Persisterhood to dedicate six trees in semi-annual Tree Dedication and Walk

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The Persisterhood of St. Joseph will take a walk to recognize the six trees donated and dedicated to St. Joseph individuals.

The walk will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, starting at the park bench just east of the sidewalk along the Northwest Parkway when walking northeast on the sidewalk after Marion Street intersects with the Parkway.

Persisterhood's "Tree Guru", Elizabeth Latosi-Sawin, who buys the trees and supervises their planting by the St. Joseph Parks and Recreation Department, will host the event.

Latosi-Sawin will lead those present on a short walk, stopping at each newly-planted tree, where donors and/or family members present will say a few words about those being honored or remembered.

Six trees were planted to recognize: the people of Minnesota for coming together to stop Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), St. Joseph's first and only female mayor, Glenda Kelly and Corinda Stallbaumer. The other three trees will honor deceased loved ones, Julia Mullican, Sandra Jacobs and Polly and Tom Tatten.

This spring's dedication raises the total number of trees planted along the Northwest Parkway to 106 since 2017.

The dedication/walk will conclude around 11 a.m. and is open to the public and friendly pets on leashes.