ISU alumna Lori Adams remembers the glory days of Iowa State’s annual tree illumination ceremony, a time she said has since past during the 62-year tradition of the event.

“It was one of our favorite events,” said Adams, a graduate of 1981. “The choir used to sing real Christmas carols and everyone would sing along. It was one of the best events of the year.”

Government of the Student Body President Brian Phillips, senior in political science, opened up the festivities with a welcoming message to the crowd gathered in from of Curtiss Hall.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for all of us to have a little bit of fun,” Phillips said. “It’s a wonderful event to hold before heading into Finals Week.”

As Phillips represented the students, Tahira Hira, executive assistant to the president, had a bold message that helped attendants ignore the brisk November wind.

“I know it’s cold, but it’s your warm hearts that make this event possible,” Hira said. “This is a beautiful tradition and a beautiful ceremony. Look around, this university is full of tradition.”

Ames Mayor Ann Campbell followed Hira in the line of speakers.

“As a member of the city, I am glad to be involved with this event and all of the traditional events during Winterfest,” she said.

After introductions, two special members of the crowd emerged to take the steps at Curtiss Hall. Timothy and Matthew Weber, brothers who were both born prematurely, helped start the countdown. On Jan. 26, 2008, the brothers will be involved with the philanthropic event Dance Marathon that will help raise money for the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital through Children’s Miracle Network.

While the newly lit lights of the century tree in front of Beardshear Hall shown brightly, members of a chorus group, All in Moderation, led the crowd in carols. While the tunes of “Jingle Bells” and “Frosty the Snowman” filled the ears of those in attendance, Adams said she would enjoy more of a traditional approach to what she said has become an event that doesn’t celebrate the meaning of Christmas.

“I would say, ‘Hey, lets sing Christmas carols,'” Adams said. “We can sing Christmas carols – we’re in the United States of America – we can sing Christmas carols.”

Adams was clear in comparing the memorable illumination ceremonies of yesteryear to the one that took place Wednesday evening.

“It’s like comparing steak to a peanut butter and jelly sandwich,” she said.