SIDNEY - At Keith Clark Park April 24, Sidney residents gathered to mark Arbor Day with a ceremony that blended environmental ambition with local recognition.
Lorrie Roach, joined by Skylar Girard of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, outlined the state’s goal of planting 33 million trees by 2033, placing the village’s efforts within a broader push to expand forest cover and strengthen climate resilience.
The event also honored longtime community member Jim Doig. A newly planted American Dream Oak tree in the park stands in his name, surrounded by Sidney Central School fifth graders who took part in the ceremony.
Students played a central role throughout.
One fifth grade student was recognized for a winning poster bearing the message, “Trees are terrific in all shapes and sizes.”
The Sidney Elementary School choir, directed by Max Kniola, provided music for the occasion.
Organizers distributed 80 tree seedlings of various species to attendees, while 20 additional trees were planted across the village this year.
