Special Arbor Day Event with Kindergarteners

From Special Reports

In celebration of Arbor Day, the city of Newnan’s Beautification Department, the Newnan Tree Commission and Mayor Keith Brady are visiting each of the City’s six local elementary schools to meet with each schools’ kindergarten classes to emphasize the value of trees. This is the 18th year the program has been in existence.

“Our hope is that Arbor Day brings the beauty and significance of trees to the public’s attention. Learning at such a young age, and tree planting ceremonies held at the local elementary schools are events that we look forward to each year. The kids are always enthusiastic, and it’s a lot of fun,” said Mike Furbush, the city’s Landscape Architect and Arborist.

During each celebration, Mayor Brady welcomes the students to the Tree Planting Ceremony and introduces special guests. Members of the Beautification Department lead an interactive discussion with the students on the importance of trees, different types of trees, and how to plant and care for trees. A tree is planted on the school grounds in honor of that kindergarten class, and a plaque is installed to commemorate the date and class. The students are encouraged to help take care of the tree and to watch the tree grow as they grow.

Elementary school visits will include Newnan Crossing, Atkinson, Jefferson Parkway, Ruth Hill, Elm Street and Welch. All students are given a small dogwood tree to take home and plant. Smokey Bear, along with representatives from the Georgia Forestry Commission, also attend the ceremonies and visits with the children.

Arbor Day is celebrated in Georgia on the third Friday of February.