SHELBY — A white oak tree will be planted April 24 at Shelby’s Seltzer Park as part of the year-long celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
America 250-Ohio will plant a white oak tree in each of Ohio’s 88 counties to honor the state’s role in the nation’s founding and commemorate the history of the location where it’s planted, according to the America-250 Ohio website.
“By planting these trees in meaningful locations, Ohioans are actively preserving their local heritage while contributing to environmental sustainability,” the website says.
Shelby Mayor Steve Schag said on Friday that the tree planting will coincide with the city’s Arbor Day celebration.
Schag said the city is pleased to have been chosen as the site of the “Heritage Tree” and commemorative America-250 plaque for Richland County.
The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. on April 24 at the Seltzer Park north pavilion, 60 Parkwood Drive.
An Arbor Day proclamation will be presented, followed by the planting of the white oak tree. Patriotic music will be provided by the Shelby Middle School and Shelby High School choirs, along with the Shelby High School Band, the mayor said.
Marvin Memorial Library will be providing a story time and additional learning resources.
The Kiwanis Club of Shelby will be distributing free tree saplings — provided by Clear Fork FFA Alumni — as supplies last.
Schag said he will be sharing more details about the upcoming event during Monday’s Shelby City Council meeting.