The Valley’s Tree City USA localities and the Valley Beautiful Foundation are jointly sponsoring an Arbor Day Ceremony and tree plantings at Andrew Lewis Middle School on Thursday, April 5 at 10 a.m.

Purchase and plant several different varieties of trees, including red and sugar maples, willow oaks, redbuds, and a flowering cherry tree. These trees will be planted around Andrew Lewis Middle School track and near the entrance of Longwood Park.

The Friends of Rachel Club of Andrew Lewis Middle School will be joining the beautification crew in planting the trees. Rachel was the first student killed in the Columbine tragedy so this club focuses on kindness and community involvement: the perfect complement to Arbor Day.

Elected Salem officials, Salem City School administrators, Congressman Morgan Griffith and local media will be invited to attend. The Valley Beautiful Foundation, along with Mr. Robert Boeren with the Virginia Department of Forestry, will also be invited.

The presentation will include a program by the ALMS Friends of Rachel Club, a ceremonial tree planting in memory of a teacher who recently passed away and a discussion on the important role or trees in relation to healthy ecosystems and community impact.

– Submitted by David Wagner, Valley Beautiful Foundation