Calling All Arbor Day Artists

With the increased Emerald Ash Borer activity in the Chicago Metro Area, Arlington Heights Park District and the Village of Arlington Heights recognize the significance of, not only the ash tree but all trees and their importance to the landscape in Arlington Heights.

Trees produce life giving oxygen, give us building materials and fuel, serve as windbreaks and can help cut down air conditioning costs this summer. Julius Sterling Morton knew the importance of trees and used his resources as a journalist and politician to educate.

For this reason, representatives from the Arlington Heights Park District, the Village of Arlington Heights and students from Juliette Low Elementary School will once again honor the legacy of Julius Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day, on Friday, April 26th at Heritage Park in Arlington Heights.

This year's Arbor Day celebration will begin with refreshments at 9:30. The festivities, including a special performance by the 2nd and 5th graders of Juliette Low Elementary School, a tree planting ceremony and an Arbor Day poem will begin at 10:00 am at Heritage Park in Arlington Heights.

Back this year, the Arbor Day celebration will conclude with the announcement of the winner of the Arlington Arbor Day Artist's, Tree Drawing Contest. The Arlington Arbor Day Artist's Tree Drawing Contest is open to all children pre-k to 6th grade students in Arlington Heights. Children are encouraged to show us their creativity and artistic ability. Three age categories will be judged by the Park District Parks & Planning and Marketing Departments. Three lucky winners will receive fun prizes. For complete contest rules and to download an entry form, please visit http://www.ahpd.org/parks/arbor_day_celebration/. Entries may be dropped off at any of the Arlington Heights Park District Community Centers or the Administration Center before April 19, 2013.