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Hospice of Stanly announces the winners of the People’s Choice awards at the annual holiday fundraiser Festival of Trees.

At the event, more than 50 fully decorated Christmas trees are sponsored by individuals or businesses. Visitors can vote on their favorite tree.

The winners for favorite trees are:

• First place – Candy Tree sponsored by the Medical Pharmacy of Albemarle;

• Second place – Doggie Tree sponsored by Lindsey and Austin Burleson;

• Third place – Elf Tree sponsored by the Albemarle Hearing Center.

The festival has been a highlight of the holiday season for the community since 1998. Held inside the Stanly County Commons, the trees are themed and range from whimsical to elegant. The Christmas trees are on display throughout December.

“Congratulations to our winners,” Hospice of Stanly Executive Director Lori Thayer said. “We thank you for your support of Hospice and our mission of surrounding patients and their families with compassionate care, enabling them to embrace the end of life with dignity, courage, and peace.”

Proceeds from the Festival of Trees benefit Hospice of Stanly, a nonprofit organization offering hospice and palliative care to the community.

For more on the festival, click here.