,” explains Carolyn Cope, president of EHS. Jim Filanc from Southern Contracting assisted Ortiz last year as well.
The historical society has now taken over this community project and is soliciting donations through its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. “Our fundraising goal is $25,000 to pay for the meter pedestal and the underground improvements,” says Cope. Once the work is complete, the electrical usage will be a fraction of the cost from the past years, when a temporary pole had to be installed and removed yearly as well. “With a flip of the switch our beloved seasonal tree can continue to delight those along our coastline, on both land and sea,” exclaims Cope.
The historical society’s goal is to complete this project by the end of summer so everything will be ready to go for the “Lighting of the Tree” ceremony set for Friday, December 1. The Park Dale Lane Chorus will provide their special performance just prior to the ceremonial lighting of the tree as citizens enjoy free hot cider, compliments of EHS.
Please send your tax-deductible donations to Encinitas Historical Society, 390 West F Street, Encinitas, CA 92024. Mark donations for Heritage Tree Project. For more information, please call Carolyn Cope at (760) 753-4834.