Whereas, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees; and
Whereas, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska; and
Whereas, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world; and
Whereas, trees can be a solution to combating climate change by reducing the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cutting heating and cooling costs, moderating the temperature, cleaning the air, producing live-giving oxygen, and providing habitat for wildlife; and
Whereas, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless other wood products; and
Whereas, trees in our village increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our village; and
Whereas, trees, whenever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, by the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the Village of Park Forest, that Saturday, May 11, 2024 shall be observed as ARBOR DAY in the Village of Park Forest, with the Parks Day of Service, a day meant to bring our citizens into our parks to give back. The day will consist of various service projects and a commemorative tree planting will take place in collaboration with the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board. I urge all citizens to observe Arbor Day on April 26, 2024, and to support efforts to preserve our trees and forests. BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED, that all citizens are urged to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this, and future generations.