Arbor Day has taken on a special meaning in Alhambra. We, collectively as a city, have determined that we will increase the green space that trees bring to our community. We have been designated as a ‘Tree City,’ which is defined as a community that actively manages and celebrates its urban trees and forests. This year was especially poignant as we lost several large trees during the winds that caused so much damage to the greater Los Angeles area.
This Arbor Day felt like a new beginning to bring back trees that were lost, add new trees and nurture the growth and vibrancy of the trees we have. On April 17 at Almansor Park, our City Council members and city officials mingled with Parks and Recreation employees and Alhambra residents to celebrate our continued dedication to the greening of Alhambra.
Our host was Mike Macias, the Director of Parks and Recreation. The flag salute was led by Suzi Dunkel-Soto, President of the Alhambra Parks & Recreation Commission. Mr. Macias then introduced Mayor Katherine Lee who spoke on the importance of our green spaces which silently serve all of us. She was followed by Jeff Crain of West Coast Arborists, a company that provides professional tree maintenance and management. They partner with several communities, including Alhambra to provide their expertise to managing urban forests. He spoke of the importance of trees in densely populated areas.
This was followed by a Tree Ceremony in which a newly planted tree was acknowledged as the latest symbol of our dedication to being a Tree City. We can all help. If you have trees in your yard, apartment or condo units, make sure they have the water they need to thrive.
