The Fanwood Shade Tree Commission’s annual Arbor Day observance held on Friday, April 29th, 2016, honored veteran member Earl Phillips, 94, who recently retired after more than 30 years as a member. Phillips, a retired police officer and Fanwood volunteer, received a certificate of appreciation, a commemorative book, and a hand made rain stick, presented by the students of the Park Middle School Environmental Club.
Also honored was poet John McDermott of Cranford, winner of this year’s nationwide Arbor Day Poetry Contest. Mr. McDermott was presented with a $300 prize by Adele Kenney, Fanwood’s poet laureate and Shade Tree Commission member. The students of the Environmental Club presented information on the Emerald Ash Borer, a pest found in New Jersey ash trees. And for the 23rd consecutive year, Fanwood has been awarded Tree City USA status, which denotes that our town takes special care of trees. Kudos to Shade Tree Commission Chairman Steve Falco for another wonderful program!
(above) poet John McDermott of Cranford winner of nationwide Arbor Day Poetry Contest.
