Light Count = 301,000
The Colorful Procession began at 6:30 p.m. with the large Dove banner leading. The Dove candle followed which is the first light of the display. It will be also the last light on when the display closes on New Years Day Night. The Livermore High School Choir sang Christmas songs along the procession route. The Scouts carried the flags of the Nations which was very colorful. 9 large White Dove kites attached to long poles flew in the night sky down Hillcrest Ave. Beautiful Christmas glittery banners on tall poles were carried in the procession. Many people carried candles in between the banners. This was followed by St. Michael Church Altar Servers dressed in Red and White robes. This was followed by Deacon Dave and visiting Deacon Ian.
Large crowds enjoyed the Opening Ceremonies. Mayor Marshall Kamena was part of the program. Large crowds entered the gates of Deacon Dave Rezendes House of the Dove.
Deacon Dave Presents Awards at Opening Night Ceremonies: The Founders Award is presented to persons who helped Deacon Dave build Christmas Displays in the early years of the displays. Since this is the 26th Annual Display the awards were presented for service for the 3rd and 4th year of the displays. This year two people received the Founders Award: Kim Wells and Michael Graber
Kim worked on making Elf heads and other detailed effects. Michael worked on buildings, lights, painting and special effects. Deacon Dave stated that these two people helped make the early displays possible for the enjoyment of the people of Livermore. Engraved desk pen sets were presented Kim and Michael.
The Deacon presented the Gold Star Award to a current member of the 2008 Christmas Crew who demonstrates outstanding performance in helping build the Christmas Display. This person contributes time, talent, and long hours and maintains the ability to rally the crew with the Spirit of Christmas. This year the award was presented to Michelle Jess
The 2008 Dove Award is presented for the very first time this year. The Dove Award is awarded to the person who is a current member of the Christmas Crew and has demonstrated outstanding Technical, Mechanical and Carpentry Skills in building the Christmas Display. This person fosters team spirit in accomplishing the project. This year David Haigh received the award.
Christmas House of the Dove Jackets Presented: Deacon Dave presents the coveted Red House of the Dove jackets to persons on the Christmas Crew who have worked on the display at least 3 years and the number of hours are factored into the award. It is not an automatic 3 year award. The Deacon presented two Jackets at the pre opening crew meeting on Wednesday December 3 rd. to Jackie Hollister and Michael Loberg.
Visitors often see crew members wearing the bright Red Jackets on duty at the Christmas Display.
This Years Theme: North Pole Factories
North Pole Factories features a two story Garland Mill with a giant Wind Mill operating with 3 colors of lights controlled to fade one color in and another color out. The Wind Mill has three colors of lights. In the same building is North Pole Wind Power. Visitors walk under the two story building and into the front yard to the other featured buildings.
2008 Christmas Blessing
O God you are our light and salvation. You brought us out of darkness into the splendor of light. You have made us children of the light. As we stand under these blessed lights may we be guided like the Shepherds and Kings so long ago and dare to follow the light of the Christmas Star to the Prince of Peace. Heavenly Father may all who pass thru the gates of the House of the dove be enlightened with your radiant love. We ask you blessings on all people of good will. Bless each and everyone who seek you and may the Peace of your Son Jesus be with us as we enter the Holy celebration of Christmas. We ask your special blessing on the poor, the homeless and those suffering financial burdens. May this season give us hope. May God bless you
Rev. Deacon Dave Rezendes
Roman Catholic Clergyman