Miami Lakes, FL – The National Arbor Day Foundation has awarded the Town of Miami Lakes the prestigious “Tree City USA” designation.  The Town will be commemorating this national designation and the planting of its 550th tree within town limits at a special “Tree Planting Ceremony” on Thursday, November 29th, 2007 at 11AM.  Members of the Town Council and Town Staff will be hosting the ceremony at the street median located on NW 154th Street (Miami Lakes Drive) and NW 77 Court in Miami Lakes.

The Town of Miami Lakes is proud to be steadily moving forward with the restoration of its signature tree canopy.  Two years ago, Hurricane Wilma severely affected and ravished the Town’s cherished tree canopy.  Over these past two years, Town lawmakers have been actively involved in restoring the tree canopy through dedicated funding to continue the restoration effort.

“Many residents have expressed their appreciation for the new trees that have been planted as a result of the Town’s efforts to restore its canopy and we just want to let our residents know that we are fully committed to continue this important endeavor,” said Wayne Slaton, Town of Miami Lakes Mayor.  

To date, the Town has planted over 500 beautiful live oaks trees around the community.  “The Town of Miami Lakes has always been a town defined by tree-lined streets that resemble a Norman Rockwell painting.  I am delighted to see us continue our tradition as being a leader in beautification efforts that enhance our quality of life,” adds Councilmember Michael Pizzi. 

“I am very proud that through the efforts made by our community and Town Council in planting and preserving our tree canopy, we have been recognized with this magnificent award,” said Vice-Mayor Nancy Simon.  At the ceremony, a “Tree City USA” sign will be unveiled.  The National Arbor Day Foundation has presented the sign to the Town while awarding the prestigious “Tree City USA Designation”. The “Tree City USA” designation is only given to communities that have a successful tree program marked by renewal and improvement.  This is the first year that the Town of Miami Lakes has received this national recognition.  

“What an honor for the Town of Miami Lakes to be recognized by the National Arbor Day Foundation. If one were to fly over Northwest Miami-Dade, one can see the magnificent canopy over Miami Lakes.  Town of Miami Lakes residents fully understand that one of our greatest assets, our tree canopy, can take a generation to reach its full splendor and what we have achieved today will benefit generations to come,” comments Councilmember Mary Collins.