Thursday, August 18, 2011

The Search is On for Detroit's Christmas Tree

The Detroit 300 Conservancy is launching a statewide search for the star of the Detroit Tree Lighting Ceremony at Campus Martius Park (800 Woodward Ave. in downtown Detroit). They are looking for a 50-60 foot tall spruce tree, beautifully proportioned and Michigan grown. The winning nomination will crown Campus Martius Park November through early January, welcoming Santa Claus at the America’s Thanksgiving Parade, plus tens of thousands of park-goers and passersby throughout the holiday season.

The winning tree will be placed in Detroit’s award-winning and internationally-acclaimed Campus Martius Park, at the majestic Woodward Fountain and adjacent to the popular Ice Rink. Continuing what The Detroit Free Press has called a “Great New Detroit Family Tradition,” the tree will be lit in a spectacular ceremony on November 18. The family or individual that donates the tree will receive VIP-guest treatment, including a complimentary stay at the Westin Book Cadillac, and public recognition during the Tree Lighting ceremony.

The Conservancy will only accept entries that meet the following specifications:

  • The tree must be a Norway Spruce and stand between 50-60 feet tall, with a 25-30 foot base measured branch to branch;
  • The tree should be well branched and symmetrical, and easily accessible from the road with no interference from overhead utility lines; and
  • The tree must be a donation and available at no cost.

This year marks the eighth year that the Conservancy has partnered with the City of Detroit, DTE Energy and other downtown Detroit companies to bring a Christmas tree and related festivities to Campus Martius Park. The deadline to enter a tree for consideration is Sept. 19. Those wishing to enter a tree for consideration should include their name, telephone number and a photograph of the tree with information about its size and location to DetroitTreeLighting@detroit300.org or by mail to:

Detroit Tree Lighting
Detroit 300 Conservancy
1 Campus Martius, 3 W
Detroit, Michigan 48226

Tuesday, August 09, 2011

Clean Up on Westwood

The Westwood Street Block Club will have a clean up this coming Saturday, August 27. Everyone who is willing to help is asked to meet at the vacant lot that's about halfway between W. Warren Ave. and Sawyer Street at 10 a.m. (Google Maps says that its approximate address is 7540 Westwood, but that could be off.)

I have to be at work in Ypsilanti at 11 a.m. this Saturday. Otherwise, I'd join them.

Regardless, I hope lots of other people turn out for this.