BAY MINETTE, Ala. — The city of Bay Minette will memorialize the late Leah Ann Overstreet, former principal of Delta Elementary School, by celebrating life through the planting of a tree on the school grounds.

The tree-planting celebration, which will take place Wednesday, Feb. 24 at 9 a.m., is part of the city's Arbor Week observation Feb. 21-27.

The city will also hold its annual tree giveaway Saturday, Feb. 27 at City Hall beginning at 8 a.m.

The observations are also required to continue the community's 24-year status as a Tree City USA community.

According to a proclamation read by Mayor Jamie Tillery during the Feb. 15 council meeting, trees are vital for the "economic and aesthetic welfare of the citizens."

"Trees provide a habitat for wildlife, provide oxygen, help purify the air, help neutralize waste water, and stabilize the soil. Trees are an invaluable physical and psychological addition to the city by providing shade, cooling the air and reducing noise levels and glare; (and they) are an economic asset to the city as they increase property values and attract others to our community," the proclamation stated.

The State of Alabama recognizes Arbor Week every year during the last full week of February.