The Searcy Tree Board marked a special occasion last Friday by planting a Shumard oak at the newly opened Janett and Larry Crain Memorial Library. The tree, one of the largest oak species in the red oak group, was added to the library’s lawn as a symbol of joy and spiritual growth, according to Mayor Mat Faulkner.
Faulkner emphasized that the tree would bring positive energy to the library, which opened in September at 1609 W. Beebe-Capps Expressway. The planting was part of a community Arbor Day celebration, held in the fall to honor the importance of trees.
While Arbor Day is traditionally observed in the spring, cities can choose when to celebrate. Faulkner read from a proclamation that traced Arbor Day back to 1872, when J. Sterling Morton proposed the idea to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture. The first Arbor Day led to the planting of over one million trees in Nebraska.
“Trees offer many benefits,” Faulkner said. “They help reduce soil erosion, lower energy costs, clean the air, produce oxygen, and provide habitats for wildlife.” He also pointed out that trees are a renewable resource, essential for producing paper, wood products, and fuel.
The mayor further noted that trees increase property values, enhance business areas, and beautify communities, urging residents to plant and care for trees to improve the environment for future generations.
Richard Stafford, Tree Board Chairman and city planning director, praised the tree planting as a fitting celebration for the nearly $10 million library. He also thanked the Searcy Parks and Recreation crew for their help with the tree’s installation.
Stafford explained that while National Arbor Day falls in the spring, fall is actually an ideal time for planting trees. The cooler, wetter weather allows trees to establish their roots before winter, giving them a strong start for spring growth.
The Searcy Tree Board has been hosting tree plantings for nearly two decades, often in rainy weather. This year, Stafford said, the weather was perfect for the event, especially with the library and nearby Yancey Park providing an ideal location.
In addition to the planting, the Tree Board, in partnership with the library, held a Christmas-themed art contest for children aged 5-12. Lillie Cook, Faulkner’s assistant, organized the contest, and Darla Ino, Executive Director of the White County Regional Library, announced the winners.
David Berry won in the 5-6 age group, AnaClaire Wortham took first place in the 7-9 category, and Titus Shelton won the 10-12 group. Each winner received a $25 Rialto Theater gift card, and all submitted artwork will be displayed in the library’s Exhibition Gallery throughout December.
Stafford also shared information about the Tree Board’s “Tree of the Month” feature. Residents can nominate trees they love by messaging the board on its Facebook page. The selected tree will receive a special sign, and details about the tree will be shared on social media. Stafford encouraged entries featuring colorful or flowering trees for fall and spring submissions.
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