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Arbor Day – Celebrate the hell out of some trees

Avondale Estates Decatur

Arbor Day – Celebrate the hell out of some trees

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It’s Arbor Day, also known as Hippie Cinco de Mayo, and Decaturish communities aren’t fooling around.

We love. Us. Some trees.

There are going to be ceremonial tree plantings in Decatur and Avondale Estates. In Decatur, Mayor Jim Baskett will receive a Willow Oak, a gift from a sponsor of the Decatur Arbor Day Festival. According to festival planners, “Samples of trees and experts who can help you select will be at The Gate Called Beautiful next to The Marlay on Feb 21, 22, and 23 to kick off the ordering period which lasts through March 2. After the 23, order forms can be dropped off at participating local sponsors.”

There’s a whole tree menu you can choose from. They’ll call you when your tree arrives so you can plant that sucker. Decatur will hold a weekend-long National Arbor Day celebration on April 25, 26 and 27.

The announcement says, “Check out the schedule for tons of tree related events including: Demonstrations on tree recycling, seminars, booths, and book signings. There will be music and food trucks too, so come JOIN THE TREE PARTY!”

You’ve got to go if they’re writing it in all caps.

In Avondale Estates today, they’re having a special Arbor Day ceremony. Feb. 21.

The event will begin at 1 pm and will be held at 70 Dartmouth Avenue.

Avondale Estates has a long track record of supporting tree planting and will be celebrating its 30th year as a Tree City USA. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, the neighboring city of Decatur has been a tree city for three years. The only city with more years in the Tree City club than Avondale Estates is Columbus Georgia, which has held that distinction for 35 years.

On the subject of trees, Avondale Estates has got itself together for the most part. It’s a different story in Decatur.

There’s been heated debate in Decatur about passing a new ordinance to promote tree growth and protect the tree canopy. That ordinance has been tabled and is being revised after residents objected to the restrictions it placed on property owners.

Some of those same property owners are organizing the Arbor Day Festival, in the hopes that the tradition will help replace the canopy the city has lost.

There aren’t any passionate haters of trees in Decatur. But figuring out how to save them is a touchy.

Maybe both sides can find a spot in the shade today and talk it over.