Avon Tree Commission finalizes Arbor Day 2026 program, assignments and logistics

Chair Richard Varga laid out a comprehensive program for Arbor Day 2026 and confirmed he will lead the opening ceremony with the mayor and students. Members assigned tasks for publicity, sponsorship solicitations and on-site logistics to ensure a coordinated community event.

The Commission reviewed giveaway inventory—43 rain gauges and 61 Avon bags—and discussed ordering additional bags after noting past purchases of 100 with 25 leftover. Mr. Smith said he would confirm the national-anthem soloist through the choir director and coordinate band participation; Mr. Boccabella volunteered to lead event setup (tents, tables, chairs) with City support for trash, road closures and restroom access. Mr. Traxler agreed to coordinate a scavenger hunt and will collaborate with student member Collin O'Donnell on tree-identification activities.

On catering, members chose pizza to avoid Health Department requirements tied to on-site cooking. Mr. Smith said pizza had been easy to sell by Rotary volunteers in prior years; the Commission also plans to offer juice boxes and bottled water for children, and Mr. Smith is pursuing beer service with Heinen’s. Entertainment confirmed so far includes performer Kurt Vigg, a booked petting zoo and a likely appearance by the Middle School Jazz Band pending director approval.

Next steps include assigning members to distribute flyers and yard signs three weeks before the event, confirming sponsorship commitments (Varga to approach Pickering Hill Farms and X-Golf; Smith to contact Big Top Brewhouse and the Wine Room), and ordering additional giveaway bags if needed.