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III percenters give away Christmas trees Gabrielle Evers (center) and companion Cameron Turman discuss which tree to pick out during a Christmas tree giveaway at Big Daddy's BBQ and Catering on Sunday. The trees were being given out by volunteers from Jackson County III percent. Photo by Larry Stauth Jr. Sunday Dec 11, 2016 at 7:08 PM Dec 12, 2016 at 7:49 AM Ryan Pfeil Mail Tribune @RyanPfeil A patriot group gave out nearly 70 Christmas trees to families in need Sunday. Jackson County III% set up the trees at Big Daddy's BBQ & Catering on Vilas Road. The group recently purchased 70 tree permits using donations and member contributions, said Patti Robinson, one of the organizers of Sunday's event. They cut 68 trees in an area up past Butte Falls, then hauled them back into Medford. "When you look at the prices of trees on the lots, I mean, you're paying anywhere from 35 bucks up," Robinson said. "That's the difference between people being able to buy gifts for their kids or not. They shouldn't have to make that choice." Group members also donated wrapping paper, ornaments and baked goods to hand out to tree recipients. The word went out on Facebook. When group members arrived at 10 a.m. Sunday to get set up, a line was waiting. Robinson said Jackson County III% is a patriot organization that advocates for smaller government and states' rights. The group's website says the "III%" refers to a portion of the country that "in 1775 abandoned tyranny and the cruel, oppressive government rule of the time through unreasonable power & control."I Sue Bickham of Medford said her tree will be a blessing to her children and grandchildren. "I think it's a fantastic thing and so great that these people went out and did all this for everybody," she said. Medford resident Micheal Bail said she was also appreciative of the gesture. "We have a large family in our home, and we just really can't afford a Christmas tree this year," Bail said. "And it's something we really want to do for the kids, and these guys made it possible to do that for us." Robinson said she hopes the giveaway will become an annual event. Reach reporter Ryan Pfeil at 541-776-4468 or [email protected]. Follow him at www.twitter.com/ryanpfeil.