LOCAL

Canal Winchester news: City to give away free trees to residents

Anne Darling Cyphert
Correspondent

City residents will have the opportunity to pick up a free tree at the city’s 19th annual tree giveaway at Stradley Park, from 9 to 11 a.m. May 5, rain or shine. Approximately 120 trees will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis. Limit one tree per household.

The annual giveaway and associated programs are part of an initiative by the city’s Street Tree Advisory Board and the Department of Public Works Division of Stormwater to increase canopy coverage, prevent soil erosion, and promote clean air throughout the Canal Winchester community.

The giveaway is open to City of Canal Winchester residents living within the city limits only.  Proof of residency will be required, such as a city water bill or driver’s license. During the giveaway, members of the Street Tree Advisory Board will be on hand to answer questions about residential selections.

For more information about the annual tree giveaway, contact Canal Winchester Urban Forester Dick Miller, 614-834-5110.

Arbor Day

The city and Canal Winchester Local Schools will come together Friday, at 2:45 p.m. to celebrate Arbor Day at Winchester Trail Elementary, 6865 Gender Road. Deanna Somers’ 4th grade class will plant an Eastern Redbud at the school, and then students will learn about forest insects and the history of Arbor Day.

Canal Winchester Mayor Michael Ebert will present an Arbor Day Proclamation following the commemorative tree planting.  The celebration will last approximately one hour. As long as there are no severe weather warnings, Arbor Day activities will proceed rain or shine.

Senior transportation

Canal Winchester Human Services provides the Senior Transportation Program free of charge to any senior citizen living in the Canal Winchester School District who is age 60 years or older. This program is available in part due to partnerships with the City of Canal Winchester, Madison Township, The United Way of Fairfield County, The Fairfield County Meals on Wheels Alternative and the Franklin County Office of Aging ~ Senior Options.

Staff includes four part time drivers who provide transportation Monday thru Friday with appointments scheduled between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. To participate, clients must first register by completing a Client Information Sheet which can be found at canalwinchesterohio.gov. Appointments must be made at least two days in advance by calling 614-834-4700.

Please email news items to Anne Darling Cyphert at ADCNewsService@aol.com.