Can you see the Star from the Forrest? Fun Group strikes again
The Dalles, Ore., Oct. 27, 2024 — A bit of choreography played out in west The Dalles as the elite 8, a highly skilled section of the Fun Group, used a series of levered poles to lower the Chinook Star to replace LED lights on the 40-foot symbol of holiday joy.
The fragility and heaviness of the star require that the team work carefully together to both lower and raise it during the process.
“Beautiful weather, great crew, mission accomplished,” Fun Group Member Jim Wilcox commented.
Fun Group Leader Kurt Conger organized the work party as they prepare for the lighting stars throughout The Dalles the day after Thanksgiving.
The stars are lit nightly through New Year’s Day.
“Excellent teamwork today. Hoping for 7 more years at least,” he said, noting the led lights out last the incandescent bulbs and take far less power.
STAR GOSSIP
A new star, called Vista Star, is being planned. It would be constructed up on the hill by the reservoir above the Adventist Health Hospital in The Dalles. A representative of the City and I took a drive to the reservoir, and this is a great location. This would be a 40 ft. star that would connect to an outlet at the reservoir. I am working with the City and NWCPUD to develop a plan. More to come, Conger said.
Cooper the news dog found this recent work near the sight of the new star above Adventist Health Hospital. It looks like conduit, and that could be electrifying…
Read the seminal story of the Star and the Fun Group here.
Those wanting to donate to maintaining and birthing new Stars can send checks to the Fun Group at 673 Brentwood Drive, East, The Dalles, OR 97058.
Looking out over The Dalles from the Chinook Star.
Even when it seems darkest, if you look real hard there is a star in your midst to guide you.
