Palmer Scouts celebrate official Arbor Day ceremony

To the editor:

Recognition is due to many for continuing the tradition of celebrating Arbor Day in the Valley. Outstanding efforts must be highlighted!

For 17 consecutive years, Boy Scout Troop 367 Green Mountain Boys and/or Cub Pack 367 have cooperatively hosted Arbor Day events in the Palmer area. Not one of the boys were born when the tradition was initiated. Ranging from flower planters to facility signs to landscape beds to establishing Veterans Groves at two locations, Scouts, leaders and parents — assisted by numerous community groups and businesses — labored to provide a fine legacy for us and future generations to enjoy.

More than 125 trees have been donated and planted!

Most recently during the borough’s official Arbor Day ceremony on the grounds of the Alaska Veterans and Pioneers Home in Palmer, the boys planted lilac shrubs and trees on behalf of veterans and deceased friends of Scouting, LeRoi Heaven and Red Smart.

For the first time in those 17 years, the mayor of the Mat-Su Borough, Larry DeVilbiss, read his proclamation recognizing the efforts of Scouts and American Legion Post 15 to celebrate Arbor Day. He broke away from a final borough budget meeting long enough to read aloud the proclamation and then immediately returned to the proceedings.

Again, extra efforts are worthy of recognition.

Kudos for being loyal and trustworthy. I particularly appreciate Scoutmaster Duane Robison and Jody Linsey, program director at the home and Post 15 for working together to provide boys the opportunity to participate in and demonstrate citizenship in our community.

Well done!

Chuck Kaucic

Palmer