Tree huggers

Randy Hopp, pictured, is one of 30 tree climbers who participated in a tree-climbing contest sponsored by the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arbiculture. The event was held at Hooker Oak Recreation area on June 12, and participants traveled from throughout California, Nevada, Arizona and Hawaii to attend. The contestants, all of whom are involved in the tree care industry in some way, was intended to promote trees and safety in the industry, said Straum Edwards, a climber from the Bay Area. The winner, Jerad Aborjena of Antioch, will go on to represent the Western Chapter in the national competition, which will be held in Pennsylvania. Hopp, of Modesto, snared fourth place. Chico climber Kenny Rawe took second and Greg Liu of Magalia came in third.