As a native cedar Christmas tree illuminates, dignitaries welcome the holiday season during the 46th Annual LBJ Tree Lighting, Dec. 20 at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site at Stonewall. From left are David Schafer, chief of interpretation, LBJ National Historical Park; Iris Neffendorf, park superintendent; Santa Claus; Catherine Robb, granddaughter of the Johnsons; and Jason Englert, president of the Stonewall Chamber of Commerce; Carter Smith, executive director of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. — Standard-Radio Post/Richard Zowie
By Richard Zowie —
Dignitaries and visitors gathered Sunday evening, Dec. 20 for the 46th Annual Tree Lighting at the LBJ State Park and Historic Site in Stonewall.
Remarks were made from Carter Smith, executive director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Jason Englert, president of the Stonewall Chamber of Commerce; and Catherine Robb, President Lyndon Johnson’s granddaughter.
Officials then illuminated a native cedar tree chosen as the Christmas tree.
“Lady Bird Johnson was an ardent supporter of wildflowers and plants and conservation,” Smith said. “The role she played that special places like this historic site, Enchanted Rock, Honey Creek State Natural Area or Mustang Island or
her beloved Caddo Lake near her hometown of Karnack were preserved for future generations to enjoy.”
Smith noted that President Johnson believed effective conservation begins “where the raindrops fall.”
“No matter what we do, we can’t simply create a towering redwood forest or a glimmering seashore or a wild and rushing river,” Smith said. “But we can conserve them for future generations.”
President Johnson’s granddaughter, Catherine Robb, also spoke and recalled her love for visiting the LBJ Ranch and the many Christmas tree ceremonies.
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