Women On Our Own celebrating the season at Winterhaven
Dee Berisha
While there was no nip in the air nor snow on the ground, the holiday excitement did not pass by the ladies of WOOO (Women On Our Own) this season. A light coat was all that was needed as the sun set on a Tucson December tradition of walking the streets of the neighborhood of Winterhaven. After a delightful meal at Med Cuisine on Prince, it was on to the main event.
Winterhaven celebrated its 75th anniversary of bringing together young and old alike to wow us with lights, color, music, laughter, and even some fake snow flurries! A few vendors were on hand to serve popcorn, hot cocoa, and coffee for strollers and even riders as they journeyed the streets of this magical place. Trolleys, party peddlers, and wagons provided opportunities to ride through the streets and displays. The ladies of WOOO were content to walk this event, which allowed us to stop to more closely examine the displays that caught our interests.
More than once we were tasked with locating a member who had curiously wandered away. Thank heaven for cell phones!
Awards had been given for displays of creativity, lighting, humor, theme, and even the best use of balls. All were in awe of the lights that weaved high through tree branches, rooftops, and palms. It is understood that TEP (Tucson Electric Power) helps to sponsor this yearly event. As this neighborhood is busily setting up their displays, TEP crews bring their cherry-pickers to lace the homes and treetops with the holiday lights. Though thousands of bulbs light the pathways through Winterhaven, it was easy for our WOOO group to lose sight of one another, as well as find the exit to our cars.
Winterhaven, which is just south of Prince Road and off Tucson Boulevard, exemplifies the harmony and peace of the holiday season that lives in us all. Over the years, they have come together as one in joy and in unity to help us all do the same!
WOOO wishes you all this peace and joy in 2025.