The Village of Villa Park observed Arbor Day by planting an Accolade elm tree in Rotary Park (600 E. Wildwood Ave.) on Friday morning, April 24. National Arbor Day is celebrated on the last Friday in April to encourage tree planting and environmental stewardship. Village officials (left to right) at the planting ceremony included: communications specialist Riley Pillar, superintendent of parks, buildings and grounds Brian Roche, director of parks and recreation Tim Howe, village president Kevin Patrick, village manager Michael Rivas, public works director Rich Salerno and assistant village manager Michael Guerra, along with Bob Wagner (far right), who represented Go Green Villa Park. President Patrick read a proclamation during Friday’s ceremony. “I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this and future generations,” said Patrick at the end of the proclamation. The National Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Villa Park with Tree City USA designation for 41 straight years. To receive that recognition, a community must have a tree board or department, a tree care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and an Arbor Day observance. (Photo by Chris Fox)
