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Save the Ski Tree

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Where did this tree come from?
 
Last year, Tyler Burns and John Nelson wanted to do something for Ellicottville. Hoping to do a better Christmas tree, the idea of the ski tree came about. They were on the path to build the Ellicottville Ski Tree. Hundreds of people and ski shops from the area contributed skis, time and money to help the tree come together. As word grew and they collected more skis, they set out on a mission to make the world’s tallest ski tree.
 
Maple Grove Enterprises fabricated the Tree and the topper, while The Tee Bar quickly stepped up to the plate and donated money. The creators spent countless hours collecting, de-binding and assembling skis. Apex Construction donated an 8-man crew and equipment for two days putting up the tree.
 
Quickly, the Ski Tree gained national attention on major news networks as the tallest ski tree in the world. The tree has brought thousands of visitors to the town. Any day, one can see visitors and locals taking their photo in front of the tree.  It’s truly a spotlight of the town.
 
Thousands of comments were received supporting the tree, but Mary Jo Stark’s stands out: “These belonged to our deceased son, please make sure they make the tree. Not Sure why we saved them. I guess for something special and this is wonderful.” Those skis serve as an anchor on the tree.
 
The Issue
 
After the Tree’s success, John reached out to the Village to come up with a long-term plan for the tree. He spoke to board members multiple times asking for a plan where to put the tree permanently because moving the tree multiple times is costly.
 
Despite widespread support and popularity, and his initial support of keeping the tree up year-round, the Mayor, stated that the people of the village want the tree down. Last week, the board unilaterally without notice to the creators voted that the tree must come down by August 31st. Regretfully, no one notified the creators until someone happened to mention the article regarding the resolution.
 
The creators want the tree to stay in Ellicottville and live on. People donated many of the skis in remembrance of loved ones. Those skis are part of the town, they are part of an art piece, they are part of something special.
 
A New Home
 
A number of places were approached for alternate locations in the village. Ideally, it will remain downtown. The current location is a village park and could be used, but at this point, an alternate location seems best.  Any alternate site will require site-prep and a long-term plan for maintenance and repair
 
The Dollars
 
The ski tree was an expensive endeavor. Regular maintenance of the tree is critical.
The organizers received approximately $2500 in donations not including time contributions and rented construction equipment. Total expenses to date are close to $10,000.  It must be preserved to remain such an important part of the town.
 
Approximately, 100 skis are prepped and ready to be added. 5 new collars need to be crafted to add the skis to tree.  
 
The tree requires a boom lift and a large crew to disassemble. It was designed to be taken apart, but constant up and down will take a toll on the tree. Funds are needed to move the tree.
 
Apex will construct a concrete platform and sidewalk around the tree with Ski and/or snowboard benches for tree viewing.
 
Permanent up lights will be added to eliminate the need for stringing lights.
 
Conclusion
 
Be a part of something truly unique that will last for generations. Any financial support will go directly towards funding the tree. Thanks for your support.

Additional information  required by GoFundme

Who you are and where you’re from

John and Sam Nelson, Ellicottville, NY

Your relationship or contact to the parties you're raising funds for

Organizer of Ski Tree Funds for the preservation of Tree

How the funds will be spent (be specific as possible)

See above, permanent platform, moving of tree, upkeep of tree for 5-10 years, the lighting of tree

Your withdrawal plan to get the funds from the campaign to the ultimate beneficiary/ies

Place the funds in a trust account and disperse to contractors for upkeep, moving and permanent installment.
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Donations 

  • ERA Real Estate
    • $50 (Offline)
    • 7 yrs
  • Christmas in July!
    • $6,955 (Offline)
    • 7 yrs
  • Anonymous
    • $5,000 (Offline)
    • 7 yrs
  • Dan Dominick
    • $30 (Offline)
    • 7 yrs
  • Barb Nuchereno
    • $100 (Offline)
    • 7 yrs
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Organizer

John Nelson
Organizer
Ellicottville, NY

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