“Festival of Trees winners contribute donation in their name”

By Brandie Majeau
The Festival of Trees, inaugurated in 2014, has become a vital component of Redwater’s Kris Kringle
Mingle and holiday festivities during the festive weekend. In its inaugural year, twenty-six trees were
registered for the friendly competition, a tradition that consistently draws at least twenty trees
annually. Various groups and organizations vie not only for bragging rights but also for the honor of
receiving hand-presented certificates recognizing their achievement in the Festival of Trees.

Every winning tree results in a $50 donation to the Redwater Food Bank on behalf of the winning
organization. Town of Redwater Mayor, David McRae, personally handed out certificates to
representatives of the winning organizations, expressing gratitude for their participation and
acknowledging the considerable effort involved, stating, “It is so appreciated!” McRae further expressed
pride in the collective effort of individuals rallying for a common cause, making these events immensely
successful. The true beneficiaries, he emphasized, are the children and visitors who delight in the
uniquely decorated trees, carefully studying each one and casting votes for their favorites.

Susan Krochter, chairperson of the Redwater Food Bank, graciously accepted the donation on behalf of
the food bank. She also conveyed her appreciation for the Town of Redwater team that tirelessly
promoted donations to the food bank during the holiday season. Over the two-day period encompassing
the Kris Kringle Mingle, market, and activities, a total of 950 pounds of food and $1000 in cash donations
were collected. Krochter expressed astonishment at the unprecedented generosity, noting that the food
donation shopping cart had to be emptied 10 times. She explained that typically, they empty it a couple
of times over the two-day weekend, but never ten times. With grocery prices causing strain on families,
each dollar and every donated item contributes significantly to making a positive impact.