White Plains Beautification Foundation to Honor Community Leader Judy Meyer Morse at 2026 Arbor Day Ceremony

WHITE PLAINS, NY – April 22, 2026 – White Plains Beautification Foundation will pay tribute to longtime community resident at its annual Arbor Day Ceremony on Friday, April 24 at 10am at George Washington School, 100 Orchard St. This special one-hour event dedicates a native tree to longtime resident Judy Meyer Morse for her lifelong commitment to community service. She passed away last year. The program will include short remarks by area officials and a musical presentation by students, celebrating Judy’s legacy and the importance of caring for our environment.

A Legacy of Service and Beauty

Judy Meyer Morse was a devoted public relations professional and community advocate who spent her life championing the diversity and well-being of White Plains. Alongside her husband, Herb Meyer, she was instrumental in local PTA projects aimed at ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all students. In her later years, Judy found great solace and joy in the floral displays throughout the city, making her involvement with the White Plains Beautification Foundation a natural extension of her love for her community.

The Arbor Day Tribute

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In her memory, a native red maple has been planted at George Washington Elementary School. Chosen for its significant value to the ecosystem and its stunning scarlet fall foliage, the tree was planted pro bono by Bartlett Tree Experts. This addition contributes to the city's impressive canopy; White Plains has been recognized as a "Tree City USA" every year since 1986.

Event Schedule

The ceremony will feature a variety of speakers:

Welcome & Closing: Nancy Giges, Arbor Day Chair Director.

• Presentation of the Tree: Terry Hanson, President of the White Plains Beautification Foundation.
• Official Proclamations: Remarks from Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and White Plains Mayor Justin Brasch.
• Community Recognition: Presentation of the Tree City USA Flag by Commissioner of Public Works, Stefania Mignone.
• Musical Performance: The George Washington Arbor Day Chorus, led by Jenna Margiasso, will perform "This Pretty Planet," "One Seed," and "Bloom".
• Special Remarks: A tribute to Judy Meyer Morse delivered by her son, Rob Meyer.
  To learn more about the Arbor Day Event or other WPBF programs visit wpbf.org

Contact Information: White Plains Beautification Foundation P.O. Box 1614, White Plains, NY 10602 (914) 683-5108 | info@wpbf.org.

About White Plains Beautification Foundation
White Plains Beautification Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the city’s landscapes. The Foundation is grateful to the sponsors and donors whose support makes these community improvements possible.