The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center was filled with many unique Christmas tree designs created by area businesses, organizations and individuals as part of the Dreaming of a Green Christmas and annual lighted evening Christmas Strolls. Trees lined the garden pathways and were adorned with seasonal décor made of recycled and repurposed items to represent Shangri La's mission of environmental-consciousness.

Over 6,000 visitors participated in this year's holiday-related events at Shangri La and had an opportunity to see and vote on their favorite decorated trees.

Each year, a Christmas Tree Decorating Contest is held to choose the most outstanding decorated tree in one of seven categories. Christmas tree design winners for 2012 are as follows.

Best of Show:

Orange County Master Gardeners Business Division:

1st Place - Kroger's

2nd Place - In-Focus Camera & Gifts

3rd Place - LaQuinta, Bridge City

School Division:

1st Place - Van Buren Elementary, Groves

2nd Place - West Orange-Stark Middle School Visual Arts Department

Church Division:

1st Place - Grace Lutheran Church

Organization Division:

1st Place - Red Hot Flashers

2nd Place - Orange County Auditor's Office

3rd Place - Cub Scout Pack 311

Family Division:

1st Place - McCormack Family

2nd Place - Bill and Nancy Peveto

3rd Place - Speck Family Director's Awards, chosen by Shangri La's staff, were given to R & R Auto Supply and Horizon Dental for their commitment to meeting Shangri La's mission through their environmentally-friendly tree designs.

Located at 2111 West Park Avenue, Shangri La is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Group tours are available. For more information, call 670-9113 or visit www.shangrilagardens.org .