School honors Arbor Day contest winners and showcases student creativity

The Plaistow Selectmen meeting held on May 1, 2025, commenced with a celebration of local youth achievements through the recognition of winners from the Arbor Day poem and poster contest. This event coincided with Earth Day, highlighting the community's commitment to environmental awareness.

Jill, a representative involved in organizing the contest, expressed gratitude for the hard work of all participating students. She noted that the contest, which has been a tradition at the local school for 17 years, includes a poster competition for grades 1 through 5 and a poetry contest specifically for fifth graders. Jill emphasized the impressive writing skills demonstrated by the students this year, making the selection process particularly challenging.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the knee surgery of Dolores Coyle Quark, a key organizer, the traditional tree planting or nature walk was not conducted this year. Instead, the focus remained on the contests, with participants receiving goodie bags as a token of appreciation.

The meeting proceeded to announce the winners of the poetry contest, with Abby Coles taking third place and Abby Russell securing second place. The recognition of these young talents marked a joyful highlight of the evening, showcasing the community's support for its youth and environmental initiatives.