Among the dignitaries and those honored at Crowley’s annual Arbor Day Celebration were, from left, Junior Miss Crowley Nevaeh Hanks, Miss Crowley Allie Nork, Teen Miss Crowley Destiny Thompson, Nancy Loewer, Raynell Gilder of the Plant & Pray Garden Club, Mayor Tim Monceaux, Georgie Petitjean of the Crowley Garden Club, Chief of Police Jimmy Broussard, Dr. Ezora Proctor of the West Crowley Beautification Committee and Judges John and M’elise Trahan.
Crowley holds Arbor Day Celebration
A large crowd was on hand for the City of Crowley’s annual Arbor Day celebration held Friday, Jan. 17.
The sun peeked out to make an appearance for the event, which was held at the 10th Street entrance to Mobley Field.
Mayor Tim Monceaux welcomed those in attendance and Police Chief Jimmy Broussard offered an invocation.
The mayor then shared the city’s Arbor Day Proclamation, which noted that this year is the 148th anniversary of Arbor Day, which is observed every year in Crowley, as well as in Louisiana, on the third Friday in January. The proclamation also noted that
• Crowley’s Arbor Day 2020 theme was, “He who plants a tree plants hope;”
• Trees and shrubs are beneficial to our landscape, provide privacy, reduce erosion, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen, provide habitat for wildlife and reduce drainage and flooding issues;
• Trees increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas and beautify the community; and
• Are a source of joy and spiritual renewal.
Following the proclamation, the mayor went on to acknowledge those who had had trees planted in their memory or recognition.
The Memorial and Recognition Tree planting program, which began five years, ago was converted last year to the Mobley Field Crepe Myrtle Project. The goal is to plant crepe myrtles along the entirety of Mobley Field’s fence line.
Trees were planted in recognition of Raynell Gilder by the Plant & Pray Garden Club and Georgie Petitjean by the Crowley Garden Club. Both women were on hand to receive their certificates of acknowledgement.
Trees were planted in memory of Glady and Mary Trahan by Judges John and M’elise Trahan and Connie Christine Leonards by Phyllis and Dennis Leonards, with Nancy Loewer present to receive the certificate.
Special recognition was also given to the Crowley Garden Club, the Plant & Pray Garden Club and the West Crowley Beautification Board.
After the program, the Acadia Parish Library hosted a celebratory reception for all in attendance.