Friday, December 22, 2006
Trees please many voters
The decorated trees of Fashion for Evergreens will remain on display until New Year's Day.
Frosty the Snowman is not just made of snow but a 10-foot artificial tree.
Or at least that's what stands in the lobby of the Hotel Roanoke.
More than 7,500 people have voted since Thanksgiving in the hotel's annual Fashion for Evergreens competition to name the best decorated tree.
The competition started six years ago as a way of showcasing local talent, said Michael Daniels, floral designer for the hotel. Daniels said the competition started with just six trees and grew to more than 24. Competitors decorate the trees, which are then displayed in the hotel.
"We have a waiting list for people who want to participate in this competition," Daniels said. "We only choose the cream of the crop."
This year "Frosty the Snowman" created by the arts and crafts store Michael's won the people's choice for best tree, and a tree created by Woodhaven Nursing Home in Montvale won best of show.
Kelly Dooley, who has been participating in the contest since its inception, said the competition has become a tradition among the employees of her floral company.
"Everyone looks forward to it, and the employees have fun doing it," Dooley said. "This is a big drawing card in Roanoke. People who visit the Dickens [of a Christmas celebration] downtown can just come over here to see the trees."
The trees will be displayed until New Year's Day.
Daniels said the competition has expanded to the Inn at Virginia Tech, where more than 1,000 people voted.
Jessie Derey participated in the Blacksburg competition by making a tree covered with more than 90 Christmas balls made by smocking.
"Smocking is a lost art," Derey said. "But I will pass the ones I made down to my grandchildren."
Daniels said he will continue the tradition because of its impact on the community.
"This is one of the best traditions in Roanoke."
