AMVETS post celebrates 25 years selling Christmas trees
|
|
| Woodstock AMVETS Post 269 sells Christmas trees of all sizes, including this 14-foot giant held by Post Members Ted Andersen (left) and Ken Thomas. (Photo provided) |
| Buy Northwest Herald Photos » |
WOODSTOCK – This yaer marks the 25th year that Woodstock AMVETS Post 269, is selling live trees to area residents who most appreciate a traditional celebration of the season.
Originally, the tree-sale operation, at 12320 Davis Road, Woodstock, was conducted from the back of a couple trailers. However, about 20 years ago, the AMVEST post built a white-red-trimmed shanty where workers enjoy some coffee or hot chocolate while chatting as they wait for the next customer. The discussion often develops into a friendly level of razing as they raise funds to help out in the community.
“ We use a portion of the money raised from the sale of the trees for veteran-related issues,” finance officer with MACV Post 269 and the state commander of AMVETSRaleigh Showens said in a news release.
Ted Andersen, another member of Post 269, said some of the money is used for a scholarship to send an area student to McHenry County College.
“ We also contribute 40 to 60 food baskets to needy families and $500 to $600 to Christmas Clearinghouse,” Andersen said in the release. “And, for anyone who brings in four non-perishable food items, we give them a discount on their tree.”
The AMVETS Post also has a drop box for the U.S. Marines’ Toys For Tots.
Along with a dedicated crew of AMVETS members, operation of the tree sales is also handled by members of Boy Scout Troop 329. Based on the hours worked, the AMVETS Post contributes funds to the Boy Scouts to use on camping trips and other events.
Still, the purpose of the event never strays far from the idea of providing the best quality live trees to holiday revelers.
“ We give full service,” another post member Ken Thomas said in the release. “We hold the trees up so people can compare them. We wrap the trees and tie them down on the tops of cars – no negotiating required.”
Andersen said they sell five types of trees: Balsam, Concolor Fir, Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir and Scotch Pine. The Balsams are from Nova Scotia. The others are from upper Michigan. Prices start at $30.
It is important to cut an inch off the bottom of the tree when the tree-buyer is ready to put the tree up. After applying a fresh cut, the tree needs to go into water as soon as possible. If the water level falls below the bottom of the tree, the cut will seal and the tree will require a fresh cut. Andersen said it’s also important to keep the tree away from direct heat.
“ Fraser Firs hold their needles the best,” Andersen said. “You can put them up now and take them down in mid January.”
Thomas said many people think they’ll go for a really fresh tree by cutting their own. But, he said freshness doesn’t quite work out that way.
“ Our trees are cut in early November before the sap seeps into the root system,” Thomas said. “Trees cut now, such as cut-your-own, the sap has already drained into the roots to feed the tree through the winter.”
AMVETS is open selling trees from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
“ We’ll be here until all the trees are gone,” Andersen said.
