The 2008 Christmas Tree Forest, “They Came To Texas” will be on display at the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) November 29, 2008 through January 4, 2009. The awards ceremony and reception will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2008 at 2 p.m.

IMAS Guild President, Norma Woolsey and the Christmas Tree Forest Committee organized this annual exhibition, offering a great opportunity for talented and creative crafters to showcase their skills in a professional setting. With five age categories, over 30 organizations and school classes from all over the Rio Grande Valley have entered this year. First, second, and third place prizes are awarded for each category.

This year's Texan theme will display ornaments reflecting the folk art and culture of the many ethnic groups that have come to Texas: Mexicans, Germans, Spanish, Africans, Poles, Czechs, Scots, Irish, Welsh, English, French, Bohemians, Scandinavians, Japanese, Indians, Chinese and many more.

Pictured: They Came To Texas: A celebration of the ethnic groups who made Texas.

IMAS would like to thank the many teachers and students that participated in this year’s wonderful exhibit, as well as thank the following sponsors who helped us acquire the new and beautiful trees this year: Wells Fargo Bank, Dr. John Gerling Orthodontist, KRGV News Channel 5, Shawn Seale, and Star Properties/ GMAC Real Estate.

For your support, we are exceedingly grateful. To learn more about ways to keep IMAS growing, please contact Serena Rosenkrantz, Executive Director. Thank you and Happy Holidays!

The mission of the International Museum of Art & Science is to promote a deeper appreciation of the arts and sciences through exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs; and to expand, preserve, and display its permanent art and science collections. The museum is located at the intersection of Bicentennial Way and Nolana Avenue. Monday: closed; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. IMAS will be closed on the following days: Thanksgiving Day, Thanksgiving Day After, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, and New Years Day. General admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and $4 for children ages 4 to 12. Children under age 3 are free, and unlimited general admission is provided on a complimentary basis to IMAS Members. On Sundays, between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. IMAS offers free general admission, thanks to the generosity of Hidalgo County and the City of McAllen.