For Information Contact:

Brian Adey
 798-5800

Governor George E. Pataki was in Rome today to celebrate Arbor Day and announce a new round of grants for Cities across the state for reforestation and beautification.  

Joining Governor Pataki was Commissioner of the Department for Environmental Conservation Erin Crotty, Sen. Ray Meier, Assemblywoman RoAnn Destito, Assemblyman Dave Townsend, County Executive Griffo, and Mayor Jim Brown. Also providing the man-power to help plant the trees were students from St. Peter’s Elementary School.

Oneida County Joseph A. Griffo said, “Community forestry programs, such as the one I started here in Rome during my time as mayor and am now supporting as County Executive, help neighborhoods beat the summer heat and increase community attractiveness. Gov. Pataki’s presence in Rome and his powerful support for this idea will help us bring beauty to Rome, Oneida County, and all of New York State for generations to come as the trees we plant grow along with our communities and our pride. By having young people share in the project of planting trees, we help them understand the rewards of public service and understand how they can be partners in shaping our future.”