Rainbow Leads in "St. Paul 's Festival of Trees" Celebration

Como Park was the site of the first ever St. Paul's Festival of Trees celebration. The event built upon Minnesota 's observance of Arbor Day, with Mayor Randy Kelly on hand proclaiming April 24 as St. Paul 's official Arbor Day.

Sponsored by the City of St. Paul , the Minnesota Society of Arboriculture, and Rainbow Treecare, along with other supporting organizations, the Festival served up a variety of activities. A key organizer, St. Paul City Forester Dave Sundmark commented, "It was a wonderful day here in the park. The weather cooperated and I was glad to see so many children and parents who showed up. We're already thinking about next year."

Activities included free aerial bucket truck rides, taking participants safely up for a birds-eye view of tree canopies. Children also had an opportunity to experience first-hand the tree climbing equipment that experienced arborists use every day in caring for trees. An "Ask the Arborist" booth was available for fielding all manner of questions relating to tree, shrub, and lawn care. A highlight of the event, the ceremonial planting of the tree with Mayor Kelly, incorporated a beautiful blessing ceremony by Native Americans. Hmong students provided traditional dancing at both of the Festival stage areas. Afro-American story telling, along with visits by Smokey Bear, Woodsie Owl, and Sparkie the Fire Dog, rounded out the on-going entertainment.

Another key organizer, Lori Mordaunt of Rainbow Treecare, stated," We're so happy to have been a part of this event. People tend to think only of tree planting when they think of Arbor Day. But we are dedicated to doing more. Trees need to be cared for throughout their lives. If we take care of them, they will take care of us. Public education and raising general awareness are part of good stewardship. And that's what Rainbow is all about."

Greg Krogstad, Operations Manager for RTC, another Festival organizer, put it this way, "It was worth the work that went into this thing. Seeing those smiling kids' faces was really a boost. I look forward to the event next year. It should build and build.." Rainbow Treecare is dedicated to the enhancement and protection of the Twin Cities urban forest.

Other companies attending and supporting the event included Gerten's, Linder's, Black Bear Crossings, and other tree care companies.

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