By Ted AYALA

Walking amidst its beautiful trees, in the shadow of its lion-colored rolling hills, it’s   hard not to think that Arbor Day was made with Two-Strike Park in mind.

So it’s no surprise to learn that the Crescenta Valley Town Council has chosen the park as the site for its Arbor Day celebration this Saturday.

But it’s not just trees that are being feted this weekend. The Town Council will also be celebrating its 25th year in existence.

For Town Council Treasurer Danette Erickson, the work the organization has put in to improve the foothills community has been tough, but fruitful.

“People are still surprised to learn that the Town Council is a volunteer organization,” she said. “We’re not getting paid to do this. We just love our community. And to keep this going on for 25 years, I think it’s a big deal.”

Erickson isn’t the only one who feels the occasion is a big deal.

Some notable dignitaries are expected to attend and speak at the Arbor Day ceremony. Among them are Supervisor Mike Antonovich, director of Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation Russ Guiney, as well as representatives from Southern California Edison (SCE).

Also on hand will be Sharon Beauchamp and Patty Steur, two of the Town Council’s founding members.

Since its founding 25 years ago, the Town Council has become one of the cornerstones of the community, spearheading various projects to help residents and the community including establishing a community standards district to create uniform look along Foothill Boulevard in the unincorporated area of the foothills in La Crescenta.

In addition to its own projects, over the years the Town Council has taken the opportunity during Arbor Day to recognize other local organizations. This year Prom Plus is being honored.

A grassroots effort started by local parents to encourage their high school seniors to enjoy themselves in a safe and fun environment instead of an unsupervised prom after-party, Prom Plus is in its 20th year and shows no signs of stopping.

Attendees to the Arbor Day event on Saturday will also qualify for freebies that will be handed out by SCE and Burrtec, Inc. of Fontana.

SCE representative Ben Wong will be distributing 350 trees to local residents free of charge.

Erickson said that SCE’s donation came as a show of thanks to the community for its patience while SCE restored service in wake of the windstorm that swept through Southern California from Nov. 30 through Dec. 1, 2011.

And for those who are in search of some much-needed nourishment for their new trees, Burrtec will be offering free compost to area residents who bring their trash bills as proof of residency.

The Ralph’s in La Crescenta is donating a cake, while Amy Chung Hand Chimes and the Crescenta Valley High School Jazz Band will provide entertainment.

“We’re expecting about 400 people to arrive,” Erickson said. “It should be a lot of fun.”

The Crescenta Valley Town Council’s Arbor Day celebration begins at 10 a.m. this Saturday, May 31 at Two-Strike Park (5107 Rosemont Ave., La Crescenta). Trees and compost are being offered on a first come, first serve basis. Interested residents must bring their own containers to haul their compost. The ceremony will be followed by a guided tour of the Rosemont Preserve.

For more information, visit www.thecvcouncil.com/arbor-day/or call (818) 248-9387.

  Ted Ayala