San Rafael, CA – Some public displays of affection are fleeting, like a passionate kiss in a crowd. Others are designed to last forever as a perpetual source of honor for anyone passing by.
Marin County Parks is giving the public a chance to make a lasting impression by starting a tree dedication program for all ages that celebrates life events and loved ones – including pets. Those donating will receive a personalized commemorative certificate, a limited-edition poster by artist Kathyrn DiLego, and the opportunity to participate in a ceremonial tree planting.
A fun family-friendly ceremony to mark the program’s debut is set for 9 a.m. to noon April 28 at Lagoon Park within the Marin County Fairgrounds in San Rafael.
“Our idea is to do this on Arbor Day every year as a reminder of how much trees are an important part of the amazing natural surroundings here in Marin,” said Max Korten, Director of Marin County Parks. “Adding to our green canopy creates visual beauty, fresh air and a place of shade on hot days. We think that’s well worth an annual Arbor Day tribute like this.”
The day’s festivities will also include a reading from County Poet Laureate Rebecca Foust, facts about trees, a garden talk by a Marin Master Gardener, a seedling giveaway, leaf printmaking, tree plantings, a story time for youngsters, and visits from One Tam’s Roving Ranger and the Marin County Free Library’s Bookmobile.
Korten said Parks is kicking off the program at Lagoon Park, where it will continue for the next five years, and then potentially will move to other Parks’ locations around the county. “We hope this turns into a meaningful way for people to publicly honor or congratulate each other with a long-lasting tribute that can be proudly showed off to friends and family,” Korten said.
A $100 donation to the tree dedication program can be made by downloading application form online. If you have questions about the program or the application process, call 415-473-6366. Lagoon Park is on Civic Center Drive adjacent to the Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium at 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael.
Marin County Parks is dedicated to educating, inspiring, and engaging the people of Marin in the shared commitment of preserving, protecting, and enriching the natural beauty of Marin's parks and open spaces, and providing recreational opportunities for the enjoyment of all generations.