Keeping Bermuda beautiful and green, 11-year-old Frankie Maiden planted two of the 6,000 cedar trees distributed to the Island's students by Save Open Spaces to celebrate Bermuda's 400th anniversary.

With the help of her neighbour, Ian Hind, Frankie planted the cedars given to her and her sister Aislinn on Saturday evening, September 12. Looking on were her parents and neighbours who had gathered around to mark the occasion with a little ceremony that including pouring a libation at the base of the trees. One of the two-foot-high saplings joined other cedars on the hillside next to her home in Baileys' Bay; the other replaced a Pride of India tree that had had to be cut down. Both have been marked with engraved copper plaques commemorating the event.

Reflecting on the experience, Frankie noted, "It was a very cool experience. Ian Hind showed me how to plant and take care of the wonderful trees. It was very exciting putting the soil in and watering the cedars. At one point I had to pour a few drops of wine around the base. It was very fun. It was great!"

In a January 27 Royal Gazette article, Stuart Smith, of Save Open Spaces explained: "We are using the distribution of the cedar trees as an educational tool which the students can utilise for the rest of their lives as they will be watching the tree grow, smelling, touching and appreciating its beauty while they nurture it over the years."

Mr. Smith can rest assured that at least two of the little saplings will be well cared for.

If you have planted your cedar sapling, let Young Observer know by emailing Jennifer Hind at jhind@royalgazette.bm.