MILLBROOK — Nothing says Arbor Day like planting a tree.
The third grade class at Alden Place School gathered on school grounds Friday, April 24, for a ceremony that included a proclamation reading and the planting of a young sweetgum tree.
“I am an arborist and this is my favorite day,” Dennis Gendron of Twin Brooks Farm told the students. His farm had donated and prepared the spot where the 8-year-old tree would grow. He pointed out that the young tree was about the same age as the students. Then he pointed out a 25-year-old Sweetgum tree providing ample shade for the school’s entrance. The youngsters marveled at the size difference.
To mark the occasion, Village Trustee Julia Bucklin read an official proclamation issued by Mayor Peter Doro. The 45 students then lined up each to take a turn at shoveling one spadeful of soil onto the roots.
“This is a great opportunity for our students to learn about the role that trees play in our community,” said Alden Place’s Principal Andrew Cedermark, noting that trees provide animal habitat, clean fresh air and beauty within view of the classroom windows.
A similar Arbor Day observance and tree planting was held a short time later at Elm Drive Elementary School.
Justine and Victor Valla in their studio with a painting of Victor’s,”Jonah and the Whale.” Robin Roraback 
A ceramic vase by Kathleen Heidemann.Provided 
Joy Brown’s delightful ceramic sculptures.Provided 
