Festival of Trees organizers, artist want stolen sculpture returned


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SALT LAKE CITY — A one-of-a-kind centerpiece created to help raise money for Primary Children's Hospital was stolen from the Festival of Trees, organizers said.

The piece — a sculpture of industrial-looking, moving pieces combined with Christmas items to make a tree — disappeared in a matter of moments at the close of the festival Saturday, event chairwoman Kay Rasmussen said.

"There was a host in the aisle. She noticed the centerpiece there, and when she turned a minute or two later it was gone," Rasmussen said. "Just that fast."

The centerpiece had been auctioned for $1,750, Rasmussen confirmed. Though the wining bidder didn't get to take the piece home, the buyer still made sure the full donation was made, she said.

"Fortunately the donor cares a lot about the hospital and the event," Rasmussen said. "It's the reason that so many people come, to benefit children and make a difference in their lives. It's too bad. We're saddened and disappointed that this has happened, but this is also an event where we see so many good things in people."

Sandy resident Stan Schulze, who has been creating original pieces to donate to the festival since 1989, said he is hoping a "Christmas miracle" will prompt the thief to return the statue so it can be presented to the winning bidder.

"We're hoping that maybe they'll give it back, just drop it off at Primary Children's Hospital," Schulze said.

He's not concerned about any punishment for the caper, saying instead, "If they'd like to call me, I'll help them make one."

Schulze's passion for supporting the Festival of Trees and Primary Children's Hospital is unaffected by the incident.

"We love creating things and giving them to the festival," he said. "The energy and excitement the festival brings is really exciting, and all the people who work at Primary Children's Miracle Center are awesome."

Rasmussen emphasized how much she appreciates donations made to the festival, regardless of size, to benefit the hospital. This year's festival broke records, she said, attracting more than 100,000 attendees and ending with every auction item purchased.

Sandy police are investigating the theft.

Contributing: Mary Richards, Caitlin Burchill

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