MICHIGAN –Michigan Arbor Day Alliance coordinated the annual Fifth Grade National Arbor Day Poster Contest once again.  The contest is open to all Fifth Grade Students in Michigan.  This year 768 students participated in the contest representing 17 counties across Michigan.  Poster Contest Packets were mailed to all Fifth Grade classrooms in Michigan containing lesson plans and contest rules centered on this year’s theme, Trees Are Terrific….In Cities and Towns!  Prizes are awarded to the top three winning posters, the first place poster moves on to the National Contest to compete against participating states.

            This year, Irene from Miller Elementary School in Canton won first place, moving on to compete nationally. Her school will be awarded with a balled-and-burlapped/container tree and $50.00 towards school supplies. Irene will receive a $100 Savings Bond and an invitation to attend the State Arbor Day Celebration in Lansing along with her teacher and parents. Irene’s poster can also be seen on billboards during the Month of April courtesy of Adams Outdoor Advertising. Second place was awarded to, Olivia from Art Corner Home School in Ann Arbor.  Olivia’s school will be awarded with a balled-and-burlapped/container tree and $25.00 towards school supplies.  Olivia will receive a $50.00 Savings Bond and a certificate of achievement.  Third place was awarded to Meghan from Harlan Elementary School in Birmingham.  Meghan’s school will be awarded with a balled-and-burlapped/container tree.  Meghan will receive a book about trees and a certificate of achievement.

            The Michigan Arbor Day Alliance (MADA) is a coalition of organizations and agencies dedicated to the promotion and celebration of Arbor Day throughout Michigan.  Our dedication comes from our belief in the importance of trees and their role in community health and well-being.  To learn more and about Michigan Arbor Day Alliance visit, www.miarborday.citymax.com.