Kids can show off artistic skills for annual Arbor Day contest

The first Arbor Day took place on April 10, 1872, the brainchild of Julius Sterling Morton, a Nebraska journalist and politician. Throughout his long and productive career, Morton worked to improve agricultural techniques, but his most important legacy is Arbor Day.

Trees produce life giving oxygen, give us building materials and fuel, serve as windbreaks and can help cut down air conditioning costs in the summer. 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 Westgate Elementary School will honor Morton's legacy on Friday, April 29, at Pioneer Park, 500 S. Fernandez Ave., Arlington Heights.

This year's Arbor Day celebration will begin with refreshments at 9:30 a.m. The festivities, including a special performance by the second grade students of Westgate, a tree planting ceremony and Arbor Day speeches begin at 10 a.m.

The Arbor Day celebration will conclude with the announcement of the winner of the Arlington Arbor Day Artist's Tree Drawing Contest. The contest is open to all pre-K to sixth grade students in Arlington Heights. Children are encouraged to show their creativity and artistic ability. Three age categories will be judged by park district staff members, and three winners will receive prizes.

For complete contest rules and to download an entry form, visit www.ahpd.org/events/arbor-day-celebration.

Entries may be dropped off at Arlington Heights Park District Community Centers at Pioneer and Camelot parks or the Arlington Ridge Center before April 15.

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