Atlantic Beach residents can receive a free 7-gallon tree Sunday, Oct. 25, as the city concludes a week of community activities celebrating Florida City Week.

The city's official schedule includes a school reading by the city manager, neighborhood walks with the police chief, a preschool Touch-a-Truck event and a statewide essay contest for middle school students.

Florida City Week, observed Oct. 19-25, is sponsored by the Florida League of Cities and Florida League of Mayors to highlight the role municipal government plays in everyday life.

City officials connect with residents

City Manager Kevin Hogencamp is scheduled to read to students at Atlantic Beach Elementary School on Wednesday, Oct. 21, as part of the city's civic education activities.

Police Chief Victor Gualillo is also scheduled to meet residents during neighborhood walks Wednesday, offering opportunities to ask questions and discuss community concerns.

On Friday, Oct. 23, at 9:30 a.m., Christ United Methodist Preschool will host a Touch-a-Truck event where young children can explore emergency and public service vehicles.

Free trees available Sunday

The city's Treats and Trees giveaway runs from 10 a.m. to noon Sunday, Oct. 25, in partnership with the Environmental Stewardship Committee.

Atlantic Beach residents may receive one 7-gallon tree per family, with live oak, red cedar and holly among the available species. Trees will be distributed while supplies last.

Each participating family will also receive a free bag of mulch. No advance registration is required.

The city's announcement identifies the Atlantic Beach Farmers Market at Jack Russell Park as the event location, although another section lists the City Hall parking lot. Residents should confirm the location with the city before attending.

The giveaway supports Atlantic Beach's efforts to preserve its tree canopy and encourage environmentally responsible landscaping.

Essay contest offers $1,000 top prize

Atlantic Beach students in sixth, seventh and eighth grades can participate in the Florida League of Mayors' statewide "If I Were Elected Mayor" essay contest.

The contest invites students to describe their ideas about municipal leadership and the responsibilities of local government in 250 words or fewer.

The first-place winner will receive a $1,000 gift card. Second place earns $500, and third place receives $250.

Atlantic Beach participants are asked to submit their entries through the statewide contest and email copies to [email protected].

Complete rules are available through the Florida League of Mayors.

Residents with questions about Florida City Week activities or the tree giveaway can contact Atlantic Beach at (904) 247-5804.