The last day in September was bright and sunny, perfect for planting a tree dedicated to Peace. SCNA board members John Mathews, Dan Pskowski and Kate Van Buren collaborated with the United Nations Association Sacramento and the Greenland Foundation to plant a male Ginkgo Biloba Maidenhair tree in Curtis Park by the tennis courts.
About 50 people attended, many from the Ethiopian Community Center in Oak Park. They came to say a blessing and observe a moment of silence to contemplate peace in our communities, our country and our world. U.S. Army Major Renee Marie brought a peace pole with a representation of flags from every country, and attendees declared, “May peace prevail on Earth.” People folded cranes and hung them on the tree. Neighbors are encouraged to hang messages of peace on the branches.
Gashaw Tahir, from the Greenland Foundation, brought his 98 year old father to put the first shovel full of dirt on the peace tree. Mr. Tahir has planted a million trees through his foundation, and hopes to continue collaborating with the United Nations Association and neighborhoods all over California.
SCNA plans to install a protective fence and a stone seat for contemplation.
—By Kate Van Buren Special to the Viewpoint