BETTENDORF, Iowa — The 32-foot Gilda's Club Blessing Tree will light up for the 25th year in downtown Bettendorf from Dec. 5 to Jan. 1.
The tree has a new location this year at Be the Light Park, found on State St. between 10th St. and 12th St. It will be decorated with bows, ornaments and lights honoring loved ones.
You can sponsor a light, bow or ornament in memory of, in gratitude of, or in celebration of a special person in your life. While Gilda's Club QC provides support to those impacted by cancer, the entire community is invited to honor and remember a special person for any reason.
All of the proceeds from The Blessing Tree will go toward the no-cost programs Gilda's Club runs for community members impacted by cancer.
To contribute to The Blessing Tree or to purchase an ornament, light or bow, you can click on this link here or call 563-326-7504. Sponsorships and donations will be accepted through January 3.
The tree lighting will be celebrated Dec. 5 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. with hot chocolate, cookies and carols. Members of Gilda's Club will read out the names of loved ones honored with decorations at 6:15 p.m., then illuminate the tree at 6:30. The 32-foot-tall tree will be visible from both sides of the river.
After more than 20 years of being displayed on River Drive in Davenport, The Blessing Tree has been moved to its new, permanent home at Be the Light Park.
"Be the Light Park is a place dedicated to remembering and honoring the lives of Dale Owen and Paul Lensmeyer. Both were taken from us entirely too soon," said Angela Owen, Dals Owen's widow in a press release. "Having the Blessing Tree shining brightly at the Be the Light Park really touches my heart because Dale would want to share his place of remembrance with others."
With the 2020 closure of Gilda's Club's iconic clubhouse on River Drive, it was time to find a new home for the tree, said Gilda's Club QC Executive Director Joy Bush.
"Finding its home at the Be the Light Park just seemed so fitting, knowing what it symbolizes and the impact that Paul and Dale both had on our community, we feel like it is where it is meant to be," Bush said in a press release. "We are honored to continue this 25 year tradition, one that we hope will withstand another 25+ years of bringing light, joy and hope to our community."