Landscaper holds holiday event

BY ANYA TIKKA
SPARTA — Most kids like painting and many appreciate nature – and all love holiday time. Local business owner Mike Karl found a new way to bring together green ideas, creativity, kids, and also Veterans in a community celebration a few weeks before Christmas. He invited kids to come to a an event at the VFW hall Post 7248 in Sparta, where they could choose a real clay pot, decorate it on the spot, and then plant a miniature Christmas tree and decorate it with bows, ready to take home. Karl explained, “This is a way to give back to the community.”
Karl, the owner of The Cutting Edge Landscaping company walked happily among the kids and their moms (mostly moms, although some dads also came), exchanged greetings and engaging in small talk. He said notices were posted all around Sparta, and that he also sent an email to his clients, many of whom came.
Karl’s own daughter 9 year-old daughter Kaitlyn also took part, and said with a big smile, “I like trees.”
Chitra Kowalski explained, “You couldn’t ask for better landscaping. We’ve been using him for years.” She brought with her son Finn, and his friend Graham Hanston who were too busy enjoying themselves to comment.
Two sisters, Kaitlyn, 9 and Kara Kayser, 6 sat side by side, painting their clay pots, while their mom Kara enjoyed watching them have fun along with other parents and guardians.
Refreshments were also provided. All the sales of other ornaments and trees available at the event go to benefit the veterans, while the supplies and refreshments for kids came free.
Karl noted about 30 kids plus parents came to the event.
“I think it went well and am planning to have one again next year.”
He added it had been a good year for his business, and this was a way to both give back and to contribute to the community.