In 1954, the Golden Optimist Club began a new fund-raiser. They set up a Christmas tree lot on the empty property at the northeast corner of 13th and Washington. The Optimists are a service club with a special focus on service to young people in the community.
The trees were freshly cut and affordably priced, and the sale was a great success. They did it again the following year and the year after that, and the year after that. Through most of that time, the local Boy Scout troop supported the effort. They helped unload the trees, set them up for sale, and loaded trees on customers' cars.
The sale is now in its 71st year. This year, the Boy Scouts are running it all on their own. The trees are still fresh and affordable. If you plan to buy a real tree this year, follow the long-standing Golden tradition: head to the US Bank parking lot at 19th and Jackson (map) and support Golden Boy Scouts, Troop 329.
