Photo by Dave Chapman Raluca Metea (front row, left), Lisa Rutledge, Mindy Waitkus (back row, left), Richard Aubert and Bob Yurko from Rising Sun Yoga in Southgate plant trees as part of a community service project. Customers at the business bought 400 trees, which were planted around the city.

SOUTHGATE -- There's a little more green around town because of one business' efforts.

About 400 new trees are springing up at the nature center, municipal golf course and Davidson Middle School.

Teachers and customers at Rising Sun Yoga bought the trees and also helped plant them around the city.

Owner Jim Pero said he wanted the city to benefit from the generosity of those coming to the studio.

"People had been doing things for the studio and we wanted to do something for the community," he said.

"We asked what people would be interested in doing and tree planting came up."

The idea stems from the practice of karma yoga, which emphasizes the concept of "selfless service."

Teacher Mindy Waitkus organized the project and worked with city officials.

"Arbor Day was what brought the whole thing about," Waitkus said.

"We were talking about doing certain programs to get more people involved in service to others."

City Forester Bob Tarabula and Department of Public Services Director David Weidenbach pitched in with ideas.

"They helped us find places where the people really love trees and will take care of them," Waitkus said.

Raluca Metea, another teacher, also was instrumental with the project.

People coming into the business to practice yoga could buy a tree for $15 or purchase a special membership, which included a tree.

They were given the option of planting them in their own yards or giving them to the city.