No Tree for Aberdeen This Christmas

ABERDEEN, S.D. (AP) — Bah humbug. Downtown Aberdeen will not have a Christmas tree this year.

City Forester Aaron Kiesz tells the American News there isn't a suitable tree on public property, and the city doesn't have the time or manpower to go seeking a tree from private property. He says that also would create a liability issue.

Aberdeen Downtown Association spokeswoman Heidi Appl says that in the spot normally occupied by the tree, officials will decorate a sleigh or a small house with lights.