As an unabashed Arizona flag-waiver, I have been challenged by the ways of the Forest Service in their mint-frappe trucks and military structure.  I have learned how to cope with governmental procedures and the wisdom of people who are charged with the protection of our magnificent forests.  I have ruined more suits than I care to admit by piercing everything I own with a lapel pin that promotes our efforts.

As the only woman and small business owner on the steering committee of this project, I am most definitely an oddity.  I am more often than not the center of good natured jibes and blank stares when I make comments.  My big hair and “flatlander” thinking has garnered me more than my share of wide-eyed looks from White Mountain residents where this giant Christmas tree was born.  These wonderful Arizonans probably think that the desert heat has boiled my brains.  But, I don’t care.

I am proud of my work on this event and even mystified by the things we have achieved even during a time of tremendous economic duress.   Needless to say, raising funds and support for a Christmas tree is a bit tough next to the staggering demands for social services.  I am the first to admit that the Capitol Christmas Tree 2009 is a luxury that our state is embarking upon.  At the same time, I see this as an investment in our history, ability to unify a diverse state and promote our region at the same time.  As this historic tour progresses, I am humbled by the thousands of Arizona citizens who seem to share this same sentiment.