Foundation’s Festival Of Trees Shares Holiday Joy In Poplar

The Northeast Montana Health Services Charitable Foundation’s Festival of Trees in Poplar attracted an impressive amount of entries and much enthusiasm this year.

Brandi Wilkinson, executive director for the foundation, said there were 18 items at the event Wednesday, Dec. 17, held at Independence Bank.

“It’s a good mix of trees and wreaths,” Wilkinson said. “I think it’s the most we’ve had here. Usually, it’s about 14.”

Donating a good amount of items were Independence Bank employees as they provided creatively decorated trees both individually and as a group. Bank employees Ty Buckles and Ivy O’Connor are foundation board members.

This was the third year that the bank hosted the Poplar’s Festival of Trees. In addition, an open house featuring homemade goodies was also offered.

“It keeps getting better and better,” Wilkinson said. “It’s so beautiful in here.”

Wilkinson added that funds raised will help the foundation get a good start for next year’s health related purchases.

The next event by the foundation will be a poker run during March.

The foundation is also conducting a year-long raffle beginning in January. Monthly prizes will range in value from $150 to $1,000. There will be a grand prize involving a trip. A maximum of 100 tickets will be sold per month. Cost for a ticket is $20.