Community Plants Trees to Celebrate Arbor Day, Taiwan Centennial

Over 100 members of the San Marino and Taiwanese communities gathered at Thursday morning to commemorate Taiwanese and American Arbor Day and .

The occasions were celebrated with the planting of ten plum trees—the national flower of the Republic of China.

The has held a yearly tree planting at Lacy Park for about 10 years but that involves one tree and a smaller celebration, according to San Marino Chinese Club President Oscar Chien.

While Arbor Day in the U.S. takes place in April and recognizes the environment, Arbor Day in Taiwan takes place on March 12 and commemorates the passing of Sun Yat-sen, Taiwan’s founder who passed away on that date in 1925. 

Thursday morning’s event fused the two.

“Thanks to the city allowing us to plant national flowers of China, that will give a place where this tree will blossom for a long time,” said Peter Ng, event chair and Deputy Secretary-General, ROC Centennial Celebration Committee US Southwest Region. “It’s meaningful for all the Taiwanese and Chinese in Southern California that this event took place.”

Attendees could pledge $100—signifying 100 years—and take home a small plum tree of their own. By the end of the event, pledges had been made for over 120 trees.

Roughly five groups sponsored the event, said Chien, including the Chinese Women’s League (Los Angeles Chapter), Taiwan’s Business Association, San Marino Chinese Club and Taiwanese Benevolent Association of Southern California.

The morning’s festivities, which always include a complimentary breakfast for attendees, also included performances by San Marino High School’s drumline and chamber choir.

Members of different groups were honored for their service, such as Chien and San Marino’s City Council, including and vice-mayor Richard Sun.

“The most important thing is not only are we here to celebrate the centennial of the Republic of China but we are able to bring the communities together,” said Sun.

San Marino City Manager Matt Ballantyne was recognized and offered a few words about the Chinese Club of San Marino.

“For many years I’ve worked with this organization and I really appreciate what the Chinese Club does for our community; same with Tapei Economic Cultural Office,” said Ballantyne. “I appreciate the investment you make in our communities. Whether it’s for our schools or the impressions you have placed in our park.”

Ballantyne mentioned that a delegation of local officials is planning a trip to Taiwan and that “this is just the beginning.”