Trees at the center of fundraisers

Holiday fundraisers are underway this week in several Iowa cities under the banner “Festival of Trees”. One of the largest fests is at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. Cyrene Ajluni, one of the coordinators, says the festival of more than 80 decorated trees is expected to draw 60-thousand visitors. The main benefactor of this Festival of Trees is Blank Childrens Hospital in Des Moines. The medical center has a staff of more than 60 pediatricians and specialists who focus on children.Ajluni says there is an urgent need for volunteers — she says it’s an easy way to help the community.The Des Moines Festival of Trees is underway through Sunday.