Paul Fuchcar, executive director of the Council for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services, announces what might be the tallest Christmas Tree in Chattanooga. It is on the Northshore a block from Publix.
The Star topping the lighted tree is 155 feet from the ground. Although the project wasn’t able to be ready for the community’s annual Boat Parade and Grand Illumination, it is shining brightly now and will continue through the holidays.
Mr. Fuchcar said, “One of CADAS’ goals is to bring community awareness that substance abuse is a treatable disease. CADAS hopes the tree will represent to the community the recovery it has helped bring to so many people over the past 50 years.”
According to John Haustein, owner of We Hang Christmas Lights.com who managed the project, a 100’ foot radio tower on a new Cadas building seemed the perfect infrastructure to create a Christmas addition that can be seen from almost anywhere in the downtown area.
Mr. Haustein said, “When I looked at the tower I thought ‘Wouldn’t this be a great way to help the staff, clients and community - celebrate the holidays!’”
Mr. Haustein also owns Top Glass of Chattanooga, and has contracted with CADAS for several years in different capacities.
CADAS officials hope the Christmas tree will honor those who are working to reduce stigma, celebrate those living in successful recovery, and bring hope to those struggling with substance use disorder that they, too, can find fulfilling, productive lives without the use of alcohol and drugs.