Often recognized as a symbol of strength and integrity, time and again, trees have been planted to honor the courageous actions, indicate the important places, and inspire the future leaders of America. They act as living monuments for those we have lost, and give us hope to push onward.

In keeping with the spirit of our nation, American Forests and "Your Hometown Proud Supermarket" IGA Stores have made a special commitment to plant trees in honor of the heroes, victims, and families affected by September 11. From April 27 - May 10, cashiers at 1,282 participating IGA Stores are asking customers to make donations to American Forests' Patriot Trees for America Campaign.

What is American Forests' Patriot Trees for America?

American Forests and participating IGA stores will work toward raising $675 per store to plant a 10-tree grove at a local park, school, or memorial in your hometown. American Forests will provide the trees-each the direct-offspring of a tree that witnessed an important moment in history or shaded a famous person. Area students, teachers or civic leaders may be invited to help choose the town's historic trees, and each grove will include a granite memorial marker and individual tree markers indicating species and historical lineage.

IGA in-store tree planting certificate.

Beginning in 1989, direct offspring historic trees have been grown at American Forests' Historic Tree Nursery in Jacksonville, Florida. Trees such as the tulip poplars planted by George Washington, apple trees planted by John "Johnny Appleseed" Chapman, the honey locust that shaded Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, are propagated and sold to support the organization's work to restore environmentally damaged areas and habitats.

Visit your local IGA store today to donate dollars to plant American Forests' Patriot Tree groves in your community. These trees will not only serve as living legacies to fallen Americans, but will provide environmental benefits for our future generations.

Spread the word! Send your friends a postcard about American Forests' Patriot Trees for America.

Anheuser-Busch Inc., including Budweiser, Bud Light and O'Doul's, is proud to support American Forests' Patriot Trees for America campaign. For more information on Anheuser-Busch Inc.'s commitment to the environment, visit www.abenvironment.com