“One of the biggest issues when it comes to being a tree and living in the city is that you simply get no respect. For years I’ve watched my fellow trees die for numerous reasons – small tree plots, road salt, old age, disease, vandalism, improper plantings, lack of water… you name it and I’ve seen it. Every year, I am hopeful that more people understand the importance of trees and what we can offer neighborhoods – shade, cleaner air, visual beauty, etc. I have even heard that we aid in increasing property values, and that people who live near us are generally happier. That’s why I’m so perplexed as to why more of us aren’t planted and then cared for. I am doing my part to reclaim this city’s moniker of “City of Trees” by simply being me. – An urban tree
On May 6. 2016, fans of trees are being given the opportunity to help out their leafy friends. A group of tree enthusiasts will be paying tribute to the memory of Lewis Falley Allen, a gentleman-farmer who once owned a big chuck of Allentown (hence the name). Allen was also a major tree proponent and did his part to plant trees along as many city streets that he could. Upon his death, Allen was recognized for his early greening efforts.
“…it is largely due to [Lewis Allen’s] efforts and to the zeal displayed by him that Buffalo was so well provided with beautiful shade trees.”
Now a group of people want to recognize Allen’s efforts again. In conjunction with Allentown’s First Friday on May 6, a group of artists have created eight helium works of art that will be paraded through Allentown and then hung above eight sickly trees. The effort is intended to draw attention to this prolonged issue that never seems to gain the traction that it needs.
People are asked to be a part of this public awareness campaign by simply attending the event and marching for the trees. Participants are asked to dress as cows (in black and white), which is a reference to farmer Allen and his historic cow path that is now Allen Street. Bring a cow bell if you have one, and pass out flyers that show the best practices for planting trees. Make some noise and speak for the trees. At the end of the march, join together at Franklin at Allen to learn more about this effort. A ceremony will wrap up the occasion, as the artistic helium trees are ‘planted’ in their rightful places.
Allentown Cow March for Better Urban Trees
Allen Street between Franklin and Virginia Place
Be a cow holding a giant tree… and make a better Buffalo.
Friday May 6, 2016
6:00 PM Line-up
6:30 PM March
Meet at Allen and Franklin – See Facebook for details
What to wear: If you have a cow costume, bring it! Otherwise, come dressed in solid black or white clothing. Cow spots will be provided to pin to your clothing