On April 25, 2025, White Plains Beautification Foundation, in partnership with White Plains Public Schools, held its annual Arbor Day celebration at Mamaroneck Avenue School (MAS). This year’s ceremony honored the late Ruth Manecke, an esteemed zoologist, former WPBF Director and beloved science educator best known for her work on the 1960s television program “Captain Kangaroo.”
Save the Date – April 24, 2026 – The 2026 Arbor Day celebration is scheduled to take place at George Washington School in White Plains on Friday, April 24 at 10a.m. The tree is being planted in memory of devoted WPBF volunteer Judith Meyer who passed away in September 2025. The public is welcome to join us for the hour-long ceremony. To make a donation in memory of Judith Meyer, please do so here:
To commemorate Manecke’s legacy, a native Eastern Redbud tree was planted on school grounds by Bartlett Tree Experts. The event featured heartfelt tributes and speeches by local dignitaries, including County Executive Ken Jenkins, Mayor Tom Roach, County Legislators Ben Boykin and Jewel Williams Johnson, as well as from Manecke’s daughters Mary Beth Gruber and Cathryn Long and WPBF President Terry Hanson.
Students from the school’s Nature Club added a special touch to the program with poetry and musical performances, underscoring the spirit of youth engagement and environmental stewardship.
President Terry Hanson described the event as “a truly special moment,” recognizing Manecke’s lifelong commitment to animals, science education and the natural world. The annual Arbor Day celebration remains a cherished tradition that honors those who have helped shape the beauty of White Plains and continues to inspire the next generation of environmental advocates.