It’s one of the many things that makes Natchez unique: that Christmas tree stuck right in the middle of a downtown intersection.

But few would ever complain about having to drive around the holiday reminder, and many were disappointed after last Christmas when officials decided it was too much of a liability to keep the tree at Main and Commerce streets.

But this year, we have an opportunity to put the tree back where it belongs.

A group of downtown business leaders is working to raise money for an artificial tree. The city has already agreed to help pay for it, but the group needs to reimburse the funds as well as raise other money for lights and decorations.

The group is just more than a fourth of the way to its $20,000 goal, and several businesses and banks have signed on as sponsors.

But the effort needs more help.

So many people remember growing up with that tree downtown. If folks will just give a few dollars to the effort, the group can raise the money needed to help bring the tree back.

We encourage anyone who wants to help to join the effort.

Donations can be sent to Natchez Downtown Development Association, 108 S. Commerce St., Natchez, MS 39210.

Volunteers will also be soliciting donations at the Main and Commerce intersection during the week of Thanksgiving.