Detailed description
In 1987 the Mario & Alma Pastega began a free Christmas display located at the Pepsi bottling site, Alma painted many of the figures & scenes. In 2011 Mario sold the plant, despite an agreement by PepsiCo to operate the light display each year the corp. did not maintain the figures. In January of 2012, at the age of 95 Mario passed away. In early 2013 PepsiCo fenced off the light display route. The Pastega Foundation approached the Rotary Club of Greater Corvallis and asked them to partner with them to renew this community event. The foundation, The Rotary Club of Greater Corvallis & Benton County Fairgrounds joined forces. In June of 2013 Rotary coordinated the "adoption" of neglected figures to local volunteers & oversaw their. By October the refreshed & repair restoration. By 10/2013 displays were being returned and Rotary coordinated the volunteers who set up the display. On 11/28/13 the renewed display opened at it's new home, and a 33 year old community tradition continues.