Oak Park Newspaper

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The day had a lot of rain and potential bad weather for the events, but that all changed at Wrigley Field, where the skies cleared, the winds calmed, and the fans were pleased. It looked like a fine night and it was......

A choir from Ravinia, representing the Lawndale Music Conservatory sings Holiday Carols before the start of festivities.
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A beautiful sounding choir, even with car noises and horns in the background. The range of sounds from the youngest singers to the adults was a great contrast and range. They were applauded many times during the evening.

Executive Director of the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce Maureen Martino
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Maureen Martino address those gathered and thanks the Chicago Cubs for their positive impact into the region. It was noted how all of the local businesses around the park gain profits with each new event at Wrigley. When Paul McCartney came last year everyone benefited. The Rickett family is a good neighbor to the town and great friend to the city.

Chicago Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts
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The Ricketts family has had a strong impact on the area and the State and next year we're looking forward to some great things, and some great games,
noted many in the crowd. We were impressed with Tom Ricketts' handshake and personable attitude, reminds me of my many trips through Nebraska and the fine folks out west.

Chicago Cubs Tree Lighting with Tom Ricketts and Gov. Quinn.

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Illinois Senate President John Cullerton and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn.
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It was brought up on the podium that this large evergreen has its rootball attached and that will allow it to be planted at the end of the season instead of being thrown away. Wrigley field will be happy and perhaps it could be
returned to the forest it came from or at least used in landscaping.

Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie Banks.
"It's a beautiful day for a ballgame... Let's play two!"
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Cubs Hall of Famer Ernie Banks, known for his desire to play two games on a nice day, waves to his fans and looks forward to the thrill of next year.

The tree was lit by Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer (Mr. Baseball) Ernie Banks, along with our new pitcher Matt Garza, and Tom and Laura Ricketts. The audience was offered free hot chocolate and large cookies, by the Cubs food partner Levy. The chocolate was excellent and cookies were big enough for a full desert ranking...

The tree was lit, the crowds dispersed and the skating rink was open for free skating. It was a wonderful night and holiday wishes to one and all..

Dignitaries in attendance.

Cubs President of Business Operations Crane Kenney
Executive Director of the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce
Maureen Martino
Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn
Illinois Congressman Mike Quigley
Illinois Senate President John Cullerton
12th District State Representative Sara Feigenholtz
44th Ward Alderman Tom Tunney
10th District Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer
CEO of the Chicago Park District Mike Kelly