Community improvement group hosts Festival of Trees in AF

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Story Published: Nov 21, 2009 at 7:31 PM MDT

Story Updated: Nov 22, 2009 at 11:34 PM MDT

By Wes Horrocks

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AMERICAN FALLS - The Festival of Trees wrapped up in Saturday.

Organizers are happily surprised to see that there has been so much community for their first year.

An exact amount of money raised hasn't been determined yet, but the hope is that there will be enough money to move forward with plans for a skateboard park.

This is the first year for AF Impact to host the Festival of Trees in American Falls.

Despite the down economy they're seeing a steady flow of visitors. Marcy Chipps, AF Impact Founder said, "It's a really good cause, and it's important for the community."

In October the group withdrew a plan to build a skate park in the center of town, but they haven't given up. Lisa Leyshon, a Festival of Trees Organizer said, 'We're applying for federal grants, and a lot of them require a down payment or a match. So we're trying to raise money for that match."

In the past, the Festival of Trees has raised $50,000.

AF Impact doesn't have a specific fundraising goal-other than anything they can get. Chipps said, "I'm really happy about it."

Along with money they are also looking for possible locations around the city to build the park.

And when that's done they'll focus on building other facilities for the community to use. "There is nothing for the kids to do," said Chipps, "I just thought it's a good opportunity to do something for the whole community and the kids."

The festival features 13 trees, 14 wreaths, eight center pieces, several vendors, and lots of raffle items. Leyshon said, "It's been very successful. We've had a lot of fun, and we're really enjoying ourselves doing it."

AF Impact is looking for more volunteers to help support their ideas.

They're also planning upcoming activities in the spring.

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