The third annual Festival of Trees of the Arc/Rowan was a terrific success. Our move to the F&M Trolley Barn truly introduced the festival to downtown Salisbury. As they passed by on Council Street, many visitors enjoyed viewing the trees at night.

Proceeds from the festival raise funds and enhance public awareness, advocacy, educational and recreational programs and direct services for persons with disabilities and their families, such as Respite Care, Summer Day Program and after-school care.

Thanks to Susan Shinn and the Post’s excellent coverage of the festival, the Salisbury/Rowan community had the opportunity to share in the process, from decorating the trees to their arrival at various holiday homes. As reported, many volunteers were needed to make the process a success. Our thanks to all who helped.

Many thanks to Keith Gapen and his committee for all their hard work to make the festival a success. Thanks, too, to Charlotte Gardner, who not only decorated a tree to raffle but also crafted baskets that were donated for a silent auction.

The Festival of Trees has become an annual event, which hopefully will begin the holiday season for the Salisbury/Rowan area for many years to come.

— Dee Elliott

Salisbury

Dee Elliott is president of the Arc/Rowan, which is a United Way agency.