Last night, onlookers and television news cameras witnessed the lighting of a community tree donated by the Allentown Association to the Olmsted Parks Conservancy and the citizens of Buffalo.
Located at Soldiers Circle, the majestic 20,Aeo balsam fir was not only a gift to the community, but also a kick-off to mark the beginning of Olmsted Parks Conservancy’s ReLeaf effort. As we all know, October’s storm had a devastating effect on the park system’s trees. The ReLeaf campaign is designed to raise funds toward purchasing new trees and caring for the existing ones.
Conservancy CEO Jonathan Holified said, ,AeuThis tree symbolizes the tens of thousands of beautiful trees that have graced our great city. It is a memorial to the thousands of trees that were lost or suffered severe damage from the October 2006 surprise storm.,Aeu
Currently the tree’s lights are being powered by a generator. Various agencies are working together to restore power to the Circle as soon as possible. Hopefully efforts will lead to the tree remaining lit throughout the holiday season.
The tree will stand in Soldiers Circle until the New Year when it will be planted in one of Olmsted’s many parks.
If you are interested in making a donation to the ReLeaf effort, please log on to www.buffaloolmstedparks.org.